April 2021Vol. 22, No. 4Capacity Building Center for Tribes Releases Title IV-E Guide for Tribal Governments and Leaders

The Capacity Building Center for Tribes released a new guide intended for tribal governments and leaders interested in obtaining title IV-E funding that shares considerations and lessons learned from tribes already experienced with title IV-E. The guide, Title IV-E Guide for Tribal Governments and Leaders: Considerations and Lessons Learned, explores various funding pathways to accessing title IV-E funds, such as through tribal-state title IV-E agreements or contracts, and discusses several considerations and lessons learned that tribal leaders should know as they seek out direct title IV-E funding.

Tribal governments and leaders should consider the following when exploring direct title IV-E funding pathways:

• Infrastructure. It requires a significant amount of infrastructure to meet title IV-E program requirements and may require a substantial allocation of resources to accomplish. 
• Planning. To apply for direct funding, tribes are required to submit a comprehensive title IV-E plan to the Children's Bureau for approval. The plan should include how the program will operate and meet requirements.
• Tribal Title IV-E Plan Development Grant. Tribes seeking funding should apply for this grant, which provides a one-time award of up to $300,000 to assist in the development of the title IV-E plan.
• Partnerships. Tribes entering into a tribal-state title IV-E partnerships should explore their current relationships to see how they can cultivate and grow effective partnerships.
• Funding. To receive title IV-E funding, tribes must be operating a title IV-B, subpart 1, program. 

The guide also provides avenues for additional support, such as information about grant writing, contact information for tribal regional program managers, and a listing of additional resources.