Notice of Funding Opportunity

Application due Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Administration on Disabilities

Office of Disability Services Innovation

National Augmentative and Alternative Communication Peer Support Network Opportunity number: HHS-2026-ACL-AOD-DNSA-0023

Contents

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 4

Basic information 5

Eligibility 6

Program description 8

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 20

Find the application package 21

Get registered 21

Step 3: Build Your Application 23

Application checklist 24

Application contents and format 25

Step 4: Learn About Review and Award 40

Application review 41

Award notices 43

Step 5: Submit Your Application 44

Application submission and deadlines 45

Step 6: Learn What Happens After Award 47

Post-award requirements and administration 48

Contacts and Support 50

Before you begin 3

Contents 2

Before you begin If you believe you are a good candidate for this funding opportunity, secure your

SAM.gov and Grants.gov registrations now. If you are already registered, make sure your registrations are active and up to date.

SAM.gov registration (this can take several weeks)

You must have an active account with SAM.gov. This includes having a Unique Entity

Identifier (UEI).

See Step 2: Get Ready to Apply

Grants.gov registration (this can take several days)

You must have an active Grants.gov registration. Doing so requires a Login.gov registration as well.

See Step 2: Get Ready to Apply

Apply by the application due date

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

To help you find what you need, this NOFO uses internal links. In Adobe Reader, you can go back to where you were by pressing Alt + Left Arrow (Windows) or Command

+ Left Arrow (Mac) on your keyboard.

Before you begin 3 https://sam.gov/ https://grants.gov/

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Build 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1:

Review the Opportunity

In this step

Basic information 5

Eligibility 6

Program description 8

Basic information Administration for Community Living (ACL)

Administration on Disabilities

Office of Disability Services Innovation

Strengthen and expand a national peer support network that promotes the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication for people with speech-related disabilities.

Have questions?

See Contacts and

Support.

Key facts

Opportunity name:

National Augmentative and

Alternative Communication

Peer Support Network

Opportunity number:

HHS-2026-ACL-AOD-0023

Federal assistance listing:

Cost sharing: None

NOFO version: Original

Key dates

Application submission deadline:

July 22, 2026

Optional notice of intent deadline:

20 days after publication

Expected award date:

September 30, 2026

Expected project start date:

September 30, 2026

Summary This initiative will strengthen and expand a national peer support network for

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). It will address the unmet needs of an estimated 5 million individuals in the U.S. with speech-related disabilities who cannot rely solely on speech for communication.

This funding opportunity will build on past work to create a peer-led network that empowers AAC users, promotes leadership, and provides resources to improve outcomes such as self-determination, economic security, and community engagement. By the end of the project, individuals with speech-related disabilities should have a first-of-its-kind modern resource, built for how people connect today, that makes it easy for them to use or gain access to AAC.

Funding details Type: Cooperative agreement

Expected total program funding over the performance period: $2,325,000.00

Expected total program funding per budget period: $775,000.00

Total expected awards: One

Funding range per applicant per budget period: $775,000.00

We plan to fund awards in three 12-month budget periods for three periods of performance from September 30, 2026, to September 29, 2029.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 5

Eligibility Eligible applicants Only these types of organizations may apply:

• Domestic public or private nonprofit entities.

• State and local governments.

• Indian tribal governments and organizations (American Indian/Alaskan Native/

Native American).

• Faith-based organizations.

• Community-based organizations.

• Hospitals.

• Institutions of higher education

Disqualifying factors We will review your application to make sure it meets these responsiveness requirements.

We won’t consider an application that:

• Is submitted after the deadline.

• Is from an individual, including a sole proprietorship, or a foreign entity.

• Is received in paper format that didn’t have a previously approved exemption from ACL.

• Exceeds the 25-page limit for the project narrative.

• Requests a budget of more than $775,000 per budget period.

Application limits If you submit the same application more than once under this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO), we will only acknowledge the last on-time submission.

Cost sharing This program has no cost-sharing requirement, meaning you do not need to contribute to the costs of this project.

If you choose to include cost-sharing funds, we won’t consider it during review. If you receive an award, we will include your voluntary commitment in the award.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 6

Post-award requirements

Before you apply, make sure you understand the requirements that come with an award.

See Step 6: Learn What Happens After Award for information on regulations that apply, reporting, and more.

Statutory authority Subtitle E, Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000, Projects of

National Significance.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 7

Program description Purpose and need The Administration on Disabilities (AoD) at the Administration for Community Living

(ACL) is funding this project to expand and strengthen a national peer support network for people who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). The support network will provide access to a modern, easy-to-use resource that reflects how people connect today. Through this network, AAC users can build real connections, share experiences, exchange ideas and strategies, and support one another in overcoming barriers to AAC use. These connections are expected to help people become more independent, active, and engaged in their communities.

