hhs-2026-acl-cip-attf-0067.pdf

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Application due Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Center for Innovation and Partnership

Office of Interagency Innovation

Assistive Technology Alternative Financing Program Opportunity number: HHS-2026-ACL-CIP-ATTF-0067

Contents

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 4

Basic information 5

Eligibility 7

Program description 9

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 14

Find the application package 15

Get registered 15

Step 3: Build Your Application 17

Application checklist 18

Application contents and format 19

Step 4: Learn About Review and Award 33

Application review 34

Award notices 36

Step 5: Submit Your Application 37

Application submission and deadlines 38

Step 6: Learn What Happens After Award 39

Post-award requirements and administration 40

Contacts and Support 42

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 7

Program description 9

Basic information Administration for Community Living (ACL)

Center for Innovation and Partnership

Office of Interagency Innovation

A notice of funding opportunity from the Administration for

Community Living for the Assistive Technology Alternative

Financing Program.

Have questions?

See Contacts and

Support.

Key facts

Opportunity name:

Assistive Technology

Alternative Financing

Program

Opportunity number:

HHS-2026-ACL-CIP-

ATTF-0067

Federal assistance listing:

93.469 – Assistive

Technology Alternative

Financing Program

Cost sharing: None

NOFO version: Original

Key dates

Application submission deadline:

July 22, 2026

Expected award date:

September 30, 2026

Expected project start date:

September 30, 2026

Summary In alignment with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Make America

Healthy Again and Affordability agendas, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) is committed to making assistive technology affordable and available to older adults and individuals with disabilities across the lifespan through financial loans.

Many people with disabilities and older adults do not have the financial resources to purchase assistive technology (AT) devices that can help them live, learn, work, and thrive in the community. Major programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, and state vocational rehabilitation are often unable to keep up with the growing demand for AT.

The Alternative Financing Program (AFP) grant awards will establish or expand programs that provide people with additional options that make AT devices affordable for individuals to acquire through a low-interest loan fund, an interest buy-down program, a revolving loan fund, a loan guarantee, an insurance program, or other approaches. AFPs emphasize consumer choice and control to build sustainable programs that provide financing for the full array of AT devices and services to ensure older adults and all people with disabilities — regardless of type of disability or health condition, age, level of income, and residence setting — have access to the program.

Use of Assistance

One-year grant awards are used to support the establishment or expansion and sustainability of AFPs to assist older adults with functional needs and individuals with disabilities of any age to obtain financial assistance for AT devices and services. AFPs must be designed to allow individuals of all ages and their family members, guardians, advocates, and authorized representatives to purchase AT devices or services. The purchase must be solely for the benefit ofts, an older adult or an individual with a disability. The recommended applicants’ proposals will produce the measurable

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 5 outcomes we are seeking under this funding opportunity. Examples of the major anticipated outcomes include:

• New or expanded Assistive Technology Alternative Financing Programs that provide financing for the full array of AT devices and services for all people with disabilities, regardless of type of disability or health condition, age, and level of income.

• Greater access to financing mechanisms designed to make AT devices more affordable to individuals with disabilities of all ages to achieve community living, health, education and employment goals.

• Continued emphasis on consumer choice and control embedded in the design and ongoing operations of the Alternative Financing Program.

Funding details Type: Grant

Expected total program funding over the performance period: $1,946,000

Expected total program funding per budget period: $1,946,000

Total expected awards: 3

Funding range per applicant per budget period: $100,000 to $700,000

We plan to fund awards in one 12-month budget period for a one-year period of performance from September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2027.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 6

Eligibility Eligible applicants Only these types of organizations may apply:

• Special district governments.

• Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education.

• Private institutions of higher education.

• Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized).

• City or township governments.

• Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities.

• State governments.

• Independent school districts.

• Public and State controlled institutions of higher education.

• County governments.

• Native American tribal organizations (other than federally recognized tribal governments).

