The Maryland Office of Overdose Response (MOOR) administers the Competitive Grant Program for Fiscal Year 2026 to support initiatives that address the overdose crisis in the state. This program is designed to allocate funding to the most competitive proposals that align with Maryland’s strategic priorities for overdose response. These priorities include Prevention, Harm Reduction, Treatment, Recovery, and Public Safety, and are part of the broader objective of addressing substance use and overdose within the state. The funding available for the FY 2026 program totals approximately $6 million. MOOR evaluates applications using a uniform set of criteria that assess the potential impact of the project and its alignment with Maryland's key policy areas.

Eligible applicants for this funding include state agencies, local government entities (including local school systems), and private or not-for-profit community-based organizations that are Maryland-based and serve Maryland residents. Specific eligibility requirements include that recovery residences must admit consumers receiving Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) to qualify for funding. Additionally, all project proposals must focus on substance use and overdose, with a preference for projects that fall under MOOR’s identified priority areas. These priorities and the areas of need are outlined in the Request for Proposals (RFP), and funding will be prioritized for projects that align with those needs.

To apply, interested applicants must submit their proposals by the deadline of February 28, 2025, at 5 p.m. EST. Applications must be submitted via a Smartsheet form, and applicants are encouraged to review the Request for Proposals document thoroughly for specific details on key dates, application instructions, evaluation standards, funding specifics, and reporting requirements. A virtual information session is also scheduled for January 31, 2025, from 2 to 3 p.m., offering an opportunity for potential applicants to learn more about the program and clarify any questions.

The call for proposals will be released on January 6, 2025, and all proposals must meet the application requirements outlined in the RFP. Award decisions are expected to be made by May 3, 2025, with the anticipated period of performance for funded projects running from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Applicants who have questions can contact Khalil Cutair at Khalil.Cutair@Maryland.gov for more information or guidance.