Background AAC includes any tool or method that helps someone communicate when speech alone is not enough. These tools can include:

• Speech-generating devices.

• Alphabet boards.

• Handwriting.

• Gestures.

• Facial expressions.

• Eye-gaze systems.

• Vocalizations.

• Brain-computer interfaces.

People may need AAC for many reasons. Some are born with conditions that affect communication, while others may experience changes later in life because of a stroke, injury, illness, or other events. For an estimated 5 million people in the United States, AAC is essential.

Communication is a basic human right. AAC helps people participate in their communities, build relationships, stay safe, and live more independent, self-directed lives. However, many people still do not have access to AAC or are denied it. Without

AAC, people may become isolated, depend heavily on others, and face increased risks to their safety and well-being.

In 2024, AoD funded a project to explore whether peer support could help more people access and use AAC. The project showed that peer support helps people build trust, form friendships, strengthen their identity as AAC users, and increase both independence and

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 8 interdependence. The project also brought together a national group of about 100 AAC users, showing a strong need for connection and community.

In 2025, AoD funded another one-year project to begin building a long-term, sustainable national AAC peer support network. This work is guided by a disability-led leadership coalition of 16 individuals, including 9 AAC users, who are helping shape this first-of-its-kind national resource.

Goals and expected outcomes The main goal of this project is to create a sustainable national AAC peer support network designed by and for people with speech-related disabilities. The network will help people access and use AAC in ways that match their personal needs and preferences.

By providing funding to grow and sustain this network, AoD ultimately seeks to achieve the following:

• Greater self-determination, leadership skills, and confidence among people with speech-related disabilities.

• Ongoing mentorship among AAC users.

• More people using AAC that fits their preferences and needs.

• Greater economic mobility and security among AAC users.

• Improved safety and long-term security for AAC users, free from harm and exploitation.

Initial success measures include:

• More individuals who use or need AAC participating in the project.*

• More families, friends, providers, healthcare professionals, educators, and non-disability entities participating in the project.*

• More resources created and shared to improve AAC knowledge.*

• Growth of AAC users in project leadership roles.

• Growth in AAC peer support groups.*

• New funding sources for growing the AAC peer support network.

• More engagement with hard-to-reach individuals who are not connected.*

• Improved knowledge of and access to helpful resources among participants.

Success measures by the end of the project include:

• AAC peer support groups meeting their goals.

• At least 75% of participants reporting positive personal, education, and/or employment outcomes.*

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 9

• At least 50% of participants reporting increased AAC use.*

• Fewer barriers to joining peer support groups.*

• Participants reporting at least a 50% increase in capacity to support AAC users after receiving training and resources.*

• A sustainable, modern AAC peer support network built around contemporary ways people connect today.

Table: Performance measures

Performance measures

Outcome Measure 1: Number of policies changed to improve the experience of people with I/DD and their families.

• Output Measure 1.1: Number of people who participated in policy advocacy activities.

◦ Submeasure 1.1a: Number of people with I/DD who participated in policy advocacy activities.

◦ Submeasure 1.1b: Number of family members who participated in policy advocacy activities.

◦ Submeasure 1.1c: Number of stakeholders who are not people with I/DD or their family members who participated in policy advocacy activities.

• Output Measure 1.2: Number of trainings about policy implemented.

• Output Measure 1.3: Number of policy products created.

• Output Measure 1.4: Number of times policy products were shared.

Outcome Measure 2: Number of people with I/DD and their families who report new or increased leadership roles.

• Output Measure 2.1: Number of tools and resources created related to leadership by people with I/DD and their families.

• Output Measure 2.2: Number of tools and resources shared related to leadership by people with I/DD and their families.

• Output Measure 2.3: Percent of people with I/DD and their families who reported learning new leadership skills.

◦ Submeasure 2.3a: Number of people with I/DD who participated in grant activities focused on leadership within the last year.

◦ Submeasure 2.3b: Number of family members of people with I/DD who participated in grant activities focused on leadership within the last year.

◦ Submeasure 2.3c: Number of people with I/DD who reported learning new leadership skills.

◦ Submeasure 2.3d: Number of family members of people with I/DD who reported learning new leadership skills.

• Output Measure 2.4: Number of people with I/DD and their family members who train or mentor others as leaders or advocates.

◦ Submeasure 2.4a: Number of people with I/DD who train or mentor others as leaders or advocates.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 10

Performance measures

◦ Submeasure 2.4b: Number of family members of people with I/DD who train or mentor others as leaders or advocates.

Outcome Measure 3: Percent of people with I/DD and their families who reported increased knowledge of supports needed to help them achieve the life they want.

