Self-Advocates in Leadership (SAIL) Grant Program

The Self-Advocates in Leadership (SAIL) Notice of Funding Opportunity is issued by the Washington State Department of Commerce in partnership with the Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC). This funding opportunity is designed to strengthen a statewide program that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in developing leadership skills, participating in public policy, and advocating for issues that affect their lives. The DDC operates under federal authority established by the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 and is tasked with promoting independence, inclusion, and self-determination for individuals with developmental disabilities. The Council works collaboratively with stakeholders across the state, including individuals with lived experience, families, service providers, and policymakers. The purpose of the SAIL program is to build a sustainable, self-advocacy-driven leadership network across Washington State. The selected contractor will not direct the advocacy agenda but instead provide technical assistance, operational support, and coordination to ensure that SAIL participants can effectively lead their own initiatives. The program emphasizes leadership development, policy engagement, community outreach, and legislative advocacy. Key objectives include increasing participation from diverse communities, supporting individuals in public policy processes, and developing policy recommendations that protect rights and promote independence. Funding for this opportunity is provided through federal sources and will be administered on a reimbursement basis. The Department of Commerce has allocated up to 108000 dollars per year for the program, with one contract expected to be awarded. The initial contract period is scheduled from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2028, with the possibility of extension through September 2031 depending on funding availability and program alignment with the DDC five-year state plan. Funds may be used for program operations, technical assistance, accessibility accommodations, coordination activities, and other allowable expenses necessary to support SAIL’s objectives. Payments are contingent upon accepted deliverables and allowable costs. Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to organizations that meet specific minimum qualifications. Applicants must be licensed to do business in Washington State or commit to obtaining licensure within thirty days of selection. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate at least five years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities and providing appropriate supports and accommodations. Preferred qualifications include organizations led by individuals with lived experience, experience facilitating group collaboration, and demonstrated involvement in self-advocacy initiatives. The application process requires submission of a complete proposal through the Washington Electronic Business Solution platform or via email to the designated NOFO coordinator. Required components include a letter of submittal, certifications and assurances, a diverse business inclusion plan, a workers rights certification, and detailed technical, management, and cost proposals. Proposals must clearly outline methodology, work plan, staffing structure, experience, deliverables, and performance measurement strategies. Evaluation will be based primarily on the technical proposal, which accounts for eighty percent of the score, with management considerations comprising the remaining twenty percent. The timeline for this funding opportunity includes a pre-proposal conference held on July 21, 2026, and a question and answer period ending on July 28, 2026. Proposals are due by August 25, 2026, at 4:59 PM Pacific Time. Evaluation of proposals will occur from August 26 through September 18, 2026, with the apparent successful grantee expected to be announced on September 22, 2026. Contract negotiations and execution are anticipated to begin shortly thereafter, with the earliest contract start date projected for October 7, 2026. All communication regarding the opportunity must be directed to the designated program manager. The SAIL program represents a long-term investment in leadership development and systems change within the developmental disabilities community. By supporting self-advocates in shaping policy and engaging in civic processes, the program aims to create a more inclusive and responsive public policy environment. Recipients of funding are expected to collaborate closely with the Developmental Disabilities Council and community partners, ensuring that program activities remain driven by the voices and priorities of individuals with lived experience.

Focus heavily on technical proposal quality as it accounts for 80 percent of scoring; clearly demonstrate experience with developmental disabilities and strong methodology; ensure compliance with all mandatory submission components