BPM059395 - RFA Expanding Capacity of Maryland Accredited Community Health Worker Certification Training Programs to Recruit and.pdf

EXHIBIT A

STANDARD GRANT AGREEMENT (SGA)

REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS (RFA)

(COMPETITIVE)

SOLICITATION NUMBER – BPM059395

Issue Date: October 21, 2026

Expanding Capacity of Maryland Accredited Community Health Worker Certification Training Programs to Recruit and Train Maryland

CHWs

NOTICE

A Prospective Applicant that has received this document from the Maryland Department of Health, or that has received this document from a source other than the Procurement Officer, and that wishes to assure receipt of any changes or additional materials related to this RFA, should log into eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA) and add the solicitation to their eMMA profile. Please visit www.emma.maryland.gov for instructions or to register.

http://www.emma.maryland.gov/

STATE OF MARYLAND

MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

RFA KEY INFORMATION SUMMARY SHEET

Request for Applications: Expanding Capacity of Maryland Accredited Community Health Worker Certification Training Programs to Recruit and Train Maryland CHWs

Solicitation Number: BPM059395

RFA Issue Date: October 21, 2026

RFA Issuing Office: Maryland Department of Health Office of Population Health Improvement

Procurement Officer: Tiffanie D. Powell, CMPO Office of Population Health Improvement 201 W. Preston Street Baltimore, MD 21201 Phone: 410-591-0108 Tiffanie.powell@maryland.gov

Contract Monitor Latiqua Holley, MHA Coordinator Community Health Worker Program Office of Population Health Improvement 201 W. Preston Street Baltimore, MD 21201

Applications are to be: Submitted via the State's eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA)

Pre-Proposal Conference: October 28, 2026 · 9:30 – 10:00 am

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/zdv-vwyf-syu Or dial: (US) +1 507-591-1122 PIN: 194 167 923#

Closing Date and Time: November 11, 2026 at 4 PM

Agreement Duration: Approximately eight (8) months from December 1, 2026 - July 30, 2027 mailto:Tiffanie.powell@maryland.gov https://meet.google.com/zdv-vwyf-syu

SECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 Summary Statement

1.1.1 The Maryland Department of Health (MDH or the Department), Office of Population Health Improvement (OPHI) houses the Community Health Worker (CHW) Program responsible for the processes related to the certification of CHWs and the accreditation of CHW certification training programs. OPHI is issuing this Request for Applications (RFA) to expand the number of trained and certified CHWs in Maryland. The RFA is being issued for Community Health Worker Training Programs accredited by MDH to expand access to training for at least five (5) Maryland Community Health Workers (residing or employed in Maryland) per awarded organization, ultimately leading to the student’s eligibility for Maryland CHW certification. Additionally, the awardee may use grant funds for the provision of supplies and materials (e.g., loaner laptops, textbooks) for the enrolled CHW students to address barriers to and support their completion of the accredited training program.

1.1.2 It is the State’s intention to obtain services, as specified in this RFA, from an Agreement between the selected Applicant and the State. The anticipated duration of services to be provided under this Agreement is approximately eight (8) months from approximately December 1, 2026 - July 30, 2027.

1.1.3 The Department intends to make multiple awards not to exceed a total of $150,000 for all awards.

1.1.4 Applicants, either directly or through their subcontractor(s), must be able to provide all services and meet all of the requirements requested in this solicitation and the successful Applicant shall remain responsible for performance regardless of subcontractor’s participation in the work.

1.1.5 This scope of work is supported by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) with 100 percent funding provided by CDC/HHS. The contents of this Request for Application are those of the Maryland Department of Health and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

1.2 Contract Type

The Agreement resulting from this solicitation shall be a firm fixed price.

1.3 Procurement Officer

The sole point of contact in the State for purposes of this solicitation prior to the award of any Agreement is the Procurement Officer at the address listed below:

Procurement Officer: Tiffanie D. Powell, CMPO Office of Population Health Improvement

201 W. Preston Street Baltimore, MD 21201

Mobile: 410-591-0108 E-mail: tiffanie.powell@maryland.gov

The Department may change the Procurement Officer at any time by written notice.

1.4 Grant Monitor

Grant Monitor: Latiqua Holley, MHA Coordinator

Community Health Worker Program Office of Population Health Improvement

Maryland Department of Health 201 West Preston Street Baltimore, MD 21201

The Department may change the Grant Monitor at any time by written notice.

1.5 eMaryland Marketplace Advantage

Each Applicant is requested to indicate its eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA) vendor number in the Transmittal Letter (cover letter) submitted at the time of its Application submission to this RFA.

eMMA is an electronic commerce system administered by the Maryland Department of General Services. The RFA and associated materials, the solicitation and summary of the Pre-Proposal Conference, Applicant questions and the Procurement Officer’s responses, addenda, and other solicitation-related information will be provided via eMMA.

In order to receive a contract award, a vendor must be registered on eMMA. Registration is free. Go to https://procurement.maryland.gov/, click on “Register” to begin the process, and then follow the prompts.

1.6 Questions

Written questions from prospective Applicants will be accepted by the Procurement Officer.

Questions to the Procurement Officer shall be submitted via e-mail to the following e-mail address: tiffanie.powell@maryland.gov. Please identify in the subject line the Solicitation Number and Title.

