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NOFO: ARC

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NOFO Table of Contents

About the NOFO

The NOFO has a total of 11 sections.

Section A. includes an executive summary, funding information, and summary table.
Section B. describes eligibility criteria and restrictions.
Section C. describes program details, including its purpose, priorities, and relevant statutes and regulations.
Section D. includes details on the required content and format for the application.
Section E. describes how to submit the application materials and registration requirements.
Section F. details the review and risk assessment process and criteria.
Section G. describes the notification process.
Section H. details requirements for subrecipient organizations after they have been awarded.
Section I. includes information relevant to the application, including technical assistance and relevant definitions.
Section J lists the mandatory forms applicants must submit.
Section K. consists of citations found throughout the funding notices.

A. Basic Information

A.1. Executive Summary

This new Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) sets forth the requirements for applications to establish Advancing Recovery in Tribal Communities (ARC) programs. This initiative will focus on the implementation of culturally tailored and competent, evidence-based prevention, treatment, and recovery support services that align with the beliefs, customs, and values of Tribal communities, comprising individuals and peoples who may refer to themselves as “Indian,” “Native American,” “Indigenous,” “First Nations,” “Tribal,” by the name of their nation, or another term. An applicant other than a federally recognized Tribe, Tribal enterprise, or urban Indian organization must include with the application a signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) with such an organization. 

The goal of ARC is to address the unmet substance use disorder (SUD) prevention, treatment, and recovery needs of Illinois Tribal communities affected by the opioid crisis by achieving the following objectives: 

  1. Increasing access to opioid use disorder (OUD) prevention, treatment, and recovery services. 
  2. Develop a workforce, including people with lived experience, to provide these services. 
  3. Increase access to medication-assisted recovery (MAR) for OUD or alcohol use disorder (AUD). 

To accomplish these objectives, ARC subrecipients shall:  

  1. Develop the program, including hiring and training the workforce; 
  2. Deliver culturally tailored prevention, treatment, and recovery services; 
  3. Engage the community, including youth and elders; and 
  4. Plan for making the services sustainable. 

Up to four organizations will be awarded funds to fulfill the requirements of the subaward. However, applicants may apply for any amount up to the maximum funding level. 

Services provided under this NOFO shall reflect the Illinois Department of Human Services’ (IDHS) commitment to advancing equity and racial and social justice by enabling all to thrive, regardless of race, ZIP Code, and disability. 

A.2. Funding Information

All materials, links, and resources related to this NOFO are available at the Illinois Regional Care Coordination Agency (RCCA) website via the Funding Opportunities page. This is a new competitive subaward opportunity. The release of this NOFO does not obligate IDHS or the RCCA to make an award. 

Funding for the initial period of performance is estimated to span from April 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027. However, funding periods are not always equivalent to the period of performance. The period of performance means the total estimated time interval between the start of an initial award and the planned end date, which may include one or more funded portions, or budget periods. The start of the period of performance begins upon execution of the subaward agreement. 

Identification of the period of performance in this NOFO or in the subaward does not commit the IDHS or the RCCA to fund the award beyond the currently approved budget period or beyond the current fiscal year budget period. See 2 CFR § 200.332; 44 Ill. Admin. Code Sec. 7000.370. The execution of a subaward agreement shall not create any expectation of a subaward renewal. Renewals at the completion of the period of performance specified in the subaward agreement of this program are at the discretion of the RCCA and IDHS, based on performance and sufficient appropriations. Continued funding is subject to funding appropriations and release of funds by IDHS. 

Subrecipients may be eligible to receive up to two (2) subsequent grant renewals for this program, depending upon availability of funds. If the subaward agreement is renewed, the period of performance shall continue from July 1, 2027 through June 30, 2028, unless the agreement is terminated, appropriations are no longer available, or for any other termination reason allowed by the State.  

  • The total amount of funds available is estimated to be $3,000,000 to be awarded over three (3) years. Details are described in Section C.3. Scope of Services. 
  • The RCCA anticipates awarding up to four (4) awards. The allocated funding per period of performance is between $250,000 – $1,000,000 per award.  Two budget periods are associated with this award. Budget periods are not equivalent to the period of performance. The anticipated budget periods for this award are as follows: 
    • April 1, 2026–June 30, 2026; Up to $250,000 may be proposed 
    • July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027; up to $750,000 may be proposed 
  • The funding per period of performance will vary based upon the number of awards and the length of the award and budget periods. For example:  
    • If two (2) organizations are awarded grants, each could receive up to the prorated amount of $125,000 for the first budget period, up to $375,000 for the second budget period, and up to $500,000 the maximum available for subsequent years if renewed.   
    • If four (4) organizations are awarded, each could be awarded up to the pro-rated amount of $62,500 for the first award, $187,500 for the second budget period, and $250,000 the maximum available for subsequent years if renewed.

The estimated amounts to be awarded for each year and each budget period, will be based upon the number of awards.  Examples of estimated amounts are detailed in the table below. Programs may apply for less funding.  

  Initial Period of Performance
(FY26-FY27) 		 Future Years
(if renewed) 		 Total Funding Per Award 
Number of awards  Budget Period 1 (4/1/26-6/30/26)  Budget Period 2 (7/1/26-6/30/27)  FY28  FY29  FY26-FY29 
1   $250,000  $750,000  $1,000,000  $1,000,000  $3,000,000 
2  $125,000  $375,000  $500,000  $500,000  $1,500,000 
3  $83,333  $250,000  $333,333  $333,333   $1,000,000 
4  $62,500  $187,500  $250,000  $250,000  $750,000 

 

  • Applicants with existing IDHS awards are eligible to compete with applications for new State awards. However, funds received under one award cannot be used for another, even if the public services are the same or similar. See 2 CFR § 200, et al. 
  • If awarded, award amounts will be based on IDHS’ approval of the RCCA-approved applicant budget. Budgets must be sufficiently detailed, contain only allowable costs pursuant to 2 CFR § 200, et al., and be justified to be approved by the RCCA. 

A.3. Summary Table

a  Funding Opportunity Title  Advancing Recovery in Tribal Communities (ARC) 
b  Funding Opportunity Number  O-15 
c  Awarding Entity  RCCA as established by IDHS (CSFA 444-26-3079) 
d  Announcement Type  NOFO Announcement (Subaward) 
e  Posting Date  October 29, 2025 
f  Period Application Open  61 calendar days 
g  Questions Submission Due Date  December 19, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. CT 
h  Application Closing Date and Time  December 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. CT 

Applications will not be accepted after this time. 
i  Anticipated Notification Date  February 23, 2026 
j  Anticipated period of performance Begin Date  April 1, 2026 
k  Contact   Randi Moberly, Ph.D. 

312-386-7505 

IL RCCA Help Desk  
l  Average Prior Award   n/a 
m  Source of Funding  Illinois Opioid Remediation State Trust Fund: Illinois Opioid Settlements Initiative (ilopioidsettlements.com) 
n  Estimated Total Program Funding  An estimated $3,000,000 over 3 years (estimated $1,000,000 per year); prorated in the initial funding period 
o  Anticipated Number of Awards  1–4 
p  Funding Periods  Two (2) funding periods are associated with this award. Subrecipients may be eligible to receive up to two (2) subsequent grant renewal for this program, depending upon the availability of funds. Renewals are at the discretion of the RCCA and IDHS, based on performance and sufficient appropriations. The anticipated funding periods for this award are as follows:

April 1, 2026–June 30, 2026
July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027 
q  Funding per Period of Performance  Subject to the conditions of Section p above, the allocated funding per fiscal year is estimated to be between  $250,000‒$1,000,000 per award. The funding per period of performance will vary based upon the number of awards and the length of the award period. See Section A.2. for additional details. 
r  Cost-Sharing or Matching Requirement  No 
s  Indirect Costs Allowed  Yes, but not required 
T  Restrictions on Indirect Costs  Indirect costs are allowed. Indirect Cost Rate must be approved. See Section C.5. Funding Details. Also see restrictions to indirect costs in accordance with the appropriate sections of 44 Ill. Admin. Code Part 7000, et al., and 2 CFR § 200, et al. All subrecipients, excluding local educational agencies (as defined in 34 CFR § 77.1) must make an indirect cost election during the application process:
1) Negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA)
2) De minimis
3) No rate (This selection means that all budgeted costs are classifies as direct costs.) 
Note: Release of this NOFO does not obligate the RCCA or IDHS to make an award. 

