Gambling Disorder Center of Excellence FY26-444-26-2379-01

I. Basic Information (CSFA Data Section)

Awarding Agency Name (I-A) Illinois Department of Human Services
Agency Division Name Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery
Agency Contact

Jim Wilkerson

Jim.Wilkerson@illinois.gov
Announcement Type (I-C) Competitive, Initial Announcement
Funding Opportunity Title (I-B) Gambling Disorder Center of Excellence
Funding Opportunity Number (I-D) 26-444-26-2379-01
Application Posting Date 03/03/2025
Application Closing Date 04/02/2025
Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA) Number 444-26-2379
Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA) Name Gambling Disorder Center of Excellence
Assistance Listing Number(s) (I-E) Not Applicable
Awarding Source State
Estimated Total Program Funding Amount $2,000,000
Anticipated Number of Awards 1
Award Range $2,000,000
Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement? No
Indirect Costs Allowed? Yes
Restrictions on Indirect Costs? No
Technical Assistance Session Offered No

I. Basic Information Continued - Section F through I

F. Funding Details.

1. Total Amount of Funding

  1. Total Amount of Funding
    1. The Department expects to award approximately $2,000,000.
    2. The source of funding for this program is state funds.
  2. Number of Grant Awards
    1. The Department anticipates funding approximately #__1__ grant award 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 $2,000,000.
  4. Amount of Funding per Grant Award on average in previous years.
    1. Previous funding amounts for this grant award program on average was $2,000,000.
  5. Renewal or Supplementation of Existing Projects Eligibility.
    1. Applications for renewal or supplementation of existing projects are not 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. Procurement Contract Allowability
    1. Subcontractor Agreement(s) and budgets must be pre-approved by the Department and on file with the Department. Subcontractors are subject to all provisions of this Agreement. The successful applicant Agency shall retain sole responsibility for the performance and monitoring of the subcontractor.
  7. Funding restrictions
    1. Pre-Award Costs
      1. Pre-Award costs are not allowable for this award.
      2. IDHS grants are governed by 2 CFR. Part 200, Subpart E-Cost Principles.
      3. 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.

G. Key Dates

  1. Application Posting Date: 03/03/2025.
  2. The Department must receive the Preliminary Submission materials (Letter of Intent, etc.): Not applicable.
  3. The Department must receive the Full Application: Due on 04/02/2025 at 4pm CST.
  4. Anticipated Award Date: 05/15/2025.
  5. 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.

H. Executive Summary: The Illinois Department of Human Services/Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (IDHS/SUPR) through this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is seeking a provider to provide training and supervision services to Illinois counselors on gambling disorders and treatment. Applicants will have trainers experienced in gambling treatment to provide a 30-hour certification training, screening and assessment training, general treatment and disorder training, an annual summit, and monthly clinical supervision. In SFY26, the Department anticipates the availability of approximately $2,000,000 in total funding for applicant and any training subgrantees. The grant period will begin July 1, 2025, and will end on June 30, 2026, with the option to renew for an additional two full years, if funding is available. The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Illinois Department of Human Services to make an award. Services may not be provided until a contract is fully executed by the Department.

I. Agency Contact Information.

  1. If you have questions about this NOFO, please contact Jim Wilkerson, Jim.Wilkerson@illinois.gov.
  2. A frequently asked Question and Answer page is posted on the DHS website. Questions submitted up to 14 business days prior to the end of the NOFO posting period, will be posted on the website.

II Eligibility

i. Eligible Applicants.

