A new funding program is proposed to accelerate data sharing efforts by human services organizations through innovative approaches to interoperability implementation.

Effective data sharing promotes informed decision making, improved accuracy and data quality, reduced system integration costs,

and stronger protection of sensitive data.

The ability to share data is often described as interoperability, which includes the technology, business, legal, organizational, and process-oriented factors that determine how we use data and collaborate across programs and systems.

Funding would support demonstration projects to identify effective and efficient data sharing solutions, and develop model practices for broader adoption.

Specifically, ACF is seeking to issue grant awards that meet the following criteria: 1.

Addresses a high-priority, local data sharing or data integration need2.

Proposes a new or novel implementation approach3.

Contributes promising practices to the field and promotes replication of successful results4.

Demonstrates implementation readiness and cost effectiveness5.

Supports strong collaboration with OPRE and ACF6.

Engages in productive partnerships across programs, agencies, and jurisdictions To learn more about the ACF Interoperability Initiative, please visit https://www.acf.hhs.gov/about/interoperability.