B. Eligibility

B.1. Eligible Applicants

This competitive funding opportunity is limited to applicants that meet the following requirements: 

  1. Applicants must be a Tribe; Tribal enterprise; urban Indian organization; or nonprofit, for-profit, or tax-exempt entity located in Illinois. 
  2. Applicants other than a Tribe, Tribal enterprise, or urban Indian organization must include a signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a Tribe, Tribal enterprise, or urban Indian organization. This MOU must demonstrate a commitment to engaging in meaningful and ongoing cultural consultation throughout the award period, specifically to ensure that the proposed services are culturally tailored, relevant, and respectful to the communities being served. 
  3. Applicants must be able to fulfill the scope of services detailed in this funding notice. 
  4. Applicants must have the capacity to comply with the legal, fiscal, reporting, and programmatic requirements as described in this funding notice. 
  5. Applicants proposing the use of program funds to provide services that require State or Federal licensure must be actively licensed. 
  6. All entities must be qualified to do business with the State of Illinois. 
  7. Applicants must complete the prequalification process described in Section E.2. Application Instructions. 
  8. Applicants must complete award requirements described in Section G.3. Award Conditions. 
  9. Applicants must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery to provide substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services. 

 

Only applicants that meet the above criteria will be considered for funding. 

A nonprofit, for-profit, or tax-exempt entity may only submit one application under this funding opportunity. For example, multiple individuals in one organization cannot submit multiple applications; a parent company cannot submit an application, and a subsidiary cannot submit a second application for the same funding opportunity. 

Cost sharing is not required. 

C. Program Description

C.1. Background

In 2013, 1,072 people in Illinois died of an opioid overdose; by 2023, this number had more than doubled to 2,855. The State’s non-Hispanic Black population has the highest overdose fatality rate (69.3 percent), followed by non-Hispanic White population (17.7) percent. 1 To hold companies responsible for their roles in the opioid crisis, the Illinois Attorney General has engaged in multiple investigations, lawsuits, and settlements with opioid manufacturers, distributors, and chain pharmacies. The funds from the settlements will support recovery in communities hardest hit by the opioid crisis and throughout the State. 

The Illinois Office of Opioid Settlement Administration (OOSA) is the entity responsible for planning, administering, and managing fifty-five percent (55%) of the funds received from opioid settlements according to the Illinois Opioid Allocation Agreement and Executive Order 2022-19. The established processes ensure transparency and consideration of regional needs such as overdose rates, disparities created for specific populations, and resources to address opioid-related harms. OOSA is housed within IDHS’ Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR).  

About IDHS/DBHR 

The mission of IDHS/DBHR is to advance health and wellness for all people of Illinois through a comprehensive system of prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery services. DBHR is responsible for ensuring that children, adolescents, and adults throughout Illinois have access to comprehensive substance use and mental health services. DBHR operates a Statewide system that supports prevention, intervention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery services for individuals, families, and communities through a combination of State and Federal funding. The system includes community-based mental health and substance use services delivered through partners and inpatient mental health services through twenty-seven (27) community hospitals with psychiatric units and seven (7) State-operated hospitals. DBHR is also responsible for regulating all substance use intervention and treatment providers in the State of Illinois to ensure safety and quality of care. 

DBHR focuses on improving outcomes, expanding access to care, reducing stigma, and providing coordinated care for people with behavioral health needs. It aims to create a more connected, responsive, and effective system of care through partnership with communities and providers.  

Funding Source 

The Office of the Illinois Attorney General has certified—and the Governor’s Opioid Overdose Prevention and Recovery Steering Committee has approved—the use of up to an estimated $3 million over three (3) years from the Illinois Opioid Remediation State Trust Fund (Fund) for establishing Advancing Recovery in Tribal Communities (ARC) in accordance with the Illinois Opioid Allocation Agreement and the Fund allocation process.  

In April 2023, IDHS/DBHR awarded Advocates for Human Potential, Inc. (AHP) a grant to serve as the RCCA. The RCCA administers subawards with organizations providing prevention, intervention, treatment, and harm reduction services for people with substance use disorders in accordance with State-approved strategies and the scope of services provided by IDHS. 

C.2. Need

The funds from the settlements will support prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts in communities hit hardest by the opioid crisis and throughout the State. Fund distributions must be used equitably in service areas disproportionately affected by the opioid crisis as outlined in the Illinois Opioid Allocation Agreement, such as areas with the following characteristics: 

(a) High opioid fatality rates, including 

    • Counties other than Cook County with a crude rate of 1.8 or greater per 100,000 people 

(b) Concentrated poverty, including 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) individuals had the highest overdose death rate of any racial or ethnic group.1 This initiative will focus on the implementation of culturally tailored and competent, evidence-based prevention, treatment, and recovery support services that align with the beliefs, customs, and values of Tribal communities. The Regional Care Coordination Agency (RCCA) recognizes that individuals and peoples designated as AI/AN by the U.S. Census Bureau may refer to themselves as “Indian,” “Native American,” “Indigenous,” “First Nations,” “Tribal,” by the name of their nation, or another term. 

This funding opportunity is intended for services to AI/AN individuals living in Illinois urban, suburban, and rural Tribal communities, including (when established) Tribal lands, particularly those who 

  1. Have opioid use disorder (OUD), 
  2. Have polysubstance use disorder including opioids, or 
  3. Experience or have been affected by SUD and are seeking culturally tailored recovery support. 

Priority will be given to applicants that demonstrate high rates of overdose in the proposed service area, limited availability of culturally tailored services, and engagement with disparately impacted AI/AN populations. 

C.3. Funding Purpose and Scope of Services

A minimum of one (1) and a maximum of four (4) organizations will be awarded funding to develop and implement the ARC program, which will establish Tribal Recovery Support and Treatment Centers (TRSTCs) to address the unmet SUD treatment and recovery needs of Illinois Tribal communities affected by the opioid crisis by achieving the following objectives: 

  • Provide culturally tailored OUD prevention, treatment, and recovery services to AI/AN individuals and Tribal communities. No person shall be denied service because of ongoing substance use or reoccurrence of substance use.
  • Develop a workforce, including people with lived experience,2 to provide culturally tailored services to AI/AN individuals and Tribal communities 
  • Increase access to medication-assisted recovery (MAR) facilitated by the inclusion of cultural components3 and other evidence-based practices for prevention, treatment, and recovery for AI/AN individuals with OUD or alcohol use disorder (AUD)
  • Increase access to evidence-based practices, traditional healers, and Tribal healing models and practices 

To accomplish these objectives, ARC subrecipients shall 

  • Develop the program, including hiring the workforce; 
  • Deliver culturally tailored prevention services; 
  • Deliver culturally tailored treatment services; 
  • Deliver culturally tailored recovery supports; 
  • Engage the community, including youth and elders; and 
  • Plan for making the services sustainable. 

The required tasks and associated performance measures, standards, and potential metrics to be collected are as follows: 

Task 1. Administer ARC Program 

Subrecipients shall fulfill obligations detailed in Section H.10. Reporting and Grants Administration Requirements, including the following: 

  • Organizational Needs Assessment: Complete an organizational needs assessment (ONA) survey 
  • Implementation and Sustainability Plan Development: Develop and update an implementation and sustainability plan (ISP), which informs the performance metrics used for program activities and which incorporates the input of Tribes, Tribal enterprises, urban Indian organizations, and other AI/AN-led organizations and community stakeholders, as applicable 
  • Equity and Racial Justice Plan Development: Develop and implement an equity and racial justice (ERJ) plan 
  • Performance Reporting: Complete quarterly periodic performance reports (PPRs) 
  • Fiscal Reporting: Complete monthly periodic financial reports (PFRs) 
  • Training and Technical Assistance Participation: Participate in program status meetings and training and technical assistance (TTA) as prescribed 
  • Data Collection and Reporting with the RCCA Opioid Abatement Strategies Effectiveness Evaluator (OASEE) Subrecipient: Identify performance metrics, collect relevant data to evaluate program effectiveness, and perform quarterly and annual evaluations with the engagement of AI/AN-led advisory boards, AI/AN youth, and AI/AN elders. 

Anticipated performance measures for these activities are detailed in Section C.4. Deliverables and Performance Measures. 

Task 2. Plan ARC Program 

The subrecipient shall establish and maintain program leadership and staffing, operations, information technology, and other administrative infrastructure required to support program activities defined in the services implementation plan (SIP). 

Task 2.a. Identify Program Staff 

Staff may include, but are not limited to, the following: 

  • Program director, to provide leadership on all aspects of the program, including design, implementation, and evaluation 
  • Program administrator, to support grants administration, reporting, data collection, and evaluation tasks 
  • Support professionals, to carry out program implementation and evaluation tasks 
  • Paid subject matter experts (including Tribal elders), to provide training, technical assistance, service provision, supervision, and other services as needed 

Leadership and staff shall reflect the community/population being served. Preference is given to subrecipients that commit to having direct service staff who both live and work in their communities and to engaging Tribal elders (as defined by their communities) as paid consultants. 

If new staff are to be hired, interim staff shall be available at the commencement of the period of performance. The subrecipient shall conduct regular professional development workshops for staff on prevention, treatment, and recovery services. If the subrecipient is not a Tribe, Tribal enterprise, or urban Indian organization, the subrecipient shall also conduct regular workshops for staff on cultural humility and traditional healing methods and shall consult with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) Tribal TTA Center (if operating) and Tribal elders or an AI/AN-led advisory board to ensure this training is culturally tailored. 

