Executive Committee Discretionary Fund

The Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council Executive Committee Discretionary Fund is a state-level funding opportunity designed to support one-time initiatives that are not otherwise included in the Council’s formal state plan. The Council operates with a mission to improve independence, productivity, and inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, with particular emphasis on those who are considered unserved or underserved. This discretionary fund allows flexibility to address emerging or unmet needs through smaller-scale, targeted projects that align with broader strategic priorities. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to provide financial support for initiatives that directly benefit individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families. Projects must align with at least one of the Council’s established state plan goals, which include improving the quality and training of direct support professionals, enhancing inclusive and evidence-based supports for children and youth, expanding leadership development opportunities, and increasing access to services that promote independence, inclusion, and community participation. Priority may be given to proposals that extend the reach of these goals, particularly to populations that have historically been underserved. Funding through this program is intentionally limited in scope, with individual awards capped at $5,000. The overall funding pool for the opportunity is listed as $60,000, with a required match component of $20,000 and an additional poverty-related match consideration. These financial requirements indicate that applicants must demonstrate both fiscal responsibility and the ability to leverage additional resources. Requests exceeding $2,000 are subject to review and approval by the Executive Committee, introducing an additional layer of evaluation and timing considerations for applicants. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad, as there are no restrictions on the type of entity that may apply. This inclusivity allows nonprofits, government entities, educational institutions, for-profit organizations, and individuals (through organizational affiliation) to submit proposals. However, applicants must comply with federal and state administrative requirements, including registration in SAM.gov, possession of a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and registration with the State of Ohio supplier system. These requirements ensure accountability and compliance with federal funding regulations. The application process requires submission through the DD Suite system and includes several mandatory components. Applicants must provide a detailed budget justification explaining both federal and matching expenditures, along with supporting documentation such as board member lists (if applicable), proof of nonprofit status (if applicable), indirect cost agreements (if relevant), and multiple certification forms. Additionally, applicants must develop a comprehensive project work plan that outlines objectives, activities, timelines, personnel responsibilities, and expected outcomes. These elements are critical for both the evaluation process and subsequent reporting requirements. Applications are reviewed based on alignment with program goals, the clarity and feasibility of proposed activities, and the potential impact on targeted populations. According to the Council’s guidelines, evaluation also considers outreach to underserved communities, inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities, and the strength of the budget and work plan. Successful applicants must adhere to ongoing reporting requirements, including periodic program and expense reports, which vary depending on the funding amount. These reporting obligations ensure transparency and accountability throughout the project lifecycle. The application window for this opportunity runs through September 30, 2026, with projects aligned to a federal fiscal year timeline ending on the same date. While the program appears to be part of a recurring funding structure tied to the Council’s broader planning cycle, applicants should verify future cycles through official announcements. Contact for this opportunity is provided through Council staff, specifically Rebecca Bates, who serves as a policy analyst and point of contact for program-related inquiries.

Prioritize alignment with DD Council State Plan goals; clearly target underserved populations; ensure detailed and justified budget; include measurable objectives and realistic timelines