Act. (b) Authorization of grants (1) In general The Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration and in consultation with the Secretary of Education, shall award grants on a competitive basis to eligible entities to develop career exploration programs aligned to career and technical education programs of study to bring awareness to elementary school and secondary school students in underserved rural communities about health care professions careers and provide children and youth underserved rural community health care experiences related to such careers. (2) Grant amount Each grant awarded under this section shall be in an amount that is not more than $250,000 per year. (3) Grant period Each grant awarded under this section shall be for a period not to exceed 5 years. (c) Eligible entities (1) In general To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, an entity shall meet the following requirements: (A) Be a consortium consisting of a local educational agency and at least 2 of the following: (i) An institution of higher education that provides a recognized postsecondary credential in health care. (ii) A health care practice, facility, or provider organization. (iii) A State, Indian Tribe or Tribal organization, or a local governmental entity. (iv) A local board. (v) An industry or sector partnership. (vi) A nonprofit organization representing the interests of underserved rural communities and rural health care. (vii) An area health education center. (viii) A rural health clinic. (ix) Any other entity as determined appropriate by the Secretary. (B) Submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information that the Secretary may require, including a plan for the long-term tracking of participants supported by the grant under this section. (2) Matching funds In order to ensure the institutional commitment of an entity to a program supported by a grant under this section, to be eligible to receive such a grant, the