Synopsis

This program supports state and tribal child welfare agencies in modernizing fingerprinting and background check infrastructure to accelerate the safe placement of children into family homes. By investing in mobile fingerprinting and office-based Live Scan stations, the initiative addresses critical delays that prevent timely caregiver approval and placement.Funded activities focus on expanding access to fingerprinting services while integrating fingerprint collection into existing child welfare workflows such as home visits and office-based licensing processes. In parallel, the program supports system modernization efforts that reduce or eliminate barriers in background check processing. These improvements are designed to enhance efficiency, ensure compliance with federal requirements, and reduce administrative burden.The expected measurable outcomes include significantly reduced turnaround times for fingerprint-based background checks, increased availability and accessibility of qualified caregivers, and improved capacity for agencies to place children more quickly in safe, stable, and nurturing homes. This program supports the ACF's A Home for Every Child initiative by aligning infrastructure investments with operational needs, advancing broader efforts to strengthen child welfare systems, increasing placement stability, and expanding the pool of approved kinship, foster, and adoptive families.
Response Date	Aug 31, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Posting Date	Jul 31, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Archive Date
Award Ceiling	200,000
Award Floor	50,000
Cost Sharing	No

Eligibility

Eligible Applicants	State governments, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)
Additional Info on Eligibility:	State IV-E agencies and Tribal IV-B/IV-E agencies. Applications from individuals (including sole proprietorships) and foreign entities are not eligible and will be disqualified from the merit review and funding under this funding opportunity. Faith-based and community organizations that meet the eligibility requirements are eligible for awards under this funding opportunity.

Additional Information

Agency Name	Administration for Children and Families - ACYF/CB
Link to Additional Information:	N/a
Grantor Contact Information:	If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact: GrantSolutions Help Desk Phone: 202-690-7110

CFDA Program(s)

• 93.648: Child Welfare Research Training or Demonstration