Notice of Funding Opportunity
Summary Information
| Awarding Agency Name |
Illinois Department of Human Services |
| Agency Contact Person |
Crystal Gunn
Email: Crystal.Gunn@Illinois.gov
Phone: 217-557-5389 |
| Announcement Type |
Initial Announcement - Program is being NOFO'd for fiscal year |
| Type of Assistance Instrument |
Grant
Competitive
Not a Capital Grant |
| Agency Opportunity Number |
22-444-80-1241 |
| Funding Opportunity Title |
Special Education-Grants for Infants and Families - Early Intervention Clearinghouse |
| CSFA Number |
444-80-1241 |
| CSFA Popular Name |
Special Education-Grants for Infants and Families - Early Intervention Clearinghouse |
| CFDA Number(s) |
N/A |
| Number of Anticipated Awards |
1 |
| Estimated Total Funding Available |
Initial 12-Month Award: FY22: $290,100
Renewal Option 1: FY23 (12 months) $290,100
Renewal Option 2: FY24 (12 months) $290,100
|
| Single Award Range |
N/A |
| Funding Source |
State |
| Cost Sharing or Match Allowed |
No |
| Cost Sharing or Match Required |
No |
| Indirect Costs Allowed |
Yes |
| Restrictions on Indirect Costs |
Yes
If yes, provide the citation governing the restriction:
State Funded universities-indirect cost rate and base are capped at (attached)
On-Campus 20% and MTDC base
Off-Campus 10% and MTDC base Local Education Agencies (ROEs, School Districts, etc.) Restricted to ISBE negotiated unrestricted rate: https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Indirect-Cost-Rate-Plan.aspx
|
| Other Funding Restrictions, (specify) |
No |
| Posted Date |
May 13, 2021 |
| Application Date Range |
Start: May 13, 2021
End: June 11, 2021 at 12:00pm CST |
| Application Review Date |
June 14, 2021 |
| Technical Assistance Session |
Sessions Offered: No
Session Mandatory: No |
| NOFO/Application Frequently Asked Questions Due date for submitting questions |
May 19, 2021 |
| Submit questions to |
Crystal.Gunn@Illinois.gov |
| Posting date for the master list of submitted questions and state agency responses |
May 21, 2021 |
A. Program Description
A.1. Specifications/Qualifications/Statement of Work:
Goal: The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Family and Community Services, seeks an organization with which to contract for the establishment and maintenance of an Early Intervention Clearinghouse (EIC), a resource for the parents/caregivers, general public and early intervention professionals to access information and other resources related to early intervention issues including, but not limited to, culturally inclusive and culturally responsive resources. The EIC provides current, up-to-date information and reference materials that are used by parents to learn more about normal development and specific disabilities. This information is also used by educators and EI professionals to maintain and improve competencies in the evaluation and treatment of children with developmental disabilities and delays. The EIC serves as a communication link between the EI Program and families served by the program through newsletters, a Web site, and reference and lending library services. The EIC maintains a federally required central directory.
Program Exhibit Language
A.2. Supplies and/or Services Required:
A.2.1. Maintain and expand an EIC lending library of books, DVDs, and other resources specific to early childhood/early intervention issues, with an emphasis on resources for families. Resources should be available in multiple languages, and reflect potential trajectories for children of color in the context of racialized maternal care as well as opportunities for families of color to assist them in the proper development of their child.
A.2.2. Maintain participation in the Illinois Heartland Library System (or equivalent system) to provide direct access through the Internet to multiple library collections
A.2.3. Maintain and expand an EIC Internet website to help families access accurate, up-to-date information about early intervention principles and practices, normal child development, and about specific disabilities/delays and to publicize and increase exposure of the EIC as a statewide resource for early intervention professionals and families.
A.2.4. Maintain and expand the list of EIC resource guides related to early childhood/early intervention topics. Information should be made available on the EIC website or upon request. Work with the Illinois Early Intervention Training Program to provide resources guides that support professional training efforts.
A.2.5. Maintain a central directory on the EIC website that includes accurate, up-to-date information about public and private early intervention services, resources and experts available in the State; culturally informed resources and culturally responsive resources and tools; professional and other groups (including parent support, and training and information centers), such as those funded under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 2004 that provide assistance to infants and toddlers with disabilities eligible under Part C of IDEA and their families; and research and demonstration projects being conducted in the State related to infants and toddlers with disabilities. Persons with limited English proficiency should have meaningful access to directory information. The directory will be made available on the EIC website and through a link to the EIC website from the IDHS-Early Intervention website. In addition, directory information will be provided in an electronic format to Child and Family Connections offices to be printed and made available to families upon request.
