The Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged (CTD) is offering the Innovative Service Development (ISD) Grant for the fiscal year 2024-2025. This competitive grant program aims to pilot new transportation services for individuals who are transportation disadvantaged. Only Community Transportation Coordinators (CTCs) in Florida are eligible to apply for funding. However, CTCs are encouraged to collaborate with non-traditional providers, such as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), and other human service agencies to enhance service delivery. Projects must address one or more key objectives: improving access to health care, employment, education, or other essential activities; expanding cross-county and regional mobility options; or reducing barriers to accessing public transit hubs or fixed-route systems.

The grant allows funding of up to $750,000 for projects serving a single area and up to $1,500,000 for regional, multi-area projects. Only one project will be funded per service area. Eligible projects must submit complete applications, as incomplete proposals will not be accepted. The CTD anticipates reduced funding levels compared to prior years, and fewer projects will be approved. Applicants are strongly encouraged to carefully review the program manual, attend training opportunities, and take advantage of an early submission deadline to receive feedback before finalizing their proposals.

Eligible applicants are limited to Florida’s designated CTCs. CTCs may partner with municipalities or other entities, but the CTC must be the primary grant recipient and assume full responsibility for the project. There is no limit on the number of applications a CTC may submit, but only one project per service area will be awarded funding. The grant prioritizes innovative solutions that align with the stated objectives and encourages collaboration across sectors to enhance services for transportation-disadvantaged populations.

Final applications must be submitted no later than April 30, 2024, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Applicants may submit early applications for feedback by March 29, 2024, and feedback will be provided by April 12, 2024. Although signatures are not required at the time of submission, they must be provided before grant execution if funding is awarded. The application package, including the program manual, instructions, budget worksheet, and rubric, is available on the CTD website. Training resources, including a recorded webinar and presentation slides from February 28, 2024, can also be accessed online.

Evaluation criteria are based on the alignment of the proposed project with the stated grant objectives, the level of innovation, feasibility, and the extent to which the project can address transportation challenges for disadvantaged individuals. Applicants are advised to clearly demonstrate these aspects in their proposals and utilize the application rubric to ensure alignment with evaluation standards. The CTD will also review the applicant’s ability to effectively manage and execute the proposed project.

The grant period for funded projects will run from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. All required documents and application forms must be submitted according to the guidelines to ensure eligibility. For any questions about the grant or application process, applicants can contact the CTD via email at FLCTDGrantApps@dot.state.fl.us. Further details and updates about the grant are available on the CTD website.