Questions are requested to be submitted at least five (5) days prior to the Application due date.

The Procurement Officer, based on the availability of time to research and communicate an answer, shall decide whether an answer can be given before the Application due date.

1.7 Pre-Proposal Conference

All prospective Offerors are encouraged to attend in order to facilitate better preparation of their Proposals.

As promptly as is feasible after the Conference, a summary of the Conference and all questions and answers known at that time will be attached to the Solicitation on eMaryland Marketplace Advantage.

mailto:Tiffanie.powell@maryland.gov https://procurement.maryland.gov/ mailto:tiffanie.powell@maryland.gov

If there is a need for sign language interpretation and/or other special accommodations due to a disability, please notify the Procurement Officer at least five (5) Business Days prior to the Pre-Proposal Conference date. The Department will make a reasonable effort to provide such special accommodation.

1.8 Application Due (Closing) Date and Time

Applications, in the number and form set forth in Section 4.2 must be posted to eMMA no later than 4:00 PM EST on November 11, 2026 in order to be considered. Applications submitted via any other means will not be accepted for this solicitation. Requests for extension of this time or date will not be granted.

Questions regarding this solicitation should be directed (by e-mail only, no phone calls will be accepted) to the PROCUREMENT OFFICER.

Applications may be modified or withdrawn by written notice received by the Procurement Officer before the time and date set forth in this section for receipt of Application. Multiple and/or alternate Applications will not be accepted.

1.9 Award Basis

The Grant shall be awarded to responsible Applicants submitting Applications that have been determined to be the most advantageous to the State, considering price and evaluation factors set forth in this RFA, for providing the activities as specified in this RFA. Applicants must have a CHW certification training program currently accredited by the Maryland Department of Health.

1.10 Revisions to the RFA

If it becomes necessary to revise this RFA before the due date for Applications, the Department shall endeavor to provide addenda to all prospective Applicants that were sent this RFA or which are otherwise known by the Procurement Officer to have obtained this RFA. Addenda made after the due date for Applications will be sent only to those Applicants that submitted a timely Application and that remain under award consideration as of the issuance date of the addenda.

Acknowledgment of the receipt of all addenda to this RFA issued before the Application due date shall be included in the Transmittal Letter accompanying the Applicant’s Project Narrative.

Acknowledgement of the receipt of addenda to the RFA issued after the Application due date shall be in the manner specified in the addendum notice. Failure to acknowledge receipt of an addendum does not relieve the Applicant from complying with the terms, additions, deletions, or corrections set forth in the addendum.

1.11 Cancellations

The State reserves the right to cancel this RFA, accept or reject any and all Applications, in whole or in part, received in response to this RFA, waive or permit the cure of minor irregularities, and conduct discussions with all qualified or potentially qualified Offerors in any manner necessary to serve the best interests of the State. The State reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to award a Grant based upon the written Applications received without discussions or negotiations. In the event a government entity proposes and receives the recommendation for award, the procurement may be canceled and the award processed in accordance with COMAR 21.01.03.01.A(4). If the services that are the subject of the RFA are currently being provided under an interagency agreement with a public institution of higher education and the State determines that the services can be provided more cost effectively by the public institution of higher education, then the RFA may be canceled in accordance with Md. Code Ann., State Finance and Procurement Art., § 3- 207(b)(2).

THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

SECTION 2 – MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Applicant Mandatory Requirements

The Applicant must provide proof with its Application that the following Mandatory Requirements have been met:

2.1.1 An Applicant may propose the use of subcontractor(s) in their Technical Response and Proposed Work Plan. However, the Applicant must perform at least 51% of the work. If subcontractor(s) will be utilized, clearly describe what services they will provide and the total percentage of work to be completed by each [the Applicant and subcontractor(s)] in the Technical Response.

2.1.2 The Applicant shall be a Social organization as defined per Section 7-402 of the State Finance and Procurement Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland or a local, state government agency, public college or state university.

2.1.3 For social organization Applicants (not local, state government agency, public college, or state university), the Applicant must be a nonprofit organization, classified by the IRS as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Applications must include attachments of the following documentation from the applicant:

2.1.3.1 Documentation of tax-exempt status of the Applicant or the Applicant’s fiscal sponsor (i.e. IRS tax exempt status determination letter)

2.1.4 Applicants must maintain an operational office within Maryland. All official records must be maintained at this location and accessible for site visits and audits. Applicants must be a 501(c3) or institute of higher education.

2.1.5 A recommended awardee must be registered and in good standing with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). A Maryland certificate of status can be obtained from https://egov.maryland.gov/businessexpress.

2.1.6 Applicants must be registered on eMMA (see https://procurement.maryland.gov/ for more information).

2.1.7 Applicants must have a CHW certification training program currently accredited by the Maryland Department of Health.

https://egov.maryland.gov/businessexpress https://egov.maryland.gov/businessexpress https://procurement.maryland.gov/

SECTION 3 – SCOPE OF WORK

3.1 Background and Purpose

The State is issuing this solicitation funded by CDC-OE22-2203 grant, Public Health Infrastructure Grant, for the purpose of expanding the number of trained and certified CHW in Maryland by improving access to accredited Community Health Worker (CHW) certification training programs.

