TBI State Partnership Program

The TBI State Partnership Program is a federal funding opportunity administered by the Administration for Community Living within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, specifically through the Administration on Disabilities and its Office of Disability Services Innovation. This program is rooted in the Traumatic Brain Injury Program Reauthorization Act of 2018 and builds upon earlier federal efforts to address the long term and systemic challenges faced by individuals living with traumatic brain injury. The program reflects a national commitment to improving coordinated service delivery systems and enhancing quality of life outcomes for individuals with TBI across all age groups. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support designated state and territorial lead agencies in strengthening statewide systems of services and supports for individuals with TBI. The program emphasizes person centered approaches that maximize independence, community integration, and overall well being. Applicants are expected to maintain a state advisory board, develop and implement a comprehensive state plan, expand resource facilitation services, and improve coordination across healthcare, social services, and community based systems. The initiative also requires active participation in national and state level workgroups to promote shared learning and alignment of TBI strategies nationwide. Funding is provided through a cooperative agreement mechanism, indicating substantial federal involvement throughout the project period. The total expected program funding is over six million dollars per year, with approximately thirty two awards anticipated. Individual awards range from about one hundred ninety thousand to two hundred five thousand dollars per year, with a three year period of performance spanning from late September 2026 through late September 2029. Awardees must provide a cost share equal to one third of total project costs, which can include both cash and in kind contributions such as volunteer time, equipment, or facilities. Eligible applicants are limited to state governments, territorial governments, federally recognized tribal governments, and Native American organizations. Applications from individuals, foreign entities, or ineligible organizations will not be considered. Applicants must also meet administrative requirements such as active registrations in SAM.gov and Grants.gov. The submission process requires completion of a structured application package including a project narrative, budget narrative, standard federal forms, and supporting documentation such as resumes and letters of commitment. Applications are evaluated through a multi stage review process that includes an initial eligibility screening followed by a merit based panel review. Evaluation criteria include project relevance, proposed approach, anticipated impact, organizational capability, and budget justification. Reviewers assess how well the proposed activities address identified needs, align with program goals, and demonstrate measurable outcomes such as improved access to services and reduced system barriers for individuals with TBI. Risk assessment and past performance with federal funding may also influence final award decisions. The application timeline includes an optional notice of intent due in July 2026 and a final application deadline of August 13 2026 by 1159 pm Eastern Time. Awards are expected to be issued by September 30 2026, with project activities beginning immediately thereafter. Applicants are encouraged to participate in an informational webinar and to begin registration processes early due to potential delays. The program is expected to recur annually or periodically based on congressional appropriations, and recipients must comply with ongoing reporting, evaluation, and sustainability planning requirements to ensure continued impact beyond the federal funding period.

Align project goals with measurable outcomes and clearly demonstrate system level impact and coordination improvements for individuals with TBI