The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is accepting applications for the Connecting Kids to Coverage Outreach and Enrollment Cooperative Agreements Program. This initiative funds activities aimed at enrolling eligible children in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and improving retention of enrolled children. Projects will also support CKC National Campaign activities, such as public outreach and training. A total of $66.3 million is available, with up to $3 million per awardee for a five-year period, depending on the applicant's funding request and available resources.
Eligible applicants include state, county, city, or township governments, as well as tribal governments and organizations, nonprofit entities, and public or private educational institutions. For-profit and international organizations are not eligible to apply. Applicants must propose new or distinct activities or demonstrate past success in enrolling or retaining eligible children to be considered for funding. Previous recipients must have met at least 40 percent of their enrollment and retention goals to be eligible for a new award. Applications that exceed funding limits or fail to meet submission requirements will not be reviewed unless deemed essential to program objectives.
Grant funds can be used to educate families about Medicaid and CHIP, identify eligible children, and assist with enrollment and retention efforts. Participation in CKC National Campaign activities is required, including creating educational materials, hosting webinars, and distributing public service announcements. Awardees must report progress regularly using a CMS-provided web portal, and timely data collection and reporting are critical for program oversight and evaluation. CMS will offer technical assistance, review project plans, and provide feedback throughout the award period.
The program does not require cost-sharing, but any additional funding proposed by the applicant will be monitored for accountability. Funding cannot be used for pre-award costs, construction, capital expenditures, or activities that are the legal responsibility of other parties. Indirect costs and certain telecommunications equipment are also excluded. Meal expenses are generally prohibited unless part of allowable program activities such as children’s services.
The earliest start date for new awards is July 1, 2025, with funding provided in five annual budget periods. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by the specified deadline to be considered. CMS will maintain significant involvement in funded projects, including monthly check-ins, reviews, and approvals of activities, data, and reports. Applicants should review the complete funding announcement for detailed submission requirements and ensure all eligibility criteria are met.
