University Centers for Developmental Disabilities in Education, Research, and Service

The Administration for Community Living (ACL), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is forecasting the availability of grant funding through its Office of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (OIDD) for University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD). These grants are authorized under Section 151(a) of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act). This federal initiative supports higher education institutions or entities affiliated with universities in promoting systemic change through research, education, and community-based services that address the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. The primary purpose of the UCEDD program is to advance four core functions: interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education, community services (including technical assistance, model demonstrations, and training), research, and dissemination of information. These activities are targeted toward improving the quality of life and services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Areas of emphasis for these centers include education, early intervention, employment, health, housing, transportation, recreation, and other services that impact quality of life. UCEDDs serve as key hubs for innovation, policy development, and advocacy within their states and often influence national dialogue on disability services. For FY 2026, ACL plans to award two five-year grants under this program, each expected to be funded at $629,042 annually, totaling $1,258,084 for the funding round. These grants represent the federal share of the operational costs for designated UCEDDs and are subject to a mandatory cost-sharing or matching requirement. Only those entities previously awarded under the FY 2021 funding cycle are eligible to apply, ensuring program continuity and established capacity to meet the expectations of the DD Act. Faith-based and community organizations that meet these criteria are eligible, but foreign entities are excluded. The forecasted opportunity indicates an estimated posting date of March 17, 2026, with applications due by May 4, 2026. Awards are anticipated to be made by June 30, 2026, and projects are scheduled to begin on July 1, 2026. The application process will require eligible entities to prepare and submit their proposals through Grants.gov, aligning with the federal requirements for discretionary grant programs. No pre-application steps such as a Letter of Intent or concept paper are required according to the forecasted notice. Applicants must design programs that implement the full range of UCEDD core functions and demonstrate the ability to maintain strong partnerships with public and private stakeholders. Emphasis is placed on cultural and linguistic competency, inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in program planning, and addressing disparities across service systems. Each application will be evaluated based on its potential impact, capacity for implementation, and alignment with ACL’s mission to maximize the independence and community inclusion of people with disabilities. For further information, prospective applicants may contact Jack Brandt at 202-795-7578. Additional updates and official grant materials will be made available through the ACL’s grant opportunities portal. As this is a forecasted opportunity, details are subject to change upon official posting. Applicants should monitor the ACL website for finalized documents and any pre-application updates.