  1. The specific types of applicants that may apply for the grant award are: private or public, non-profit or for-profit entities, including local governments, academic institutions, or other community-based organizations.
  2. The applicant must meet the Registration, Pre-qualification and any other Mandatory Requirements listed in this funding opportunity.
    1. Applicants must provide the following information via the Grantee Portal annually to be registered with the State of Illinois as an awardee:
      1. Organization name and contact information
      2. Federal Employee Identification Number (FEIN)
      3. Unique Identity Number (UEI)
      4. Organization type
    2. Applicants must be prequalified; therefore, applications from entities that have not prequalified prior to the due date of this application will NOT be reviewed and will NOT be considered for funding. Items a) through e) below are the prequalification requirements.
      1. Unique Entity Identifiers and SAM Registration: Each applicant (unless the applicant is an individual 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:
        1. Be registered in SAM.gov before the application due date.
        2. Provide a valid unique entity identifier (UEI) in its application.
        3. Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active award or an application or plan under consideration by the awarding agency.
        4. The State Agency may not make an award until applicant has fully complied to all UEI and SAM requirements.
        5. The State Agency may determine that an applicant is not qualified if they have not complied to requirements and use that determination as a basis to award another applicant or applicants.
      2. Must be in "good standing" with the Illinois Secretary of State if the Illinois Secretary of State requires the entity's organization type to be registered.
      3. Must not be on the Illinois Stop Payment List
      4. Must not be on the SAM.gov Exclusion List
      5. Must not be on the Medicaid Sanctions List
  3. Eligibility factors for the principal investigator or project director if any: N/A.
  4. Successful Applicants will not receive an award if pre-award requirements are not met. Qualified status is re-verified nightly. If the entity's status changes, an email notice is sent to the designated entity representative with a link to the Grantee Portal.
  5. See Section number I(F) for funding restrictions (or no funding restrictions).
  6. Other factors that would disqualify an applicant or application include: lack of physical office or staff located in Illinois.
  7. Limit on number of applications: 1.

ii. Cost Sharing:

