Kinship Navigator Programs: Replication and Tribal Adaptation
This grant funds state and tribal child welfare agencies to replicate or adapt approved, evidence-based Kinship Navigator Programs, with priority for agencies new to Title IV-E KNPs and support for tribal cultural adaptation.
Funder: Administration for Children and Families - ACYF/CB
Due Dates: August 7, 2026: Full application submission deadline (electronic submissions must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time)
Funding Amounts: $400,000–$500,000 per award; 10 awards expected; total program funding $5,000,000; project period up to 3 years
Summary: Supports state and tribal agencies and partners in replicating or adapting evidence-based Kinship Navigator Programs to strengthen kinship care and child welfare services.
Key Information: 25% non-federal cost share required; priority to agencies not currently operating a Title IV-E Kinship Navigator Program.
Description
This opportunity funds the replication or tribal adaptation of evidence-based Kinship Navigator Programs (KNPs) to expand access to services for kinship families involved in or at risk of entering the child welfare system. The program aims to increase the number of state and tribal child welfare agencies implementing KNPs rated as promising, supported, or well-supported by the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse. Tribal agencies may adapt models to fit local culture and policy, provided core components remain intact. Applicants must focus on either replicating an existing Clearinghouse-rated model or developing a tribal adaptation, with separate applications required for each.
Priority is given to agencies that do not currently operate a Title IV-E Kinship Navigator Program. Projects must include a planning phase (up to 6 months) and an implementation phase, with a strong emphasis on fidelity, evaluation, and partnership with relevant Title IV-E agencies. Program activities must align with the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) priorities, including evidence-based practice, family stability, and collaboration with community partners.
