U.S. Administration on Aging, National Resource Centers on Older Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiian Programs

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Administration for Community Living (ACL), is forecasting a discretionary funding opportunity titled “U.S. Administration on Aging, National Resource Centers on Older Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiian Programs.” This initiative falls under the agency’s broader mission of supporting aging populations and promoting the independence, well-being, and health of older adults, particularly those in underserved tribal and native communities. The program is linked to Assistance Listing 93.048, which focuses on Special Programs for the Aging, Title IV and Title II, and supports discretionary projects to improve the lives of older individuals. This grant program aims to support the establishment and operation of Native American Resource Centers (NARCs) with a national focus. These centers will serve as key technical resources for improving the health and social outcomes of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian (AI/AN/NH) elder populations. Grantees will conduct research, assess needs, develop best practices, and provide technical assistance and training to organizations that serve these populations. The areas of focus may include healthcare, long-term care (including in-home services), elder abuse prevention, and other issues pertinent to aging in these communities. The centers are expected to gather data, conduct performance-based research, and disseminate results. The application should clearly define anticipated outcomes, methods of measurement, and indicators of programmatic success. Applicants must demonstrate existing capacity and experience in conducting research and engaging with the target communities. The purpose is to support scalable, sustainable, and culturally competent solutions that address the evolving challenges faced by AI/AN/NH elders. Funding for this opportunity is provided through cooperative agreements. The total estimated funding available is $646,031, with award ceilings set at $340,000 and floors at $112,000. Up to three awards are expected. A cost sharing or matching requirement is in place, and applicants should review the solicitation for specific expectations regarding the nature and amount of required contributions. Native American Resource Centers already receiving funds under this program are eligible to apply again, ensuring continuity and growth of existing efforts. Eligibility for this funding opportunity is broad but with defined parameters. It includes nonprofits (both with and without 501(c)(3) status), Native American tribal governments and organizations, public and private institutions of higher education, and public housing authorities. Applicants must possess relevant experience in researching and serving aging populations within the targeted native communities. Foreign entities are not eligible, but faith-based and community-based organizations that meet the eligibility criteria may apply. The forecast indicates that the notice will be officially posted by February 28, 2026, with applications due by April 29, 2026. Awards are expected to be made by July 25, 2026, with funded projects beginning on August 1, 2026. The grantor contact is Kari Benson, who can be reached at (202) 401-4634. Additional information about the opportunity and updates can be found at https://acl.gov/grants/open-opportunities. The program is expected to recur, making this a valuable opportunity for eligible organizations planning future engagement.