Untapped Potential Grant

The Untapped Potential grant is offered by the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, a state-level entity committed to improving independence, productivity, and community inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities. The Council operates under federal authority and funding, specifically aligned with federal requirements under Title 2 CFR Part 200 and the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. Its mission emphasizes systems change, advocacy, and capacity building to ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families have equitable access to opportunities and services. This funding opportunity reflects that mission by targeting employment outcomes and community engagement through employer education. The purpose of this grant is to improve employment and self-employment outcomes for people with disabilities by increasing awareness among key stakeholders, particularly business associations, about the benefits and resources available for hiring individuals with disabilities. The project is grounded in the understanding that while individuals with developmental disabilities possess valuable skills and talents, many employers lack awareness or knowledge of how to effectively recruit, retain, and support these individuals. By leveraging business associations such as chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, and workforce centers, the initiative aims to expand outreach and influence employer practices across Ohio. Funding under this opportunity supports a range of systemic change activities including outreach, training, research, technical assistance, interagency collaboration, and demonstration of innovative approaches. Projects are expected to develop methods for reaching business associations, create lists of relevant organizations, and deliver education or training to stakeholders. The grant emphasizes scalability, sustainability, accessibility, and inclusivity, requiring applicants to consider factors such as transportation, technology, cultural diversity, and cross-disability inclusion. Activities must align with broader goals of enhancing community integration and eliminating barriers to employment. The total federal funding for this opportunity is $50,000 for the project year, with a required matching contribution of $16,666.67, reflecting a standard 25 percent match requirement. A reduced match may apply if the project targets federally designated poverty counties. Funding is awarded competitively, and continuation beyond the initial project year is contingent upon performance and availability of funds. The project period runs from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027, though proposals should consider multi-year implementation aligned with the Council’s broader planning cycle. Eligibility for this grant is broad, with no restrictions on the type of entity that may apply. Applicants may include nonprofit organizations, for-profit entities, government agencies, educational institutions, or individuals applying through an affiliated organization. However, applicants must comply with federal and state administrative requirements, including maintaining an active registration in SAM.gov and obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier. Additionally, applicants must secure a State of Ohio Supplier ID prior to award issuance. The application process requires submission through the DD Suite platform and includes several mandatory components. Applicants must provide a detailed budget justification, three letters of recommendation, a project director resume, and organizational documentation such as board member lists and proof of nonprofit status where applicable. Required forms include assurances, disclosure statements, and federal certification documents. Applications must be complete at submission, as incomplete submissions will be disqualified. The deadline for submission is July 10, 2026 at 11:59 PM. Applications are evaluated by a grant review panel based on criteria including project narrative, organizational qualifications, outreach strategy, inclusion of individuals with disabilities, budget justification, and alignment with desired outcomes. Reviewers score proposals across multiple categories, with emphasis on feasibility, impact, and adherence to Council priorities. Awards are announced following panel review, and successful applicants must comply with ongoing reporting, performance measurement, and financial management requirements throughout the project lifecycle.

Ensure all required attachments are included and complete as missing documents will disqualify the application; provide detailed and specific budget justification aligned to objectives; use clear language and demonstrate measurable outcomes for employment impact