  1. Providers are not required to participate in cost sharing or provide match.

III. Program Description

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

  1. The general purpose of the funding is to make an award to an organization to assist the IDHS/SUPR in addressing its expressed goals around serving persons, and their families, in need of referrals to intervention and treatment services and who are diagnosed or may be diagnosed with a GD or co-occurring GD disorder.
    1. The Gambling Disorder Center of Excellence will establish a robust training program, delivering essential technical assistance, and creating comprehensive information and resource platforms. The COE initiatives are designed to significantly enhance and expand the implementation of evidence-based practices and promising strategies for addressing gambling disorder.
    2. COE is poised to actively support and drive SUPR's mission by equitably increasing, research, training, technical assistance, and resources to enhance the adoption and effectiveness of evidence-based practices across Illinois, ensuring a marked improvement in the quality of care provided.
  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. The IDHS/SUPR is seeking organizations with a history coordinating and managing research, training, and/or educational events within the State of Illinois. Applicants must have a gambling disorder treatment training history. Organizations with a history managing research are preferred. Services must be available statewide either virtually or in-person (hybrid approaches are also acceptable). Monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting of service metrics including an electronic dashboard (via Tableau or Power BI) will be required.
    3. The goals and objectives and deliverables of this program are:
      1. General items:
        1. Ensure the implementation of statewide training program including but not limited to: a 30-hour certification training, screening and assessment training, general treatment and disorder training, an annual summit, and monthly clinical supervision which meets state and national certification requirements.
        2. Coordinate and monitor the gambling training activities either directly or via subcontracts with a qualified IDHS/SUPR approved vendor(s).
        3. Administer IDHS/SUPR approved subcontracts with organizations or individuals selected to assist with meeting the goals and objectives of this NOFO.
        4. Identify a staff person who will act as coordinator of the gambling training program. This person will serve as the liaison between IDHS/SUPR, and intervention, treatment, and recovery support providers. This person will be the primary point of contact for information regarding project implementation and outcomes.
        5. Develop and implement a marketing strategy to promote available trainings.
          1. Communicate and collaborate on gambling training program requirements with marketing provider, hotline provider, gambling needs assessment provider, SUPR, and clinical providers.
          2. Marketing must include organizations/individuals outside of standard GD providers, that may be able to identify individuals at risk for a gambling disorder (e.g., legal system, general healthcare, financial system, educational system including higher education and K-12).
        6. Provide IDHS/SUPR with monthly training reports so that project monitoring and evaluation can take place, based on metrics communicated by IDHS/SUPR.
          1. Ensure that a report is completed for each training session which includes participant satisfaction with the training, attendance numbers, no-show rates, and material absorption/application.
          2. Applicant will enter training information into agreed upon database(s) or learning management system.
          3. Solicit feedback from attendees regarding program services and make programmatic adjustments as necessary for quality improvement. A summary of feedback received, and specific action(s) taken as a result will be included in the monthly reports.
        7. Provide training according to policies and procedures outlining the confidentiality of service recipients' protected health information according to State and Federal laws and regulations.
        8. Participate with IDHS/SUPR in the development and implementation of quality improvement processes for the gambling training program.
        9. Seek innovative tools and techniques to accomplish the objectives of IDHS/SUPR regarding gambling disorder services and training. Implementation of innovative tools and techniques shall include research into the effectiveness of such items via approved third-parties.
          1. Such innovative techniques may include subcontracting or MOUs with organizations or services such as: Gamfin/financial counseling, GamBan/gambling blocking software, etc.
        10. Provide screening and engagement events across the state primarily at casino and higher education locations.
      2. Training Program
        1. The applicant will provide free training opportunities throughout the fiscal year. The applicant will ensure its training program meets the following requirements:
          1. Design the statewide gambling training plan to meet the overall goal to strengthen, enhance, and improve capacity, knowledge, and skills related to the improvement of outcomes of individuals at-risk for or with gambling disorder and those seeking/in recovery.
          2. Develop a training calendar which will include but is not limited too: screening and assessment instruments for gambling disorder that have been approved by IDHS/SUPR; treatment models and resources for gambling disorder; co-occurring disorders and integrated treatment methodologies; suicide screening; links to other resources, data and statistics on gambling disorder, gaming, internet gambling, ASAM assessment, and sports betting.
          3. The applicant must offer no less than 2 webinar trainings per month and/or no less than 24 webinar trainings per year.
          4. The applicant must offer no less than 6 conferences per year (3 cultural conferences, 1 healthcare conference, 2 general conferences).
        2. Development of the 30-hour training includes creation of on-line content which will be made available to providers in a virtual or hybrid training format.
          1. Training must allow attendees to obtain state and national certification for gambling disorder treatment.
          2. The applicant must offer no less than 2 virtual/hybrid/in-person 30-hour trainings per year.
