TANF Employment & Training Program - Job Placement with Retention Program - 26-444-80-0699-01

1. - Basic Information (444-80-0699)

Items 1(A) - 1(E) are in the CSFA Data Table Below:

Awarding Agency Name (1-A)	Illinois Department of Human Services
Agency Division Name	Family & Community Services Office of Workforce Development Bureau of Employment & Training
Agency Contact	Charlest Hopkins Charles.Hopkins@illinois.gov (217) 299-8295
Announcement Type (1-C)	Competitive
Funding Opportunity Title (1-B)	TANF Employment & Training Program - Job Placement with Retention
Funding Opportunity Number (1-D)	26-444-80-0699-01
Application Posting Date	March 31, 2025
Application Closing Date	April 30, 2025
Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA) Number	444-80-0699
Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA) Name	TANF Job Placement with Retention
Assistance Listing Number(s) (1-E)	93.558
Awarding Source	Federal and State
Estimated Total Program Funding Amount	Up to $5,120,853
Anticipated Number of Awards	14
Award Range	$115,000.00 to $310,000.00
Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement?	No
Indirect Costs Allowed?	Yes
Restrictions on Indirect Costs?	No
Technical Assistance Session Offered	Yes - April 16, 2025 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm (CST) https://illinois.webex.com/illinois/j.php?MTID=mc2460e69772db603a90fe7219c4614b8

 Basic Information Continued - Section F through I

6. Funding Details
   1. Total Amount of Funding
      1. The Department expects to award approximately $5,120,853.00
      2. The source of funding for this program is Federal and State funds
   2. Number of Grant Awards
      1. The Department anticipates funding approximately 14 grant awards to provide this program
   3. Expected Dollar Amount of Individual Grant Awards
      1. The Department anticipates that the dollar amount of individual awards will be $115,000.00 to $310,000.00 .
   4. Average amount of Funding per Grant Award on average in previous years.
      1. Average funding amount for this grant award program in previous years was $220,000.00.
   5. Renewal or Supplementation of Existing Projects Eligibility.
      1. Applications for renewal or supplementation of existing projects are eligible to compete with applications for new State awards
      2. Successful applicants under this NOFO may be eligible to receive two subsequent one-year grant renewals for this program. Renewals are at the discretion of the Department and are based on sufficient appropriation and performance criteria including, but not limited to:
         1. Grantee has performed satisfactorily during the previous reporting period
         2. All required reports have been submitted on time, unless a written exception has been provided by the Division/Department
         3. No outstanding issues are present (e.g., in good standing with all pre-qualification requirements and no outstanding corrective action, etc.)
   6. Sub-Recipient Agreements 
      1. Sub-Recipient Agreement(s) and budgets must be pre-approved by the Department and on file with the Department.  Sub-recipients are subject to all provisions of this Agreement. The successful applicant Agency shall retain sole responsibility  for the performance and monitoring of the sub-recipient.
   7. Funding restrictions
      1. Pre-Award Costs
         1.  Pre-Award costs are not allowable for this award
         1. IDHS grants are governed by 2 CFR. Part 200, Subpart E-Cost Principles and 30 ILCS 708 which include information on allowable costs, audit requirements, and financial records.
      2. Indirect Costs
         1. Indirect Costs may be applied to this grant award. Indirect Cost rates must be approved through the Illinois Indirect Cost Rate Election System (ICRES)
   8. The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Illinois Department of Human Services to make an award.
7. Key Dates
   1. Application Posting Date March 31 2025
   2. The Department must receive the Full Application: Due on April 30, 2025 by 11:59 pm CST
   3. Anticipated Award Date May 15, 2025
   4. Anticipated Start Dates and Periods of Performance for new grant awards.
      1. Subject to appropriation, the grant period will begin no sooner than July 1, 2025 and will continue through June 30, 2026.
8. Executive Summary: : TANF Job Placement with Retention Programs are operated by the Department of Human Services under the Office of Workforce Development Bureau of Employment and Training for persons receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits. Customers participate in a variety of activities that are countable in the federal participation rate while searching for unsubsidized employment. Activities are highly structured, monitored and documented appropriately via IDHS system software and case noted to assure compliance with federal regulations.
   • Recipients of services provided by the Grantee are to be engaged in the following activities as a means to develop work experiences or unsubsidized employment that leads to a livable wage. Those activities include:
     1. High School Equivalency/GED/ESL
     2. Community Service
     3. Work Experience
     4. Subsidized and Unsubsidized Employment
     5. Vocational Education Training
     6. Job Search and Job Readiness Activities
     7. Job Skills Training
     8. Education Directly Related to Employment
   • Customers continue to participate in these activities until unsubsidized employment is obtained, or until it is determined that participation is no longer an appropriate activity for the client
9. Agency Contact Information.
   1. If you have questions about this NOFO, please contact the E&T NOFO mailbox at DHS.ETNOFO@illinois.gov.
   2. A frequently asked Question and Answer page is posted on the DHS website. Questions submitted up to 5 business days prior to the end of the NOFO posting period, will be posted on the website.
10. Indirect Costs (for more information, refer to Indirect Costs)

