15. Evidence-Based Grantmaking

In 2022, the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to determine fund allocation through the AmeriCorps State program. The Request for Proposals requires evidence-based interventions with ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’ evidence for consideration, and dedicates 20% of the available points to the tier of evidence used (12%) and quality of evidence (8%).

In 2022, the Alabama Governor’s Office of Volunteer Services, through the Alabama State Service Commission, utilized a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to determine fund allocations through its AmeriCorps program. The Request for Proposals requires evidence-based interventions with ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’ evidence for consideration.

In 2021 and 2022, the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services used a tiered evidence framework to allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Arkansas program. This program requires evidence of effectiveness for proposed services and defines such evidence by referencing the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange. In 2022 the program specified that evidence of effectiveness represented a meaningful share of the points awarded within its “Program Design” rating category (worth 50% of total points). Applicants were encouraged to use interventions assessed as having ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’ tiered evidence, and to use the Mandatory Supplemental Guidance offered that further defined evidence of effectiveness.

In 2021, the Arizona Department of Education used a tiered evidence-based framework from the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) to define evidence and allocate funding for the Arizona Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) Grant program. Only evidence-based strategies assessed as Strong or Moderate would be considered for funding. Additional evidence-based resources were provided for further assistance to applicants, including the Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy (SRCL) Program and the US Department of Education’s What Works Clearinghouse. The State asserted that eligible applicants will be determined based on a weighted measure and cut score based on indicators measuring students on free and reduced lunch, and students who are in foster care or homeless.

In both 2021 and 2022, the governmental organization California Volunteers used a tiered evidence framework to allocate funds through its AmeriCorps California program. The 2021 Request for Proposals specified that within Program Design (worth 50% of total points), Evidence Tier was worth 12% and Evidence Quality was worth 8%. In 2022, Evidence Tier was given 6% and Evidence Quality 4%. Both RFPs required evidence by asserting that “applicants assessed in the Pre-Preliminary evidence tier who do not provide adequate responses to the Evaluation Quality standards will not meet the threshold requirements for this Funding Opportunity and will not be considered for competitive funding.” The 2021 RFP defined evidence through suggesting both the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange and the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), and the 2022 grant referenced the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange. Applicants were encouraged to use interventions assessed as having ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’ tiered evidence, and to utilize the Mandatory Supplemental Guidance offered that further defined evidence.

In 2021, the California Department of Education used a tiered evidence-based framework from The California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare (CEBC) to define evidence and allocate funding for the California Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) Grant program. Evidence-based strategies were required components for funding consideration. The Request for Proposals also allocated 8 points (out of 84) to grantees who described evidence-based practices and the evidence used to support the selected strategies. Within the RFP, grantees were encouraged to use evidence-based practices to direct attention towards disadvantaged children, including children living in poverty, English learners, and children with disabilities.

In 2021, the State Bar of California devoted $58.5 million to support its Homelessness Prevention Competitive Grant Program focused on providing legal services to prevent eviction, an evidence-based practice. The program awards up to 20 bonus points for applicants who focus on homelessness and housing insecurity within rural and underserved populations.

In 2021, the Colorado Department of Education used an evidence-based framework to allocate funds to the Colorado Comprehensive Literacy State Development Grant (CLSD) program. Grantees were required to utilize evidence-based interventions that help children develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, as defined by the Colorado Reading to Ensure Academic Development (READ) Act. The State’s grant program placed an emphasis on funding directly supporting historically underserved students, including children in poverty, English learners, and children with disabilities.

In 2018, the Colorado Department of Education grant program for school improvement, Empowering Action for School Improvement, required schools to use evidence-based practices as defined by the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The application gives points for the use of evidence-based strategies, as well as points based on past performance for applicants who are seeking to expand existing initiatives. Further, the Colorado Reading to Ensure Academic Development (READ) Act, amended in 2019, emphasizes the use of evidence-based instructional practices to support early literacy. It required use of program funds for external program evaluation; created a science-based early literacy block grant program of $2.5 million annually; and required districts receiving funds in the school year 2021-2022 to have K-3 teachers complete evidence-based training in teaching reading.

In July of 2021, the Colorado Workforce Development Council launched the Upskilling, Reskilling, and Next-Skilling Workers program to support evidence-based projects that improve workforce development and employment capacity. The application awards points for seven criteria, one of which includes the level of evidence of the proposed approach as defined by the Colorado Evidence Continuum.

In 2022, the Connecticut Department of Higher Education used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define evidence and allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Connecticut program. The grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Tier was subsequently awarded up to 12 points and Evidence Quality was allotted 8 points. The RFP asserted that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to use interventions assessed as having ‘Preliminary,’ ‘Moderate’, or ‘Strong’ tiered evidence through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence.