Foreign entities are not eligible to compete for, or receive awards made under this announcement. Faith-based and community organizations that meet the eligibility requirements are eligible to receive awards under this funding opportunity announcement.

Other eligibility criteria While applicants are not restricted to disability organizations, State agencies and community-based disability organizations that are directed by and operated for individuals with disabilities shall be eligible to compete.

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.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 7

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

ACL.

• The total 12-month budget for each grant award must not exceed $700,000.

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.

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 The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (P.L. 119-75)

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 8

Program description The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 authorizes the Department of Health and

Human Services (HHS), Administration for Community Living (ACL) to fund one-year grant awards to support Assistive Technology Alternative Financing Programs that assist older adults with functional needs and individuals with disabilities of any age to obtain services, financial assistance, and additional activities for the acquisition of AT devices and services. This Funding Opportunity Announcement also aligns with ACL’s Economic

Security strategic priority to increase access to assistive technology without unnecessary financial or bureaucratic barriers.

Under this Funding Opportunity Announcement, applicants must establish or expand one or more of the following types of AFPs:

1. A low-interest loan fund.

2. An interest buy-down program.

3. A revolving loan fund.

4. A loan guarantee or insurance program.

5. A program operated for the purchase, lease, or other acquisition of assistive technology devices or assistive technology services.

6. Another mechanism that provides financing and is approved by the Secretary.

To be considered for funding, an applicant must identify the type or types of AFP to be supported by the grant and submit the following:

1. Administrative Policies and Procedures. An assurance that the applicant receiving a grant under this priority will be submitted to ACL for review and approval within the first 3 months of the project period policies and procedures for administration of the AFP as follows:

◦ (a) A policy and/or procedure to review and process in a timely manner requests for financial assistance for assistive technology needs, including consideration of methods to reduce paperwork and duplication of effort particularly relating to need, eligibility and determination of the specific AT device or service to be financed through the program.

◦ (b) A policy and/or procedure to ensure that individuals are allowed to apply for financing for a full array of AT devices and services regardless of type of disability or health condition, age, income level, location of residence, or type of AT device or service for which financing is requested through the program. It is permissible for programs to target individuals with disabilities who would have been denied conventional financing as a priority for AFP funding.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 9

◦ (c) A policy and/or procedure to expand and emphasize consumer choice and control.

◦ (d) A policy and/or procedure for sustainability of the AFP including information on the amount of federal grant award expected to be used for operating expenses versus loan capital. Grantees must provide a sustainability plan that identifies the amount of funding that is expected to be needed on an ongoing basis for program administration and loan capital and how such funding will be secured absent the federal grant award.

◦ (e) A policy and/or procedure for incorporating credit-building activities into the AFP, including financial education and information about other possible funding sources.

2. Fiscal and Reporting Assurances. An applicant must provide the following assurances:

◦ (a) The grantee will draw down and place all federal grant funds in a restricted account with the use of such funds limited to implementation of the AFP. The grantee is permitted to draw down the entire award in advance to capitalize a loan fund so long as the funds are placed in a restricted account.

◦ (b) The grantee will expend funds in the restricted account solely for the purpose originally designated for implementation of the AFP and the restricted fund will continue until all federal and any other dollars placed into the restricted fund are expended for that purpose. As a reminder, 45 CFR 75.307(f) states, “There are no Federal requirements governing the disposition of income earned after the end of the period of performance for the Federal award, unless the HHS awarding agency regulations or terms and conditions of the award provide otherwise. The HHS awarding agency may negotiate agreements with recipients regarding appropriate use of income earned after the period of performance as part of the grant closeout process.” Consistent with 45 CFR 75.307(e)(2), “The program income must be used for the purposes and under the conditions of the Federal award.” In the event program income earned after the period of performance is used for other purposes, in noncompliance with the terms and conditions of award, or if a grantee decides to terminate its AFP while there are still funds available to operate the program, the grantee must return the funds remaining in the restricted account to the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

◦ (c) The grantee will complete federal cash transaction reports, as appropriate, and will submit a final federal financial report as prescribed by ACL.