Task 2.b. Performance Measures 

The subrecipient shall submit a program organizational chart detailing assigned staff (or designated to-be-hired), their roles, and matrixed supports within fifteen (15) days from the commencement of the period of performance. This organizational chart shall include a list of names and emails of all individuals assigned to work on the program in any capacity. 

Task 2.b. Develop the Program 

The subrecipient shall develop a SIP for a center to provide culturally tailored prevention, treatment, and recovery services. The development of this plan shall include the input of Tribal elders or an AI/AN-led advisory board with whom project staff will collaborate throughout the period of performance. 

  • Culturally tailored prevention services may include, but are not limited to, those described in SAMHSA TIP 61, Behavioral Health Services for American Indians and Alaska Natives, and should be selected in consultation with Tribal elders or an AI/AN-led advisory board. The SIP shall identify the specific subpopulation (e.g., middle school students), along with the location of the services and the number of people projected to be served. 
  • Culturally tailored treatment services shall include access to MAR and other evidence-based treatments (see Definitions), delivered according to individualized treatment and recovery plans that integrate traditional healing practices. The SIP shall identify the location and hours of each service to be provided, the number of people projected to be served, and (if relevant) the specific subpopulation to be served. 
  • Culturally tailored recovery supports may include, but are not limited to, those described in SAMHSA TIP 61, as well as culturally adapted peer support, culturally specific sober activities, and culturally appropriate 12-step groups,4 delivered according to individualized treatment and recovery plans that integrate traditional healing practices. The SIP shall identify the location and hours of each service to be provided, the number of people projected to be served, and (if relevant) the specific subpopulation to be served. 

Additionally, the SIP shall do the following: 

  1. Address how the program will establish access to MAR for individuals with OUD and/or AUD, either through an MOU with a licensed MAR program or under the subrecipient’s licensed program. 
  2. Incorporate evidence-based practices that have been promoted by SAMHSA’s Tribal TTA Center, as described in SAMHSA TIP 61. 
  3. Explain how treatment and recovery plans will incorporate traditional healers and traditional healing practices. 
  4. Explain how the program will incorporate practices designed by AI/AN individuals with lived experience. 

Task 2.a. Performance Measures 

The subrecipient shall submit, within ninety (90) days from the commencement of the period of performance, a SIP detailing the prevention, treatment, and recovery services that will be offered, including the following information for each intervention: the hours and locations, the projected number of people to be served, and the anticipated outcomes. The SIP should describe the contributions of Tribal elders or an AI/AN-led advisory board to its development. 

Task 3. Implement ARC Program 

The subrecipient shall deliver prevention, treatment, and recovery services identified in the SIP. 

Task 3.a. Establish and Deliver Culturally Tailored Prevention Services 

The subrecipient shall deliver the specific prevention activities described in the SIP. 

Task 3.a.1 Performance Measure 

The subrecipient shall establish ARC prevention activities within 180 days of the commencement of the period of performance. 

Task 3.a.2 Performance Measure 

The subrecipient shall deliver eighty percent (80%) of the planned prevention activities in accordance with the SIP. 

Task 3.b. Establish and Deliver Culturally Tailored Treatment Services 

The subrecipient shall deliver the specific ARC treatment services described in the SIP. 

Task 3.b.1. Performance Measure 

The subrecipient shall establish ARC treatment services within 180 days of the commencement of the period of performance. 

Task 3.b.2. Performance Measure 

The subrecipient shall deliver eighty percent (80%) of the planned ARC treatment services in accordance with the SIP. 

Task 3.c. Establish and Deliver Culturally Tailored Recovery Services 

The subrecipient shall conduct the specific recovery activities described in the SIP. 

Task 3.c.1. Performance Measure 

The subrecipient shall establish ARC recovery support services within 180 days of the commencement of the period of performance. 

Task 3.c.2. Performance Measure 

The subrecipient shall deliver eighty percent (80%) of the planned ARC recovery support services in accordance with the SIP. 

Task 4. Monitor and Evaluate ARC Program 

The subrecipient shall participate in monitoring and evaluation of services in accordance with Task 1. Administer Award and must engage the community in ongoing planning and evaluation efforts. 

Task 4.a. Engage the Community in Ongoing Planning 

The subrecipient shall engage the community served, particularly AI/AN youth and elders, in planning and implementation activities to ensure culturally tailored program execution, to foster multigenerational healing, and to plan for long-term program sustainability. The subrecipient may choose the most effective way to inform the community, including hosting events open to the community, attending community events, or using websites, email, social media, and inclusion in regular communications. In addition, the subrecipient shall host at minimum one in-person or virtual focus groups per quarter. 

Task 4.a. Performance Measure 

The subrecipient shall conduct no fewer than four (4) focus groups annually. 

Task 4.b. Involve the Community in Evaluations 

The subrecipient shall consult not less than quarterly with Tribal elders or an AI/AN-led advisory board, AI/AN youth, and AI/AN elders on the evaluation process required by Section H.10, Reporting and Grants Administration Requirements. The subrecipient shall seek the input of Tribal elders or AI/AN-led advisory board on whether services being delivered are culturally tailored, whether the needs of the community are being met, and whether the services are being delivered effectively. To the extent feasible, the subrecipient shall include members of the AI/AN-led advisory board in meetings with the RCCA’s OASEE subrecipient. 

Task 4.b. Performance Measures 

The subrecipient shall produce biannual (twice per year) evaluation reports on the activities and services delivered and their impact. 

C.4. Deliverables and Performance Measures

The following tables detail (a) the deliverables required according to the scope of services and (b) associated performance measures, standards, and potential metrics to be collected by task. Time periods refer to the days from the commencement of the period of performance, unless otherwise specified. Standards for activities refer to percentages of those activities described in the SIP. 

Task 1. Administer ARC Program 

See Section H.10. Reporting and Grants Administration Requirements of the NOFO for detailed descriptions of Task 1 activities. 

Performance Measures  Standards  Metrics 
(k) Participate in virtual kickoff  100%  Attend kickoff (15 days) 
(a) Complete ONA survey  100%  ONA survey completed (30 days after distribution) 
(b) Develop ISP  100%    ISP submitted (45 days) 
(c) Develop ERJ plan  100%  ERJ organizational assessment completed (90 days) 

ERJ plan drafted (120 days) 

ERJ plan finalized (180 days) 
(d) Complete PPR  100%  Project implementation progress reported (15th day following each quarter end) 
(e) Complete PFR  100%  Financial performance reported (15th of each month) 
(f) Participate in TTA  75%  # Every-other-month cohort meetings (initiated within 60 days) 

# TTA sessions attended (quarterly or as prescribed) 

# Learning collaboratives (as prescribed) 
(g) Participate in project status meetings (PSMs)  75%  # Every-other-month PSMs 
(h) Evaluation reporting  100%  Activities and services metrics reported (15th day following each quarter end unless otherwise prescribed) 

Task 2. Plan ARC Program 

Performance Measures  Standards  Metrics 
(a) Project staffing  80%  Organizational chart submitted 

# Qualified staff hired/allocated per ISP 

Staffing maintained 
(b) Develop SIP  100%  SIP submitted (90 days) 

Task 3. Implement ARC Program 

Performance Measures  Standards  Metrics 
(a) Establish and deliver prevention activities  80%  Prevention services initiated (180 days) 

# and type of prevention services provided (submitted in monthly evaluation reporting [MER]) 80% per SIP 
(b) Establish and deliver treatment services  80%  Treatment services initiated (180 days) 

# and type of treatment services provided (submitted in MER) 80% per SIP 
(c) Establish and deliver recovery services  80%  Recovery services initiated (180 days) 

# and type of recovery services provided
(submitted in MER) 80% per SIP 

Task 4. Monitor and Evaluate ARC Program 

Performance Measures  Standards  Metrics 
(a) Engage community in ongoing planning  80%  # focus groups 
(b) Engage community in evaluation  80%  # evaluation reports 

C.5. Funding Details

The following sections discuss allowable and unallowable costs for this funding opportunity. Please refer to 2 CFR § 200 – Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, Part 200 Subpart E – Cost Principles to determine the appropriateness of costs. 

Allowable Costs 

Allowable costs are those that are necessary and reasonable based on the activity contained in the statement of work (SOW), are justified in the Budget Narrative, and are allowable under 2 CFR §§ 200.400–476. It is expected that administrative costs, both direct and indirect, will represent a small portion of the overall program budget. Any budget deemed to include inappropriate or excessive administrative costs will not be approved. Program budgets and narratives must detail how all proposed expenditures are necessary for program implementation. 

