The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) routinely offers mini-grants of up to $4,950 to community-based organizations to support projects that address the overdose crisis. Mini-grant opportunities are posted here.
Here is how you qualify for a mini-grant:
- You are a non-profit organization or government entity.
- You have experience offering services and support to people affected by overdose in our state, or you are partnering with an agency that does.
- Your project aligns with at least one of the recommendations from the December 2020 Governor’s Task Force Addiction and Overdose Evidence Update.
- Your project proposal considers municipal-level overdose data or aligns with a previous
- Community Overdose Engagement (CODE) project developed by your municipality. Review these resources for overdose data:
- RIDOH Municipal Overdose Data Reports
- Prevent Overdose RI data pages
- Your project proposal aligns with or builds upon the list of priorities included in the
Mini-Grant Application. There is a preference for projects to align with or build upon harm reduction activities.
- We encourage both innovative ideas and evidence-based practices. Please review this document for suggestions:
Data-Informed Strategies for Local Overdose Prevention and Response: A Guide for Municipal Leaders
Frequently Asked Questions
What do other mini-grants look like?
Read more about past projects in Rhode Island that have been supported by mini-grant funding:
- Summer 2022
- Spring 2021
- Summer 2020
- Summer 2019
- Summer 2018
- Spring 2018
- Winter 2017
- Fall 2017
- Summer 2017
- Winter 2016
How do I apply?
Mini-grants are small awards that are offered on a quarterly basis. Check RIDOH’s website for details on when proposals are released and for specific instructions on how to apply.
How do I write a great proposal?
New to grant writing? Check out this online article for a clear guide on how to write a grant proposal.
Here are a few tips, you can also find more tips online:
- Read and follow directions in the application packet.
- Write clearly and to the point.
- Make sure you clearly state your target population, project goals, and the steps you will take to achieve those goals.
- Complete all sections of the grant application, including the budget. Do not leave any section blank, or your application will be marked as incomplete.
- Remember to proofread your proposal!
Are there specific things or projects that RIDOH will not fund?
Due to federal and state funding restrictions, RIDOH cannot fund:
- Purchase of naloxone/harm reduction kits or fentanyl test strips.
- Implementation or expansion of prescription drug “take-back” programs (including Deterra ™ Drug Deactivation bags or drug disposal boxes).
- Direct funding or expansion of substance use treatment programs.
In addition, RIDOH will not fund applications for naloxone training or distribution at this time. RIDOH is currently funding these initiatives through the 10,000 Chances Project.
Can I partner with another agency on my application?
Yes! RIDOH encourages applicants to partner with other community-based organizations if they have an idea that would benefit from collaboration and additional funding. If you wish to apply in partnership, each agency must submit their own application that clearly describes:
- Which agency (or agencies) you are partnering with and why;
- The scope of work for your individual agency; and
- A budget for your individual agency that does not overlap with the budget proposed by any of your partners.
Each agency that is part of a collaborative application will receive an award of $4,950 to put toward the project.
Please do not submit duplicate applications from more than one agency. Duplicate applications will not be funded.
Does every agency that applies for a mini-grant receive funding?
No. Unfortunately, there is limited funding for each mini-grant cycle. The application process is usually quite competitive. For this reason, we recommend following the tips above to improve your chances of receiving funding.