◦ (d) The grantee will provide a final program progress report within 90 days after the end of the grant award period, which along with the final fiscal report will close-out the grant award.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 10

The purpose of the Alternative Financing Program is to support programs that provide for the purchase of AT devices and services. Successful applicants must emphasize consumer choice and control and build sustainable programs that will provide financing for the full array of AT devices and services and ensure that all people with disabilities and functional needs, regardless of type of disability or health condition, age, level of income and residence have access to the program.

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.

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

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 11 mailto:support@grants.gov https://acl.gov/grants/managing-grant

• 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

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.

Indirect costs

Indirect costs are those shared across multiple projects and not easily separated.

To charge indirect costs you can select one of two methods:

Method 1 — Approved rate. If you currently have an indirect cost rate approved by your cognizant federal agency, you may use that rate.

Method 2 — De minimis rate. If you do not have a negotiated indirect cost rate, you may elect to charge a de minimis rate (see 2 CFR 200.414(f)). This rate may be up to 15% of modified total direct costs (MTDC). See the definition of MTDC (2 CFR 200.1). You can use this rate indefinitely.

You may not charge costs included in your indirect cost pool as direct costs.

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

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 12 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://acl.gov/about-acl https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/hhs-writing-award-descriptions.pdf https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200#p-200.414(f) https://www.fsd.gov/gsafsd_sp#p-200.1(Modified%20Total%20Direct%20Cost%20(MTDC))

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.

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 13 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR031321e29ac5bbd/section-200.332 https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/ https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/ https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/financial-assistance-general-certification-representations.pdf#200.307

Step 2:

Get Ready to Apply

In this step

Find the application package 15

Get registered 15

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-CIP-AAFP-0067. 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 15 https://acl.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-III/part-300 https://acl.gov/grants/applying-grants/application-tips https://acl.gov/about-acl https://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants https://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants

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 16 https://www.grants.gov/support https://acl.gov/grants/applying-grants/how-apply

Step 3:

Build Your Application

In this step

Application checklist 18

Application contents and format 19

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. 30 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 18

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

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: 30

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 19

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

This section should describe, in both quantitative and qualitative terms, the nature and scope of the problem or issue the proposed intervention is designed to address, including how the AFP will potentially impact older adults and/or people with disabilities, their families and caregivers and the health care and social services systems.

The problem statement should describe the applicant’s plans to meet the following criteria:

• The extent to which the services provided by the proposed AFP:

◦ Align with ACL’s economic security strategic priority to increase access to assistive technology without unnecessary financial or bureaucratic barriers.

◦ Are appropriate to the needs of the intended recipients or beneficiaries of those services.

◦ Are focused on those with the greatest needs.

◦ The magnitude of the need for the services to be provided or the activities to be carried out by the proposed AFP.

Step 3: Build Your Application 20

Goals and objectives

This section should consist of a description of the project’s goal(s) and major objectives with relation to meeting the purpose of the funding to support programs that provide for the purchase of AT devices in ways that expand and emphasize consumer choice and control.

• The extent to which the knowledge demonstrated in the problem statement translates to the AFP’s goal(s) and objectives for supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities to acquire needed AT devices through this funding opportunity.

Table: Scoring criteria

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

• The magnitude of the need for the services to be provided or the activities to be carried out by the proposed AFP.

• The extent to which the knowledge demonstrated in the problem statement translates to the AFP’s goal(s) and objectives for supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities to acquire needed AT devices through this funding opportunity.

• The extent to which the services provided by the proposed AFP:

◦ Align with ACL’s economic security strategic priority to increase access to assistive technology without unnecessary financial or bureaucratic barriers.

◦ Are appropriate to the needs of the intended recipients or beneficiaries of those services.

◦ Are focused on those with the greatest needs.