This funding will provide capacity for accredited CHW certification training programs to identify, recruit, enroll, and train a minimum of five (5) Maryland CHWs (CHWs residing or employed in Maryland) per organization, at no cost to the student. Additionally, the awardee may use grant funds for the provision of supplies and materials (e.g., loaner laptops, textbooks) for enrolled CHW students to address barriers to and support their completion of the accredited training program. CHWs who successfully complete the training program may be eligible for certification by MDH.

The funding for this RFA supports the CHW workforce by increasing the number of trained and certified Community Health Workers in Maryland by addressing barriers to enrollment and successful completion of a training program; and building upon successful recruitment and enrollment strategies. Strategies should integrate collaborative stakeholder engagement (e.g.

Community Health Workers, Local Health Departments, diverse employers, geographic and rural regions, etc.) to design and establish approaches that meet CHW, community, and employer needs.

The Office of Population Health Improvement, within the Public Health Services Administration at the Maryland Department of Health houses the CHW Program. The CHW Program manages Maryland’s CHW certification training program accreditation processes established by the Community Health Worker Act, Health-General Article §§ 13-3701-3709, and supporting regulations COMAR 10.68.01 and COMAR 10.68.02. The Accredited Community Health Worker Training Program webpage provides a listing of current training programs accredited by MDH.

3.2 Scope of Work - Requirements

3.2.1. General Requirements

3.2.1.1. The Americans with Disabilities Act: The Americans with Disabilities Act (https:www.ada.gov/) protects qualified individuals with disabilities from discrimination on the basis of disability in services, programs, and activities.

Accessibility and inclusion of diverse populations are essential to reduce health disparities for vulnerable populations. Contractors must comply with all ADA requirements in their work to ensure the needs of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable populations are met. This includes, but is not limited to:

3.2.1.1.1. facilities and any venues used for meetings/conferences are accessible;

3.2.1.1.2. requested accommodations are provided in a timely manner; and

3.2.1.1.3. written and printed materials developed in accessible formats (easy to read, large print, etc.), or providing access to alternative formats.

https://health.maryland.gov/pophealth/Community-Health-Workers/Documents/Health-General-13-3701-3709.pdf https://health.maryland.gov/pophealth/Community-Health-Workers/Documents/COMAR-10.68.01-Certification-of-Community-Health-Workers.pdf https://health.maryland.gov/pophealth/Community-Health-Workers/Documents/COMAR-10.68.02-CHW-Certification-Training-Programs.pdf https://health.maryland.gov/pophealth/Community-Health-Workers/Pages/Accredited-Community-Health-Worker-Training-Programs.aspx https://health.maryland.gov/pophealth/Community-Health-Workers/Pages/Accredited-Community-Health-Worker-Training-Programs.aspx

For contracts which include direct patient care or service delivery through a program, the

ADA requires entities provide full and equal access for people with disabilities. This includes, but is not limited to:

3.2.1.1.4. reasonable modifications of policies, practices, and procedures;

3.2.1.1.5. effective communication; and

3.2.1.1.6. accessible facilities.

3.2.1.2. A Work Plan (Attachment C) to accomplish all deliverables in the scope of work.

3.2.1.3. The proposal shall demonstrate the:

3.2.1.3.1. Capacity to complete the requirements and an appropriate timeline;

3.2.1.3.2. Ability to identify and recruit Maryland CHWs (CHWs residing or employed in

Maryland) to enroll in the training;

3.2.1.3.3. Understanding of resource needs to reduce barriers for CHWs to enroll and successfully complete training; and

3.2.1.3.4. Capacity and qualifications of staff who will oversee and deliver the accredited CHW certification training program.

3.2.1.4. The Applicant shall provide in their financial proposal (separate from the technical proposal):

3.2.1.4.1. Budget forms (Exhibit B) to accomplish all deliverables in the scope of work;

and

3.2.1.4.2. Budget narrative (Exhibit C) to accomplish all deliverables in the scope of work.

3.2.1.5. The proposal shall include a commitment to meet virtually with the OPHI CHW

Team:

3.2.1.5.1. Within two (2) weeks of the grant award for an initial planning meeting;

3.2.1.5.2. Every month for progress updates; and

3.2.1.5.3. As needed for technical assistance to meet the grant requirements.

3.2.2. Scope of Work

3.2.2.1. The grantee will develop and implement a strategy for the identification and recruitment for Maryland CHWs (CHW residing or employed in Maryland) for enrollment in the accredited training program. Strategy development should integrate collaborative stakeholder engagement (e.g. Community Health Workers, Local Health Departments, diverse employers, geographic and rural regions, etc.)

to design and establish approaches that meet CHW, community, and employer needs.

3.2.2.2. The grantee will establish a process and criteria to assess the supply and material needs of enrolled CHWs. Processes and criteria development should integrate stakeholder engagement, including CHWs.

3.2.2.3. The grantee will enroll and train a minimum of five (5) Community Health Workers including:

3.2.2.3.1. The provision of supplies and materials for enrolled CHW students;

3.2.2.3.2. The fulfillment of all requirements set forth in COMAR 10.68.02 for accredited training programs;

3.2.2.3.3. The issuance of a certificate of successful completion to each CHW student who successfully meet all requirements of the training program; and

3.2.2.4. The grantee will assist CHWs who have successfully met all requirements of the training program in applying for certification to MDH, if the CHWs wishes to become certified.