◦ Submeasure 3a: Number of people with I/DD who participated in grant activities designed to increase knowledge of supports.

◦ Submeasure 3b: Number of family members of people with I/DD who participated in grant activities designed to increase knowledge of supports.

◦ Submeasure 3c: Number of people with I/DD who reported increased knowledge of supports.

◦ Submeasure 3d: Number of family members who reported increased knowledge of supports.

• Output Measure 3.1: Number of trainings held to increase knowledge of supports available to help achieve a desired life.

• Output Measure 3.2: Number of resources created to increase knowledge of supports available to help individuals achieve the life they want.

• Output Measure 3.3: Number of resources shared to increase knowledge of supports available to help individuals achieve the life they want.

Outcome Measure 4: Number of data resources accessed.

◦ Submeasure 4a: Number of data resources accessed by funders.

◦ Submeasure 4b: Number of data resources accessed by policy-makers.

◦ Submeasure 3c: Number of people with I/DD who reported increased knowledge of supports.

◦ Submeasure 4c: Number of data resources accessed by individuals with I/DD and their families.

◦ Submeasure 4d: Number of data resources accessed by advocacy organizations.

◦ Submeasure 4e: Number of data resources accessed by provider organizations.

◦ Submeasure 4f: Number of data resources accessed by researchers.

• Output Measure 4.1: Number of data resources created.

• Output Measure 4.2: Number of activities to disseminate data.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 11

Key activities

Lead and support the AAC Peer Support

Leadership Coalition

You will create and manage a national leadership coalition that includes mostly people with speech-related disabilities, along with family members, supporters, disability organizations, and community partners. You will:

• Bring together AAC users from across the country and support them by organizing regular opportunities to connect, share experiences, and work together, while making sure communication is accessible and everyone can participate.

• Include families of AAC users, service providers, educators, healthcare professionals, and community organizations.

• Engage non-disability partners, such as businesses or community groups, to broaden participation.

You will ensure that:

• AAC users lead or co-lead the work.

• Everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.

• People can participate in ways that are meaningful and accessible to them.

You will also guide the coalition through clear decision-making processes, including:

• Creating and carrying out an action plan with goals and milestones.

• Testing, improving, and expanding the network over time.

• Developing and sharing resources.

• Staying focused on meeting the project’s objectives.

Build and maintain a sustainable National AAC Peer

Support Network

You will work with the leadership coalition to maintain and grow a national network of

AAC peer support groups and mentors. This includes the following activities.

Create and expand a national directory

You will:

• Build a directory of AAC peer support groups, mentors, and related initiatives.

• Develop quality standards to ensure groups are meeting expectations before they are listed.

• Identify what AAC users need to successfully connect with peer support.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 12

• Spot gaps in existing support and help start or grow new AAC peer groups.

• Provide training and technical assistance to peer groups and mentors to improve capacity and support growth of peer groups.

Maintain the National AAC Peer Support Hub

You will maintain a trusted hub designed by and for AAC users. The hub will:

• Check peer support groups and mentors to make sure they meet the requirements to take part in the program.

• Make it easier for people to find and connect with peer support groups and mentors that fit their needs, by giving clear information and simple ways to connect with them.

• Provide communication tools that are accessible for all AAC users so people can work together, share ideas, and take part in group activities.

• Offer up‑to‑date resources and create interactive spaces where AAC users, families, and providers can learn, ask questions, and support each other.

• Share evidence-based and promising AAC resources that are easy to understand and use.

Help people apply knowledge in practical ways

You will support AAC users, families, and providers by helping turn information into action. You will:

• Create an AAC Peer Support Toolkit that includes easy-to-understand resources, tips for taking part in peer support, and simple tools people can use to check how they’re doing and what they might want to improve.

• Find or create reliable AAC resources for AAC users, families, and providers, such as guides, checklists, videos, and other helpful materials.

• Work with federal partners like the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center

(RERC) and State Assistive Technology Programs to share information and make sure the project uses current research and best practices.

• Figure out what training people need and create training that builds practical AAC skills, with clear examples and useful tips people can use in real situations.

Make resources available to as many people as possible

You will conduct strong outreach and share information widely so that people across the country, including those who are hard to reach, can connect to AAC support. You will:

• Build a network of outreach partners by working with existing AoD programs and forming new partnerships.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 13

• Each year, focus outreach on at least one hard-to-reach population, such as people in rural areas, people involved in the justice system, or people living in institutions.

• Use modern tools and strategies, including the national hub, to reach broad audiences.

• Track whether your outreach is working and adjust your approach as needed.

• Create user-friendly materials in multiple formats, including plain-language resources and videos.

• Develop a clear marketing and dissemination plan focused on reaching people who are not typically served.