10 points

Step 3: Build Your Application 21

Approach

Proposed intervention

This section should provide a clear and concise description of the intervention you are proposing to use to address the problem described in the “problem statement.” You should also describe the rationale for using the particular intervention, including factors such as: “lessons learned” for similar projects previously tested in your community, or in other areas of the country; factors in the larger environment that have created the “right conditions” for the intervention (e.g., existing social or economic factors that you’ll be able to take advantage of, etc.). Also note any major barriers you anticipate encountering, and how your project will be able to overcome those barriers. Be sure to describe the role and makeup of any strategic partnerships you plan to involve in implementing the intervention, including other organizations, supporters, and/or consumer groups.

The proposed intervention should describe the applicant’s plans to meet the following criteria:

• The proposed AFP clearly and adequately responds to the funding opportunity, as described in this program announcement.

• The design of the proposed AFP includes a high-quality plan for project implementation to ensure successful achievement of project objectives.

• The proposed AFP represents an exceptional approach to the funding opportunity established for this program announcement.

• The design of the proposed AFP is appropriate and will successfully address the needs of the target population or other identified needs.

• The proposed AFP is likely to build capacity to provide, improve or expand services that address the needs of the target population.

• The proposed AFP will establish linkages with other appropriate agencies and organizations providing services to the target population.

• The proposed AFP encourages consumer involvement and addresses a procedure to ensure consumer choice and consumer-controlled oversight of the program.

• The proposed AFP involves the development or demonstration of promising new strategies that build on, or are alternatives to, existing strategies, and incorporates credit building activities, including financial education and information about other possible funding sources.

• The proposed AFP is designed to build statewide capacity, sustain the program and yield results that will extend beyond the period of Federal financial assistance.

Step 3: Build Your Application 22

Project management

This section should include a clear delineation of the roles and responsibilities of project staff, consultants and partner organizations, and how they will contribute to achieving the project’s objectives and outcomes. It should specify who would have day-to-day responsibility for key tasks such as leadership of the project; monitoring the project’s on-going progress (i.e., measure of performance towards the goals stated in the funding opportunity announcement and for your specific intervention/activities), preparation of reports; communications with other partners and ACL. It should also describe the approach that will be used to monitor and track progress on the project’s tasks and objectives.

Project management should describe the applicant’s plans to meet the following criteria:

• The adequacy of the project management work plan to achieve the objectives of the proposed AFP on time and within budget, including clearly defined responsibilities.

• The adequacy of mechanisms for ensuring high-quality products and services from the proposed AFP.

• The extent to which the applicant will ensure that a variety of perspectives are brought to bear in the operation of the proposed AFP, including those of individuals with disabilities, older adults, family members, guardians, advocates, authorized representatives, teachers, the business community, a variety of disciplinary and professional fields, recipients or beneficiaries of services or others, as appropriate.

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.

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

Step 3: Build Your Application 23 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.308?src=https%3A%2F%2Facl.gov%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fgrants%2Fwork%2520plan%2520template.doc&wdOrigin=BROWSELINK

Table: Scoring criteria

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

Proposed Intervention:

• The proposed AFP clearly and adequately responds to the funding opportunity.

• The design of the proposed AFP includes a high-quality plan for project implementation to ensure successful achievement of project objectives.

• The design of the proposed AFP that is appropriate to, and will successfully address, the needs of the target population or other identified needs.

• The proposed AFP is likely to build capacity to provide, improve or expand services that address the needs of the target population.

• The proposed AFP will establish linkages with other appropriate agencies and organizations providing services to the target population.

• The proposed AFP encourages consumer involvement and addresses a procedure to ensure consumer choice and consumer-controlled oversight of the program.

• The proposed AFP involves the development or demonstration of promising new strategies that build on, or are alternatives to, existing strategies, and incorporates credit building activities, including financial education and information about other possible funding sources.