Unallowable Costs 

Refer to 2 CFR § 200 –Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, Part 200 Subpart E – Cost Principles to determine the appropriateness of costs. In addition, and specific to this grant, the following costs will be unallowable without specific prior written approval: 

  • Entertainment costs, except where specific costs that might otherwise be considered entertainment have a programmatic purpose and are authorized in the approved budget (2 CFR § 200.438) 
  • Capital expenditures for general purpose equipment, including any vehicle regardless of cost, buildings, and land (2 CFR § 200.439) 
  • Capital expenditures for improvements to land, buildings, or equipment that materially increase their value or useful life (2 CFR § 200.439) 
  • Food and other goods or services for personal use of the grantee’s employees, contractors, or consultants unless authorized as per diem under the Illinois Governor’s Travel Control Board (2 CFR § 200.445) 
  • Deposits for items, services, or space 
  • Dues to societies, organizations, or federations 
  • Meetings or conventions, unless directly related to the program and approved in advance by the RCCA 
  • Alcoholic beverages 
  • Cash payments to intended recipients of services 
  • Purchase or repair of vehicles 
  • Lobbying, political contributions, or compensation of a government body 
  • Fundraising 
  • Bad debt, fines, or penalties 
  • Personal-use items, including expenses related to personal use of vehicles 
  • Unallowable relocation expenses 
  • Related-party transactions 
  • Any other costs not approved in the plan and budget 

Indirect Cost Rate 

To charge indirect costs to this grant, the applicant organization must: (1) have a federal annually negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA), or (2) elect to use the de minimis rate and specify what percentage (up to fifteen percent [15%] of modified total direct cost MTDC) the applicant chooses. See 2 CFR § 200.414. 

Indirect Cost Rate Election 

  • Federally Negotiated Rate: Organizations that receive direct federal funding may have an indirect cost rate that was negotiated with a federal cognizant agency. The organization must provide a copy of the federal NICRA. Organizations must notify the RCCA of any changes to their previously established NICRA no later than six (6) months after the close of the organization’s fiscal year. 
  • De minimis Rate: An organization may elect a de minimis rate of up to fifteen percent (15%) of MTDC.** Once established, the de minimis rate may be used indefinitely. If programs elect to use the de minimis rate, it is critical that program budgets accurately calculate the MTDC base. 

Please see regulation 2 CFR § 200.1 below and note the exclusions to MTDC. 

**2 CFR § 200.1, Modified Total Direct Costs, means “all direct salaries and wages, applicable fringe benefits, materials and supplies, services, travel, and up to the first $50,000 of each subaward (regardless of the period of performance of the subawards under the award). MTDC excludes equipment, capital expenditures, charges for patient care, rental costs, tuition remission, scholarships and fellowships, participant support costs, and the portion of each subaward in excess of $50,000. Other items may only be excluded when necessary to avoid a serious inequity in the distribution of indirect costs and with the approval of the cognizant agency for indirect costs.” 

“No Rate” 

Subrecipients have discretion not to request payment for indirect costs. Subrecipients that elect not to claim indirect costs cannot be reimbursed for indirect costs. The organization must record an election of “No Indirect Costs” in the Budget Workbook link in Section J.1., Mandatory Forms.  

C.6. Authorizing Statutes and Regulations

Subrecipients shall adhere to the requirements outlined in the following: 

D. Application Contents and Format

The NOFO application is contained in an online fillable form, hosted by SurveyMonkey Apply. Applicants must have access to the internet. Use the application link to access the online application as early as possible to make sure you can log in. The link to the application is available at the IL RCCA website. 

Instructions to complete the fillable form are included in the online application. You will be able to work on your online application, save your work, and return to it at your convenience. You may also add collaborators to assist with application development. 

The individual submitting the application must attest within the application that they are authorized to submit the application on the organization’s behalf. All application submittals are final. Once the application is submitted, no further changes can be made. 

You are responsible for ensuring that your application and all attachments have been successfully submitted in SurveyMonkey Apply, received by AHP, and submitted no later than the specified deadline in Section E.3. below and the Summary Table, row h. 

D.1. Contents and Point Distribution

The online application includes nine (9) sections. Sections 1–4 contain information about your organization, including fiscal, administrative, and internal controls questions. Sections 1–4 are not scored as part of the merit-based review process but are used to fulfill prequalification and risk assessment criteria. Sections 5–9 are scored for a total of 100 possible points. Individual questions can be referenced on the NOFO Prepare to Apply page. 

Please answer questions truthfully and completely and be sure to cite the source of any data included. 

Section Title  Description  Points 
Section 1. Organization Information  Basic administrative and fiscal information about your organization  0 
Section 2. Prequalification  Organizational information and attestations that verify eligibility to receive an award  0 
Section 3. Internal Controls  Administrative and management controls that inform the risk assessment that must be completed prior to Notice of Intent to Award (NOIA)  0 
Section 4. Organization Attestations and Attachments  Attestations verifying capacity and truthfulness of information in the application  0 
Section 5. Executive Summary  An overview of your organization and the services you plan to deliver if awarded funding  5 
Section 6. Need and Opportunity  How the proposed work will contribute to the purpose of the program  30 
Section 7. Experience and Capacity  How your organization’s work, approach, and experience are aligned with the intent of the program requirements  30 
Section 8. Quality  The implementation approach and anticipated outcomes of the proposed activities to be funded by this notice  30 
Section 9. Program Budget  Program budget and advance payment request  5 
   100 

D.2. Attachments

(* = Required) 

#  Item  Description 
A  Approved NICRA (if applicable)  Defines an organization’s federally negotiated indirect cost rate 
B  Organizational Chart*  Describes the reporting structure and roles at the organization 
C  Organizational Budget*  Describes organizational revenues and expenditures for current fiscal year 
D  Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification*  Verifies Taxpayer Identification Number 
E  Single Federal Audit or Financial Statement Audit (if available)  Provides assurance of internal controls to maintain grant compliance 
F  Conflict of Interest Disclosure*  Discloses actual or potential conflicts of interest 
G  Resumes/CVs of program leadership*  Demonstrates experience of planned leadership 
H  Program Plan*  Describes the applicant’s plan to execute the award over the period of performance, including a timeline of program activities 
I  References*   Provide three references that describe history and quality of work related to the goals of the funding opportunity (preferably two from previous grant funders) 
J  Budget Workbook*  Demonstrates spending plan for subaward 

E. Submission Requirements and Deadline

The RCCA is now accepting applications to fund ARC programs. Applications will only be accepted through the online application available at the Illinois RCCA website via the Funding Opportunities page.

E.1. Application Availability

All application materials are available at the Illinois RCCA website on the Funding Opportunities page. Copies of all materials may be obtained by any of the following means: 

  1. Submit a request at the IL RCCA Help Desk 
  2. Email a request to [email protected] 
  3. Call Randi Moberly at 312.386.7505 
  4. Mail a request for all application materials to:  

Advocates for Human Potential Regional Care Coordination Agency, 1021 West Adams Street, Suite 303, Chicago, IL 60607. Please note: You cannot submit your grant applications to this address. Applications will only be accepted online as described above (see the introduction to Section E). 

E.2. Application Instructions

Under the Federal Uniform Guidance (2 CFR § 200, et al.) and GATA (44 Ill. Admin. Code Sec. 7000.70(f)), all applicants must be qualified to receive an award. An eligible organization must: 

  • Have an active System for Award Management (SAM.gov) public account 
  • Have an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)  
  • Not be on the SAM.gov Exclusion List 
  • 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. Governmental entities, school districts and select religious organizations are not required to be registered with the Illinois Secretary of State. Refer to the Illinois Secretary of State Business Services website.) 
  • Not be on the Illinois Medicaid Sanctions List 
  • Not be on the Illinois Stop Payment List 

If your organization does not meet these qualification requirements, your organization cannot receive funding for this award. Please take this into consideration before you take the time and effort to apply for this funding opportunity. 

To obtain the information required to achieve qualified status, complete the steps detailed in the following table. 

Step  Requirement  Link 
1. Register with the State of Illinois  Be actively registered with the Illinois Secretary of State.  Illinois Secretary of State website 
2. Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN/EIN)   Obtain a FEIN/EIN from the Internal Revenue Service.  FEIN/EIN application website 
3. Register for a SAM.gov account and obtain a UEI.  Register for and maintain an active SAM.gov account and obtain a 12-digit UEI.  https://sam.gov/content/home https://sam.gov 

 

Applicants must complete the online application narrative questions and upload attachments as described herein. Detailed application questions and associated evaluation criteria are available at the IL RCCA website. 

Attachments shall be PDF documents, except for the program budget, which is provided as an Excel workbook. 

Mandatory forms, including the Budget Workbook and Conflict of Interest Disclosure, are linked in Section J. Mandatory Forms. 

The applicant must develop a budget consistent with program requirements as described in Section C. Program Description and in accordance with Section F.2. Grant Funds Use Requirements. 

E.3. Submission Dates and Times

The online application must be completed in full and submitted electronically at http://www.ilrcca.com/ by December 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. CST. The deadline will be strictly enforced. Applications received after the due date and time will not be considered for review or funding. 

It is the applicant’s sole responsibility to ensure that their entire application and any attachments have been successfully submitted and received. Upon submission, you will receive an email confirming receipt of your application. Please check your email and spam folder. In the event of technical difficulty during submission or if you do not receive a confirmatory email within forty-eight (48) hours of your submittal, please contact Randi Moberly at the IL RCCA Help Desk. 

E.4. Other Submission Requirements

None.

