Traditionally Underserved Populations

To make awards to minority entities and Indian tribes to carry out activities under the programs authorized under titles II, III, VI, and VII of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended; to make awards to minority entities and Indian tribes to conduct rese

Activities for Traditionally Underserved Populations are designed to improve the quality, access, delivery of services, and the outcomes of those services under the Rehabilitation Act, especially services provided to individuals with disabilities from minority backgrounds, and to increase the capacity of minority entities and Indian Tribes to participate in activities funded under the Rehabilitation Act.

Historically Black College or University or an American Indian tribal college or university A State or a public or private nonprofit agency or organization, such as an institution of higher education or an Indian tribe, historically black college or university, or an American Indian tribal college or university.

Vocational Rehabilitation professionals who serve or are from minority groups and/or traditionally underserved populations, and individuals with disabilities served by the Vocational Rehabilitation program.

Grants are limited to: awards to minority entities and Indian tribes to carry out activities under the programs authorized under titles II, III, VI, and VII of the Rehabilitation Act; awards to minority entities and Indian tribes to conduct research, training, technical assistance, or related activities, to improve services provided under the Rehabilitation Act, especially services provided to individuals from minority backgrounds; and awards to eligible entities to provide outreach and technical assistance to minority entities and Indian tribes to promote their participation in activities funded under the Rehabilitation Act.

Contact the program office contact for additional information.

Projects generally may be supported for 1 to 5 years, with budget periods of 12 months. Renewals are subject to the availability of appropriations.

Preapplication coordination is required. Environmental impact information is not required for this program. This program is eligible for coverage under E.O. 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs." An applicant should consult the office or official designated as the single point of contact in his or her State for more information on the process the State requires to be followed in applying for assistance, if the State has selected the program for review. This program is eligible for coverage under E.O. 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs," except if the applicant is an Indian Tribe.

The selection criteria for this competition are from 34 CFR 75.210 of the Education Department General Administrative Regulations and are listed in the application package.

All new applications are reviewed by a panel of at least three individuals. Each panel will generally include two or more non-Federal consultants with experience and training in the proposed area of expertise. Each panel typically includes a person with a disability and an individual from a minority background.

The range of approval/disapproval time is approximately 120 to 150 days following the application deadline.

Renewals are available only through the new application process. Projects with an approved multi-year project period may be continued based on the availability of appropriated funds and an annual review of accomplishments to determine satisfactory performance.