Peer Supports for Augmentative and Alternative Communication

The Administration for Community Living (ACL), a division within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is forecasting a discretionary cooperative agreement opportunity titled "Peer Supports for Augmentative and Alternative Communication" under funding opportunity number HHS-2025-ACL-AOD-DNSA-0045. This opportunity is part of the Developmental Disabilities Projects of National Significance, catalog number 93.631. ACL operates with a mission to maximize the independence, well-being, and health of older adults, people with disabilities, and their families and caregivers, supporting their full participation in the community. Within ACL, the Administration on Disabilities (AoD) intends to further these goals by supporting the development of peer support models that serve individuals who utilize or could benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technologies. This initiative will provide funding to a single project that will span three years, focusing on sustainable peer support structures for individuals across the lifespan who use or may benefit from AAC. The project must engage a range of stakeholders including individuals who use AAC, nonprofit community-based service-provider organizations, self-advocacy organizations, youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), families, and others who comprise their support systems. The intent is to enhance the quality of life and integration into the community for the estimated five million individuals in the United States with speech disabilities, particularly those with I/DD. The funded project will be designed to promote access to necessary services, personalized supports, and other resources that advance self-determination, independence, productivity, and inclusion in all aspects of community life. Emphasis will be placed on the creation of safe and welcoming peer communities where AAC users can share their experiences—both challenges and successes—and raise awareness about AAC options and best practices. The ultimate objective is to improve the overall use and understanding of AAC systems and tools, supporting individuals with speech disabilities in leading lives that reflect their preferences and goals. The total estimated funding for the program is $775,000, with an award ceiling of $775,000 and a floor of $700,000. Only one award is expected to be made, and cost sharing or matching is a requirement. ACL anticipates that the estimated post date for this opportunity will be May 19, 2025, with applications due by July 22, 2025. The estimated award and project start dates are both slated for September 1, 2025. The forecast version currently posted is version 3, and the opportunity will remain archived until August 25, 2028. Eligibility for this opportunity is open to various entities as specified in the detailed eligibility information. The project must be led by or in close partnership with nonprofit community-based organizations, self-advocacy groups, and must include individuals with I/DD and AAC users among the project participants. Foreign entities are not eligible to apply. The primary point of contact for this grant is Pamela OBrien, reachable by phone at (202) 795-7417. Applications are not yet being accepted as this opportunity is in the forecasted stage. Interested applicants should monitor the ACL grants page for updates and be prepared to submit full applications once the opportunity is officially posted. No information is currently provided regarding specific application questions, estimated application time, or tips for submission.