3.2.2.5. The grantee will meet with the CHW Team monthly to report on workplan progress;

3.2.2.6. The grantee will submit to MDH a final report, not to exceed 3 pages, to include a narrative summary of the execution of the scope of work; all performance measures; and the names of all CHWs who successfully met the requirements of the training program by the end of the project period; and

3.2.2.7. The grantee will provide additional documents requested by the CHW Program within two (2) weeks of notification.

3.2.3 Reporting Performance Measures

The Grantee shall provide the following data on a bimonthly (every other month) basis:

3.2.3.1. Number of Maryland CHWs identified and recruited to enroll in the training program;

3.2.3.2. Number of Maryland CHWs enrolled in the training program;

3.2.3.3. Location(s), dates, and times where the instructional portion of the accredited

CHW training program will be or has been provided;

3.2.3.4. Location(s), dates, and times where the practicum portion of the accredited CHW training program will be or has been provided;

3.2.3.5. Number of Maryland CHWs who completed the training program and receive certificate of successful completion;

3.2.3.6. Number of Maryland CHWs who successfully submitted their application for certification to MDH;

3.2.3.7. Cost and description of supplies and materials provided to enrolled Maryland CHW students; and

3.2.3.8. Other measures as agreed upon by the Grantee and MDH OPHI.

3.2.4 Fiscal Requirements

Submit quarterly expenditure reports according to the schedule below.

Dates State Fiscal Year

(SFY)

Expenditure Reports Date

December 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027 SFY 2027 April 15, 2027

April 1, 2027 - July 31, 2027 SFY 2027 August 15, 2027

3.3 Invoicing

3.3.1. General

3.3.1.1. All invoices for services shall be signed by the Grantee and submitted to the Grant Monitor. All invoices shall include the following information:

3.3.1.1.1. Grantee name;

3.3.1.1.2. Remittance address;

3.3.1.1.3. Federal taxpayer identification number (or if sole proprietorship, the individual’s social security number);

3.3.1.1.4. Invoice period;

3.3.1.1.5. Invoice date;

3.3.1.1.6. Invoice number;

3.3.1.1.7. State assigned (Blanket) Purchase Order number(s);

3.3.1.1.8. Goods or services provided; and

3.3.1.1.9. Amount due.

Invoices submitted without the required information cannot be processed for payment until the Contractor provides the required information.

3.3.1.2. The Department reserves the right to reduce or withhold Grant payment in the event the Grantee does not provide the Department with all required deliverables within the time frame specified in the Grant or in the event that the Grantee otherwise materially breaches the terms and conditions of the Grant until such time as the Grantee brings itself into full compliance with the Grant.

3.3.2. Invoice Submission Schedule

3.3.2.2. The Grantee shall submit invoices in accordance with the following schedule:

Dates State Fiscal Year

(SFY)

Invoice Date

December 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027 SFY 2027 April 15, 2027

April 1, 2027 - July 31, 2027 SFY 2027 August 15, 2027

3.3.2.3. The initial invoice may be submitted after the initial meeting with the Office of Population Health Improvement after the contract award.

SECTION 4 – APPLICATION FORMAT

4.1 Proposals

Applications must be submitted via eMMA. The Procurement Officer will not accept submission after the date and exact time stated in the RFA Key Information Summary Sheet. Offerors shall submit Proposals in separate volumes:

4.1.1. Volume I – Project Narrative (See Section 4.2)

4.1.2. Volume II – Budget Justification/Narrative (See Section 4.3)

4.2 Volume I – Project Narrative

Note: No pricing information is to be included in the Project Narrative (Volume 1). Pricing information is to be included only in the Budget Justification/Narrative (Volume II).

4.2.1. The Technical Proposal shall include and be limited to the following documents and information in the order specified as follows:

4.2.1.1. Transmittal Letter:

4.2.1.1.1. Applicant;

4.2.1.1.2. Solicitation Title and Solicitation Number that the Proposal is in response to;

4.2.1.1.3. Signature, typed name, contact information (phone and email), and title of an individual authorized to commit the Applicant to its Proposal;

4.2.1.1.4. Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) of the Applicant, or if a single individual, that individual’s Social Security Number (SSN);

4.2.1.1.5. Applicant’s eMMA number;

4.2.1.1.6. Applicant’s MBE certification number (if applicable);

4.2.1.1.7. Applicant’s SBR number (if applicable) – please contact eMMA at 410-767-

1492 if you don’t know your number; and

4.2.1.1.8. Applicant’s MDH-issued accreditation number for the CHW certification training program.

4.2.1.2. The Project Narrative shall follow the outline below and not be more than ten (10) pages (standard letter size, 12 pt. font).