A.2.6. Maintain a directory of links to the Early Intervention Child and Family Connections forms on the EIC website and provide translation services, as requested, to ensure forms are available in various languages.
A.2.7. Operate a toll-free number from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, to disseminate information to parents, the public, and Early Intervention professionals.
A.2.8. Publicize and increase exposure of the EIC as a statewide resource, specifically targeting parents. Efforts include, at a minimum, distribution of family-friendly public awareness materials and presentations about EIC services to Child and Family Connections staff, EI providers, and families, displays at appropriate conferences and other events, and through the use of social media as well as local, trusted sources/leaders of more localized grassroots organizations such as churches/faith leaders and community organizations.
A.2.9. Develop and publish an EIC newsletter on the EIC website and disseminate via the EIC Listserv. Provide hard copies to families upon request.
A.2.10. Update family resource documents including but not limited to the Illinois Early Intervention Program: A Guide for Families and the Illinois Early Intervention Services brochure. Ensure family resource documents are available in various languages.
A.2.11. Provide a system for payments to parents for expenses (totaling up to $10,000 annually) related to participation in the Illinois Interagency Council on Early Intervention (IICEI) and its work groups.
A.2.12. The Vendor will submit a quarterly measurement report, including progress/ status of milestones and deliverables identified in Section A.5 in a format approved by the Department.
A.2.13. As part of the technical approach plan, the selected Vendor should provide a transition plan that will result in full operations beginning upon contract execution. This does not apply to the current contract holder as there would be no transition.
Description of State awarding agency's funding priorities, technical or focus areas in which the State awarding agency intends to provide assistance.
A.3. Funding Priorities, Technical/Focus Areas:
A.3.1. The Vendor should be able to demonstrate the number of years of experience (minimum of five (5) years-experience) and the level of technical experience and administering grants that appropriately reflects the ability to perform the scope of work.
A.3.2. The Vendor should be able to demonstrate relevant experience with businesses or government entities.
A.3.3. The Vendor should be able to demonstrate that the placement of the project in the Vendor's organization is appropriate and supports the Vendor's capacity to provide the types of services specified in Sections A.2 and A.5. The description should provide a clear understanding of how these services will be delivered using an diversity, equity and inclusion lens, the process and how the services will be individualized.
A.3.4. The Vendor should be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of fiscal and accounting concepts and practices commensurate to those required by federal and state financial and regulatory reporting in relation to the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200) and the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) (30 ILCS 708/). This also includes sufficient knowledge to apply concepts relating to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
A.3.5. The Applicant must provide resumes for all key personnel, all who will be involved in providing the services contemplated by this NOFO. Resumes must include the full name, education background, and years of experience and employment history particularly as it relates to the scope of services specified herein. The information provided should indicate that key personnel meet or exceed staffing specifications stated below and that staff resources are adequate to implement the Technical Approach plan required in this Section A.3.
A.3.6. The Vendor should be able to demonstrate that key personnel meet or exceed the following staff specifications and present an acceptable plan for recruitment and selection of additional qualified staff, when needed.
A.3.7. The Vendor will have a project manager who will coordinate and provide oversight to the program and will perform other duties as needed to provide the deliverables listed above.
A.3.8. Staff should be able to validate two (2) years of education and/or experience in the field of library and information science, with knowledge of resources related to child development and disabilities/delays.
A.3.9. Staff should be able to validate two (2) years-experience in website and database development and maintenance.
A.3.10. Staff should be able to validate two (2) years-experience in translating documents from English to Spanish or identified resources to accomplish this function.
A.3.11. The Vendor should be able to demonstrate that staff resources are adequate to implement the proposed technical approach.
A.3.12. Staff should possess competencies and expertise sufficient in accounting and or bookkeeping to allow for submission of complete and accurate financial and performance measure data, including expenditure documentation forms, periodic financial reports, periodic performance measure reports, budgets, indirect cost calculations and application of indirect cost rates, to ensure compliance with the requirements set forth in the state Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) (30 ILCS 708/) and the federal Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200).
