NCA Engage: 2026 Expanding Reach And Access Award Toolkit

RFP TOOLKIT

Welcome to the Request for Proposal (RFP) Toolkit. This toolkit is designed to guide you through the process of developing and submitting a strong, competitive proposal in response to a Request for Proposal (RFP). Whether you're new to grant writing or looking to refine your approach, this resource provides the essential tools, templates, and guidance needed to navigate each stage of the application process with confidence.

Inside, you will find step-by-step instructions, helpful checklists, and sample documents tailored to the specific requirements of this funding opportunity. From understanding the RFP and aligning your project goals, to preparing your budget and submitting your final application, this toolkit is here to support you every step of the way. Use this toolkit as your go-to resource to stay organized, meet deadlines, and put your best proposal forward.

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Expanding Reach and Access

Maximum Award Amount: $50,000

Goal: To expand services to additional communities or increase service capacity in established CACs to meet demonstrated needs and supporting solutions to service delivery barriers.

Focus Areas

Projects must address one of the following priority areas:

Focus 1: Establish an NCA Satellite member center (only Accredited CACs)
Focus 2: Increase service capacity to meet the demonstrated need in established CACs
Focus 3: Expanding geographic reach through the development of mobile and teleservices

Demonstrated Service Area Need

All ERA applicants must describe their service area need, the current CAC response in their community and explain how existing limitations impact the CACs ability to provide services. Applicants must include current service provision, availability and accessibility and anticipated caseload when delivering these services. Applicants must also provide data demonstrating the specific needs being addressed and document current barriers to service delivery or organizational capacity. Additionally, applicants must also describe how the submitted documentation demonstrates need when responding to this section of the application.

Supporting documentation required may include service area maps and population data, current service statistics, waitlist numbers, and other unmet needs data.

ERA Focus 1

Applications submitted under ERA Focus 1 to open a Satellite center MUST include submission of first-time Satellite Membership Application to NCA within the award period/targeted opening date for center and provide information about designated staff needed to coordinate the response and provision of services at the center. Applicants must also provide signed and dated letters of support or memoranda of understanding for all key partners. Additional details regarding the requirements for letters of support can be found in the Application and Submission Information section of the NSP RFP.

Grant Application Template

To ensure easy access to essential application materials, we’ve provided a downloadable grant application template HERE. This template allows applicants to prepare their submissions even if our online systems are temporarily unavailable.