          3. Broker the provision of clinical supervision (consultation)
        3. Broker and/or develop trainings and maintain training content in accordance with current evidence-based practices and standards. Seek to enhance evidence-based practices and standards where they may be dated or not in alignment with current practice.
          1. Identify and vet topics and speakers prior to brokering or delivering training sessions and monitor to ensure new trainings are addressing intended goals.
        4. Attain and maintain accreditation for training programs by relevant accrediting bodies.
        5. Coordinate and make available continuing education units (CEUs) including training certificates for each training session offered.
        6. Work with clinical providers and hotline provider to ensure staff complete the appropriate training program.
        7. Provide services according to a written code of ethics, to be based on standards outlined by the relevant accrediting bodies and other professional groups that address gambling disorder issues.
        8. Develop both introductory and advanced trainings on dilemmas identified in the research section and solutions that can be posted online for ease of access. These trainings will include a follow-up mechanism should individuals have questions or require coaching on a particular structure or process.
        9. Work with IDHS/SUPR to develop implementation packages for clinical providers that identify year one, years two through three, and long-term structures and processes to establish a successful gambling disorder treatment program.
      3. Research
        1. Develop learning collaboratives around key dilemmas and/or problems identified by the clinical providers that result in structures and processes to manage the dilemmas and/or solve the problems.
        2. Gather information about gambling disorder from all parties aligned via contractual relations and other sources at their disposal for the expressed purpose of making suggestions to IDHS/SUPR about ways of improving the service delivery system throughout the state.
        3. Broker research activities on an annual basis in accordance with GATA requirements.
          1. Use research to understand the impact of gambling disorder and gambling activities on individuals and communities with a specific focus on at-risk populations across the State.
          2. Use research to enhance evidence-based practices and standards where they may be dated or not in alignment with current practice with a specific focus on at-risk populations across the State.
          3. Identify and vet topics and researchers with SUPR prior to brokering or engaging in research activities.
    4. The award will contribute to achieving the program's goals and objectives by ensuring the statewide provision of training services that accomplish the deliverables noted below. Primarily the provider will develop and implement a training plan that includes a 30-hour gambling disorder training that meets the requirements for state and national certification, an annual gambling summit, and monthly clinical supervision.
    5. The expected performance goals, indicators, targets, baseline data, data collection, and other outcomes the agency expects recipients to achieve are the following:
      1. Provider will be expected to operate the training system statewide.
      2. Provider will be expected to achieve outcomes as defined in this NOFO (see Performance Standards).
      3. Provider will develop and implement an online/in-person/hybrid 30-hour training program that meets state and national certification requirements. Training will be offered a minimum of 6 times in the SFY. On-demand training will be open for individuals to engage at any time.
      4. Provider will collaborate with clinical providers to develop an annual summit that provides cutting edge gambling disorder training.
      5. Provider will provide monthly supervision by a Board Approved Clinical Consultant (BACC).
      6. Other performance measures to be identified by provider in collaboration with IDHS/SUPR as part of the application process.
      7. Provider will collaborate with clinical providers to develop at least 16 gambling focused webinars. Topics to include at a minimum: suicide screening and intervention, IDHS approved gambling screening tool(s), gambling ASAM assessment.
      8. Copies of all subcontracts identifying the duties and responsibilities of the subgrantees.
      9. Monthly reports documenting the activities related to the gambling training and research can be included in the electronic dashboard noted above.
      10. Copies of all training plans, calendar of events including promotions campaigns around gambling disorder.
      11. Four (4) Quarterly reports corresponding to the four quarters of the fiscal year in action on the activities and progress being made towards the provision the training and research.
      12. Provide an annual report that summarizes and evaluates the activities and efforts of the program plan. The report is due 30 days after the end of the fiscal year.
      13. Submit monthly documentation for 100% of all deliverables submitted for reimbursement within 15 days of the end of each month.
      14. Attendee numbers for all training events with appropriate breakdowns of data sets.
      15. Attendee satisfaction ratings for all training events with appropriate breakdowns of data sets.
  3. Proposed budgets must be sufficiently detailed and justified to be approved by IDHS. Successful applicants will NOT receive a grant agreement until after their budget has been approved through the Community Service Agreement tracking system (CSA) system.
  4. Subcontractor Agreement(s) and budgets must be pre-approved by the Department and on file with the Department. Subcontractors are subject to all provisions of this Agreement. The successful applicant Agency shall retain sole responsibility for the performance and monitoring of the subcontractor.
  5. For cooperative agreements, the "substantial involvement" that the State agency expects to have are (or are located): N/A.
  6. Specific unallowable costs for this program include the following: N/A.
  7. Program beneficiaries or program participants must meet the following requirements: N/A.
  8. Authorizing statutes and regulations for the funding opportunity include the following: The Substance Use Disorder Act (20 ILCS 301/5), Illinois Lottery Law (20 ILCS 1605/10.7), Illinois Gambling Act (230 ILCS 10/1), Rule 2060, Rule 2059, and all other applicable administrative rules and regulations.