• Host an online or hybrid conference twice a year to engage and inform the groups involved in or affected by the project.

Definitions Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): Any tool or method that helps someone communicate when speech alone is not enough. This can include gestures, facial expressions, eye gaze, alphabet boards, speech‑generating devices, or newer technologies like brain‑computer interfaces.

Health care and allied health professionals: Medical and therapy professionals such as doctors, nurses, speech‑language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other practitioners who diagnose or support speech‑related disabilities.

Interdependence: A way of living where people with speech‑related disabilities both receive support from others and contribute to their community, rather than being fully dependent or fully on their own.

Non‑disability entities: Businesses, community groups, and other organizations that are not focused on disability services but can still help promote inclusion and accessibility for

AAC users.

Peer support: Support offered by people who share similar lived experiences. In this project, it means AAC users helping each other by sharing emotional support, information, and practical strategies to build skills, confidence, and independence.

People with speech‑related disabilities: People of any age who have conditions, such as cognitive, physical, neurological, or psychological impairments that make it hard to communicate using speech.

Providers: People or organizations that deliver services to AAC users. This includes direct support professionals, home- and community‑based service (HCBS) providers, behavioral health specialists, and employment support staff.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 14

School‑based professionals: Teachers, therapists, paraprofessionals, administrators, and other school staff who work with AAC users in educational settings.

Self‑determination: Having the ability and support to make your own choices, control your services and supports, participate in your community, and use the resources you need, including financial support, to build leadership skills and advocate for yourself and others.

Support system: The people involved in an AAC user’s life, such as family members, friends, service providers, and educators, who help support communication and participation in daily activities.

Toolkit: A collection of resources, guides, and tools that help AAC users and their supporters understand AAC systems, participate more fully, and evaluate how well peer support is working.

Cooperative agreement terms Cooperative agreements require substantial ACL project involvement after an award is made. There are specific roles for both you and ACL.

Your responsibilities

• Collaborate with ACL on any in-scope modifications and start the work plan within

45 days of receiving the award.

• Implement the proposed grant activities.

• Set measurable targets and evaluate the impact of project activities.

• Share information with ACL and partner organizations.

• Work with your ACL project officer to evaluate your performance results, which you will report semiannually.

• Submit resumes of potential key staff hires.

• Work with the ACL program officer to maintain and grow the AAC Peer Support

Leadership Coalition.

• Work with the ACL program officer to manage the AAC Peer Support Leadership

Coalition decision-making processes.

• Work with the ACL program officer to make sure the AAC Peer Support Leadership

Coalition takes responsibility for maintaining and growing the sustainable national network.

• Collaborate with the ACL project officer to develop a dissemination plan.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 15

Our responsibilities

• Perform day-to-day federal responsibilities of managing a grant initiative.

• Conduct monthly conference calls to ensure you are meeting your goals and objectives.

• Work cooperatively with you to clarify programmatic and budgetary issues.

• Share information with you about other federally sponsored projects.

• Provide guidance and technical assistance on required performance measurements.

• Provide technical advice on your work products to ensure they are accurate, objective, unbiased, and of high professional quality.

• Attend and participate in major project events, as appropriate.

• Make the final determination of the composition and members of the AAC Peer

Support Leadership Coalition.

• Ensure that project activities, including resources developed and disseminated, are accessible to individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Managing disagreements

If disagreements arise, they will be addressed through collaborative discussions between you and the ACL program officer. If resolution cannot be reached, the matter will be escalated to the ACL grants management officer and program leadership for final determination.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 16

Funding policies and limitations

Changes in HHS regulations

As of October 1, 2025, HHS adopted 2 CFR 200, with some exceptions included in

2 CFR 300. These regulations replace those in 45 CFR 75.

Policies

All activities proposed in your application and budget narrative must align with applicable law, including but not limited to statutes, executive orders, federal regulations, and applicable judicial holdings. Accordingly, discretionary awards shall not be used to fund, promote, encourage, subsidize, or facilitate: racial preferences or other forms of racial discrimination by the recipient, including activities where race or intentional proxies for race will be used as a selection criterion for employment or program participation; denial by the recipient of the sex binary in humans, or the belief that sex is a chosen or mutable characteristic; illegal immigration; or any other initiatives that compromise public safety.

If an application does not align, the application will not receive funding to the extent permitted by law and applicable court orders.

• We will only make awards if this program receives funding. If Congress appropriates funds for this purpose, we will move forward with the review and award process.

• Support beyond the first budget period will depend on:

◦ Appropriation of funds.

◦ Satisfactory progress in meeting your project’s objectives.

◦ A decision that continued funding is in the government’s best interest.

• If we receive more funding for this program, we will consider:

◦ Funding more applicants.

◦ Extending the period of performance.