Authorizing statutes and regulations for the funding opportunity
A.4. The Awardee agrees to act in accordance with all state and federal statutes, guidelines, procedures, rules, regulations, and executive orders applicable to the provision of services, including, but not limited to:
A.4.1. Federal Rules
- 34 CFR 99: Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
- 2 CFR 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards
- 34 CFR 303: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Title I, Part C
- 42 CFR 430 et seq.: Medicaid provisions of Title XIX of the Social Security Act and its rules
- 42 CFR 431.300 - 431.307: Medicaid provisions of the Title XIX of the Social Security Act and its rules, specifically provisions regarding "Safeguarding Information on Applications and Recipients"
- 45 CFR Parts 160, 162 and 164 (Security standards only) Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)
A.4.2. Federal Statutes
- 20 U.S.C. 1232g: Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
- 20 U.S.C. 1431: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part C
- 42 U.S.C §§ 396 et seq.: Medicaid provisions of Title XIX of the Social Security Act and its rules
- 42 U.S. Code 5101 et seq.: Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act of 1996
- Public Law 104-191: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996
A.4.3. Executive Orders
https://www2.illinois.gov/Pages/government/execorders/executive-orders.aspx#ExecOrder
A.4.4. Illinois Administrative Code:
ftp://www.ilga.gov/JCAR/AdminCode/titles.html
A.4.5. Illinois Constitution (Adopted 1970 Article 1, sec. 17, No Discrimination in Employment and the Sale of Rental of Property)
http://www.ilga.gov/commission/lrb/con1.htm
A.4.6. SAMS (Section 11) - Expenditure Authority
IL Comptroller Sams Manual Master (pg. 392)
A.4.7. SAMS Procedure 15.20.95 - Contract Signatures
IL Comptroller Sams Manual Master (pg. 665)
A.4.8. State Rules:
- Title 89 Illinois Administrative Code
- Part 500: Early Intervention Program
- Part 507: Audit Requirements of DHS
- Part 509: Fiscal/Administrative Recordkeeping and Requirements
- Part 511: Grants and Grant Funds Recovery
A.4.9. State Statutes:
- 30 ILCS 705: Illinois Grant Funds Recovery Act
- 30 ILCS 708 Grant Accountability and Transparency Act
- 325 ILCS 20: Early Intervention Services System Act
A.4.10. Other Pertinent Documents
Goals and performance measures of the program including timing and scope of expected performance related to outcomes intended to be achieved by the program.
A.5. Milestones and Deliverables:
A.5.1. Provide an annual budget in the format and timeline required by the Department and an annual plan by August 15th of each fiscal year in a format approved by the Department.
A.5.2. By June 30, 2022, the Vendor shall increase the total number of combined available resources online and within the lending library currently at 10,695 to 11,235 and 5% annually thereafter.
A.5.3. Ensure that 60% of EIC lending library resources as required in A.2 and summarized in the table below have been published within the last 10 years.
EIC Lending Library
| Autism |
1,197 |
| General Collection |
4,955 |
| Media |
1,660 |
| eBooks |
1,226 |
| Kits |
67 |
| Fowler Collection |
1,590 |
| Total |
10,695 |
A.5.4. By June 30, 2022, the Vendor shall increase the number of cumulative monthly visits to the EIC website currently at 458,100 to 480,000 and by 5% annually thereafter. The Vendor may include in the compilation of the number of visits any combination of available access options including but not limited to accessing from the home page or directly from other available links.
A.5.5. The Vendor will develop and publish quarterly newsletters to be made available on the EI website. Such newsletters shall be disseminated via an EIC Listserv to all interested parties, including families, providers and EI stakeholders, with one (1) newsletter to be distributed annually to active families via the US Postal Service (USPS). Mailing information will be provided by the Department. Newsletter content, with the approval of the Department, shall include an array of different topics directly related to Part C EI program and the families it serves.
A.5.6. Promote use of the EIC through a minimum of 15 presentations to other agencies or displays at appropriate conferences and other events, targeting different communities or populations through each presentation so as to ensure broad awareness of EIC across the state. Including, but no limited to targeted promotion to communities of color through trusted sources and leaders. Presentation shall relate to services provided and made available by the EIC to EI parents, Child and Family Connections staff, EI providers and other interested stakeholders. Additionally, the Vendor shall provide staff, upon request, for exhibits or displays at appropriate conferences and other EI related events, which may include those made available through the use of social media.
