Accepting Applications Now!
Due Date Extended to July 18, 2006

The Office of Community Services has extended the proposal due date for the Assets for Independence program's summer application cycle to Tuesday, July 18, 2006. This will be the final application cycle in Federal Fiscal Year 2006.

The Assets for Independence (AFI) program provides five-year grants to nonprofit organizations, including faith-based organizations, and government agencies, that empower low-income families to be economically self-sufficient for the long-term. Grantees provide financial education training on money management issues, and they assist participants with saving earned income in special matched savings accounts called Individual Development Accounts (IDAs). Participants use the IDAs to accumulate funds with the goal of acquiring a first home, post-secondary education, or a small business.

The program is administered by the Federal Office of Community Services, within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Eligible Grantees

• Nonprofit organizations, including faith-based groups, with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.
• State, local and Tribal government agencies that apply jointly with a nonprofit.
• Community Development Financial Institutions.
• Low-Income Designated Credit Unions.
• Organizations that propose to implement an AFI Project with sub grantees across a wide area such as across the nation or throughout a State or region.

Application Due Date
The summer 2006 funding cycle due date is Tuesday, July 18, 2006.

Amount of Award
The average grant award is about $300,000 for a five year project. The maximum grant amount is $1,000,000.

Special Orientation Conference Calls
The Office of Community Services is hosting free conference calls this spring for prospective grantees. The calls cover application requirements and the basics of administering an IDA project funded with an Assets for Independence grant. Featured speakers often include representatives of current grantee organizations. Please go to the program web site for date and times and register for one of the calls today! The web site address is: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/assetbuilding/afi_special_calls/afispecialcalllist.html.

Step-by-Step Guidebook
The AFI Project Builder is a free booklet that features step-by-step guidance and suggestions about project design and development. It is an invaluable tool for developing an IDA initiative and writing a proposal for an Assets for Independence grant. Download a copy from the AFI Program web site at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/assetbuilding.

Application Kit
Please contact the Office of Community Services via email on AFIProgram@acf.hhs.gov or phone on (202) 401-4626 to request an application kit, ask a question, or request more details. See the program web site for at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/assetbuilding for complete information, including application requirements and procedures.

Quick Links to AFI Program Information
Conference Call Registration Information
Assets for Independence Program Web Site with More Application Details
Program Announcement -- Electronic Format
Send an E-Mail Note to Request a Paper Format Application Kit