IV. Application Contents and Format.

i. This subsection MUST specifically address content and form or format requirements for:

  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 V (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 score of zero points and your agency 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.
    4. Program Plan and Narrative (10 pages maximum) - The program narrative at a minimum must include the categories to be evaluated in the merit review process:
      1. Need (30 points): The purpose of this section is to describe the characteristics of the persons who will be served through the proposed services.
        1. Describe how your organization provides training that address known issues of health disparities that allow people to live lives of meaning and purpose. Describe how the organization will consider cultural norms and differences in the provision of training.
        2. Describe how organizational and interpersonal bias are addressed in your organization through language and action.
        3. Describe unique considerations for serving adults, youth, persons with gambling disorder, and persons with co-occurring substance use disorders in this environment. Include how the program will train on working with potentially suicidal individuals that will help to reduce suicide rates among the populations served.
        4. Describe how the organization will provide clinical supervision to counselors.
      2. Capacity (30 points): The purpose of this section is for the applicant to provide a description of the organization's experience and qualifications generally, and specific to the provision of the proposed services.
        1. Describe the organizations history, mission, purpose, vision, values, goals, and achievements especially as they relate to gambling services.
        2. Provide a description of the full array of services provided by your organization. Provide information about existing contracts for programs of similar scope, including location, funder, persons served, reported metrics and outcomes, and years in operation. Be sure to emphasize experience managing a statewide training system within the State of Illinois or similar state.
        3. Describe what resources and other skills relevant to this NOFO, the applicant lacks and how will the applicant acquire the resources and skills. If the applicant will deliver services via subcontracts, then describe the results of such business relationships and how goals and objectives were accomplished.
        4. Include a description of the staff members that will be responsible for the delivery of the gambling training and supervision including their educational background, years of experience, gambling related certifications and training (ex. state 30-hour gambling training, PCGC, ICGC), and other relevant information. Describe the applicants plans to maintain and enhance its staff's knowledge, skill, and abilities over time related to gambling disorder services, suicide prevention, culturally diverse service provision, implicit bias, racial equity, and other key areas.
        5. Describe your organization's policy and approach to adherence to best practices and awareness of emerging trends in service delivery.
      3. Quality (10 points):
        1. Describe your capacity and commitment to collect and report the service and performance data specified in this NOFO. Do you collect data manually or have a monitoring system that collects data or other electronic collection mechanisms?
        2. Describe how you have shared information (measures and results) with other organizations and stakeholders for planning, service provision and evaluation purposes.
        3. Describe measurable data you will collect and outcomes you will report monthly on the campaign.
        4. Describe your experience in designing and implementing quality improvement activities to improve the provision of services.
      4. Other (30 points): Provide the following information regarding the proposed services that will be delivered in the identified geographic service area(s).
        1. Describe in this section the overall approach to managing and monitoring the contract and how you intend to ensure that management objectives and contract deliverables are accomplished. Description should encompass approaches to management of a statewide gambling disorder training system. Include the unique features and characteristics of how the organization will approach the delivery of the services identified in this NOFO that sets them apart from other applicants.
        2. Include the location of facilities and provide consideration of the utilization and ability to operate a remote workforce, and whether full remote work will impact any aspect of operations. Include the learning management system, equipment, and telecom platforms that will be used.
        3. Describe the organization's experience with and ability to provide learning collaboratives. Include an explanation of how the learning collaboratives will be identified and managed, and materials will be developed out of the collaboratives.
        4. Indicate how your organization will seek accreditation for its training system and whether you plan to be affiliated with any local, state, or national organizations to assure adherence to best practices and awareness of emerging trends in service delivery.
    5. 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 by program regulatory requirements and the Uniform Guidance (2CFR 200), as applicable.
    6. Required Forms
      1. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance: The Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance 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. IL444-5262 - UNIFORM APPLICATION FOR STATE GRANT ASSISTANCE (.pdf)
      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. IL444-5205 - GRANTEE CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURE (.pdf)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.

ii. Where relevant:

  1. Limitations on page numbers. The narrative portion must follow the page maximums (10 pages in total) where prescribed and must be organized in the format outlined below. Scoring will be on a 100-point scale. Scoring will not be the sole award criteria.
  2. Formatting requirements, including font and font size, margins, paper size, and color limitations. Font size should be 12 pt. and each page should be numbered.
  3. Any requirements for file naming, file size limitations, or file format such as PDF. Files should be named with the CSFA number and your organization. MS Word or PDF files are acceptable.
  4. The number of copies required if paper submissions are allowed. N/A
  5. The sequence required for application sections or components. N/A
  6. Signature requirements, including those for electronic submissions. Any required signatures may be scans of originals or electronic.
  7. Any requirements for third-party information such as references, letters of support, or letters of commitment to the project or to contribute to cost sharing. If any activity/requirement will be completed by a third-party, a letter of support from the third party must be included with the application package.
  8. A reference to any requirements to provide documentation to support an eligibility determination, such as proof of 501(c)(3) status or an authorizing tribal resolution. N/A
  9. Instructions needed to develop the narrative portions of the application. Include any requirements for its order, format, or required headings. N/A
  10. If applicable, the need to identify proprietary information. Such information must be designated in advance otherwise it may be subject to potential FOIA release. Proprietary information must be identified by highlighting the information in yellow in all spaces in the application. A second redacted version of the application may also be submitted (include the term "Redacted" in the file name).

V. Submission Requirements and Deadlines.

i. 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 I - I (Roman Numeral I, 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.

ii. 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.

iii.  Submission Instructions. This subsection addresses how the applicant will submit the application. It must include the following:

  1. Actions needed prior to applying: 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: Grant Applicant Pre-Qualification and 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
      3. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure
      4. Budget (entered into the CSA system as described in section (IV)(A)
    2. Applications must be sent electronically to DHS.SUPR.Grant.Implementation@Illinois.gov. The application will be electronically time-stamped upon receipt. The Department will ONLY accept applications submitted by electronic mail sent to DHS.SUPR.Grant.Implementation@Illinois.gov. Include the following in the subject line: Your Organization Name, 26-444-26-2379-01, Jim Wilkerson. 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: learning management system software, software for the storage and dissemination of recorded/on-demand training, MS Office software.
    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: Jim Wilkerson
    2. Email: Jim.Wilkerson@illinois.gov

iv. Submission Dates and Times.