A.5.7. Process IICEI parent reimbursements within three weeks of their receipt.
A.5.8. Assist and coordinate with the implementation of State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) strategies and targeted objectives.
B. Award and Funding Information:
B.1. Source of Funding:
- State
- Applications for renewal or supplementation of existing projects are eligible to compete with applications for new awards: Yes
- Successful applicant(s) will receive a Grant
- Subcontracting:
- Subcontractors are allowed. A subcontractor is a person or entity that enters into a contractual agreement with a total value of $50,000 or more with a person or entity who has a contract subject to the 2 CFR 200.331 pursuant to which the person or entity provides some or all of the goods, services, real property, remuneration, or other monetary forms of consideration that are the subject of the primary State contract, including subleases from a lessee of a State contract. If subcontractors are to be utilized, Offeror must identify subcontractors expected to receive $50,000 or more annually under the contract and disclose the expected amount of money each will receive in the Subcontractor Disclosure form found in A.3.1.
- The Offeror shall notify the State of any additional or substitute subcontractors hired during the term of the contract. If required, Offeror shall provide the State a copy of all such subcontracts within fifteen (15) days after execution of the contract or the subcontract, whichever occurs later.
- Any subcontracts entered into prior to award of the contract are done at the sole risk of the Offeror and subcontractor(s).
B.2. Renewals:
- Award Period and Available Funds: Initial award period is July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022 with two (2) optional one (1) year renewals from July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023 and July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024.
B.3. Payment Terms:
- The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) payment policy complies with 2 CFR 200.302, 2 CFR 200.305, and 44 Ill. Admin. Code 7000.120 (GOMB Adoption of Supplemental Rules for Grant Payment Methods) and the Cash Management Improvement Act and the Treasury-State Agreement (TSA) default procedures codified at 31 CFR 205. IDHS Payments to grantees will be governed in accordance with the established criteria set forth in IDHS Administrative Directive 01.07.01.070 - Grant Payments. And, in accordance with IDHS Administrative Directive 01.07.01.070 - Grant Payments, grantees have the following payment options.
- Advance and Reconcile
- The specific grant program rules may authorize the awardee to be paid in advance. Advance payment shall only be allowed if the awardee demonstrates willingness to maintain both written procedures that minimize the time elapsing between the transfer of funds and expenditure or disbursement by the awardee and financial management systems that meet the standards for fund control and accountability established in UR sections 200.302 and 327.
- Advance payments shall be limited to 2 months of estimated expenses in accordance with the actual, immediate cash requirements of the awardee to carry out the purpose of the grant.
- Advance payments must be reconciled to actual expenses prior to the next advance.
- Reimbursement
- Reimbursement is the preferred method, if the awardee does not meet the requirements in subsection (b)(1). Reimbursement must be utilized when the requirements in subsection (b)(1) cannot be met, when the State awarding agency sets a specific condition per UR section 200.207 (Specific conditions), or when the awardee requests payment by reimbursement. Reimbursement may be used on any grant award for construction, or if the major portion of the construction project is accomplished through private market financing or federal or State loans and the grant award constitutes a minor portion of the project. When the reimbursement method is used, the State awarding agency or pass-through entity must make payment within 30 calendar days after receipt of the billing, unless the State awarding agency or pass-through entity reasonably believes the request to be improper.
- Working Capital Advance Method
- Upon request, DHS will issue a working capital advance of 1/4 of the Award amount to be reconciled monthly. Subsequent payments will be issued on a reimbursement basis and will consider all previously submitted documented expenditures.
- All requests for authorization to receive advance payment, working capital advance and reimbursement must be submitted on forms prescribed and approved by the Department as set forth in IDHS Administrative Directive 01.07.01.070 - Grant Payments and the executed grant agreement (Exhibit C). Additional data may be requested by the Department.
- Funding is contingent upon and subject to the availability of funds and amendments to awards may be necessary within the grant cycle.
- Late Payment: Payments, including late payment charges, will be paid in accordance with the State Prompt Payment Act and rules when applicable.
- 30 ILCS 540; 74 ILL. ADM. CODE 900. This shall be Vendor's sole remedy for late payments by the State. Payment terms contained in Vendor's invoices shall have no force or effect.
