AmeriCorps Maryland Competitive Grants

The AmeriCorps Maryland Competitive Grants program is administered through the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation in partnership with AmeriCorps, a federal agency dedicated to strengthening communities through national service. This funding opportunity supports organizations that engage AmeriCorps members in service activities designed to address critical community needs. The program aligns with federal statutes under the National and Community Service Act and is implemented through a structured application process managed via the eGrants system. The purpose of this grant is to fund programs that deploy AmeriCorps members to deliver direct service interventions that produce measurable outcomes in communities. Applicants are expected to design programs that address identified community problems using evidence-based or evidence-informed strategies. The funding supports both cost reimbursement and fixed amount grants, with funding tied to Member Service Years, defined as the equivalent of 1700 service hours per full-time member. Programs must demonstrate how their proposed activities will lead to measurable outputs and outcomes aligned with AmeriCorps performance measures. Funding can be used to support program operating costs, member living allowances, training, evaluation, and administrative expenses, subject to federal cost principles. Cost reimbursement grants require matching funds, starting at a minimum of 24 percent and increasing over time, while fixed amount grants require identification of additional revenue sources. Certain costs, such as indirect expenses, are capped and must follow federal guidelines. The funding period for awarded programs must fall within August 15, 2026 through August 14, 2027. Eligible applicants include new and recompeting organizations such as nonprofits, government entities, educational institutions, and other eligible organizations capable of managing a federal grant and implementing a service program. Applicants must register in SAM.gov, obtain a Unique Entity Identifier, and submit applications through eGrants. Required application components include narrative sections, a logic model, performance measures, budget forms, and additional documentation such as financial statements and evidence of organizational standing. The application process is highly structured and requires submission of both an electronic application in eGrants and supplemental documents through Form Assembly. Key narrative sections include an executive summary, program design, organizational capability, and cost effectiveness. Applications are evaluated based on selection criteria weighted across program design, organizational capacity, and budget adequacy. Reviewers assess how well the proposed program addresses community needs, uses evidence, and demonstrates readiness for implementation. The deadline for submission is February 27, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Late or incomplete applications are not considered. While a national AmeriCorps system deadline may appear later, applicants must adhere to the state-specific deadline. Applicants are encouraged to begin early, with recommendations to start at least 10 business days in advance. Technical assistance is available through the AmeriCorps hotline, and applicants are responsible for resolving submission issues prior to the deadline. Following submission, applications undergo review based on established criteria, and awards may be made at levels below requested amounts. Successful applicants will enter into a performance period beginning in August 2026. The program is recurring annually, and organizations not funded in the competitive process may be eligible to apply for formula funding. This funding opportunity represents a significant investment in community-based service programs and emphasizes accountability, measurable impact, and alignment with national service priorities.

Ensure strong alignment between narrative, logic model, and performance measures; clearly justify budget and demonstrate evidence-based program design