  1. Full applications are due on the following date 04/02/2025 at the following time 4:00pm (CST).
  2. Any preliminary submissions, such as letters of intent, white papers, or pre- applications are due on the following date: N/A.
  3. Other submissions required before the award (separate from the full application) include: N/A.
  4. If the funding opportunity is a general announcement that is open for a period of time with no specific due dates for applications, this section should say so.
  5. 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.

v. Intergovernmental Review.

  1. This funding opportunity is NOT subject to Executive Order 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs".

VI. Application Review Information.

i. Responsiveness Review. This section includes information on the criteria that make an application or project ineligible.

  1. Applications that are received will be reviewed on/between 04/03/2025 to 04/25/2025 (date/s) to ensure they meet the criteria for consideration. Applications that do not meet the criteria in paragraph B below will be rejected and not entered into the Merit Review process.
  2. The following are the criteria that must be met for eligibility:
    1. Applicant has a current registration with the State of Illinois in the Grantee Portal.
    2. Applicant has an active SAM.gov public account.
    3. Applicant has an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) with Sam.gov
    4. Applicant is in "good standing" with the Secretary of State.
    5. Applicant is not on the DHS Stop Payment List Service or the Illinois Stop Payment List.
    6. Applicant is not on the SAM.gov Exclusion List.
    7. Applicant is not on the Illinois Medicaid Sanctions List.
    8. Program specific eligibility restrictions include: N/A
  3. Restrictions on eligibility for State awards are referenced in 44 Ill Admin Code 7000.70. Program specific eligibility restrictions are referenced in this Notice of Funding Opportunity.
  4. All applicants/applications determined to be non-compliant or otherwise determined to be disqualified from consideration will be notified. This email will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application and will identify the reason for disqualification.

ii.  Review Criteria. This information includes the merit and other review criteria evaluators will use to judge applications, including any statutory, regulatory, or other preferences that will be applied in the review process.

  1. Review Criteria (This section MUST include the following)
    1. Evaluation criteria is based upon requirements set forth in 44 Ill Admin Code 7000.350 Merit Review of Applications and the IDHS Merit Review Manual. The review criterion and sub-criterion include the following: (list the individual criterion and sub-criterion).
    2. If criteria vary in importance, the relative percentages, weights, or other means used to distinguish them should be listed here.

Scoring will be on a 100-point scale.

Criteria Points Allowed
Need - The purpose of this section is to describe the characteristics of the persons who will be served through the proposed services. 20
Capacity - The purpose of this section is for the applicant to provide a description of the organization's experience and qualifications generally, and specific to the provision of the proposed services. This may include a history of providing similar services in Illinois. 20
Quality - The purpose of this section is to describe the data collection, sharing, and quality improvement structure. 10
Other - The purpose of this section is to provide information regarding the proposed services that will be delivered in the identified geographic service area(s). 50
Total 100
  1. Applications should be no more than 10 pages in length and will be evaluated on the following criteria (see Section A.5 Deliverables and Section D.2 Content and Form of Application Submission for details):
  2. For statutory, regulatory, or other preferences, an explanation of those preferences with an explicit indication of their effect should be listed here (for example if additional points are being assigned).
  3. Cost Sharing will not be considered in the review process.

iii. Review and Selection Process.