B.4. Method of Submission:
- Invoicing: By submitting an invoice via the Expenditure Documentation Form (EDF) (monthly)/Periodic Financial Report Form (PFR) (quarterly), Vendor certifies that the supplies or services provided meet all requirements of this contract, and the amount billed, and expenses incurred are as allowed in this contract.
B.5. Supporting Documentation Requirements:
- Invoices for supplies purchased, services performed, and expenses incurred through June 30 of any year must be submitted to the State no later than July 15 of that year; otherwise Vendor may be required to seek payment through the Illinois Court of Claims. 30 ILCS 105/25. All invoices are subject to statutory offset. 30 ILCS 210.
Send invoices to:
| Agency: |
IDHS, Division of Family and Community Services,
Bureau of Early Intervention
|
| Address: |
823 E. Monroe St. |
| City, State Zip: |
Springfield, IL 62701 |
| Email to: |
DHS.EIFISCAL@Illinois.gov |
B.6. Where Services are to be Performed:
- Unless otherwise disclosed in this section, all services shall be performed in the United States. This information and the economic impact on Illinois and its residents may be considered in the evaluation. If the Offeror performs the services purchased hereunder in another country in violation of this provision, such action may be deemed by the State as a breach of the contract by Offeror.
- Offeror shall disclose the locations where the services required shall be performed and the known or anticipated value of the services to be performed at each location. If the Offeror received additional consideration in the evaluation based on work being performed in the United States, it shall be a breach of contract if the Offeror shifts any such work outside the United States.
C. Eligibility Information:
C.1. Eligible Applicants:
- Statewide Eligibility to Apply for a Grant - Pre-Award and Prequalification:
All entities are required to register with the State of Illinois through the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) Grantee Portal, www.grants.illinois.gov/portal to be eligible apply for a grant, How To Access The Grantee Portal. An Illinois.gov public account authenticates the relationship between the individual and the organization they represent, How to create an Illinois.gov Public Account.
- The following information is required to complete registration:
- Organization's Dun & Bradstreet number (DUNS), see section D.3
- Organization's federal employer identification number (FEIN)
- Organization type
- Illinois Secretary of State File ID (required for non-profits, for-profits and limited liability corporations)
- Organization's name
- Organization's mailing address
- Organization's primary email address
- Organization's primary phone number
- Organization's fiscal year-end date
- Entities are federally required to have an active SAM.gov entity registration, How to register with SAM.gov. Illinois uses SAM.gov automation to determine qualification status based on the entity's registration. Refer to GATA Administrative Rules on Grantee Pre-qualification Status: http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/044/044070000A00700R.html . An entity may apply for a grant award prior to qualified status. The entity must be in "qualified status" based on the Grantee Portal by the Application Review Date. See #18 in the NOFO Transmittal. [Non-competitive applications are not subject to MBR in which case the more generic term Application Review Date vs. Merit Based Review Date may be appropriate.]
- The Grantee Portal will indicate in red if a status is not qualified. Links for self-remediation help are provided in the Portal. Each element below is required for a qualified status:
- Current SAM.gov account;
- Current FEIN;
- Good standing with the Illinois Secretary of State (Illinois Secretary of State Business Services website.
- Not on the Illinois Stop Payment List;
- Not on the SAM.gov Exclusion List;
- Not on the DHFS Sanctioned Party List.
- State agencies are federally required to evaluate the risk posed by each applicant. Risk assessments are a pre-award requirement and include two components: fiscal/administrative and programmatic. Illinois uses an Internal Control Questionnaire (ICQ) to complete the fiscal/administrative component. Entities are required to access, complete and submit the ICQ through the Grantee Portal for the state fiscal year associated with the grant funding. The programmatic risk assessment is distributed by the state awarding agency as part of the application process. Both the ICQ and the programmatic risk assessment must be accepted by the state and approved before a grant award can be executed.
C.2. Cost Sharing or Matching:
N/A
C.3. Indirect Cost Rate:
- Annually, each organization receiving an award from a State grant making agency is required to record an indirect cost rate election through the Grantee Portal or negotiate an indirect cost rate through the Indirect Cost Rate System. Indirect costs cannot be compensated without an election or a negotiated rate on file with the State of Illinois.
- The following elections for indirect costs to State and federal pass-through grants are available through the Grantee Portal:
- Report a Federal Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA);
- Elect the de minimis rate of 10% of Modified Total Direct Costs; or
- Elect not to charge indirect costs.