◦ Awarding supplemental funding.

• You may not use funds from this NOFO for any diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEI and DEIA) activities. This includes:

◦ DEI- or DEIA-related research.

◦ Activities that discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or other protected traits.

• Under this NOFO, you can’t continue existing projects without expansion or new and innovative approaches.

• Meals are allowed only in limited circumstances linked to program activities, like during travel or when approved in advance by ACL. See Allowable Costs and

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Build 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 17 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-III/part-300

Activities, Exhibit 4: Selected Items of Cost, Meals in the HHS Grants Policy

Statement.

• There are restrictions on certain telecommunications and video surveillance equipment. See 2 CFR 200.216 to make sure this does not apply to any proposed equipment in your application.

Unallowable costs

• Construction or major rehabilitation of buildings.

• Basic research, such as scientific or medical experiments.

• For guidance on other types of costs that we restrict or do not allow, see General

Provisions for Selected Items of Costs of the Uniform Guidance, 2 CFR 200.420.

Subawards

As the prime recipient, you must maintain a substantive role in the project. This means that you conduct funded activities and provide services necessary and integral to completing the project.

Monitoring your subrecipient’s activities alone as described in 2 CFR 200.332 is not a substantive role.

We do not fund awards where your role is primarily a conduit for passing funds to other organizations unless that arrangement is authorized by statute.

All subrecipients must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) through the System for Award

Management (SAM.gov).

Subrecipients must meet the eligibility requirements of this NOFO.

Salary rate limitation

The salary rate limitation in the current appropriations act applies to this program. You may not use awarded funds to pay a salary at a higher rate than the rate for Executive

Level II.

For the Executive Level II salary, please see the Office of Personnel Management information on executive and senior level employee pay.

The salary limitation reflects a person’s base salary (including any portion of the salary that is paid with indirect costs). It does not include fringe benefits or any income the person is allowed to earn outside of the duties of the applicant organization.

This salary limitation also applies to subawards, contracts, and subcontracts under an ACL grant or cooperative agreement.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Build 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 18 https://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/grants/grants-policies-regulations/index.html https://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/grants/grants-policies-regulations/index.html https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.216 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200#200.332 https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/ https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/

Program income

If you earn any money from your award-supported project activities (known as program income), you must use it for the purposes and under the conditions of the award. Find more about program income at 2 CFR 200.307.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Build 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 19 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200#200.307

Step 2:

Get Ready to Apply

In this step

Find the application package 21

Get registered 21

Find the application package The application package has all the forms you need to apply. You can search for it at

Grants.gov using opportunity number HHS-2026-ACL-AOD-DNSA-0023. Then select the

Package tab.

We recommend that you select the Subscribe button from the View Grant Opportunity page for this NOFO to get updates.

You can also find materials at Applying for Grants on ACL’s website.

If you can’t use Grants.gov to download application materials or have other technical difficulties, including issues with application submission, contact Grants.gov for assistance.

Get registered SAM.gov You must have an active account with SAM.gov to apply. SAM.gov registration can take several weeks. Begin that process today.

To register:

• Go to SAM.gov Entity Registration and select Get Started. From the same page, you can also select the Entity Registration Checklist for the information you will need to register.

• You must agree to the financial assistance general certifications and representations

[PDF] specifically. Those for contracts are different.

When you register, you will also receive your required Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

Once you register:

• You will have to maintain your registration throughout the life of any award.

• If your organization has multiple UEIs, use the one associated with your physical location.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Build 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 21 https://grants.gov/search-grants https://acl.gov/grants/applying-grants https://www.grants.gov/support https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/financial-assistance-general-certification-representations.pdf https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/financial-assistance-general-certification-representations.pdf

Grants.gov You must also have an active account with Grants.gov. You can see step-by-step instructions at the Grants.gov Quick Start Guide for Applicants.

Need help? See Contacts and Support.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Build 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 22 https://grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration http://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants

Step 3:

Build Your Application

In this step

Application checklist 24

Application contents and format 25

Application checklist Make sure that you have everything you need to apply. You will find the forms in

Grants.gov.

Narratives

Item Grants.gov form Page limit

Project narrative Use the Project Narrative Attachment form. 25 pages

Budget narrative Use the Budget Narrative Attachment form. None

Attachments Insert each in a single Other Attachments Form.

Item Page limit

Indirect cost agreement None

Commitment letters None

Proof of nonprofit status None

Resumes and job descriptions None

Other required forms Use each required form in Grants.gov.

Item Page limit

Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424) None

Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs (SF-424A) None

Assurances for Non-Construction Programs (SF-424B) None

Key Contacts form None

Grants.gov Lobbying Form (Certification Regarding Lobbying) None

Project/Performance Site Location form None

Step 3: Build Your Application 24

Application contents and format This section includes guidance on each component found in the application checklist.