E.5. Submission Tips

The following steps are recommended to successfully submit this application. 

Step  Name  Description 
1  Carefully review this document with your stakeholders.  Consider these questions: 

  • Does our organization meet all the applicant eligibility criteria? 
  • Is our organization able to effectively use these funds? 
2  Prepare to apply. 
  • Identify who is going to work on the different parts of the application. Take note of Section 2 and Section 3, which may require additional time. 
    • Section 2 reports your organization’s prequalification status. Initiate or verify prequalification status as soon as possible if you are not already prequalified. 
    • Section 3 aligns closely with the State of Illinois Internal Controls Questionnaire (ICQ). If you are an existing grantee in the State of Illinois and are prequalified for the current fiscal year, you can reference your current ICQ to obtain the answers to that section. If not, a fiscal staff member at the organization will likely need to provide guidance on that section. 
  • Develop a timeline for how to respond to the NOFO and submit on time. 
  • Create a document to develop your answers to the questions on the “Prepare to Apply” page. 
3  Access technical assistance resources. 
  • Register for the Technical Assistance session. 
  • Ask questions and review answers submitted by others. 
4  Complete attachments and forms. 
  • Download and complete the budget workbook. 
  • Download and complete the IDHS Conflict of Interest form. 
  • Complete all other attachments. 
5  Complete the online application and supplemental materials. 
  • Complete Sections 1–9 of the online application. It is helpful to have all answers prepared to copy and paste into the application. PLEASE NOTE: Answers to the questions cannot be formatted within the application, so simple headings are helpful to organize your responses. 
  • Upload all required and applicable attachments. 
  • Review and submit the application. Once submitted, no changes may be made to your application. 
  • PLEASE NOTE: You must submit the application in its entirety by selecting the green “submit” button. 

 

F. Application Review Information

F.1. Responsiveness Review

The Responsiveness Review, also called a “threshold” review, is a preliminary review that determines whether an application meets specified completion and eligibility levels. During this phase, each application will be reviewed for completion and eligibility, as defined in Section B. Eligibility. Budgets will be reviewed to ensure costs are allowable, reasonable, and linked to the described objectives in Section C. Program Description. 

All applicants who have submitted applications that are determined to be noncompliant or ineligible will be notified by email, upon determination. This email will be sent to the email addresses the applicant provides in the application and will identify the reason for disqualification.

F.2. Grant Funds Use Requirements

All awarded applicants shall use grant funds according to the guidelines, conditions, and parameters set forth in this funding notice and in compliance with Federal and State statutes, regulations, policies, and the terms and conditions of the subaward agreement. 

State and Federal Laws or Regulations 

In addition to the statutes and regulations listed in Section C.6. Authorizing Statutes and Regulations, every entity that is awarded funds through this NOFO must agree to comply with all applicable provisions of State and Federal laws and regulations pertaining to nondiscrimination, sexual harassment, and equal employment opportunity, including but not limited to the following: 

Additionally, the entity must comply with the following: 

  • The Adult Protective Services Act, 320 ILCS 20/1 et seq.  

Compliance with Relevant Funding Sources and Other Statutes 

The agency awarded funds shall act in accordance with all conditions related to the relevant funding sources outlined in the following: 

  • Any other relevant State statutes 

Third-Party Contractual Requirements 

Any third-party contracts paid for using grant funds are subject to GATA requirements and the terms and conditions of the subaward. The subrecipient is required to include certain subaward agreement language in lower tier subrecipient or contractor agreements and provide those agreements to the RCCA. Lower tier subrecipient and contractor agreement(s) and budgets must be preapproved by the RCCA. The subrecipient shall retain sole responsibility for the performance and monitoring of the lower tier subrecipient(s) and contractor(s). 

Religious/Sectarian Prohibitions 

Funds shall not be used for inherently religious activities, such as worship, religious or sectarian instruction, or proselytizing. If the applicant is a faith-based or a religious organization that offers such activities, these activities shall be voluntary for the individuals receiving services and offered separately from the program. Religious organizations as defined under 42 CFR 54.2(b) shall comply with the Charitable Choice Regulations as set forth in 42 CFR 54.1 et seq. regarding funds provided directly to pay for substance use disorder prevention and treatment services under 42 USC 300x-21 et seq.; 42 USC 290aa, et seq.; and 42 USC 290cc-21 to 290cc-35. No organization shall, on the grounds of gender (including in the case of any woman due to pregnancy) or of religion, exclude any patient from participation in, or deny the benefits of any services or activities funded with these subaward funds. 

F.3. Review Criteria

The scoring will be based on need, as described in Sections C.2. and C.3. above; capacity; quality of the organization’s work; and other grant-specific criteria. Points available are detailed in Section D.1. Contents and Point Distribution, and associated questions are available on the Prepare to Apply page.

F.4. Review and Selection Process

Merit-Based Review 

All competitive grant applications are subject to merit-based review, as described in Appendix A Sections 5–9, in accordance with 44 Ill. Admin. Code Sec. 7000.350. A clear description of each criterion and sub-criterion is found in Appendix A Sections 5–9. 

An applicant will only be accepted for a merit-based review upon meeting the eligibility criteria stated in Section B Eligibility. 

Evaluation Committee 

Evaluation of the application will be conducted by a review committee comprising a minimum of three (3) individuals with relevant subject matter expertise, including persons with lived experience. The committee is involved in the deliberative process and independently and confidentially reviews applications and assigns a numerical rating to the questions in Sections 5–9. The scoring tool scores the evaluation criteria based on funding priorities and the point allocations for each section of the application as indicated in Appendix A. 

Please note: Evaluation committee members will not have any actual or apparent conflicts of interest. 

RCCA leadership will compile the review committee scores, facilitate communication with the review committee on any variances, document any revisions, weigh funding priority criteria, and verify that applicants have completed all prequalification and pre-award requirements. The RCCA will then present recommendations of award finalists to IDHS/DBHR staff. 

Finalist Recommendations 

While the recommendation of the merit-based review panel will be a key factor in the funding decision, the RCCA maintains final authority over funding decisions and considers the findings of the reviewers to be advisory, nonbinding recommendations. The numerical score may not be the sole award criterion. The RCCA reserves the right to consider other factors, such as geographic distribution, demonstrated need, and agency past performance as a State grantee as described in Sections C.2. and C.3. Any internal documentation used in scoring or awarding of grants shall not be considered public information. 

In the event of a tie, and funding is insufficient to select all tied applications, the RCCA may choose one of the following options: 

  • Apply one (1) or more of the additional factors for consideration described above to prioritize the applications 
  • Partially fund each of the tied applications 
  • Not fund any of the tied applications 

Appeal 

Competitive grant appeals are limited to the evaluation process. Evaluation scores may not be protested. Only the evaluation process is subject to appeal. If appealed, the evaluation process shall be reviewed by the RCCA’s Appeal Review Officer (ARO). 

Appeal decisions are final. 

Submission 

Appeals submission contact information: 

  • Name of agency contact for appeals: Regional Care Coordination Agency 
  • Email address of agency contact for appeals: [email protected] 
  • Email subject line: NOFO Review Appeal 

An appeal must be submitted in writing to the appeals submission contact listed above. 

An appeal must be received within fourteen (14) calendar days after the date that the grant award notice has been published. 

The written appeal shall include, at a minimum, the following: 

  • Name and address of the appealing party 
  • Identification of the grant 
  • Statement of reasons for the appeal 
  • Supporting documentation, if applicable 

Response 

The RCCA will acknowledge receipt of an appeal within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date the appeal was received. 

  • The RCCA will respond to the appeal within sixty (60) days or supply a written explanation to the appealing party of why additional time is needed. 
  • The appealing party must supply any additional information requested by the ARO within the time the ARO sets in their request. 

Resolution 

The ARO shall make a recommendation to the RCCA Project Director or designee as expeditiously as possible after reviewing all relevant 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 RCCA. 
  2. The RCCA will resolve the appeal by means of written determination. 
  3. The determination shall include the following: 
    • Review of the appeal 
    • Appeal determination 
    • Rationale for the determination 

F.5. Risk Review

Under 2 CFR § 200.332(b), the RCCA must evaluate each subrecipient’s risk of noncompliance with Federal or State statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of the subaward for purposes of determining the appropriate subrecipient monitoring. These possible conditions are included in the NOIA and are described in Section G.3. Award Conditions. The pre-award process includes establishing a risk profile through risk assessment of the organization’s 

  • Financial stability, 
  • Management systems and standards, 
  • History of performance, 
  • Audit reports and findings, and 
  • Ability to implement requirements of the award. 

This risk assessment is carried out with the aid of the following information: 

  • Administrative, fiscal, and internal controls information entered in Sections 1–4 of the Online Application 
  • Organizational and programmatic information detailed in Attachments B, C, and E 

The RCCA may also request additional information during the pre-award process. 

Please note: Risk assessments do not preclude entities from becoming grantees. Risk assessments are used to identify subrecipient TTA needs and if specific conditions are needed. 