- An indirect cost rate may be negotiated through the Indirect Cost Rate System.
- Refer to the Indirect Cost Rate Election and Negotiation Manual for technical assistance.
- The awardee shall make an election or negotiate a rate that all State agencies must accept unless specific federal or State program limitations, caps or supplanting issues apply.
D. Application and Submission Information:
D.1. Address to Request Application Package:
D.2. Content and Form of Application Submission:
- Each applicant will be required to submit a Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance. The application template and all related requirements for format and content may be found on the Illinois Department of Human Services website.
a. Executive Summary: (2-page maximum)
The Executive Summary will serve as a stand-alone document for the successful applicant that will describe the ability of the applicant to successfully support the funded project. Therefore, applicants should be concise and direct in their description and provide an overview of the services proposed with these funds and the outcomes that will be achieved. The description should provide a clear understanding of how these services will be delivered using a racial equity and implicit bias lens and how the services will be individualized to support capacity building of professionals in diversity, equity and inclusion. Describe services to be provided, need for the services, area to be served, capacity to provide the services and the projected numbers to be served within each program component.
b. Program Narrative: Description of Need (2-page maximum)
The purpose of this section is for the applicant to provide a clear and accurate picture of the need for these services and benefits gained. State and describe the service area, the target population and the need for services in your community to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion to represent the populations served in the EI Program. Information in this section should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
- Identification of catchment/service area. Include description and demographics of communities served.
- Description of accessibility and availability of services in all of your service areas.
- Identification of proposed or established partnerships with other agencies which may provide additional services to meet the program's needs.
- Describe current trends or issues, gaps or unmet needs of the focus of this project and proposed plan to fill the gaps/unmet needs.
c. Program Narrative: Agency Qualifications/Organizational Capacity (5-page maximum - attachments do not count toward page number)
The purpose of this section is for the applicant to present an accurate picture of the agency's capacity, qualifications and abilities in diversity, equity, inclusion and implicit bias to provide the program as described in this Funding Notice. Information in this section should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
- Convincing evidence that the applicant agency is capable of carrying out the proposed project, including fiscal, administrative and programmatic ability to manage grant. This should include experience, staffing patterns and qualifications to comply with GATA fiscal and administrative requirements. Highlight any recent changes in policies and procedures to improve fiscal, administrative or programmatic capacity. Include evidence that your agency maintains adequate staff coverage and supervision to meet the requirements of the grant.
- An organizational chart of the agency, showing where the program is located within the agency and how staff are associated with each role.
- Identify key staff positions that will be responsible for the program and their relevant experience, expertise, and qualifications to implement the program deliverables.
- A description of your agency's current programs and activities relevant to the services described in this NOFO.
- Describe the capacity of your agency to meet the needs of the target populations being served and respond to emerging community needs including equitable access and diverse stakeholder engagement.
- Describe agency oversight and available resources for fiscal, administrative, and programmatic areas to support the requirements of this project.
- As applicable, describe the resources, knowledge, skills and other abilities that the agency is able to leverage for this project. These may include, but are not limited to, the availability of private or other government funding, technology, bilingual staff, interpreters, translators, meeting rooms, volunteers and an established presence in the community. Please list any such leveraged resources in the form of additional funds or in-kind services.
d. Program Narrative: Quality - Description of Program Design and Services (7-page maximum)
The purpose of this section is for the applicant to provide a comprehensive, clear and accurate picture of its intended program design. At a minimum, the proposal must address each of the following components:
- Provide an overview of service delivery model or standards for providing Early Intervention Clearinghouse services. Describe how the program design has direct correlation to the needs identified in the needs section of the application. Include how the agency staffing, curriculum, materials, and outreach reflects the needs of participants and the community.
- Describe agency process for identification of service needs, service planning, and initiating services.
- Describe outreach, education, and systems advocacy efforts and community partnerships to reach all communities including underrepresented populations including potential identification of such communities if known.
- Describe the staff development plan, including initial and ongoing training, staff supervision, and training budget.
- Describe how the agency will achieve the targeted performance standards. Include any additional outcomes or evaluation efforts.