Application page limit: None

Submit your information in English and express whole number budget figures using

U.S. dollars.

Required format Required format for project and budget narratives.

Font: Times New Roman or Arial

Format: PDF

Size: 11-point font

Footnotes and text in graphics may be 10-point.

Spacing for project narrative main content: Double-spaced

Spacing for budget narrative: As needed

Spacing for project summary, tables, footnotes: Single-spaced

Margins: 1-inch

Include page numbers.

Project narrative Page limit: 25

The project narrative is the most important part of the application. We use it as the primary basis to decide whether your project meets the statutory requirements and to review its merit. The project narrative should give a clear and concise description of your project.

Be sure to cite all your sources. Merit reviewers may lower your score if you do not.

Also study the merit review criteria under each section to make sure you answer all questions and cover all topics reviewers will look at.

Step 3: Build Your Application 25

Project summary

Provide a brief project summary of no more than 265 words. Write it for the general public. You will need to include:

• Goals: Broad overall purpose, like a mission statement that says what you want to do and where you want to be.

• Objectives: Narrow, specific, and clear steps toward the goals. These are the “hows” to achieve the goals.

• Overall approach: General overview of what you will do.

• Outcomes: These are the measurable results of a project. Include expected changes among those served, such as clients, systems, organizations, and communities.

These should tie directly to your goals and those of this funding.

• Products: The materials and other deliverables you expect to generate through the project.

• Duration: The anticipated start and end dates of the period of performance.

Project relevance and current need

Problem statement

When discussing the need for a national AAC peer support network for people with speech-related disabilities, include:

• Information from research, data, and input from people who use AAC, their families, and others who support them.

• Your understanding of the challenges people with speech-related disabilities face, including the barriers that prevent them from getting or using AAC. Explain how these barriers affect their daily lives and outcomes.

• How people with speech-related disabilities would benefit if their needs were better met and if they had improved access to AAC and peer support.

Goals and objectives

Make sure your goals and objectives are specific, realistic, and measurable, and directly address the needs you described.

• Clearly explain the purpose of your project, making sure the purpose is based on the needs you identified in the problem statement.

• Show how your goals and objectives are consistent with the stated purpose of the project.

Step 3: Build Your Application 26

• Describe how your approach aligns with the ACL Priority of preserving independence, promoting economic mobility, and expanding opportunities for people with disabilities.

• Describe the impact the project will have on individuals if you meet your goals, such as improvements in access, independence, participation, or other meaningful outcomes.

Table: Scoring criteria

Reviewers will evaluate the extent to which the applicant provides: Point value

A problem statement that:

• Describes why a national AAC peer support network is needed for people with speech-related disabilities, using information from research, data, and feedback from AAC users, their families, and others who support them.

• Shows a clear understanding of the challenges people with speech-related disabilities face, including the barriers that make it hard to get or use AAC, and how these challenges affect their daily lives and outcomes.

• Demonstrates an understanding of the unique needs of people with speech-related disabilities.

• Explains how people with speech-related disabilities would benefit if their needs, including improved access to AAC and peer support, were better met.

10 points

Goals and objectives that:

• Are specific, realistic, and measurable, and that directly respond to the needs described in the problem statement.

• Clearly explain the purpose of the project and show that the purpose is based on the needs identified in the problem statement.

• Show how the goals and objectives match the stated purpose of the project and logically follow from it.

• Describe how your approach aligns with the ACL Priority of preserving independence, promoting economic mobility, and expanding opportunities for people with disabilities.

• Describe how the project’s goals will have a direct impact on individuals, such as improving access to AAC, increasing independence, supporting participation, or achieving other meaningful outcomes.

10 points

Step 3: Build Your Application 27

Approach

Leading and supporting the leadership coalition

In your approach, describe how you will create, manage, and support the AAC Peer

Support Leadership Coalition throughout the project. Your description should include:

• How you will build and maintain the leadership coalition, including:

◦ Bringing together members who have speech-related disabilities and represent different ages, support needs, and AAC experiences from across the U.S. and its territories.

◦ Ensuring a majority of members use AAC.

◦ Including families of AAC users.

◦ Including people who support AAC users, such as friends, Centers for

Independent Living, service providers, educators, healthcare professionals, and community organizations.

◦ Engaging community and business partners that are not disability-specific but can support inclusion.

• How you will ensure the coalition is user-led, including how AAC users will lead or co-lead project activities.

• How you will define roles and responsibilities, and how you will support meaningful participation from all members.

• How you will compensate coalition members adequately.

• How the coalition will make decisions, including the clear and transparent processes you will use for:

◦ Creating, carrying out, and reviewing an action plan with milestones.