Additional risk review involves the following: 

  • Because this grant is not a simplified acquisition procurement, prior to making a subaward, the RCCA is required to review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the responsibility/performance records available in SAM.gov  (see 41 USC § 2313(e)(2)(A)). 
  • An applicant, at its option, may review and comment on its information in the responsibility/performance section of SAM.gov. 
  • The RCCA will consider any comments by the applicant and other information in the responsibility/performance section of SAM.gov before making decisions in the risk review. 

G. Award Notices

G.1. Anticipated Announcement of Award

The announcement of this award is anticipated by February 23, 2026.

G.2. Notice of Intent to Award

PLEASE NOTE: The NOIA does not constitute a contract or an agreement to receive grant funds and is NOT an authorization to begin performance on the program. Execution of the subaward agreement by both parties is the authorizing document and that agreement indicates when the subrecipient’s performance can begin. 

Applicants recommended for funding following the review process and budget approval will receive a Notice of Intent to Award via email to the contacts identified in the application. The NOIA shall include: 

  • The grant award amount 
  • The terms and conditions of the award 
  • Specific conditions, if any, assigned to the applicant based on risk assessments and merit-based review 

PLEASE NOTE: The initial budget submitted at the time of application might not be approved due to unallowable costs, errors in budget, or a difference between requested award amount and approved final award amount. The RCCA will inform the organization’s point of contact if the proposed budget is rejected. 

Upon receipt of the NOIA, selected applicants shall review and make an informed decision about its capacity to perform under the requirements of the subaward and whether to accept the funds. The NOIA must be signed by the applicant’s grants officer (or equivalent). This signature indicates agreement with the award amount and the conditions set forth within the notice. This signed NOIA is a document that informs the RCCA to proceed with issuing the subaward agreement. Please be advised that your selection is conditional until the subaward agreement is signed by both authorizing parties. The signed NOIA must be remitted to the RCCA, as instructed in the NOIA. 

The NOIA is not an authorization to begin performance. The period of performance begins upon execution of the subaward agreement. 

Applicants not receiving this award will be notified with a Notice of Non-Award letter via email, which will be sent to the contacts identified in the application at the same time the NOIA letters are sent. 

G.3. Pre-Award Costs

Pre-award costs are not allowed. Beginning performance prior to the execution of the subaward agreement is at the applicant’s risk and expense. 

G.4. Subaward Agreement

Upon receipt of acceptance of award, the RCCA will initiate the development of the subaward agreement and the SOW. The Subaward Agreement and the SOW attachment will include the following information: 

  • Activities to be performed 
  • Time schedule 
  • Applicable policies and requirements 
  • The terms and conditions of the Subaward Agreement 
  • The dollar limitation of the agreement 

The primary point of contact for the selected organization will receive an email notification that the agreement is ready for review and signature. The signed subaward agreement shall be returned to the RCCA as prescribed. 

G.5. Payment Terms

Payments will be in accordance with Administrative Directive 01.07.01.070 Grant Payments, 2 CFR § 200.302, 2 CFR § 200.305, 31 CFR § 205 (procedures implementing the Cash Management Improvement Act and the Treasury-State Agreement), and 44 Ill. Admin. Code Sec. 7000.120 (Governor’s Office of Management and Budget Adoption of Supplemental Rules for Grant Payment Methods). Three different award payment methods exist: Advance Payment, Reimbursement, and Working Capital Advance. 

Advance Payment Method (Advance and Reconcile) 

Budgets must be signed by either the Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent) or Chief Financial Officer (or equivalent) for the entity.  The executive’s signature certifies that their entity complies with the requirements set forth in 2 CFR 200.302 (Financial Management) and 44 Ill Admin Code 7000.120(b)(1)(A) (Advance Payments).  The Cash Budget must demonstrate the estimated monthly cash requirements for each month of program Award operation.  Advance payments to a subrecipient must be limited to the minimum amounts needed and be timed with actual, immediate cash requirements of the subrecipient in carrying out the purpose of the approved program. The timing and amount of advance payments must be as close as is administratively feasible to the actual disbursements by the subrecipient for direct program or project costs and the proportionate share of any allowable indirect costs. The subrecipient must make timely payments to contractors or  lower tier subrecipients in accordance with the subaward agreement provisions 2 CFR § 200.305. 

If the Advance Payment Method is approved, an initial payment will be processed in an amount equal to the first two (2) months’ cash requirements as reflected in the submitted Advance Payment Requirements Forecast (Cash Budget) Form. To receive the advance payment, the subrecipient must maintain or demonstrate the willingness to maintain both written procedures that minimize the time elapsing between the transfer of funds and disbursement by the subrecipient, and financial management systems that meet the standards for fund control and accountability as established in 2 CFR § 200.300.  

Subrecipients must submit monthly invoices in the format and method prescribed in the executed Subaward Agreement. The first invoice is due after the first month of grant operations. Invoices must include only allowable incurred costs that have been paid by the subrecipient. 

Subsequent monthly payments will be based on each monthly invoice submitted to the program and will be adjusted up or down based on a comparison of actual cumulative expenditures to cumulative advance payments to date. 

Subrecipients that do not spend all advance payment amounts by the end of the grant term or that cannot demonstrate that all incurred costs were necessary, reasonable, allowable, or allocable as approved in their respective grant budget must return the funds within forty-five (45) days or be subject to grant funds recovery. 

Subrecipients may be required to submit supporting documentation for their advance requests at the request of and in a manner prescribed by the RCCA. 

Failure to abide by advance payment governance requirements may result in the subrecipient losing their right to advance payments. 

Reimbursement Method 

The reimbursement method will be used when subrecipients do not meet the requirements of 44 Ill. Admin. Code Sec. 7000.120(b)(2), upon a subrecipient’s request to use the reimbursement method of payment, or as stipulated in a specific condition pursuant to 2 CFR § 200.208.

Subrecipients that have specific conditions noted in their NOIA or Subaward Agreement for any of the following items must be paid using the reimbursement method: 

  • Fiscal and administrative high risk (weak internal controls) 
  • A history of failure to comply with general or specific terms and conditions of grant awards 
  • Failure to meet expected performance goals as described in 2 CFR § 200.211 or to attain their program deliverables as stated in their applicable Subaward Agreement 
  • Otherwise not responsible 

The RCCA will disburse payments to the subrecipient based on actual allowable costs incurred as reported in the monthly financial invoice submitted for the respective month, as described below. 

Subrecipients must submit monthly invoices in a format prescribed by the RCCA and as required in the Subaward Agreement. Invoices must include all allowable incurred costs for the first and each subsequent month of operations until the end of the grant term. Invoices shall be submitted to the RCCA on or before the fifteenth (15th) day following the end of any respective monthly invoice period. As practicable, the RCCA will process all payments to ensure that payments can be made (subject to appropriation, cash availability, and processing by the Office of the Comptroller) within thirty (30) calendar days after receipt of the invoice, unless the RCCA reasonably believes the request to be improper. 

Working Capital Advance Method 

For subrecipients that cannot meet the requirements set forth in 2 CFR § 200.302 (Financial Management), 44 Ill. Admin. Code Sec. 7000.120(b)(1)(A)(i and ii) (Advance Payments) and other requirements as described in this Directive, if the RCCA determines that reimbursement is not feasible because the subrecipient lacks sufficient working capital, the RCCA may, in its sole discretion, provide a working capital advance to the subrecipient. 

Subrecipients may request separate working capital advance payments for each grant program awarded by the RCCA. Requests must be submitted to the RCCA on the Advance Payment Request Cash Budget tab within the Budget Workbook (Cash Budget). The Cash Budget must include monthly cash requirements for every month of the grant term. A separate request must be submitted for each grant program application. The chief executive officer (or equivalent) or the chief financial officer (or equivalent) for the subrecipient entity must attest upon award that the cash requirements are actual expected costs. 

If approved, the RCCA will advance working capital payments to the subrecipient to cover their estimated disbursement needs for an initial period not to exceed two (2) months of grant expenses. Startup costs may be approved if determined by the RCCA to be allowable. 

  • Subrecipients must submit monthly invoices for each of the one (1) or two (2) months covered by the Working Capital Advance in the format and method prescribed in the subrecipient’s executed Subaward Agreement Exhibits. The first invoice is due after the first month of grant operations. Invoices must include only allowable incurred costs that have been paid by the subrecipient. 
  • Subrecipients may be required to submit supporting documentation for their requests at the request of and in a manner prescribed by the RCCA. 
  • Working Capital Advance Payments are limited to a single occurrence per grant term. 
  • Following the initial period, the RCCA will reimburse the grantee for its actual cash disbursements as described in the Reimbursement Method section above. 

H. Post-award Requirements and Administration

Successful applicants agree to provide program services as described throughout this funding notice. 