• The proposed AFP is designed to build statewide capacity, sustain the program and yield results that will extend beyond the period of Federal financial assistance.

40 points

Project management / work plan:

• The adequacy of the project management work plan to achieve the objectives of the proposed AFP on time and within budget, including clearly defined responsibilities.

• The adequacy of mechanisms for ensuring high-quality products and services from the proposed AFP.

• The extent to which the applicant will ensure that a variety of perspectives are brought to bear in the operation of the proposed AFP, including those of individuals with disabilities, older adults, family members, guardians, advocates, authorized representatives, teachers, the business community, a variety of disciplinary and professional fields, recipients or beneficiaries of services or others, as appropriate.

10 points

Step 3: Build Your Application 24

Project impact

Special target populations and organizations

This section should describe how you plan to involve organizations in a meaningful way in the planning and implementation of the proposed project. This section should also describe whether, and if so, how the proposed intervention will target disadvantaged populations, including those of greatest economic need and those of greatest social need.

In determining the quality of the services to be provided by the proposed AFP, the reviewers consider the quality and sufficiency of strategies for ensuring equal access and treatment for eligible project participants who are members or groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on age, disability or economic need.

This section should describe the applicant’s plans to meet the following criteria:

• The likely impact of the services to be provided by the proposed AFP on the intended recipients of those services.

• The extent to which the services are to be provided by the proposed AFP involves the collaboration of appropriate partners for maximizing the effectiveness of project services.

• The extent to which specific gaps or weaknesses in services, infrastructure, or opportunities have been identified and will be addressed by the proposed AFP.

Outcomes

This section of the project narrative must clearly identify the measurable outcome(s) that will result from the project. (NOTE: ACL will not fund any project that does not include measurable outcomes). This section should also describe how the project’s findings might benefit the field at large, (e.g., how the findings could help other organizations throughout the nation to address the same or similar problems.) List measurable outcomes in the optional work plan grid (“Project Work Plan – Sample Template”) under

“Measurable Outcomes” in addition to any discussion included in the narrative along with a description of how the project might benefit the field at large.

A “measurable outcome” is an observable end-result that describes how a particular intervention benefits consumers. It demonstrates functional status, mental well-being, knowledge, skill, attitude, awareness or behavior. It can also describe a change in the degree to which consumers exercise choice over the types of services they receive, or whether they are satisfied with the way a service is delivered. Additional examples include: a change in the responsiveness or cost-effectiveness of a service delivery system;

a new model of support or care that can be replicated in the ACL network; new knowledge that can contribute to the field of community living; a measurable increase in

Step 3: Build Your Application 25 community awareness; or a measurable increase in people receiving services. A measurable outcome is not a measurable “output,” such as the number of clients served;

the number of training sessions held; or the number of service units provided.

Regarding this funding opportunity, outcomes should include improvements in the ability of older adults and individuals with disabilities to purchase AT devices because of program support and/or increases in the amount of choice and control among targeted consumers because of the program.

You should keep the focus of this section on describing what outcome(s) will be produced by the project. You should use the Evaluation section noted below to describe how the outcome(s) will be measured and reported.

Your application will be scored on the clarity and nature of your proposed outcomes, not on the number of outcomes cited. It is appropriate for a project to have only ONE outcome that it is trying to achieve through the intervention reflected in the project’s design.

• This section must clearly identify the outcomes that will result from your comprehensive strategy to implement this project. Any proposed outcomes should address the goals of this funding opportunity and be quantifiable, measurable, and likely to be achieved during the project period.

• List measurable outcomes in the Work Plan grid under “Measurable Outcomes” in addition to any discussion included in the narrative.

Evaluation

This section should describe the specific outcomes (e.g., changes in clients, organizations, and/or communities) expected as a result of this funding as well as method(s), techniques and tools that will be used to: 1) determine whether the proposed intervention achieved its anticipated outcome(s), and 2) document the “lessons learned”

– both positive and negative - from the project that will be useful to people interested in replicating the intervention, if it proves successful.

