The Better Birth Outcomes – Comprehensive (BBO-C) grant program is a new initiative launched by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), Bureau of Maternal Child Health. The goal of the BBO-C program is to reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality in Illinois, with a strong emphasis on addressing racial and ethnic disparities in health outcomes. This program offers comprehensive, 1:1 nursing assessments and support for pregnant and parenting individuals and their infants—referred to as “dyads”—through in-person visits and community-based service navigation.

Eligible applicants include public or private organizations that plan to have a physical presence in one or more of the 96 identified Illinois counties. Each applicant must implement the required staffing model, including registered nurses and non-nurse navigators, within 30 days of the contract start date. Services must be delivered throughout pregnancy and for up to six months postpartum. Organizations eligible to apply include local government units, community-based organizations, hospitals, federally qualified health centers, and nonprofits. Entities must be pre-qualified in the Illinois GATA portal and meet a range of compliance and standing requirements with state and federal systems.

The estimated total program funding is $17,424,425, with up to 96 awards available—one for each eligible county. Funding is based on the number of unique dyads proposed to be served, with an estimated allocation of $900 to $1,100 per dyad. Matching contributions are not required. Indirect costs are allowed but will only be compensated if the applicant has a negotiated rate on file or elects a rate through the Illinois Indirect Cost Rate Election System (ICRES). Pre-award costs are not allowable.

Applications opened on April 2, 2025, and the deadline for submission is May 5, 2025, at 12:00 PM CDT. Award notifications are expected by May 28, 2025, and the grant period will begin no sooner than July 1, 2025, continuing through June 30, 2026. Applicants must submit their materials electronically to DHS.OFWNOFO@illinois.gov. Required documents include the Program Narrative, Uniform Application, Conflict of Interest Disclosure, Federal W-9 Form, and entry of a detailed budget into the CSA system.

A technical assistance session is offered but not mandatory, and details will be posted on the IDHS website. Applications will be reviewed through a competitive merit-based process, with bonus points available for applicants proposing a lead agency model, participation in drug overdose prevention programs, and inclusion of staff or board members who share the cultural background of the population served.

For questions, applicants should contact Natalie Bullock at DHS.OFWNOFO@illinois.gov or by phone at (312) 415-7369. Additional guidance and updates, including the policy and procedures manual and Q&A, can be found on the IDHS grants website.