- Describe the agency's quality assurance process to ensure compliance with states programmatic design, achievement of deliverables, Administrative Code 89, Part 500, 2 CFR 200 and IL Adm 7000.
e. Budget and Budget Narrative:
A budget and budget narrative must be completed in the CSA tracking system. There is space when preparing the budget on each line item for the budget narrative. Instructions for the CSA Tracking System can be found at: https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=61069
or Budget Information click on https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=953488
- A Budget Template and Instructions can be used as a tool to assist in determining expenses; however, the final budget must be completed in the CSA Tracking System. A PDF budget or paper copy will not be accepted, nor should it be included in the application packet.
- The budget narrative should be prepared to reflect a full fiscal year.
- Applicants are required to submit a budget in the IDHS Community Services Agreement (CSA) Tracking System which follows and adheres to all applicable State and Federal guidelines. The Budget entered into the CSA system will also include a narrative or detailed description and for each line in the budget and will describe why each expenditure is necessary for program implementation and how the amount was determined. Please include cost allocations as necessary. This narrative must also clearly identify indirect costs, direct program costs, direct administrative costs, and match within each line item as appropriate. The Budget (including MTDC base exclusions as appropriate) should clearly describe how the specified resources and personnel have been allocated for the tasks and activities described in the plan. Please note, the FY 2022 contract will not be processed until the budget has been reviewed and approved in the CSA system. It is critical that the budget submitted is as detailed as possible.
D.3. Unique Entity Identifier/Dun and Bradstreet Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number and System for Award Management (SAM):
- Each applicant (unless the applicant is an individual or Federal or State awarding agency that is exempt from those requirements under 2 CFR § 25.110(b) or (c), or has an exception approved by the Federal or State awarding agency under 2 CFR § 25.110(d)) is required to:
- Be registered in SAM.gov before the specified application review date. To establish a SAM.gov registration, utilize this instructional link: "How To Register in SAM" https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/GATA/Documents/Resource%20Library/SAM-Registration.pdf
- Provide a valid DUNS number in its application; and
- Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active Federal, Federal pass-through or State award or an application or plan under consideration by a Federal or State awarding agency.
- The State awarding agency may not make a Federal pass-through or State award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable DUNS and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements by the time the State awarding agency is ready to make a Federal pass-through or State award, the State awarding agency may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a Federal pass-through or State award and use that determination as a basis for making a Federal pass-through or State award to another applicant.
D.4. Submission Dates and Times: June 11, 2021 at 12:00pm CST
- Application dates are stated in the NOFO transmittal. Any application not fully submitted by the Application End Date will not be considered.
- If the due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or Federal or State holiday, the reporting package is due the next business day.
- Submit the completed grant application to: Crystal.Gunn@Illinois.gov via email with the subject line including:
- Provider's Organization Name/Funding Opportunity # 22-444-80-1241-01/Program Contact Name
- For example:
- ABC Company/Funding Opportunity # 22-444-80-1241-01/John Doe
- To be considered, application materials must be emailed by the designated date and time listed above. For your records, please keep a copy of your email submission with the date and time the application was submitted along with the email address to which it was sent. The deadline will be strictly enforced.
D.5. Intergovernmental Review:
N/A
D.6. Funding Restrictions
- Refer to Section C, Eligibility Information, #3. Indirect Cost Rate for Indirect Cost Rate Restrictions details.
- All applicants are subject to the funding restrictions included in 2 CFR 200-Subpart E Allowable/Unallowable Costs.
E. Application Review Information:
- All competitive grant applications are subject to merit-based review. Review criteria is based upon the requirements set forth in the following:
- 44 IL Adm. Code 7000.350 - Merit Based Review of Grant Applications (http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/044/044070000D03500R.html. )
- the IDHS Merit Based Review Manual.
- As dictated by the authoritative references above, the following minimum review criteria apply:
- Need: Identification of stakeholders, facts and evidence that demonstrate the proposal supports the grant program purpose.
- Capacity: The ability of an entity to execute the grant project according to project requirements.
- Quality: The totality of features and characteristics of a service, project or product that indicated its ability to satisfy the requirements of the grant program.
- Other unique program criteria.
- Application is subject to Merit Based Review: No
E.1. Criteria and Weighting of Each Criteria:
- Is the award subject to Cost Sharing/Matching: No
- If yes, is cost sharing considered in the scoring criteria: No
E.2. Review and Selection Process:
- The Department will adhere to the Merit Based Review process set forth in the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200/).