4.2.1.2.1. Scope of Work - Describe the process to complete the scope of work requirements listed in Section 3.2.

4.2.1.2.2. Discuss the development and implementation of a strategy for the identification and recruitment for CHWs for enrollment in the accredited training program;

4.2.1.2.3. Discuss methods for the development of a process and criteria to assess the supply and material needs of enrolled CHWs;

4.2.1.2.4. Identify the method(s) in which the curricula component of the training program instruction will be offered (e.g. virtual, in person, hybrid);

4.2.1.2.5. Identify the geographic location(s) including jurisdiction(s) of where the CHW training program instruction will be offered (if applicable);

4.2.1.2.6. Identify the organization(s) that will be providing the supervised practicum (if known) and a description of the organization’s experience and history providing practicum experiences to CHWs;

4.2.1.2.7. Identify the geographic location(s) including jurisdiction(s) of where the supervised CHW training program practicum will be offered;

4.2.1.2.8. Discuss the approach to assisting CHWs who have successfully met all requirements of the training program in applying for certification to MDH, if the CHWs wishes to become certified.

4.2.1.2.9. Organizational Capacity - Describe the applicant and any subcontractor’s organizational capacity to complete the scope of work;

4.2.1.2.10. Program Management - Describe the roles and responsibilities of all staff involved in the project including staff resumes (see Section 4.2.1.3) and qualifications;

4.2.1.2.11. Stakeholders - Identify key stakeholders and partnerships that will be engaged to ensure successful execution of this project including the engagement of CHWs in the planning process; and

4.2.1.2.12. Barriers - Discuss any barriers you anticipate encountering and approaches you will use to overcome these barriers.

4.2.1.3. The Application will include the following attachments. Each attachment should have a title page with the attachment title and organization name. All attachments must be submitted as separate pdf files.

4.2.1.3.1. Work Plan - Work Plan to complete the scope of work requirements. (See Attachment C).

4.2.1.3.2. Resumes - Resumes for key staff listed in the project narrative and work plan. If key staff have not been identified, then the required qualifications listed in the project narrative for key staff is sufficient.

4.2.1.4. Mandatory Requirements Documentation (see Section 2.1).

4.2.1.5. Applicant Technical Response to RFA Requirements and Proposed Work Plan:

4.2.1.5.1. The Applicant shall address each Scope of Work requirement (Section 3.2) in the Project Narrative and describe how its proposed services, including the services of any proposed subcontractor(s), will meet or exceed the requirement(s). If the State is seeking Applicant agreement to any requirement(s), the Applicant shall state its agreement or disagreement. Any paragraph in the Project Narrative that responds to a Scope of Work (Section 3.2) requirement shall include an explanation of how the work will be done.

Any exception to a requirement, term, or condition may result in having the Application classified as not reasonably susceptible of being selected for award or the Applicant deemed non-responsive.

4.2.1.5.2. Applicant shall acknowledge they have read the American with Disabilities Act Statement in Section 3.2 and will meet all requirements.

4.2.1.5.3. Signed W-9 with Contact Person Names and Phone Number

4.2.1.5.4. Current (within 3 months) Maryland Certificate of Status

4.3 Volume II – Budget Narrative

4.3.1. In a separate file from the Project Narrative, upload to eMMA:

4.3.1.1. The Budget Narrative as listed in Section 4.1. The Budget Narrative shall contain all price information in the format specified in Exhibit C. The Applicant shall complete the Budget Narrative Form only as provided in the Budget Narrative Form.

4.3.1.1.1. The Applicant shall include the Budget Form, Exhibit B, information that details the total cost of the proposed activities. The budget categories may include: Personnel (salary and fringe), Consultants; Travel; Contractual;

Supplies; Operating Costs; Curriculum Development, and Other project-related costs.

4.3.1.1.2. All costs related to the identification and recruitment activities; training costs including staff salaries; technology; and supplies and materials anticipated to be provided must be detailed.

SECTION 5 – EVALUATION COMMITTEE, EVALUATION CRITERIA, AND SELECTION

PROCEDURE

5.1 Evaluation Committee

Evaluation of Applications will be performed by a committee established for that purpose and based on the evaluation criteria set forth below. The Evaluation Committee will review Applications, participate in Applicant oral presentations and discussions, and provide input to the Procurement Officer. The Department reserves the right to utilize the services of individuals outside of the established Evaluation Committee for advice and assistance, as deemed appropriate.

5.2 Project Narrative Evaluation Criteria

The criteria to be used to evaluate each Project Narrative are listed below:

5.2.1. To what extent does the applicant show understanding of the Scope of Work - Requirements in Section 3.2 and through the project narrative in section 4.2.1.2 including the description of the processes, timelines, and approaches to complete the requirements?

5.2.2. To what extent did the applicant demonstrate the organization’s ability to meet the Scope of Work - Requirements in Section 3.2 and through the project narrative in section 4.2.1.2 within the proposed timeline?

5.2.3. To what extent does the applicant demonstrate appropriate staff roles, responsibilities, and required qualifications including project oversight; student training; and fiscal management?

5.2.4. To what extent did the applicant engage appropriate stakeholders, including CHWs, in project planning and in determining implementation strategies?

5.2.5. To what extent did the Applicant provide a complete Technical Proposal that included the required documents and information in Section 4.2.1? To what extent is the application organized, of high quality, clearly written and complete?

5.3 Budget Narrative Evaluation Criteria

All Qualified Applicants will be ranked from the lowest (most advantageous) to the highest (least advantageous) based on the rating of the Project Narratives. The Budget Narrative (including the Budget Form and Budget Narrative), will be evaluated based on reasonable cost given the time and effort described in the Project Narrative. The budget line items must be within the stated guidelines set forth in this RFA and as submitted on Exhibit C – Budget Narrative.

5.3.1. The criteria to be used to evaluate each Budget Narrative are listed below:

5.3.1.1. To what extent does the Applicant demonstrate that funds will be effectively used to implement the scope of work?

5.4 Selection Procedures

5.4.1 General

The Grant will be awarded in accordance with the Standard Grant Agreement method outlined in the Announcement. The State may determine an Applicant to be non-responsive and/or an Applicant’s Application to be not reasonably susceptible of being selected for award at any time after the initial closing date for receipt of Applications and prior to Grant award. If the State finds an Applicant to be not responsive and/or an Applicant’s Project Narrative to be not reasonably susceptible of being selected for award, then the Applicant’s Budget Narrative will remain unopened.

5.4.2 Award Determination

Upon completion of the Project Narrative and Budget Narrative evaluations and rankings, each Applicant will receive an overall ranking. The Procurement Officer will recommend award of the Grant to the responsible Applicant(s) that submitted the Application determined to be the most advantageous to the State. In making this most advantageous Application determination, technical factors and financial factors will be weighted equally.

RFA ATTACHMENTS

EXHIBIT B – Budget Form This must be completed and submitted with the Budget Narrative in a separate envelope.

EXHIBIT C—Budget Narrative This form must be completed and submitted with the Budget Form in a separate envelope from the Project Narrative.

ATTACHMENT A – Standard Grant Agreement “Sample” This is the sample grant agreement used by the Department. It is provided with the RFA for informational purposes and is not required to be submitted at Application submission time.

Upon notification of recommendation for award, a completed standard grant agreement will be sent to the recommended awardee for signature. The recommended awardee must return to the Procurement Officer three (3) executed copies of the Standard Grant Agreement within five

(5) Business Days after receipt. Upon award, a fully executed copy will be sent to the Grantee.

ATTACHMENT B – RFA Document Checklist Use this checklist to ensure that the required documents for the Project Narrative and Budget

Narrative are completed.

ATTACHMENT C – Work Plan Template

EXHIBIT B – BUDGET FORM

BUDGET FORM

The Budget Narrative shall contain all price information in the format specified on these pages.

Complete the Budget Form only as provided in the Budget Form format. Do not amend, alter or leave blank any items on the Budget Form. Failure to adhere to any of these instructions may result in the Budget Narrative being determined non-responsive and rejected by the Department.

Submitted By: _______________________________________ Authorized Signature: _______________________________________ Date: _______________

Printed Name and Title: __________________________________________________________

Company Name: ________________________________________________________________

Company Address: ______________________________________________________________

Location(s) from which services will be performed (City/State): __________________________

FEIN: _________________________________________

eMMA #: ________________________________________

Telephone: (_______) _______-- ____________________

Fax: (_______) _______--____________________

E-mail: _________________________________________

SAMPLE BUDGET SUMMARY (December 1, 2026 - July 31, 2027)

Line Item Qty Unit Cost Total Cost

Salary

Fringe

Contractual

Travel

Cost for training two (2) under-served/under-resourced candidates

Operating Costs

Supplies

Curriculum

Screening Tools

Training

IDC*

TOTAL

*IDC 10% CAP

EXHIBIT C – BUDGET NARRATIVE

BUDGET NARRATIVE TEMPLATE

(Please submit a separate Narrative for each Budget Period)

Sample Line Item Justification

Personnel (Preventionist): $15,600

Justification: The Preventionist will be responsible for: conducting project-related relationship-building activities with new and existing partners; developing informational materials for community leaders and the public, including fact sheets and social media posts related to the project topic; coordinating and facilitating monthly project meetings with partners; conducting awareness-building activities within key demographic areas in the community to engage the project target audience; developing and providing professional training at targeted local governmental agencies and private businesses; attending community events relevant to the project and the project’s partners. The Project Coordinator will also attend RISEMD meetings, collect data, conduct evaluation activities, prepare reports, and act as a liaison with the MDH Grant Monitor.

$30/hr x 520 hours = $15,600

ATTACHMENT A – Standard Grant Agreement “Sample”

ORGANIZATIONS RECEIVING APPROPRIATIONS FROM THE STATE

STANDARD GRANT AGREEMENT

This Agreement, which is executed in compliance with Section 7-402 of the State Finance and Procurement Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, is made this <enter day> day of <month, year> , between the State of Maryland (the “State”), acting through the

Maryland Department of Health, (the “Department”), located at <enter MDH Address> and the <grantee name> (the “Grantee” ), located at

<grantee address> in <county / city> County, <state, zip> , a Maryland Limited Liability Company / Corporation. .

1. Effective on the date of execution of this Agreement, the State is extending to the Grantee a grant in the amount of <amount in words> Dollars ($ xx,xxx.xx) (the “Grant”), which the Grantee shall use only for the following purposes: <grant purpose>

2. Any expenditure of Grant funds that is not consistent with purposes stated in paragraph 1 may, at the sole discretion of the Department, be disallowed. Should any expenditure be disallowed or should the Grantee violate any of the terms of this Agreement, the State may require repayment to the State Treasury, an offset from any State Grant to the Grantee in the current or succeeding fiscal year, or other appropriate action. The Grantee shall repay to the State any part of the Grant that is not used for the purposes stated in paragraph 1 within 3 months after the date of this Agreement.

