Voice Options Program

The Voice Options Program (VOP) for 2026–2029, administered by the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR), aims to increase independent communication for individuals with speech or language disabilities. Funded through the California Public Utilities Commission’s Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program (DDTP), the VOP provides selected nonprofit service providers with the resources to distribute speech-generating devices (SGDs) and assistive technology support across ten regional service areas in California. This initiative aligns with the state’s broader mission of ensuring equitable access to assistive technologies, empowering individuals of all ages who experience communication challenges. Under the terms of this opportunity, service providers will be expected to conduct a variety of support functions. These include identifying and confirming eligibility of individuals with speech or language disabilities through referral by approved clinicians or specialists. Once identified, providers are responsible for demonstrating preloaded devices with seven CPUC-approved VOP applications. Devices are available on a short-term loan (STL) basis of 2 to 14 calendar days, allowing individuals to try out the technologies before selecting the most suitable app for long-term use. In addition to facilitating device trials, providers must deliver training and education on the accessibility features and use of the selected application and hardware. Long-term loan (LTL) services form a core component of the program, with providers issuing new Apple or Android devices—or other CPUC-approved SGDs—configured with the individual's chosen application. Each LTL device must be paired with an Apple or Google App Store account to redeem a gift code for the selected app. Providers must maintain these accounts and submit purchase receipts for reimbursement. Administrative responsibilities include completing DOR-issued device applications and individual surveys, as well as retaining financial and program documentation for at least seven years following the grant period. Outreach and referral are additional critical functions. Providers are tasked with promoting the program and facilitating referrals to California Connect and Voice Options services to ensure broad awareness and access. Applicants may apply to serve one or more of the ten program regions, and the DOR reserves the right to award more than one provider per region or limit awards to a single provider in some areas to ensure statewide geographic coverage. Regions with higher populations of individuals with disabilities are prioritized for multiple awards. The program anticipates distributing approximately 1,260 devices annually—roughly 105 per month—across these ten regions. A total of up to 20 awards may be issued through this grant, with an annual funding allocation of up to $3,150,000 and a total of $9,450,000 available over the three-year performance period, contingent on annual appropriations. Funding is disbursed via a combination of advances and reimbursements, with each application evaluated based on a scoring system. Proposals that score below 75 points will be ineligible for funding. Awards for applicants covering multiple regions may be subject to adjustments based on regional weight factors. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM on March 18, 2026. Awards are expected to be announced on April 10, 2026. No letter of intent is required. For questions or concerns, applicants can contact the Voice Options Program Team at 1-916-558-5395 or via email at [email protected].

Applications scoring under 75 points are not eligible; select regions strategically and prepare documentation for long-term recordkeeping.