The Better Birth Outcomes – Navigation (BBO-N) grant program is a new initiative of the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), Bureau of Maternal Child Health. Its primary objective is to improve maternal and infant health outcomes in the City of Chicago, with a particular focus on reducing racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare. This initiative is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to promote equitable access to health services and reduce systemic barriers affecting birthing families.

Through the BBO-N program, navigators provide direct, 1:1 in-person support to pregnant and parenting individuals and their infants ("dyads") to connect them with medical homes, social services, and community resources. The program is distinct from the Family Connects nurse home-visiting program and is meant to complement it by ensuring continued support throughout pregnancy and the first six months postpartum. Nurses are not required for this program; instead, community-based navigation staff are utilized.

A total of $7,920,000 in funding is available, with an average award size of $660,000. Up to 12 awards are expected, with a maximum of two awards per each of six designated regions within Chicago. These regions are defined by specific zip codes. Applicants must have or plan to establish a physical presence in the region for which they apply. Applications are due by May 5, 2025, at 12:00 PM CDT, and awards are anticipated by May 28, 2025. The grant period begins no earlier than July 1, 2025, and ends on June 30, 2026. The grant may be renewed for up to two additional years based on performance and funding availability.

Eligible applicants include public and private organizations such as local government entities, hospitals, federally qualified health centers, and nonprofit organizations. Applicants must be prequalified in the State of Illinois GATA portal, have a valid UEI and SAM registration, and be in good standing with state and federal systems. Matching funds are not required, but indirect costs are only allowed if a negotiated rate is on file or an election is made in the state’s ICRES system.

Applications must be submitted electronically to DHS.OFWNOFO@illinois.gov and include the program narrative, budget (entered in the CSA system), uniform application, conflict of interest disclosure, and a W-9 form. A technical assistance session will be offered, with details to be posted on the IDHS website. Scoring is merit-based with up to 200 possible points, including 25 bonus points for cultural representation, DOPP program involvement, and board/staff demographics. Evaluation criteria focus on organizational capacity, cultural responsiveness, collaboration with healthcare and community partners, and history of service to birthing families.