  1. The process for evaluation of the application is as follows:_ An internal team of subject matter experts, NOFO trained staff, interns, and others will complete the merit-based review process as outlined in GATA to recommend awardees. The numerical score may not be the sole award criterion. The Department reserves the right to consider any factors such as: geographical distribution, demonstrated need, and agency past performance as a State of Illinois grantee, etc. While the recommendation of the review panel will be a key factor in the funding decision the Department maintains final authority over funding decisions and considers the findings of the reviewers to be non-binding recommendations. Any internal documentation used in scoring or awarding of grants shall not be considered public information.
  2. In the event of a tie with insufficient funding for all tied applications, the Department may choose to elect one or more of the following options:
    1. Apply one or more of the additional factors for consideration described above to prioritize the applications; or
    2. Partially fund each of the tied applications; or
    3. Not fund any of the tied applications. The Department reserves the right to negotiate with successful applicants to adjust award amounts, targets, deliverables, etc.
  3. Anticipated Announcement and State Award Dates: 05/15/2025.
  4. Merit Based Review Appeal Process
    1. Competitive grant appeals are limited to the evaluation process. Evaluation scores may not be protested. Only be evaluation process is subject to appeal and shall be reviewed by IDHS' Appeal Review Officer (ARO).
      1. Submission of Appeal
        1. Appeals submission IDHS contact information:
          1. Contact Name: Jim Wilkerson
          2. Email address: DHS.SUPR.Grant.Implementation@Illinois.gov 
          3. Email Subject Line: 26-444-26-2379-01, Appeal, Jim Wilkerson
        2. An appeal must be submitted in writing to appeals submission IDHS contact listed above, who will send to the IDHS Appeal Review Officer (ARO) for consideration.
          1. An appeal must be received within 14 calendar days after the date that the grant award notice has been published.
          2. The written appeal shall include at a minimum the following:
            1. Name and address of the appealing party
            2. Identification of the grant; and
            3. Statement of the reasons for the appeal
            4. Supporting documentation, if applicable
      2. Response to appeal
        1. IDHS will acknowledge receipt of an appeal within 14 calendar days from the date the appeal was received.
          1. IDHS will respond to the appeal within 60 days or supply a written explanation to the appealing party as to why additional time is required.
          2. The appealing party must supply any additional information requested by IDHS within the time period set in the request
      3. Resolution
        1. The ARO will make a recommendation to the Agency Head or designee as expeditiously as possible after receiving all relevant, requested information.
          1. In determining the appropriate recommendation, the ARO shall consider the integrity of the competitive grant process and the impact of the recommendation on the State Agency.
          2. The Agency will resolve the appeal by means of written determination.
          3. The determination shall include, but not be limited to:
            1. Review of the appeal;
            2. Appeal determination; and
            3. Rationale for the determination.

iv. Risk Review.

  1. This section must include the following:
    1. IDHS conducts risk assessments for all awardees, prior to the award being issued.
      1. An agency wide Internal Control Questionnaire (ICQ) to be completed by the awardee within the Grantee Portal. The ICQ evaluates fiscal, administrative, and programmatic risk in the following categories:
        1. Quality of Management Systems
        2. Financial and Programmatic Reporting
        3. Ability to Effectively Implement Award Requirements
        4. Awardee Audits
      2. A program specific Programmatic Risk Assessment conducted by the awarding agency to evaluate the following categories:
        1. Programmatic financial stability
        2. Management systems and standards that would affect the program.
        3. Programmatic audit and monitoring findings
        4. Ability to effectively implement program requirements.
        5. External partnerships
        6. Programmatic reporting
      3. Risk assessments are not intended to be punitive in nature, rather they are conducted in order to evaluate the support, technical assistance, and training that may be needed for the awardee and the level of monitoring that is needed for the award.
      4. Risk assessments may result in Specific Conditions being placed on the award to include more frequent monitoring or the implementation of a corrective action plan.
    2. Simplified Acquisition Threshold - Federal and State awards
      1. It is anticipated that grants under this award may receive an award over the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (as defined in 48 CFR part2, subpart 2.1.; the dollar amount set by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), currently at $250,000 (with some exceptions)) Potential grantees under this notice of funding opportunity announcement may receive an award in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold of $250,000. Therefore, the grantee is subject to the simplified acquisition threshold and related requirements.
        1. Prior to making an award with a total amount greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, IDHS is required to review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM. (Currently FAPIIS) (See 41 U.S.C. 2313)
        2. That an applicant, at its option, may review information in the designated integrity and performance systems accessible through SAM and comment on any information about itself that a State or Federal awarding agency previously entered and is currently in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through Sam.
        3. IDHS will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to the other information in the designated integrity and performance system, in making a judgment about the applicants' integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under State and Federal awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as described in 2 CFR 200.206

VII. Award Notices.

  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. Note: The Department cannot issue a NOSA until the successful applicant has an approved budget entered into the CSA system. 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.
    5. Applicants who are not eligible due to registration or pre-qualification issues, or late applications will be notified that they are ineligible for consideration by 05/15/2025. A written Notice of Denial shall be sent to the applicants not receiving an award following the Merit Review process.