3. The Grantee may not sell, lease, exchange, give away, or otherwise transfer or dispose of real or personal property, or any part of or interest in real or personal property, acquired with Grant funds without the prior written consent of the Department. This includes transfer or disposition to a successor on the merger, dissolution, or other termination of the existence of the Grantee. The Grantee shall give the Department written notice at least 30 calendar days before any proposed transfer or disposition. Any proceeds from a permitted transfer or disposition shall be applied to repay to the State a percentage of that portion of the Grant allocable to the particular real or personal property transferred or disposed of, unless the Department and the Grantee agree to other terms and conditions. The percentage shall be equal to the percentage of the unadjusted basis of the property that would remain if the property had been recovery property placed in service after December 31, 1980 and if all allowable deductions had been taken up to the time of disposition under the Accelerated Cost Recovery System (ACRS) specified in the United States Internal Revenue Code, Section 168(b)(1).

4. For any item of real or personal property that is acquired with Grant funds and has an original fair market value of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) or more, the Grantee shall, at its own expense, and for the reasonable useful life of that item or for 5 years, whichever is less, obtain and maintain insurance. The insurance shall provide full protection for the Grantee and the State against loss, damage, or destruction of or to the real or personal property. The Grantee shall, on request, provide the Department with satisfactory evidence of its compliance with this requirement.

Proceeds of insurance required by this paragraph shall be applied toward replacement of the real or personal property or toward the partial or total repayment of the State of the Grant, in the sole discretion of the Department.

5. The Grantee may not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other characteristic forbidden as a basis for discrimination by applicable laws, and certifies that its Constitution or by-laws contains a non-discrimination clause consistent with the Governor’s Code of Fair practices.

6. The person executing this Agreement on behalf of the Grantee certifies, to the best of that person’s knowledge and belief, that:

A.) Neither the Grantee, nor any of its officers or directors, nor any employee of the Grantee involved in obtaining contracts with or grants from the State or any subdivision of the State, has engaged in collusion with respect to the Grantee’s application for the Grant or this Agreement or has been convicted of bribery, attempted bribery, or conspiracy to bribe under the laws of any state or of the United States;

B.) The Grantee has not employed or retained any person, partnership, corporation, or other entity, other than a bona fide employee or agent working for the Grantee, to solicit or secure the Grant or this Agreement, and the Grantee has not paid or agreed to pay any such entity any fee or other consideration contingent on the making of the Grant or this Agreement; the grantee understands and complies with the Conflicts of Interest provision of the Public Ethics Law, Maryland Code Annotated, General Provisions, Title 5, Subtitle 5.

C.) The Grantee, if incorporated, is registered or qualified in accordance with the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, is in good standing, has filed all required annual reports and filing fees with the Department of Assessments and Taxation and all required tax returns and reports with the Comptroller of the Treasury, the Department of Assessments and Taxation, and the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, and has paid or arranged for the payment of all taxes due to the State; and

D.) No money has been paid to or promised to be paid to any legislative agent, attorney, or lobbyist for any services rendered in securing the passage of legislation establishing or appropriating funds for the Grant.

E.) Neither the Grantee, nor any of its officers or directors, nor any person substantially involved in the contracting or fund raising activities of the Grantee, is currently suspended or debarred from contracting with the State or any other public entity or subject to debarment under the Code of Maryland Regulations, COMAR 21.08.04.04.

7. Within 60 calendar days after the close of any grant period in which the Grantee receives funds under this Agreement, the Grantee shall provide to the Department an itemized statement of expenditures, showing how the funds were expended for that grant period. In addition, a copy of the statement shall be mailed to the Director, General Accounting Division, Office of the Comptroller of the Treasury, Room 200, Louis L.

Goldstein Treasury Building, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. The Grantee shall retain bills of sale or other satisfactory evidence of the acquisition of any real or personal property for at least 3 years after the date of this Agreement. The Department, the Department of Budget and Management, the State Comptroller, and the Legislative Auditor, or any of them, may examine and audit this evidence, on request, at any reasonable time within the retention period.

8. The Grantee shall comply with Section 7-221, 7-402, and 7-403 of the State Finance and Procurement Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, as applicable.

9. The laws of Maryland shall govern the interpretation and enforcement of this Agreement.

10. This Agreement shall bind the respective successors and assigns of the parties.

11. The Grantee may not sell, transfer, or otherwise assign any of its obligations under this Agreement, or its rights, title, or interest in this Agreement, without the prior written consent of the Department.

12. No amendment to this Agreement is binding unless it is in writing and signed by both parties.

13. The following items are incorporated by reference and made a part of this Agreement .Appendix A & B, Attachment A, B, C, D, E.&F.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, WITNESS the hands and seals of the parties.

GRANTEE

(Name of Corporation or Association)

By: ___________________________________________________

SEAL

Name: . .

Title: _____________________________________________

DEPARTMENT

Maryland Department of Health.

By: ___________________________________________________

SEAL

Name: . .