◦ Testing, improving, and expanding the network over time.

◦ Developing and sharing resources.

◦ Staying focused on achieving project goals.

Building and maintaining a sustainable National AAC Peer

Support Network

Your approach should also explain how you will build, maintain, and strengthen a national network of AAC peer support groups and mentors.

National directory of AAC peer support groups and mentors

Describe how you will:

• Set standards to decide which groups should be included.

• Identify what AAC users need in order to connect with peer support.

Step 3: Build Your Application 28

• Spot gaps in available support, especially for hard-to-reach groups.

• Find existing peer support groups to include in the directory.

• Start or grow new peer support groups to fill the gaps.

• Provide training and technical assistance to peer support groups and mentors.

National AAC Peer Support Network Hub

Explain how you will create and maintain a hub that:

• Helps AAC users easily find and connect with peer support groups and mentors.

• Supports peer groups and mentors in sharing information and collaborating.

• Provides updated resources and interactive forums for families, providers, and others.

• Shares clear, evidence-based AAC resources that are accessible and easy to use.

Helping people apply knowledge in practical ways

Describe how you will help AAC users, families, and providers turn information into practical action. Your approach should include:

• Developing an AAC peer support toolkit.

• Creating or identifying evidence-based and promising resources.

• Partnering with related federal programs, such as the RERC and State Assistive

Technology programs.

• Providing targeted training based on identified needs.

• Hosting a national online or hybrid conference every two years.

Outreach and collaboration

Describe how you will reach and engage a wide range of people and organizations. Include:

• How you will identify key groups and individuals to get involved in the project.

• How you will tailor outreach strategies to the needs of each group.

Making resources available to as many people as possible

Explain how you will ensure broad access to information and resources. Your approach should include:

• Creating resources in multiple formats (such as plain-language materials and videos).

• Working with AoD grantees to identify organizations, facilities, and partners that can help spread information.

• Developing a marketing and dissemination plan focused on reaching hard-to-reach populations.

Step 3: Build Your Application 29

• Building partnerships through both existing AoD programs and new collaborators.

• Targeting outreach each year to at least one hard-to-reach group (such as rural communities, people in institutional settings, or people involved in the justice system).

• Using modern tools, and the national hub, to expand reach.

• Regularly monitoring and adjusting your outreach strategies to maximize impact.

Project management

• Delineate the roles and responsibilities of project staff, consultants, and partner organizations.

• Describe how they will contribute to achieving the project’s objectives and outcomes.

• Clearly specify who will have day-to-day responsibility for leading the project, monitoring progress, preparing reports, and communicating with partners and ACL.

Work plan

You must provide a work plan for your project. The work plan connects your period of performance outcomes, strategies and activities, and measures. It provides more detail on how you will measure outcomes and processes.

To create your work plan:

• Use the Project Work Plan Sample Template on our website.

• Include the project’s overall goal, expected outcomes, key objectives, and the major action steps needed to achieve them.

• For each major action step, include start and end dates and the lead responsible person.

Table: Scoring criteria

Reviewers will evaluate the extent to which the applicant provides: Point value

An overall approach that:

• Clearly explains a strong, realistic, and complete plan for achieving the project’s goals and objectives.

• Effectively addresses the stated problem and meets the purpose of the funding opportunity.

7 points

For the AAC Peer Support Leadership Coalition:

• A plan for building and sustaining a coalition that includes:

◦ Mostly people with speech-related disabilities who use AAC, representing different ages, backgrounds, and experiences from across the U.S. and its territories.

7 points

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Build 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 3: Build Your Application 30 https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?src=https%3A%2F%2Facl.gov%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fgrants%2Fwork%2520plan%2520template.doc&wdOrigin=BROWSELINK

Reviewers will evaluate the extent to which the applicant provides: Point value

◦ Families of people who use or could benefit from AAC, representing different ages, types of support needs, and settings.

◦ Others who support or interact with AAC users, such as friends, Centers for

Independent Living, service providers, teachers, healthcare professionals, and community groups.

◦ Organizations that are not disability-focused, such as businesses and community groups.

• An approach for supporting the coalition so it is led by AAC users and includes clear roles and responsibilities that allow for real, meaningful participation.

• Mechanisms to compensate coalition members adequately.

• The process the coalition will use for making decisions to:

◦ Create, carry out, and review an action plan with milestones to strengthen the AAC peer support network.

◦ Implement, test, improve, and expand the network over time.

◦ Develop and share resources.

◦ Stay focused on meeting the project’s goals efficiently and effectively.

A solid, doable, and complete approach for growing a directory for the national AAC peer support network, including:

• Setting up quality checks to decide which peer support groups, mentors, and related activities meet the standards to be part of the national AAC peer support network.