VIII. Post-Award Requirements and Administration.

i. 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. Provide a link to a sample of the current IDHS Uniform Grant Agreement. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance
  3. Successful applicants agree to provide program services as described throughout this Funding Notice and in the Contract Policy Manual.
  4. Payment Terms:
    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.

ii. Reporting.

This section includes information needed to understand the post-award reporting requirements.

  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 monthly.
    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 monthly and annual performance data may be collected as directed by the Department and in the format prescribed by the Department.
    5. 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. The purchase of this technology would be an allowable expenditure under the grant and may be budgeted for as part of this application:
      1. Internet access, - Recommend high-speed Internet capacity/access (800 Mbs or more); Upload speeds: up to 20 Mbs or more
      2. Email capability
      3. Microsoft Excel
      4. Microsoft Word
      5. Microsoft Teams
      6. Microsoft Power BI or Tableau
      7. Adobe Reader
    6. 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, curriculums, innovative techniques, data, analyses, marketing materials including videos, toolkits, flyers, and any and all materials related to marketing campaigns, and policy recommendations are the property of the Department and will not be published or distributed except as prescribed by the Department.
    7. 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

IX. Other Information.

  1. Program Exhibit Language
Terms Definitions
1.800.GAMBLER: The current IDHS/SUPR gambling helpline which provides crisis counseling and information to gamblers and others requesting assistance via phone call, text, or chat.
AreYouReallyWinning.com: The current IDHS/SUPR public awareness campaign slogan and gambling treatment information website.
American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Criteria: The ASAM Criteria is a comprehensive set of guidelines for placement, continued stay, transfer, or discharge of patients with addiction and co-occurring conditions. Formerly known as the ASAM patient placement criteria.
At-risk gamblers: People who engaged in gambling in the past month and had at least 1 or more adverse consequences due to gambling.
Co-Occurring Disorder: The existence of multiple primary conditions or chronic diseases. People with substance use disorders are at particular risk for co-occurring mental health, primary health conditions or chronic diseases.
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM): The standardized manual published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in 1952 to classify mental disorders in the United States. The 5th edition of the DSM was published in 2013.
Gambling Disorder (GD): Defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), 5th Edition (Section 312.31) as: Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
Health Disparities: Preventable differences in the burden of disease, injury, violence, or opportunities to achieve optimal health that are experienced by socially disadvantaged populations.
International Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC): International certification of gambling counselors and mentors.
National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): A national organization founded in 1972 that advocates for comprehensive policy and programs for those affected by problem gambling.
Outreach: Engagement with the community by providers to raise awareness, educate, and screen individuals for substance use issues and disorders, gambling issues and potential gambling disorder.
Problem and Compulsive Gambling Certified Counselor (PCGC): Encompasses problematic gambling behavior that is characterized by a preoccupation with gambling, negative consequences due to gambling behavior, gambling-related disruptions in relationships and occupational responsibilities.
Video Gaming: Electronic games, typically poker, keno, blackjack or slots, played on a video screen for money.
Eisenberg Disordered Gambling Emphasized SBIRT Pre-screen and Screen (EDGE SBIRT) The IDHS/SUPR authorized screening instrument for gambling disorder. Any other instrument must be approved in writing. Currently available in English, Spanish, Simple Chinese, and Polish.

  1. Related Programs:

    1. Gambling Public Awareness Campaign (Substance Use Disorder and Gambling Disorder Public Awareness Campaigns 444-26-0730)
    2. Gambling Treatment Services (Fixed Rate Substance Use Disorder and Gambling Disorder Services 444-26-0724)
    3. Gambling Outreach Services and Gambling Helpline (Expense Based Substance Use Disorder and Gambling Disorder Services 444-26-2841)
    4. Gambling Center of Excellence (Training & Evaluation Grants Subject to NOFO & Merit Based Review 444-26-2379)

  2. Existing webpages:

    1. AreYouReallyWinning.com
    2. State gambling services webpage
    3. NOFO questions and answers

  3. Mandatory Forms and Submission:

    1. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance
    2. Proposal Narrative
    3. Uniform Grant Budget in CSA
    4. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure