Support for a National Electronic Interstate Records Exchange System

Background
The Administration on Children, Youth, and Families (ACF) through the Children’s Bureau is issuing this funding opportunity to support the expansion and implementation of a secure, multi-tenant electronic records exchange system for interstate placement of children. This initiative aligns with the Family First Prevention Services Act of 2017, which mandates that all states be connected to an electronic interstate case processing system by October 1, 2027.

The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) governs foster care and adoption placements across the U.S., impacting nearly 100,000 children annually.

Grant Details
The grant aims to expand and implement the National Electronic Interstate Compact Enterprise (NEICE) system. Key tasks include:
- onboarding jurisdictions to the NEICE;
- maintaining and refining the electronic exchange for secure information sharing;
- improving administrative efficiency for ICPC jurisdictions;
- reducing barriers for children awaiting placements;
- ensuring interoperability with other human service systems;
- aligning with ACF's standards for data exchange;
- complying with security standards set by NIST.

Specific objectives include providing technical assistance during onboarding, developing product improvements, conducting security assessments, and ensuring real-time information availability regarding children's placements.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include public or private agencies or organizations. Individuals, sole proprietorships, and foreign entities are not eligible. Faith-based and community organizations that meet eligibility criteria can apply. Applications exceeding funding limits or submitted after deadlines will be disqualified.

Period of Performance
The project is expected to have a five-year performance period with five one-year budget periods. The anticipated start date is September 30, 2026.

Grant Value
The total expected program funding is $1,600,000 with a minimum award amount of $1,450,000 and a maximum award amount of $1,600,000 for the first budget period.

Place of Performance
The grant will be performed across all 52 jurisdictions involved in the ICPC including all states in the U.S., the District of Columbia, and U.S. Virgin Islands.