Confidence in Action: Self-Defense Training for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities Grant

The Confidence in Action: Self-Defense Training for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities grant is offered by the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, a state-level entity dedicated to improving independence, productivity, and community inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities. The Council operates under federal authority and funding frameworks that emphasize empowerment, accessibility, and systemic change. This particular funding opportunity aligns with broader federal and state priorities to ensure individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are supported in leading self-determined lives through inclusive and practical programming. The purpose of this grant is to support the development and implementation of a self-defense training program tailored specifically to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program is intended to address the unique vulnerabilities faced by this population, including challenges with communication, recognizing unsafe situations, and asserting personal boundaries. Through structured training, the initiative aims to equip participants with practical safety skills, increase confidence, and promote independence. The project is designed as a multi-phase effort including curriculum development, instructor training, pilot program delivery, and long-term sustainability planning. Funding for this opportunity totals 53000 dollars in federal support, with an additional required match contribution of 17666.67 dollars, resulting in a total project investment of 70666.67 dollars. Matching funds may include both cash and in-kind contributions, in accordance with federal grant requirements. Allowable uses of funds include curriculum development, expert consultation, instructor recruitment and training, pilot classes, outreach activities, and program evaluation. All expenditures must comply with federal Uniform Administrative Requirements under 2 CFR Part 200 and align with the approved project budget and justification. Eligibility for this grant is broad, with no restrictions on the type of entity that may apply. Applicants may include nonprofit organizations, for-profit entities, government agencies, educational institutions, and individuals associated with an organization. All applicants must meet federal requirements, including registration in SAM.gov, possession of a Unique Entity Identifier, and registration with the State of Ohio supplier system. Applications must include detailed documentation such as a budget justification, three letters of recommendation, a project director resume, organizational board information if applicable, and required federal compliance forms. The application process is conducted through the DD Suite platform. Applicants must create or join an organization account, complete all required sections of the application including narrative responses, budget entries, and supporting documents, and submit the application electronically by the stated deadline. The grant review process involves evaluation by a panel consisting of subject matter experts and Council members, using a structured scoring system that assesses project narrative, qualifications, outreach, inclusion, budget, and expected outcomes. Key dates for this funding opportunity include a notice posting date of April 29, 2026, an application deadline of July 10, 2026, a project start date of October 1, 2026, and an end date of September 30, 2027. Grant awards are expected to follow a competitive review process conducted in August, with project implementation beginning in the federal fiscal year. While this opportunity is part of a broader multi-year state plan, funding is awarded in 12-month increments with continuation dependent on performance and availability of federal funds.

Ensure strong alignment with inclusion and accessibility requirements; clearly demonstrate capacity to deliver training; provide detailed and justified budget; emphasize sustainability and scalability of program