- Application Review Date: June 14, 2021
- In accordance with Section C. Eligibility Information, an entity must be in qualified status as of the Application Review Date for their grant application to be considered by the state awarding agency.
- Merit-Based Review Appeal Process:
- Under a competitive grant, the evaluation process may be subject to appeal. Evaluation scores or funding determinations/outcomes cannot be appealed. Refer to the Merit Based Review Appeal Process as stated in GATA Administrative Rules, Section g: http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/044/044070000D03500R.html
- Appeals submission IDHS contact information:
E.3. Anticipated Announcement and State Award Dates, if applicable:
- Anticipated Program Start Date: July 1, 2021
- Anticipated Program End Date: June 30, 2022
- Other announcement and award date information:
- Initial award period is July 1, 2021- June 30, 2022 with two (2) optional one (1) year renewals from July 1, 2022- June 30, 2023 and July 1, 2023- June 30, 2024.
F. Award Administration Information:
F.1. State Award Notices:
- Applicants recommended for funding under this NOFO following the above review and selection process will receive a notice of award. The award notice shall include:
- The terms and conditions of the award.
- Specific conditions, if any, assigned to the applicant based on the fiscal and administrative (ICQ), programmatic risk assessments (PRA) and merit-based review.
- The announcement of the grant award shall be published by the awarding grantor to www.grants.illinois.gov.
- A written Notice of Denial shall be sent to the applicants not receiving the award.
F.2. Administrative Requirements:
- Upon the receipt of an award, the successful applicant is obligated to comply with the following:
- The Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (30 ILCS 708);
- The applicable requirements of the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), and
- Any additional programmatic and administrative special conditions that may be required.
- Other:
- The agency awarded funds through this NOFO must further agree to comply with all applicable provisions of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to nondiscrimination, sexual harassment and equal employment opportunity including, but not limited to: The Illinois Human Rights Act (775 ILCS 5/1-101 et seq.), The Public Works Employment Discrimination Act (775 ILCS 10/1 et seq.), The United States Civil Rights Act of 1964 (as amended) (42 USC 2000a-and 2000H-6), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 USC 794),
- The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 USC 12101 et seq.), and The Age Discrimination Act (42 USC 6101 et seq.). Additional terms and conditions may apply.
- The applicant awarded these funds shall provide services as set forth in the DHS grant agreement and shall act in accordance with all state and federal statutes and administrative rules applicable to the provision of the services including indirect cost rate requirements in Section C - Eligibility, of the NOFO.
- The legal agreement between DHS and the successful applicant(s) will be the standard DHS Uniform Grant Agreement. If selected for funding, the applicant will be provided a DHS grant agreement for signature and return.
F.3. Reporting:
Reporting Requirements:
- Time Period for Required Periodic Financial Reports. Unless a different reporting requirement is specified in Exhibit G, Grantee shall submit financial reports to Grantor pursuant to Paragraph 13.1 and reports must be submitted no later than 15 days after the quarter ends.
- Time Period for Close-out Reports. Grantee shall submit a Close-out Report pursuant to Paragraph 13.2 and no later than 15 days after this Agreement's end of the period of performance or termination.
- Time Period for Required Periodic Performance Reports. Unless a different reporting requirement is specified in Exhibit G, Grantee shall submit Performance Reports to Grantor pursuant to Paragraph 14.1 and such reports must be submitted no later than 30 days after the quarter ends.
- Time Period for Close-out Performance Reports. Grantee agrees to submit a Close-out Performance Report, pursuant to Paragraph 14.2 and no later than 30 days after this Agreement's end of the period of performance or termination.
G. State Awarding Agency Contact(s):
Technical Assistance Information:
Technical Assistance Inquiries:
- Frequently asked "Questions and Answers" will be posted to IDHS Website.
- The "Questions and Answers" will be posted in a timely, responsive manner to ensure current information regarding NOFO clarifications are available to applicants.
- All questions submitted to the program area must be answered publicly through the designated public forum (presently DHS website) within 48 hours or 2 business days (excluding weekends and holidays).
Technical Assistance Session:
- See transmittal page for setting, URL link and dates.
H. Other Information, if applicable:
Mandatory Forms - Required for grant program
- Uniform State Grant Application
- Project Narrative
- Budget/Budget Narrative
- Other program-specific mandatory forms
