DOL Community-Rooted Opioid Response Grant

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment is requesting applications for the Community-Rooted Opioid Response Grant to fund community-based organizations implementing comprehensive opioid response initiatives, with applications due July 31, 2026.

Eligible applicants are community-based organizations proposing evidence-based or promising practices addressing prevention, treatment, recovery support, and harm reduction services for individuals with opioid use disorder and their families across Colorado communities. The RFA prioritizes organizations serving underserved or high-need communities disproportionately affected by the opioid epidemic, and preference may be given to collaborations between multiple agencies and community partners.

Applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity, financial stability, and prior experience with opioid response programs or related behavioral health services. Matching funds or in-kind contributions are required in accordance with grant guidelines. Project proposals must include detailed service delivery models, target populations, geographic service areas, staffing plans, and performance metrics.

Budget proposals must align with federal and state cost allowability standards, with funds restricted to direct program services, staffing, evaluation, and administrative costs within established caps. Successful applicants will be required to maintain detailed fiscal records, participate in state-level evaluation efforts, and provide regular performance reporting throughout the grant period. The grant typically supports multi-year initiatives with potential for renewal based on demonstrated outcomes and continued funding availability. Awards are anticipated for successful applicants to begin program implementation within the subsequent fiscal period.