Reporting of Matters Related to Recipient Integrity and Performance 

Applicants receiving at least $500,000 in grant funding shall: 

“(b) Submit the required information about each civil, criminal and administrative proceeding that— 

“(i) Is in connection with the award or performance of a grant, cooperative agreement, or procurement contract from the Federal Government; 

“(ii) Reached its final disposition during the most recent five-year period, and 

“(iii) Is one of the following— 

“(A) A criminal proceeding that resulted in a conviction 

“(B) A civil proceeding that resulted in a finding of fault and liability and payment of a monetary fine, penalty, reimbursement, restitution, or damages of $5,000 or more; 

“(C) An administrative proceeding that resulted in a finding of fault and liability and your payment of either a monetary fine or penalty of $5,000 or more or reimbursement, restitution, or damages in excess of $100,000; or 

“(D) Any other criminal, civil, or administrative proceeding if— 

“(1) It could have led to an outcome described in paragraph (b)(1)(iii)(A) through (C); 

“(2) It had a different disposition arrived at by consent or compromise with an acknowledgment of fault on your part; and 

“(3) The requirement in this award term to disclose information about the proceeding does not conflict with applicable laws and regulations. 

“(c) Reporting Procedures. Enter the required information in SAM.gov for each proceeding described in paragraph (b) of this award term. You do not need to submit the information a second time under grants and cooperative agreements that you received if you already provided the information in SAM.gov because you were required to do so under Federal procurement contracts that you were awarded.”  (See 2 CFR § 200, Appendix XII.)

H.1. Award-Specific Conditions

Per 2 CFR § 200.332(b), the RCCA must evaluate each applicant’s risk of noncompliance and must impose additional specific award conditions as needed, based on an analysis of the following factors: 

  • Based on the criteria set forth in 2 CFR § 200.206, Federal awarding agency review of risk posed by applicants 
  • When an applicant or recipient has a history of failure to comply with the general or specific terms and conditions of a federal award 
  • When an applicant or recipient fails to meet expected performance goals as described in 2 CFR § 200.211, Information contained in a Federal award 
  • When an applicant or recipient is not otherwise responsible 

Under 2 CFR § 200.208, these conditions may include items such as the following: 

  • Requiring payments as reimbursements rather than advance payments 
  • Withholding authority to proceed to the next phase until receipt of evidence of acceptable performance 
  • Requiring additional or more detailed financial reports 
  • Requiring additional program monitoring 
  • Requiring the recipient or subrecipient to obtain technical or management assistance 
  • Establishing additional prior approvals 

More restrictive conditions may be imposed based upon the criteria set forth in 44 Ill. Admin. Code Sec. 7000.340. 

In response to a subrecipient’s request, the RCCA will promptly remove the specific conditions once it has determined that issues have been corrected. 

H.2. Start Date

Applicants must be prepared to begin grant activities starting April 1, 2026.

H.3. Site Visits

The applicant agrees to participate in site visits/quality reviews as requested by the RCCA.

H.4. Technology

Agencies awarded funds through this funding notice shall have a computer that meets the following minimum specifications for the purpose of using any required web-based reporting system and the receipt/submission of the electronic program and fiscal information: 

  • Internet access, preferably high-speed 
  • Email capability 
  • Microsoft Excel 
  • Microsoft Word 
  • Microsoft PowerPoint 
  • Webex 
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader 

The purchase of this technology would be an allowable expenditure under the grant and may be included in the budget as part of this application. 

H.5. Hiring and Employment Policy

The RCCA encourages cultural diversity in the work environment and to promote employment opportunities through its programs. The program workforce shall appropriately reflect the populations to be served, with special attention given to hiring individuals indigenous to those communities. Whenever a position becomes available, funded programs are encouraged to consider employing individuals who receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, contingent upon their qualifications (i.e., education and work experience).

H.6. COVID-19 Policies and Procedures

Applicant shall have written COVID-19 policies and procedures that align with current guidelines from their local health department, Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), and/or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

H.7. Publication of Studies, Reports, and Other Program Products

The applicant agrees that products produced for the RCCA under this award, including but not limited to research reports, data, analyses, and policy recommendations, are the property of the RCCA and will not be published or distributed except as prescribed by the RCCA.

H.8. Administrative and National/State Policy Requirements

The agency awarded funds shall provide services as set forth in the Subaward Agreement and shall act in accordance with all State and Federal statutes and administrative rules applicable to the provision of the services. The subaward agreement will be modeled on the IDHS FY24 Grant Agreement and Community Service Agreements Attachment C. Additional terms and conditions not specified herein may apply.

H.9. Uniform Guidance (2 CFR § 200, et al.) Requirement Revision, Effective October 1, 2024

§ 200.113 Mandatory disclosures

“An applicant, recipient, or subrecipient of a Federal or State award must promptly disclose whenever, in connection with the Federal or State award (including any activities or subawards thereunder), it has credible evidence of the commission of a violation of Federal criminal law involving fraud, conflict of interest, bribery, or gratuity violations found in Title 18 of the United States Code or a violation of the civil False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. 3729-3733). The disclosure must be made in writing to IDHS, the agency’s Office of Inspector General, and pass-through entity RCCA (if applicable). Recipients and subrecipients are also required to report matters related to recipient integrity and performance in accordance with Appendix XII of this part. Failure to make required disclosures can result in any of the remedies described in § 200.339.” (See also 2 CFR part 180, 31 U.S.C. 3321, and 41 U.S.C. 2313.)” 2 CFR § 200.113 

H.10. Reporting and Grants Administration Requirements

Subrecipients shall comply with any and all Federal and State reporting requirements. Subrecipients shall share certain ARC program data with the Opioid Abatement Strategies Effectiveness Evaluator (OASEE). Reports shall be submitted electronically as prescribed by the RCCA. 

Upon execution of the Subaward Agreement, subrecipients shall fulfill the requirements outlined below. Additional periodic and annual performance and evaluation data may be collected as directed by the RCCA and in a format prescribed by the RCCA. 

Task 1.k. Virtual Kickoff Meeting 

Subrecipient shall attend a virtual Kickoff Meeting, hosted by AHP.  

  • Subrecipient shall attend the Kickoff Meeting on a mutually agreed date no later than thirty (30) days from the commencement of the period of performance.  
  • The Kickoff Meeting shall be attended by, at a minimum, the Program Director, Associate Director, and Program Staff or equivalents.  

Task 1.a. Organizational Needs Assessment Survey 

Subrecipient shall complete an ONA. An ONA is an online survey that asks a series of questions related to subaward deliverables to help identify gaps and areas for growth. The RCCA will distribute the survey within ten (10) days of the commencement of the period of performance. 

  • Subrecipient shall complete and submit the ONA survey no later than thirty (30) days of the commencement of the period of performance. 

Task 1.b. Implementation and Sustainability Plan 

Subrecipient shall submit an ISP that includes work plan activities and timelines, roles and responsibilities, and strategies to ensure sustainability of the impacts of the program. AHP will provide the ISP Template.  

  • Subrecipient shall submit the ISP no later than sixty (60) days of the commencement of the period of performance.  

AHP will approve or provide required changes which Subrecipient shall incorporate into the ISP no later than fifteen (15) days of receipt. 

Task 1.c. Equity and Racial Justice Plan 

Subrecipient shall complete the ERJ Plan, a document that sets forth a structured approach to identifying and addressing implicit biases within an organization and its programming, thus creating a culture of inclusivity for all, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or ability. An ERJ plan ensures that an organization’s services are accessible and equitable in delivery and outcomes. 

Subrecipient shall complete an ERJ Plan to meet the following objectives: 

  • Aligns with IDHS’ commitment to advancing ERJ;  
  • Ensures equity of and access to its services and for equitable outcomes;  
  • Includes a plan to identify and address implicit bias in all areas, including ARC programming; and  
  • Includes an ERJ training plan for Subrecipient’s ARC employees.  

Subrecipient shall complete the ERJ Plan as follows: 

  1. Conduct an equity organizational assessment no later than ninety (90) days from the commencement of the period of performance. 
  2. Draft an ERJ Plan no later than 180 days from the commencement of the period of performance. The ERJ draft plan should describe the results of the organizational assessment.  
    1. Submit a final ERJ plan no later than 240 calendar days from the commencement of the period of performance.  
  3. Commence implementation of the ERJ Plan no later than thirty (30) days from receipt of the AHP-approved final ERJ Plan. 

Task 1.d. Periodic Performance Reports 

Subrecipient shall electronically submit the PPR to AHP no later than fifteen (15) days after the last day of the prior quarter. Quarters end September 30, December 31, March 31, and June 30. The PPR shall describe the status of subaward deliverables using a template or platform provided by AHP.  

Task 1.e. Periodic Financial Reporting 

Subrecipient shall electronically submit a PFR to AHP no later than fifteen (15) days after the last day of the prior month. The PFR shall detail the monthly expenditures of the subaward using a template or platform provided by AHP.  

Task 1.f. Participation in Training and Technical Assistance Activities 

Subrecipient shall participate in TTA activities, scheduled and hosted by AHP. TTA activities may include coaching calls, webinars, site visits and other necessary forms of TTA as determined by AHP and may include the following topics: check-ins; data collection; reporting and performance measures; implementation plans; ERJ plans; and other topical areas of relevance to subrecipients; or special TTA as requested by individual subrecipients and/or as authorized by AHP. The date and time of the TTA activities will be determined in collaboration with Subrecipient. 

