Fairfield, N.J., August 14, 2025 — The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA), a global leadership accelerator in the healthcare and life sciences sectors, has unveiled its nonprofit extension, The HBA Foundation, with a bold mission: to cultivate the next generation of healthcare professionals and enhance global health outcomes through strategic philanthropy and capacity-building initiatives.
Addressing a Looming Talent Gap
According to the McKinsey Health Institute, the world may face a shortfall of approximately 11 million healthcare workers by 2030 Recognizing this worrying trend, the HBA is using The HBA Foundation as a focused channel to tackle workforce shortages head-on by creating educational, mentorship, and experiential pathways for students and early-career professionals.
Comprehensive Programs for Sustainable Impact
The HBA Foundation will roll out a variety of high-impact initiatives designed to not only attract talent but also ensure they thrive:
- Educational Pathways: Scholarships and grants will support students pursuing careers in healthcare.
- Mentorship & Leadership Programs: Participants will be paired with mentors to help them develop skills and progress professionally.
- Pipeline Collaborations: Partnerships with schools and universities will introduce students to healthcare career options early and provide hands-on learning experiences.
- Virtual Training: Online internships with HBA Corporate Partners and other healthcare organizations will offer practical exposure to the field.
A Mission with Global Reach
“We’re focused on creating opportunity where it’s needed most,” said Carol Montandon, Chair of The HBA Foundation Board. The foundation aims to create ripple effects throughout classrooms, clinics, and communities worldwide.
An even broader initiative will include targeted awareness campaigns to enhance representation across healthcare access and service delivery, ensuring that future systems truly reflect patient populations.
Leadership for the Next Era
Governed by a board of leaders from healthcare, education, and philanthropy, The HBA Foundation offers strategic oversight and vision for its programs. A full list of board members will be available on the foundation’s website.
In celebration of its launch, the foundation has introduced the Founding Donors and Founders Circle campaigns. Early contributors—those who pledge within the first 90 days—will gain the opportunity to be recognized on the foundation’s website as core champions of its mission.
Strengthening the Talent Ecosystem
Mary Stutts, CEO of the HBA, noted the organization’s unique position in addressing workforce gaps through its new programmatic efforts and partnerships. Meanwhile, donors will have multiple giving options—including one-time and recurring contributions across various tiers—to support the foundation’s life-changing initiatives.
Strategic Alignment with HBA’s Wider Mission
This move is in sync with HBA’s broader strategic focus on building future-ready talent, as outlined in their ongoing efforts to accelerate systemic change, expand connections, and scale impact HBA Resource Center. It also complements well-established HBA programs like the HBA Academy, the SPRINT Program, and the extensive Think Tank initiative—each aimed at professional development, representation, and systemic equity Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association.
Why It Matters to Pharma Marketers
For professionals navigating healthcare marketing, The HBA Foundation represents a powerful opportunity to influence early career pathways, align brand purpose with workforce development, and contribute to health equity and representation—all critical elements in shaping the industry’s future pipeline.