The Evaluation should describe the applicant’s plans to meet the following criteria:

• The extent to which the methods of evaluation are appropriate to the goals, objectives and outcomes of the proposed AFP and examine the effectiveness of project implementation strategies.

• The extent to which the methods of evaluation will provide performance feedback and permit periodic assessment of progress toward achieving intended outcomes and continuous improvement in the operation of the proposed AFP.

Step 3: Build Your Application 26

Dissemination

This section should describe the method that will be used to disseminate the project’s results and findings in a timely manner and in easily understandable formats, to parties who might be interested in using the results of the project to inform practice, service delivery, program development, and/or policy-making, including and especially those parties who would be interested in replicating the project.

Table: Scoring criteria

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

• The likely impact of the services to be provided by the proposed AFP on the intended recipients of those services.

• The services provided by the proposed AFP involve the collaboration of appropriate partners for maximizing the effectiveness of project services.

• The extent to which specific gaps or weaknesses in services, infrastructure, or opportunities have been identified and will be addressed by the proposed AFP.

• The methods of evaluation are appropriate to the goals, objectives and outcomes of the proposed AFP and provide for examining the effectiveness of project implementation strategies.

• The outcomes that will result from their comprehensive strategy to implement this project. Any proposed outcomes should address the goals of this AFP funding opportunity and be quantifiable, measurable, and likely to be achieved during the project period. Measurable outcomes should be listed in the Work Plan.

• Describe the method that will be used to disseminate the project’s results and findings in a timely manner.

20 points

Step 3: Build Your Application 27

Capability and expertise

Organizational capability

Each application should include an organizational capability statement and vitae for key project personnel. The organizational capability statement should describe how the applicant agency (or the division of a larger agency which will have responsibility for this project) is organized, the nature and scope of its work and/or the capabilities it possesses. It should also include the organization’s capability to sustain some or all project activities after Federal financial assistance has ended.

This description should cover capabilities of the applicant agency not included in the project narrative, such as any current or previous relevant experience and/or the record of the project team in preparing cogent and useful reports, publications, and other products. If appropriate, include an organization chart showing the relationship of the project to the current organization. Please attach short vitae for key project staff only.

Neither vitae nor an organizational chart will count towards the narrative page limit. Also include information about any contractual organization(s) that will have a significant role(s) in implementing the project and achieving project goals.

This section should describe the applicant’s plans to meet the following criteria:

• The adequacy of support, including facilities, equipment, supplies and other resources, from the applicant organization or the lead applicant organization.

• The relevance and demonstrated commitment of each partner in the proposed project to the implementation and success of the AFP.

• The extent to which the budget is sufficient to support the proposed project.

• The extent to which the services to be provided by the proposed AFP involve the use of efficient strategies and the leveraging of non-project resources.

• For any key partners the applicant intends to directly involve in this funding opportunity, the applicant should obtain letters of commitment stating their agreement to provide tangible resources, personnel, funding, or other contributions.

Experience of the project team

The applicant should include the roles and responsibilities of key staff, including how staff will be managed, and resumes or CVs of key personnel. Specify who will have day-to-day responsibility for key tasks such as leadership of project, monitoring the project’s ongoing progress, preparation of reports, and communications with other partners and ACL. The project director should have expertise in falls prevention and related technical assistance.

The project team demonstrates capability to act with speed, be responsive to emerging needs, and deliver results in a timely manner.

Step 3: Build Your Application 28

This section should describe the applicant’s plans to meet the following criteria:

• The extent to which the application explains the experience of the project team and encourages applications for employment from people who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on age or disability.

• The extent to which the time commitments of the project director and other key project personnel are appropriate and adequate to meet the objectives of the proposed AFP.

• The qualifications, including relevant training and experience, of the proposed AFP project director and other key project personnel.