• Figuring out what people with speech-related disabilities need in order to connect with peer support groups, mentors, or activities that match their preferences and needs.

• Identifying gaps in available peer support, including groups or individuals who are hard to reach, to understand what support people with speech-related disabilities need to use

AAC successfully.

• Finding existing peer support groups, mentors, and related activities that should be included in a national AAC peer support network directory.

• Starting and expanding AAC peer support groups and related activities to address identified gaps, using tools such as mini-grants or other strategies.

• Providing training and technical assistance to AAC peer support groups and mentors on topics like how to use resources to build the network’s capacity.

6 points

A solid, doable, and complete approach for creating a trusted, reliable national AAC peer support hub with a wide range of resources, including by:

• Building tools that help people with speech-related disabilities easily find and connect with peer support groups, mentors, and activities that have been reviewed and meet their needs and preferences.

6 points

Step 3: Build Your Application 31

• Offering through the Hub:

◦ Ways for AAC peer support groups and mentors to share information about themselves and the activities they provide.

◦ Resources and spaces where families, providers, and others can connect, share experiences, and get support for using AAC.

◦ Access to reliable, evidence-based, and promising AAC resources created by the project or other trusted sources.

A solid, doable, and complete approach for making knowledge useful, such as through promising practices and evidence-based practices:

• Creating an AAC Peer Support Toolkit that includes:

◦ Resources about AAC and peer support.

◦ Guidelines to help AAC users participate more fully in peer support activities (like meetings or discussions).

◦ Self-assessment tools for AAC users to check how well peer support is working for them.

• Identifying and developing evidence-based and promising resources:

◦ For people with speech-related disabilities and their families to better understand

AAC and the value of peer support.

◦ For providers (such as direct support staff, HCBS providers, health professionals, employment specialists, and school staff) to help them support AAC users more effectively and include peer support in their work.

• Working with federal partners, such as the NIDILRR RRTC and State Assistive Technology

Programs, to turn knowledge into action.

• Carrying out a strong dissemination plan that uses the national AAC peer support network, along with other effective methods, to widely share trusted resources, raise awareness, and build public support for AAC use.

• Offering targeted training for AAC users, families, and providers to promote use of the evidence-based and promising resources.

• Hosting an online or hybrid conference twice a year to engage and inform the groups involved in or affected by the project.

6 points

A solid, doable, and complete approach for conducting outreach and collaboration to raise awareness of AAC and increase participation in the national AAC peer support network by:

• Identifying key groups and individuals to engage, including people who use or need AAC in both rural and urban areas (including those with intellectual disabilities); their support networks (such as families, direct care workers, and school staff); and organizations that are not disability-focused (such as businesses and community groups).

6 points

Step 3: Build Your Application 32

• Creating tailored outreach strategies for each group to involve them in meaningful ways in the national AAC peer support network, supporting long-term participation and broad community involvement.

A solid, doable, and complete approach for making resources available to as many people as possible by:

• Creating a variety of resources and tools that are useful for AAC users and people who could benefit from AAC, including plain-language materials and videos that explain how

AAC works and why it is helpful.

• Working with AoD grantees, such as Developmental Disabilities Councils, Centers for

Independent Living, University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Protection and Advocacy Systems, and other partners who serve or interact with AAC users, to develop state-by-state lists of facilities, organizations, and providers where potential AAC users can be reached.

• Developing a strong marketing and dissemination plan to reach the widest possible audience, including people who are harder to reach, such as students in K–12 schools, people in rural areas, and individuals living in institutions or who are incarcerated.

• Sharing the project’s results and findings with audiences who may be interested, including those who may wish to replicate the project.

• Disseminating information promptly.

• Presenting results in formats that are easy for different audiences to understand.

6 points

A complete and well-organized work plan using the Project Work Plan

Sample Template with:

• A clear statement of the project’s overall goal, expected outcomes, and key objectives.

• Major action steps that logically support each objective and outcome.

• Specific, realistic start and end dates for each major action step.

• Identification of the lead person responsible for each action step, showing clear accountability.

• Sufficient detail to demonstrate how the work plan connects the project’s outcomes, strategies, activities, and measures over the full project period.

6 points

Step 3: Build Your Application 33

Project impact

When discussing the impact of the project, include the following.

Outcomes

• The specific outcomes the project will achieve, ensuring they are consistent with the outcomes listed in the program description.

• Reasons why these outcomes are important and how they support the purpose of the funding opportunity.

• How the outcomes connect to the project’s main activities and how each activity will help achieve them.

• Outcomes that are realistic and achievable within the project period.

• Ways that the outcomes contribute to longer-term improvements for AAC users, families, providers, and the broader peer support network.

• How the…