These sessions shall be attended by, at a minimum, the program director, associate director, program staff, or equivalents. 

Subrecipient shall participate in a minimum of seventy-five percent (75%) of scheduled TTA activities, however, certain session attendance may be deemed mandatory: 

  • Bimonthly (every other month) cohort meetings. The cohort meetings will include the other ARC subrecipients. 
  • Learning collaboratives, once per quarter or as prescribed. 
  • TTA sessions, once per quarter or as prescribed. 
  • Additional TTA may be required based on performance issues. 

Task 1.g. Program Status Meeting Participation 

Subrecipient program leadership shall engage in collaborative discussion with their AHP point of contact to discuss topics related to subaward administration, deliverables progress, and Subrecipient performance. The attendees, date, and time of the program status meetings shall be determined in collaboration with Subrecipient. 

  • Subrecipient shall participate in program status meetings every other month, beginning no later than forty-five (45) days from the commencement of the Period of  Performance, via virtual platform such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or WebEx. 

Task 1.h. Evaluation Reporting 

Subrecipient shall participate in evaluation reporting activities as determined by AHP and OASEE, using MER and QER templates provided by OASEE.  

Subrecipient shall: 

  • Participate in up to four (4) TTA data collection process sessions. Sessions will be scheduled in collaboration with Subrecipient.  
  • Participate in collection, submission, and use of data on performance measures in accordance with the following schedule:  
    • Submit the MER to OASEE no later than fifteen (15) days after the last day of the prior month.  
    • Submit the QER to OASEE no later than fifteen (15) days after the last day of the prior quarter.  

Task 1.i. Program Staffing 

The subrecipient shall allocate or hire sufficient staff to support the delivery of the tasks. In addition to direct services staff, subrecipient shall ensure sufficient program leadership and staffing to support operations, information technology, and other infrastructure required to support program activities pursuant to administrative, legislative, and fiscal requirements of the Subaward Agreement. Staff may include, but are not limited to, the following:  

  • Program director, to provide leadership on all aspects of the program, including design, implementation, and evaluation.  
  • Program administrator, to support grants administration, reporting, data collection, and evaluation tasks.  
  • Support professionals, to carry out program implementation and evaluation tasks.  
  • Subject matter experts, to provide training, technical assistance, service provision, supervision, and other services as needed. 

Leadership and staff shall reflect the community/population being served. Preference is given to subrecipients that commit to having direct service staff who both live and work in their communities. 

If new staff are to be hired, interim staff shall be available at the commencement of the period of performance.  

Subrecipient shall:  

  • Submit a program organizational chart detailing assigned staff (or designated to-be-hired), their roles, and matrixed supports within thirty (30) days from the commencement of the period of performance.  
  • Allocate/hire 100% of the planned staff within ninety (90) days from the commencement of the period of performance or based upon implementation planning timelines.  
  • Maintain staff at eighty percent (80%) of the projected staff total.  
  • Report the number of staff allocated or hired in the PPR. 

H.11. Monitoring

Subrecipients funded through this NOFO are subject to fiscal and programmatic monitoring in accordance with 2 CFR § 200.332. Subrecipients shall provide the RCCA access to subaward records pursuant to 2 CFR § 200.337. For programs that are having delays or difficulties, monitoring will be more frequent or detailed to ensure technical assistance is provided and any issues are resolved. The RCCA may modify subawards based on performance.

H.12. Awarding Agency Contacts

For information about this NOFO, contact the RCCA Support Team at [email protected].

I. Other Information

List of Acronyms

AHP  Advocates for Human Potential, Inc. 
AI/AN  American Indian/Alaska Native 
ARO  Appeal Review Officer 
DBHR  Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery 
DCP  Data Collection Plan 
ERJ  Equity and Racial Justice 
FEIN  Federal Employer Identification Number 
GATA  Grant Accountability and Transparency Act 
ICQ  Internal Controls Questionnaire 
IDHS   Illinois Department of Human Services  
IDPH  Illinois Department of Public Health 
ISP  Implementation and Sustainability Plan 
MAR  Medication-Assisted Recovery 
MER  Monthly Evaluation Report 
MOU  Memorandum of Understanding 
MTDC   Modified Total Direct Costs 
NICRA  Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement 
NOFO  Notice of Funding Opportunity 
NOIA  Notice of Intent to Award 
OASEE  Opioid Abatement Strategies Effectiveness Evaluator 
ONA  Organizational Needs Assessment 
OOSA  Office of Opioid Settlement Administration 
OUD  Opioid Use Disorder 
PFR  Periodic Financial Report 
PPR  Periodic Performance Report 
PSM  Program Status Meeting 
QAP  Quality Assurance Plan 
QCP  Quality Control Plan 
QER  Quarterly Evaluation Report 
RCCA  Regional Care Coordination Agency 
SOW  Statement of Work 
TTA  Training and Technical Assistance 
UEI  Unique Entity Identifier 

I.1. Obligation of Award

The release of this NOFO does not obligate the RCCA to make an award. 

The RCCA reserves the right to negotiate with successful applicants to adjust award amounts, targets, deliverables, etc. These negotiations do not obligate the provision of funding, nor should an applicant draw any conclusions from these negotiations about the RCCA’s intentions to fund or not fund the proposed grant award.

I.2. Definitions

American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN): An American Indian, Alaska Native, Native American, First Nation, or Indigenous individual. 

Cultural consultation: A process, developed in collaboration with an Indigenous-led advisory board, for ensuring that treatment and recovery services are appropriate for the community and appropriately incorporate traditional healing practices. 

Indigenous-led advisory board: A body that provides cultural consultation for the project, including a body authorized by a Tribe to act in such a capacity, the board of directors of an urban Indian organization or a body authorized to act on its behalf, or a body of enrolled members of one or more Tribes assembled by the subrecipient. 

Traditional healing practices: A body of wisdom for transforming illness into health through the integration of mind, body, emotion, and spirit, including but not limited to ceremonies and herbal remedies. 

Tribal community: A group of AI/AN individuals united by enrollment in a single Tribe or by affiliation with an urban Indian organization, other cultural organizations, or informal associations. 

Tribal Recovery Support and Treatment Center: A facility designed to provide culturally appropriate treatment and recovery for Tribal or urban Indian communities. 

Tribe: Any Indian Tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or community recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of their status as Indians, including, but not limited to, the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. 

[Note: Based on the federal definition in Indian Health Service regulations] 

Tribal enterprise: A commercial activity or business managed or controlled by a Tribe, including tribally owned businesses formed as an Indian Reorganization Act Section 17 corporation, a Tribally chartered corporation, or a State-chartered Tribal corporation. 

Urban Indian organization: A nonprofit corporate body situated in an urban center, governed by an urban Indian–controlled board of directors, and providing for the maximum participation of all interested Indian groups and individuals, according to the requirements of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, 25 U.S.C. §§ 1601 et seq. 

[Note: federal definition from 25 U.S.C. § 4302 and examples listed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs]

I.3. Applicant Technical Assistance

Prequalification and Pre-award Resources 

IDHS Pre-Qualification Instructions and Resources provide helpful information about the completion of prequalification and pre-award activities. 

Technical Assistance Session 

Attend or listen to the technical assistance session (recommended, but not required) at the Illinois RCCA website. 

Submit Questions and Review Answers 

Submit questions at our IL RCCA Help Desk no later than December 19, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. CT. 

J. Mandatory Forms

J.1. Budget Workbook

Subrecipients must use the Budget Workbook Template to submit their program budget and advance payment request. The Workbook file is available at http://www.ilrcca.com. 

The budget and narrative must tie fiscal activity to program objectives and deliverables and must demonstrate that all proposed costs are reasonable and necessary, allocable, and allowable as defined by program regulatory requirements and Uniform Guidance (2 CFR § 200, Subpart E), as applicable. 

Verification of final approved budgets will be required by either the chief executive officer (or equivalent) or chief financial officer (or equivalent) for the entity. The executive must certify that their entity complies with the requirements set forth in 2 CFR § 200.302 (Financial Management) and 44 Ill. Admin. Code 7000.120(b)(i)(A) (Advance Payments).

J.2. Conflict of Interest and Financial Disclosures

Conflict of Interest 

Subrecipients must immediately disclose in writing to the RCCA any actual or potential conflict of interest as soon as it becomes known, in accordance with 30 ILCS 708/35, 30 ILCS 708/60(a)(5), 44 Ill. Admin. Code Sec. 7000.330(f) and the subaward agreement. This disclosure must be submitted by all subrecipients, whenever an actual or potential conflict may exist. 

Download the Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure here. 

Financial or Other Interests 

Subrecipients have a continuing obligation to disclose to the RCCA financial or other interests (public, private, direct, or indirect) that may be a potential conflict of interest or could prohibit the subrecipient from entering or continuing the programs for which the grant is intended. 

K. References