2. - Eligibility

3. - Program Description

This section contains the full program description of the funding opportunity. 

1. Required Information:
   1. The general purpose of the funding is to operate the TANF Job Placement with Retention Program which focuses on serving current TANF customers with opportunities to participate in federally approved work and training activities and assistance gaining unsubsidized employment and it is expected to engage participants in structured activities such as education and vocational training programs, including the attainment of industry-recognized credentials. These efforts aim to build participants' skills, enhance their employability, and support long-term employment outcomes for the public good. 
   2. The State agency's funding priorities or focus areas.
      1. IDHS is working to counteract systemic racism and inequity, and to prioritize and maximize diversity throughout its service provision process. This work involves addressing existing institutionalized inequities, aiming to create transformation, and operationalizing equity and racial justice. It also focuses on the creation of a culture of inclusivity for all regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or ability.
      2. IDHS intends to prioritize applications from eligible applicants who provide services in geographic regions where other services are not offered and/or are in high need areas, having a disproportionate amount of economic hardship or food insecurity.
      3. IDHS is also focused on removing barriers that exist for Returning citizens/reentry programs that connect formerly incarcerated individuals with career pathways.
      4. IDHS will also prioritize funding programs that provide language access and cultural competence to meet the needs of all populations (ie. immigrant and refugee).
   3. Goals and objectives of the Program.
      1. To increase self-sufficiency for TANF recipients by:
         1. Facilitating participation in federally approved TANF countable activities
         2. Ensuring consistent monitoring and supervision of participants
         3. Achieving employment outcomes and retention milestones
   4. Program Deliverables
      1. Providers will operate the TANF Job Placement with Retention Program under the Illinois Department of Human Services, Office of Workforce Development. Customers participate in a variety of activities that are countable in the federal work participation rate for TANF while seeking or preparing for competitive employment. Time spent in activities must be documented appropriately via the IDHS data system (WVS) along with case notes to assure compliance with federal regulations. Participants must be engaged in one or a combination of the following countable activities include:
         1. Work Experience
            1. Community Service aka Unpaid Internship
            2. Unsubsidized Employment
            3. Subsidized Employment
            4. Vocational Training
            5. Supervised Job Search and Job Readiness Activities
            6. Education Directly Related to Employment
            7. High School Equivalency/GED
      2. The customer will continue to participate in these activities until independent employment is obtained, or until it is determined by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) that participation is no longer an appropriate activity for the client.
      3. Documentation of participant activities and hours using IDHS Work Verification System (WVS).
      4. Weekly reporting of participant attendance and activity.
      5. Provide follow-up services and job coaching for a 90-day retention period after employment.
      6. Issuing supportive services to address employment barriers, including transportation, childcare, or other needs
      7. Communication with IDHS is critical to ongoing case management
      8. Deliverables
         1. The Provider/Grantee must serve and engage customers in countable TANF activities each month during the period of July 1 through June 30.
         2. The Grantee is expected to ensure:
            1. Each customer participates in an assessment which is an ongoing process beyond the point of intake in determining strengths and barriers and serves to inform the Provider how they can best serve the customer
         3.  Each customer participates for:
            1. 30 hours per week
            2. OR 20 hours per week for household with a child under age 6
            3. In some cases, if determined by IDHS, these hours may be less
         4. Participants are active and engaged in a federally approved TANF countable activity from the point of enrollment in the program until employment is attained.
         5. Attendance and activity reports for each participant are recorded and reported by the Provider/Grantee via data entry in the Work Verification System (WVS) on a weekly basis.
         6. Follow up must be provided by the grantee with employers to address issues affecting customers and act as a liaison to address issues that arise with customers affecting customers' employment and employment retention.
         7. Grantees must offer on-going job coaching and case management services to customers throughout the program including to those participants that have started work and are within the 90 days retention period.
         8. Subcontractors and entities that hold work agreements must be made familiar with the policies and processes of the Employment & Training program
      9. The Grantee is required to:
         1. Provide quality case management services that are documented in the customer's case file and in WVS to ensure that customer engagement is documented through a permanent record of all services and contact with the program participant;
         2. Complete a comprehensive intake assessment, create an individualized employment plan (EP) for each individual, monitor progress and coordinate with other needed services as necessary;
         3. Identify supportive services needs and issue any needed supportive services to promote continued participation in the program and to engage in a productive job search;
         4. Maintain records of supportive services and referral documentation when those services/referrals are issued;
         5. Coordinate with other stakeholders working with the participant to coordinate efficient and effective services (IDHS, Subcontractors, Mental Health/Housing/Child Care service providers, etc.) where appropriate;
         6. Make adjustments and changes to a customer's employment plan (EP) based on circumstances as Grantee becomes aware of them;
         7. Send correspondence to IDHS representatives and engage in monthly plan coordination meetings with IDHS Staff to discuss the progress of customers
      10. Employment Placement and Retention
          1. Providers are required to assist customers in gaining permanent employment which provides at least minimum wage (federal or state whichever is more). Employment criteria include
             1. Employment is defined as a job for which a participant is hired by a private employer for which no federal, state, or municipal funds are used to supplement job costs/salary.
             2. A minimum of 30 hours/week at or above Federal or State minimum wage, whichever is higher OR
             3. Sufficient earned income to close the TANF case due to employment
          2. Some customers may prefer temporary employment to meet short-term needs, the Grantee's primary focus should be to collaborate with customers to develop an individualized employment plan that is designed to lead to long term career pathways and employment goals.
          3. Customers may be placed in jobs with federal, state, or municipal entities in which the source of payment and employment activities are in accordance with personnel procedures and policies that pertain to all employees of the agency.
          4. To ensure alignment with labor market demands, Providers should prioritize placements which align with high-growth industries as defined by the Illinois Demand Occupations Training List.
          5. It is critical that the Grantee develops a rapport with customers, subcontractors & potential employers in order to assure grantee can acquire the necessary documentation to support retention support services.
          6. Grantees are expected to serve and place program participants in available jobs even when the grantee has met contractual goals
          7. Grantees are expected to offer Job Retention services to all customers who have gained employment for up to 90 days. Job Retention includes case management and supportive services to assist newly employed individuals with retaining employment
      11. Supportive Services
          1. The Grantee will issue Supportive Services as specified in the TANF Employment & Training Program Manual directly to TANF Employment & Training customers. Supportive Services may be authorized for activities and costs which support the participants' employability. Supportive services can vary and are specific to customer needs.
          2. Documentation of the expenditure and dispersal is required to receive full reimbursement
   5. Performance Measures and Standards
      1. Services rendered are accounted for through the submittal of monthly program reporting documents. The program reporting documents as specified by IDHS must be submitted with monthly billing documents (EDFs) and should be received from the Grantee no later than the 15th of the month following the month of service.
      2. IDHS will provide the reporting format and instructions upon execution of the contract. The Provider/Grantee is expected to achieve and report on the following deliverables monthly via their programmatic reporting documents:
      3. The number of customers enrolled with the provider for the month, as well as the customer's name and IDHS case number and start date in the program;
      4. The number of new referrals and reverse referrals received during the month;
      5. The number of customers who received an assessment and a guided introduction/orientation to Illinois WorkNet;
      6. Customers referred to vocational training programs and the industry sector of these training programs;
      7. Customers completing and/or earning certifications;
      8. Customers enrolled in ABE, GED or ESL classes, number currently engaged in on-going educational activity, and number obtaining a GED or reporting grade level gains based on pre and post-testing;
      9. Number of customers identified as in need of and/or participating in Mental Health and Substance Abuse programs/counseling (up to a maximum of 4 hours per week) and/or Vocational Rehabilitation
      10. The number of customers gaining employment during the month and the industry/sector in which employment was gained;
      11. The number of customers receiving retention services and those that met retention benchmarks during the month (30, 60 and 90 days);
      12. Grantees are expected to ensure:
          1. 100% of the customers enrolled are engaged in countable activities and complete their weekly assigned hours. (See TANF Work & Training Program Manual for a detailed description of these activities)
          2. 100% of customers receive a guided introduction in Illinois WorkNet and complete registration & show proof via a printout in their case file.
          3. 100% of Attendance and Activity are submitted weekly and on-time for each customer served in their program. These reports are due each Tuesday to report activity and attendance for the preceding week
          4. 100% of the number of participants attaining employment while participating in the program will be offered retention services including: job coaching, case management, employer follow up, supportive services, etc. as outlined above.
          5. 50% of the participants who attain employment will do so in industry growth sectors. To determine growth sectors relevant to your geographic area, each provider should coordinate with the LWIA or gather labor market data to identify local/regional high-growth sectors/industries. For greater success rates, employment and training activities should be focused on growth industries that also pay a family sustaining wage.
          6. Providers spend 100% of their grant funds available on their contract.
          7. 100% of all program reports, billing documents, periodic performance reports (PPR) and periodic financial reports (PFR) will be submitted on time. PPRs and PFRs must be submitted at least quarterly unless otherwise specified by the department and are due within 30 days after the end of each fiscal quarter starting from the beginning of the contract year, which begins July 1st
      13. As needed, corrective action plans will be initiated to address unmet performance standards, which may result in a reduction or termination of funding
   6.  For cooperative agreements, the "substantial involvement" that the State agency expects to have are N/A.
   7. Specific unallowable costs for this program include the following: N/A.
   8. Program beneficiaries or program participants must meet the following requirements Active TANF case within the state of Illinois.
   9. Authorizing statutes and regulations for the funding opportunity include the following: 305 ILCS 5/Art. IV.

4. - Application Contents and Format.

This subsection must identify the required content of an application and the forms or formats an applicant must use. If any requirements are stated elsewhere, this section should refer to where those requirements may be found. This section also should include required forms or formats as part of the announcement or state where the applicant may obtain them.

1. Content and Form of Application Submission:
   1. Content and Form of Application Submission
      1. Pre-applications, letters of intent, or white papers are not required.
      2. Required Content of Application
         1. Applications must include the required documents and demonstrate that the program eligibility requirements have been met. The Department will not contact applicants for missing items listed below. Applicants that do not include all the following documents will be considered substantially incomplete and will not be considered for funding. Refer to Section 5 (iii)B for details.
      3. Proposal Narrative Content and Attachments
         1. Program Narrative: IMPORTANT: The program (proposal) narrative makes up the bulk of the application. Please provide a complete response to the following sections. If the program narrative is missing from your application packet, your application will receive a significantly reduced score the applicant organization will not meet the criteria to receive a grant under this notice of funding opportunity.
         2. Proposal Narrative Content and Attachments: If the applicant believes that the subject has been adequately addressed in another part of the application narrative, then provide the cross-reference to the appropriate part of the narrative. If a cross-reference is not included in the section, the reviewer will consider content contained within that specific section. 
            1. Executive Summary (2 page maximum) - 5 points
               1. The Executive Summary will serve as a stand-alone document for the successful applicant that will be shared with various state-level stakeholders and others requesting a brief overview of 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 include:
                  1. Agency history
                  2. A brief overview of the services that will be delivered.
                  3. Service area.
                  4. Need for the services.
                  5. Capacity to provide the services and
                  6. Projected numbers to be served within each program component
            2. Need ( 2 pages maximum) 10 points
               1. 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. Information in this section should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
                  1. Identification of service area. Include description and demographics of communities served.
                  2. Description of accessibility and availability of services that reflect your client and communities' needs.
                  3. Identification of unserved, underserved or inadequately served populations and any special needs in the catchment area. Explain how they were identified.
                  4. Describe current trends or issues, service gaps or unmet needs in the community or target population
            3. Capacity (9 pages maximum-attachments do not count toward page maximum) 40 points
               1. The purpose of this section is for the applicant to present an accurate picture of the agency's capacity, qualifications, and ability to provide the program as described in this Funding Notice. Information in this section should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
                  1. Convincing evidence that the applicant agency is capable of carrying out the proposed program, 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.
                  2. An organizational chart of the applicant organization, showing where the program and its staff will be placed. If subawards will be used, include the relationship with those organizations in the chart. (Label Attachment A).
                  3. Identify key staff positions that will be responsible for the program and their qualifications to implement the program deliverables.
                  4. A description of your agency's current programs (remote and in person options) and activities relevant to the services described in this NOFO.
                  5. Describe the capacity of your program to meet the needs of the target populations you will be serving and respond to emerging community needs using an equity lens. Describe your program's strategy to enhance services to unserved, underserved and inadequately served populations in your service area.
                  6. Identification of proposed or established partnerships with other agencies providing services to underserved populations. Describe the nature of the partnership, i.e., subawards, Memorandum of Understanding or linkage agreements and highlight collaborative efforts.
                  7. Identify service locations, hours of operation, service type and staffing.
                  8. Detail service provision numbers
                  9. Describe agency oversight by Board of Directors and available resources for fiscal, administrative and programmatic areas.
                  10. Describe the agency capacity to provide a welcoming, accessible, and inclusive environment, i.e.: the means by which the state and its sub-recipients will provide meaningful access for participants regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or ability.
                  11. Contingency or service delivery plan for continuing operations in the event of another pandemic, such as COVID- 19 resurgence or similar event. Explain to what extent program deliverables can be met remotely or that agency's capacity includes the ability to continue while keeping participants and staff safe.
                  12. Describe if the program has sources of private or self-funding which can be used to leverage federal match, what are the sources and durability of outside financial support for the program.
            4. Quality (9 pages maximum) 35 points
               1. Provide an overview of service delivery model or standards for providing employment and training services.
               2. Provide a description of each required service component for TANF E&T that will be provided to program participants. Include process for initiating services, eligibility criteria, identification of service needs and service planning.
               3. Describe the process by which your worksites are selected and what experience they offer participants. Describe the potential for participants to gain permanent employment at selected worksites or their ability to refer them to other employers who do.
               4. Describe how the program design has direct correlation to the needs identified in the needs section of the application. Include how your program provides culturally appropriate: staffing, materials, outreach, etc. Include identification of the underserved populations that are being targeted for outreach and services that address their specific needs.
               5. Describe how the program provides transportation assistance
               6. Describe what strategies your organization employs to ensure quality programming.
               7. Describe your program staff's qualifications and training. Include education and/or experience, initial and ongoing training, staff supervision, training budget, certifications, etc.
               8. Describe how case management will be delivered and by who. What linkages, referrals, or coordination with other community services does your program offer
               9. Describe how your program will achieve the targeted performance standards. List any additional outcomes your program will target to achieve. Detail how participation in the program results in industry recognized credentials, vocational or education gains, and or employment placement.
               10. Describe your relationships with employer partners in high growth industries and detail the training to employment placement flow and the logic behind program offerings
      4. Budget and Budget Narrative
         1. Applicants must enter a budget electronically in the CSA system (Refer to Appendix A: CSA Budget Information for more information and a link to budget forms). The Budget entered into the CSA system will include a narrative or detailed description/justification for each line in the budget and will describe why each expenditure is necessary for program implementation and how you arrived at the particular amount. 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 your plan.
         2. The Budget must be electronically signed and submitted in the CSA system. The Budget must be signed by the Provider's Chief Executive Officer and/or Chief Financial Officer.
         3. IMPORTANT: Please be sure the budget status in CSA says "GATA Budget signed and submitted to program review." This status will appear after the budget is electronically signed by the agency CEO or CFO and submitted to IDHS. See IDHS CSA Tracking System webpage for additional information on CSA at IDHS: CSA Tracking System (state.il.us)
         4. The budget and narrative must tie fiscal activity to program objectives and deliverables and demonstrate that all proposed costs are:
            1. Reasonable and necessary
            2. Allocable, and
            3. Allowable as defined herein and by program regulatory requirements and the Uniform Guidance (2CFR 200), as applicable.
      5. Required Forms
         1. The Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance (pdf)is a three-page document used to formalize organization's request to apply for funding. The document requires the signature and email address of the organization's authorized representative. This email address will be used for official communication between the Department and the applicant organization for matters regarding this application. 
         2. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure - The grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure is a required for all grant award programs. The document requires agencies to identify actual or potential conflicts of interest. The form must be signed by a representative of the organization.
         3. W-9 form
      6. Required Format
         1. The narrative portion must follow the page maximums where prescribed and must be organized in the format outlined or points may be deducted.
         2. The department may determine that an applicant is not qualified if they have not complied to requirements and use that determination as a basis to award to another applicant.

5. -  Submission Requirements and Deadlines.

1. Address to Request Application Package. 
   1. Actions Needed Prior to Applying:
      1. The complete application package (this Notice of Funding Opportunity, including links to required forms) is available through the Illinois Catalog of Financial Assistance and the IDHS Grants Website Page located: IDHS: Grant Funded Programs (state.il.us)
      2. Each Applicant must have access to the internet. The Department's website will contain information regarding the NOFO and materials necessary for submission. Questions and answers will also be posted on the Department's website as described in this announcement (section 1 - Alpha section I). It is the responsibility of each applicant to monitor the website and comply with any instructions or requirements related to the NOFO.
2. Unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov). 
   1. Each applicant must:
      1. Be registered in SAM.gov before submitting its application;
      2. Provide a valid unique entity identifier in its application; and
      3. Continue to maintain an active registration in SAM.gov with current information at all times during which it has an active award or an application or plan under consideration.
      4. The Department may not make an award until applicant has fully complied to all UEI and SAM requirements
      5. The department may determine that an applicant is not qualified if they have not complied to requirements and use that determination as a basis to award to another applicant.
   2. If individuals are eligible to apply, they are exempt from this requirement under 2 CFR 25.110(b).
   3. If the agency exempts any applicants from this requirement under 2 CFR 25.110(c) or (d), a statement to that effect.
3.  Submission Instructions. 
   1. Actions needed prior to applying:
      1. Applicants must be registered with the State of Illinois and Pre-qualified in the GATA portal prior to applying for Illinois awards. Instructions for creating an account and registering are located at the following link: Illinois GATA Grantee Portal. Additionally, detailed instructions for registration and prequalification requirements, including the expected amount of time for completion are located here: Pre-Award Requirements
   2. The methods for submitting the application:
      1. Applicants must electronically submit the complete application including all required narratives and attachments in the prescribed order:
         1. Program Narrative
         2. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance (pdf)
         3. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure
         4. W-9 form
         5. Budget (entered into the CSA system as described in section (4)(A)
      2. Applications must be sent electronically to DHS.ETNOFO@illinois.gov. The application will be electronically time-stamped upon receipt. The Department will ONLY accept applications submitted by electronic mail sent to DHS.ETNOFO@illinois.gov.  Include the following in the subject line: NOFO number and your agency name. Application submissions or delivery to any other email address or contact, including other IDHS offices or employees, will not be considered for review or funding. Applications will not be accepted if received by fax machine, hard copy, disk, or thumb drive.
      3. Documents must include the following password N/A.
      4. Software or electronic capabilities required are as follows: internet access, preferably high-speed, and browser software meeting the following criteria:  Google Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Internet Explorer 11 or newer.
      5. Applicants are required to notify the Department within 48 hours of the deadline, if they did not receive an email notifying them that their application was received. If the applicant does not receive an email and does not notify the Department within 48 hours, their application will be considered a late submission and will NOT be reviewed or scored. The applicant will NOT have the right to protest the submission/receipt of their application to the Department after the 48 hours. In the event of a dispute the applicant bears the burden of proof that the application was received on time at the email location listed above (and that the budget was submitted into the CSA system on time).
   3. Pre-application materials must be submitted as follows: N/A
   4. If you are experiencing system problems or technical difficulties submitting your application, you may contact:
      1. Name: Charles Hopkins
      2. Phone: (217) 299-8295
      3. Email: DHS.ETNOFO@illinois.gov
4. Submission Dates and Times. 
   1. Full applications are due on the following date April 30, 2025 at the following time by 11:59 pm (CST).
   2. Any preliminary submissions, such as letters of intent, white papers, or pre- applications are N/A.
   3. Other submissions required before the award (separate from the full application) include: N/A.
   4. Missed Deadlines:
      1. Applications received after the due date and time will not be considered for review or funding. All applicants/applications determined to be non-compliant or otherwise determined to be disqualified from consideration will be separately notified in writing, by email, upon determination. This email will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application and will identify the reason for disqualification.
      2. For your records, please keep a copy of your 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.
      3. IMPORTANT: It is strongly recommended that the applicant not wait until the last minute to submit an application in case they experience technical difficulties with the submission process. Applicants should keep copies of all documentation that that may prove their application was submitted to the correct location and that it was received by IDHS on or before the deadline. Applicants should also maintain all electronic documentation, including screen shots, email correspondence, help desk ticket numbers, etc. that would document any unforeseen difficulties the applicant may have encountered regarding the timely submission of the application.
5. Intergovernmental Review. This section must include the following:
   1. This funding opportunity is NOT subject to Executive Order 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs".

