RFP_HLTH_Health for Birth Justice & Comm. Doula Sv

The Minneapolis Health Department is requesting proposals from qualified organizations to deliver community-centered doula and care coordination services advancing birth equity and birth justice for Minneapolis residents, with proposals due September 18, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. CT and a pre-proposal virtual conference call on September 3 at 10:30 a.m. CT.

Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations, LLCs, or for-profit organizations legally operating in Minnesota with experience providing doula or maternal health services and administrative and fiscal capacity to manage publicly funded contracts. Services must target low-income (at or below 175% of federal poverty guidelines) and/or high-risk pregnant and postpartum individuals residing in Minneapolis. Preference may be given to organizations with demonstrated experience serving communities experiencing health disparities, particularly Black, Indigenous, and communities of color.

The scope encompasses culturally grounded, strengths-based services including individual doula support across the prenatal, labor and delivery, and postpartum continuum, as well as care coordination linking clients to healthcare providers, mental health services, basic needs resources, and community organizations. Providers must demonstrate cultural competency, community engagement, and equity-focused practices. Title V funds cannot be used for clinical medical services, and providers may not charge fees for individuals at or below 100% of federal poverty guidelines. Administrative costs are capped at 10% of direct costs.

MHD anticipates selecting 3–4 organizations for awards. Total available funding is $230,000 for the initial contract period (November 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027), with individual award amounts anticipated to range from $50,000 to $75,000 annually. Funding is provided through the Title V Maternal and Child Health Block Grant. The contract may be extended for up to two years following the initial performance period, contingent upon funding availability and agency performance.

Written questions are due September 10, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. CT, with responses posted by September 14. All recipients must participate in evaluation activities reporting quarterly outcomes. Proposals must be submitted through the City's eSupplier Portal. Primary contact is Stephine D Holloway.