Table: Scoring criteria

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

• The adequacy of support, including facilities, equipment, supplies and other resources, from the applicant organization or the lead applicant organization.

• The relevance and demonstrated commitment of each partner in the proposed project to the implementation and success of the AFP.

• The extent to which the budget is sufficient to support the proposed project.

• The extent to which the services to be provided by the proposed AFP involve the use of efficient strategies and the leveraging of non-project resources.

• For any key partners the applicant intends to directly involve in this funding opportunity, the applicant should obtain letters of commitment stating their agreement to provide tangible resources, personnel, funding, or other contributions.

• The experience of the project team and encourages applications for employment from people who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on age or disability.

• The extent to which the time commitments of the project director and other key project personnel are appropriate and adequate to meet the objectives of the proposed AFP.

• The qualifications, including relevant training and experience, of the proposed AFP project director and other key project personnel.

10 points

Step 3: Build Your Application 29

Budget narrative Page limit: None

The budget narrative supports the information you provide in Standard Form-424A.

It includes added detail and justifies the costs you ask for. As you think about your budget, consider:

• If the costs are reasonable and consistent with your project’s purpose and activities.

• The restrictions on spending funds. See funding policies and limitations.

When you develop your budget narrative:

• We encourage you to use the ACL Budget Narrative Sample Format [PDF]. This format shows the level of detail we are looking for in your application.

• Justify all the costs and show how you calculated them.

• You will need to create a budget narrative for year 1 only.

◦ Describe the extent to which the budget for the project period is justified with respect to adequacy and reasonableness of resources requested for the administration of the proposed AFP that is aligned with the proposed activities in the project narrative and work plan.

◦ Describe the extent to which the proposed AFP addresses the establishment of a restricted account, use and control of funds and develops a sustainability plan for program administration.

◦ Describe the extent to which the time commitment of the proposed director and other key staff is sufficient to ensure the establishment or expansion of an AFP.

Reviewers will assess your budget (SF-424A) and your budget narrative to score this section.

Table: Scoring criteria for budget and budget narrative

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

• The extent to which the budget for the project period is justified with respect to adequacy and reasonableness of resources requested for the administration of the proposed AFP that is aligned with the proposed activities in the project narrative and work plan.

• The extent to which the proposed AFP addresses the establishment of a restricted account, use and control of funds and develops a sustainability plan for program administration.

10 points

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

Step 3: Build Your Application 30 https://grants.gov/search-grants

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

• The extent to which the time commitment of the proposed director and other key staff is sufficient to ensure the establishment or expansion of an AFP.

• Include detailed budgets for each of the following:

◦ Budget Narrative/Justification for Year 1

Attachments You will upload attachments in Grants.gov using the Other attachments form.

Indirect cost agreement

If you include indirect costs in your budget using an approved rate, include a copy of your current agreement approved by your cognizant agency for indirect costs. If you use the de minimis rate, you do not need to submit this attachment.

Commitment letters

Include letters from any organization that will have a significant role in carrying out your project. The letter should explain their role and their commitment to the project.

Proof of nonprofit status

If your organization is a nonprofit, you need to attach proof. We will accept any of the following:

• A copy of a current tax exemption certificate from the IRS.

• A letter from your state’s tax department, attorney general, or another state official saying that your group is a nonprofit and that none of your net earnings go to private shareholders or others.

• A certified copy of your certificate of incorporation. This document must show that your group is a nonprofit.

• Any of these documents for a parent organization. Also include a statement signed by an official of the parent group that your organization is a nonprofit affiliate.

Resumes and job descriptions

For key personnel, attach resumes for positions that are filled. For positions that aren’t filled, attach the job descriptions with qualifications.

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

Step 3: Build Your Application 31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-XI/subchapter-A/part-1108/subpart-B/section-1108.85

Other required forms You will need to complete some other forms in Grants.gov. You can find them in the

NOFO application package or review them and their instructions at Grants.gov Forms.

Form Submission requirement

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

Important: Public information

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