6. - Application Review Information.

7. - Award Notices.

1. This section must address what a successful applicant can expect to receive following selection. 
   1. State Award Notices
      1. Applicants recommended for funding under this NOFO following the review and selection process will receive a Notice of State Award (NOSA). The NOSA shall include:
         1. Grant award amount
         2. The terms and conditions of the award
         3. Specific conditions, if any, assigned to the applicant based on the fiscal and administrative risk assessment (ICQ), programmatic risk assessments (PRA), and the Merit Review
      2. The applicant shall receive the NOSA through the Grantee Portal. The NOSA must be signed by the grants officer (or equivalent). This signature effectively accepts the state award amount and all conditions set forth within the notice. The signed NOSA is the document authorizing the department to proceed with issuing an agreement. The Agency signed NOSA must be remitted to the Department as instructed in the notice
      3. The notice is not an authorization to begin performance (to the extent that it allows charging to State awards of pre-award costs; pre-award costs are incurred at the non-State entities own risk unless they have received written prior approval to begin performance)
      4. The authorizing document to begin performance is the fully executed Uniform Grant Agreement (UGA) signed by the grants officer, or equivalent. This is the official document that obligates funds. The UGA is sent to the non-State entity via the CSA system. The non-State entity will print and sign the signature page of the UGA and return signature page to DHS.OCA.SignaturePages@illinois.gov.  A final signed copy of the UGA will be provided to the non-State entity via an upload into the CSA Tracking system. Note: The Department cannot issue an Agreement until the successful applicant has an approved budget entered into the CSA system
      5. Applicants who are not eligible due to registration or pre-qualification issues, or late applications will receive a Notice of Ineligibility prior to the Merit Based Review.
      6. Applicants who are not selected to receive an award following the Merit Review process will receive a Notice of Denial/Non Selection.

8. - Post-Award Requirements and Administration.