Title: _____________________________________________

Date: ____________________________________________

Date: ____________________________________________

The Remainder of This Page is Left Blank

APPENDIX A

The Department’s Grant Monitor is: The Grantee’s Grant Monitor is:

<Name and Title of MDH grant monitor> <enter name, title, office, grantee agency, address, <Office> phone number and email > Maryland Department of Health 201 W. Preston Street Baltimore, Maryland 21201 Phone:

Email:

I. BACKGROUND INFORMATION OF AGREEMENT

<Enter background information of the agreement>

II. DUTIES OF THE GRANTEE

SCOPE OF WORK:

<Enter all duties and scopes of work for the grant agreement>

APPENDIX B (insert revised budget)

Cost Estimate for:

<Name of Project>

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE - <Date of Project>

<Enter Budget>

II. DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT

Other than awarding the funds to the <grantee/sub-recipient/sub-awardee> for this project <MDH awarding agency> will:

● Provide necessary technical support and monitoring to <grantee/sub-recipient/sub-awardee> to ensure state and federal grant compliance.

This includes but is not limited to:

● Completion of the MDH Office of the Inspector General Risk Assessment

● Completion of the Standard Grant Agreement Checklist

● Determination of Good Standing with The State of Maryland

● Review for Debarment, Suspension, or any Exclusion from doing business with Maryland

● Determination regarding No Conflicts of Interest

● Review of Single Audits

● Review for Debarment, Suspension, or any Exclusion from doing business with the Federal Government

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

Both parties hereby agree that the documents described below, if any, are hereby incorporated into and made an integral part of this Agreement: (Type "None", if none)

Exact Title of Document(s)

Number of Pages

Conditions of Award- Attachment A 2

Federal Funds- Attachment B 2

Debarment Affirmation- Attachment C 2

Certification Regarding Tobacco Smoke- Attachment D 1

Certification Regarding Lobby- Attachment E 5

Additional Information required for the Office of Population Health Improvement – Attachment F

ATTACHMENT B

FEDERAL FUNDS

A Summary of Certain Federal Fund Requirements and Restrictions

[Details of particular laws, which may levy a penalty for noncompliance, are available from the Maryland Department of Health.]

1. Form and rule enclosed: 18 U.S.C. 1913 and section 1352 of P.L. 101-121 require that all prospective and present subgrantees (this includes all levels of funding) who receive more than $100,000 in federal funds must submit the form “Certification Against Lobbying”. It assures, generally, that recipients will not lobby federal entities with federal funds, and that, as is required, they will disclose other lobbying on form SF- LLL.

2. Form and instructions enclosed: “Form LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities” must be submitted by those receiving more than $100,000 in federal funds, to disclose any lobbying of federal entities (a) with profits from federal contracts or (b) funded with nonfederal funds.

3. Form and summary of Act enclosed: Sub-recipients of federal funds on any level must complete a “Certification Regarding Environmental Tobacco Smoke,” required by Public Law 103-227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994. Such law prohibits smoking in any portion of any indoor facility owned or leased or contracted for regular provision of health, day care, early childhood development, and education or library services for children under the age of 18. Such language must be included in the conditions of award (they are included in the certification, which may be part of such conditions.) This does not apply to those solely receiving Medicaid or Medicare, or facilities where WIC coupons are redeemed.

4. In addition, federal law requires that:

a) OMB 2 CFR 200, Subpart F, Audit Requirements requires that grantees (both recipients and sub-recipients) which expend a total of $750,000 or more in federal assistance shall have a single or program-specific audit conducted for that year in accordance with the provisions of the Single Audit Act of 1984, P.L. 98-502, and the Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996, P.L. 104-156. and the Office of Management and Budget (OBM) 2 CFR 200, Subpart F.

b) All sub-recipients of federal funds comply with Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation

Act of 1973, the conditions of which are summarized in item (C).

c) Recipients of $10,000 or more (on any level) must include in their contract language the requirements of Sections 503 (language specified) and 504 referenced in item (B).

Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, requires recipients to take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified disabled people. An affirmative action program must be prepared and maintained by all contractors with 50 or more employees and one or more federal contracts of $50,000 or more.

This clause must appear in subcontracts of $10,000 or more:

i. The contractor will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of physical or mental handicap in regard to any position for which the employee or applicant for employment is qualified. The contractor agrees to take affirmative action to employ, advance in employment and otherwise treat qualified handicapped individuals without discrimination based upon their physical or mental handicap in all upgrading, demotion or transfer, recruitment, advertising, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training, including apprenticeship.

ii. The contractor agrees to comply with the rules, regulations, and relevant orders of the secretary of labor issued pursuant to the act.

iii. In the event of the contractor’s non-compliance with the requirements of this clause, actions for non-compliance may be taken in accordance with the rules, regulations and relevant orders of the secretary of labor issued pursuant to the act.

iv. The contractor agrees to post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notices in a form to be prescribed by the director, provided by or through the contracting office. Such notices shall state the contractor's obligation under the law to take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified handicapped employees and applicants for employment, and the rights of applicants and employees.

v. The contractor will notify each labor union or representative of workers with which it has a collective bargaining agreement or other contract understanding, that the contractor is bound by the terms of Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and is committed to take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment physically and mentally handicapped individuals.

vi. The contractor will include the provisions of this clause in every subcontract or purchase order of $10,000 or more unless exempted by rules, regulations, or orders of the [federal] secretary issued pursuant to section 503 of the Act, so that such provisions will be binding upon…