Community Rides Pilot Grant Program Funding Available
We recognize that many Head Start programs are also community action agencies or human services providers that offer a variety of programs to support local communities. Given this, and the important role that transportation plays in the overall well-being of families, we encourage you to explore the Community Rides Pilot Grant Program. Applications are due October 19, 2026.
The Community Rides Pilot Grant Program Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued by the Coordinating Council on Access and Mobility Technical Assistance Center (CCAM-TAC). CCAM-TAC is offering awards up to $100,000 per grant to fund two months of technical assistance followed by a 12-month pilot phase. The agency anticipates awarding up to five grants. Per CCAM-TAC, the grant program is designed to strengthen communities.
The primary objective of this pilot initiative is to strengthen local transportation coordination & partnerships, foster cross-sector service coordination, and build capacity to improve transportation access for populations with the greatest need. Selected pilot projects will address critical community needs, including access to healthcare, employment, education, healthy food, social services, and regional coordination, through innovative service delivery, technology adoption, or partnership frameworks. Projects must focus on new or expanded access. Selected proposals will clearly identify roles and commitment of community partners.
The Community Rides Pilot Grant Program is seeking proposals that align with CCAM Federal Coordination Goals to improve multi-sector collaboration, expand safe access to public transit, enhance cost-effective and fund braiding, and address restrictive policies.
Eligible applicants include public transit providers; tribal transit providers; local government entities; and nonprofit human service providers that receive or are eligible to receive Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funding. The RFP highlights an important requirement regarding partnerships. Collaboration between transit and non-transit agencies is mandatory, and partnerships must be detailed in letters of commitment and memoranda of understanding (MOUs).
Applicants are required describe community needs, including mobility barriers. Data justifying the proposed project is also necessary, along with evidence of community engagement to identify needs. Applicants will also describe the role of community partners, expected outcomes of the project, and how services will lead to “quality-of-life improvements for riders.” A detailed work plan and timeline is also required, in addition to a description of data collection methods. The budget and appendices should align with the proposal narrative to ensure a comprehensive and compliant application for funding.
Along with the RFP, CCAM-TAC posted Questions and Answers that provide clarification on the application process and funding requirements as well as the recording of an Informational Webinar that reviewed applicant eligibility and proposal requirements.
We invite you to explore Foundations for Families’ Consulting Services. We would welcome the opportunity to discuss your program’s needs. Please contact us to learn more.
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