1. Administrative and National Policy Requirements. 
   1. The agency awarded funds shall provide services as set forth in the IDHS grant agreement and shall act in accordance with all State and Federal statutes and administrative rules applicable to the provision of the services.
   2. Sample of the current IDHS Uniform Grant Agreement (pdf).
   3. Start Date: Applicants must be in a position to begin offering services on July 1, 2026.
   4. Technology: Agencies awarded funds through this funding notice should have a computer that meets the following minimum specifications for the purpose of utilizing any required IDHS web-based reporting system and the receipt/submission of electronic program and fiscal information:
      1. Internet access, preferably high-speed
      2. Browser software meeting the following criteria: Google Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Internet Explorer 11 or newer
      3. Email capability
      4. Microsoft Excel
      5. Microsoft Word
      6. Adobe Reader
      7. Printer/scanner
   5. Site Visits: The applicant agrees to participate in site visits/quality reviews as requested by the Department.
   6. Emergency Policies and Procedures: Provider organizations shall have written emergency (including pandemic) policies and procedures that align with current guidelines put forth by the local Health Department, the Illinois Department of Public Health and/or the Center for Disease Control.
   7. Hiring and Employment Policy: It is the policy of the Department to encourage cultural diversity in the work environment and to promote employment opportunities through its programs. The Department philosophy is that the program workforce should appropriately reflect the populations to be served, with special attention given to hiring individuals indigenous to those communities. Consistent with Department policy, whenever a position becomes available, funded programs are encouraged to consider TANF clients for employment, contingent upon their qualifications in the areas of education and work experience
   8. Publication of Studies, Reports or other Program Products: The applicant agrees that products produced for the Department under this award, including, but not limited to research reports, data, analyses, and policy recommendations are the property of the Department and will not be published or distributed except as prescribed by the Department.
   9. Trauma Informed: The provider may demonstrate an ongoing commitment to developing/maintaining trauma informed capacity within the organization as this is a best practice emerging in Human Services. The provider can demonstrate this commitment by providing upon request, a list of trauma-informed trainings attended by staff, copies of trauma-informed policies, practices and procedures adopted by the organization, documentation of trauma-informed technical assistance received, etc.
   10. Equity and Racial Justice: Services provided under this NOFO must reflect IDHS' commitment to advance equity and racial justice by enabling all to thrive, regardless of race, zip code, and ability. This includes but is not limited to having leadership (board and/or executive staff) that is reflective off the community/population being served. If no equity and racial justice efforts are currently being pursued, the organization can indicate their intention to develop and implement, including a timeline of activities
   11. Payment Terms:
       1. 1.  It is the policy of the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) that this policy complies with 2 CFR 200.302, 2 CFR 200.305, 31 CFR 205 (Procedures implementing the Cash Management Improvement Act and Treasury State Agreement (TSA)) and 44 Ill. Admin. Code 7000.120 GOMB Adoption of Supplemental Rules for Grant Payment Methods. Three different award payment methods exist, namely Advance Payment, Reimbursement, and Working Capital Advance.
2. Reporting. 
   1. Reporting upon execution of the grant agreement shall be in accordance with the requirements set forth in the UGA and related exhibits which include but is not limited to the following:
      1. Periodic Financial Reports submitted electronically in accordance with instructions in the UGA no more frequent than quarterly and no less frequent than annually, unless unusual circumstances exist
      2. Periodic Programmatic Reports submitted electronically in accordance with instructions in the UGA no more frequent than quarterly and no less frequent than annually, unless unusual circumstances exist
      3. Close-out Performance Reports and Financial Reports as instructed in the UGA
      4. Other Unique Programmatic Reporting Requirements: additional annual performance data may be collected as directed by the Department and in the format prescribed by the Department.
      5. If the State share of any State award may include more than $500,000 over the period of performance applicants are also subject to the reporting requirements reflected in Appendix XII to 2 CFR 200. Noncompliance with any of the identified reports may lead to being placed on the Illinois Stop-Payment List
      6. Program Evaluation Reporting Requirements: Providers will be required to participate in evaluation efforts as directed by the Department and/or its subcontractor(s) and collect and report data accordingly. Data will be submitted in the format prescribed by the Department. Providers will be required to participate in Department directed Performance and Standards Assessment reviews. A year-end program and performance measures and outcomes report will also be required. Additional data and information may be requested throughout the year as determined by the Department.
      7. The Grantee is expected to report the following on a monthly basis via submission of the GATA required Periodic Performance Report (PPR's).
         1. All metrics outlined in the Performance Standards and Measures section above

9. - Other Information - Optional

1. Additional Information 
   1. Mandatory Forms and Submission
      1. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance (pdf)
      2. Proposal Narrative
      3. Uniform Grant Budget in CSA
      4. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure
      5. W-9 form (pdf)