In 2022, the Florida Agency for Healthcare Administration solicited a Request for Proposals for its Evidence-Based Practices (EBPs) to Improve Behavioral Health Outcomes for Children and Youth in Florida’s Child Welfare System grant program. This program funds preventative interventions for children who are at-risk of entering foster care. Grantees must deliver the Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT) intervention, deemed well-supported on the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse, which focuses on Medicaid-eligible children and their families.

In 2022, Volunteer Florida, a nonprofit organization that administers state AmeriCorps funding, used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange in allocating funding through the Florida AmeriCorps program. The Request for Proposals prioritized evidence-based interventions with ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’ evidence for consideration by attributing points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP indicated that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.

Georgia’s Division of Family and Children Services’ Promoting Safe and Stable Families program requires that all “service plans must include evidence-based programs, practices, and/or strategies proven effective in meeting the needs of children and their families.” The evidence-based requirement in the requests for proposal (Form 3) includes the following components: a description of the evidence-based model, practice, or strategies for service delivery; the evidence-based rating from the California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare (CEBC) or comparable rating from a relevant clearinghouse; a description of how the evidence-based model, practice, or strategy will be effective in meeting the grant’s objectives; and a description of how the model will be implemented.

In both 2021 and 2022, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs used a tiered evidence framework to allocate funds through its AmeriCorps California program. The 2021 Request for Proposals specified that within Program Design (worth 50% of total points), Evidence Tier was worth 12% and Evidence Quality was worth 8%. In 2022, Evidence Tier was given 15% and Evidence Quality 5%, with 20 possible points for Evidence Base, 15 for Evidence Tier, and 5 for Evidence Quality. Both RFPs required evidence by asserting that “applicants assessed in the Pre-Preliminary evidence tier who do not provide adequate responses to the Evaluation Quality standards will not meet the threshold requirements for this Funding Opportunity and will not be considered for competitive funding.” Both the 2021 and 2022 RFPs defined evidence through suggesting the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange. Applicants were encouraged to use interventions assessed as having ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’ tiered evidence, and to utilize the Mandatory Supplemental Guidance offered that further defined evidence.  

BIn 2020, the Georgia Department of Education both prioritized and defined evidence through their Literacy for Learning, Living, and Leading in Georgia (L4GA) program. In line with the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) that defines different tiers of evidence, the L4GA provides multiple examples of evidence-based interventions as well as several clearinghouses applicants can utilize to design their programs. Some of these interventions/clearinghouses include the The US Department of Education’s What Works Clearinghouse (WWC), Blueprints for Healthy Youth Development (Blueprints), The Laura and John Arnold Foundation’s Social Programs that Work (Social Programs that Work), dialogic reading (moderate evidence), peer-assisted learning (strong evidence), small-group reading interventions (strong evidence), and explicit comprehension/vocabulary instruction (strong evidence). Additionally, up to 25 points (out of 200 points) are allocated in line with the usage of EBPs, and “only sub-grants with well-articulated goals grounded in evidence-based practices” are considered.

In 2022, the statewide Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to define and prioritize evidence of effectiveness in its allocation of funds through its AmeriCorps grant program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence.

In 2022, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define evidence and allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Indiana program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Quality was subsequently awarded up to 8 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence.

In 2022, the Kentucky Public Service Commission used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define evidence and allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Kentucky State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Quality was subsequently awarded up to 8 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence.

In 2022, the statewide Louisiana State Service Commission used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to define evidence and allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Louisiana State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The Request for Proposals indicated that many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities. Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence.

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) distributes competitive federal funds through the School Redesign Grant to help districts improve their lowest-performing schools. The school and districts, in partnership with the state, develop a sustainable improvement plan, which guides the approach to rapid school improvement. The state requires that the plan, in order to meet both state and federal requirements, must incorporate at least one strategy backed by evidence that meets the criteria from one of the top three evidence tiers as defined by the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The department provides support to potential applicants on using evidence-based practices through its How Do We Know Initiative.

In 2021, DESE used state funds to award almost $900,000 in evidence-based early literacy grants, which required that schools implement evidence-based practices in “culturally responsive and sustaining high-quality literacy instruction.” Also in 2021, DESE adopted a new statewide definition of evidence. DESE included the definition in plans required by the Student Opportunity Act (SOA). As part of the SOA, “districts are required to submit three-year, evidence-based plans aimed at closing persistent disparities in achievement among student subgroups.”

In 2022, the Massachusetts Service Alliance, a nonprofit organization that administers state AmeriCorps funding, used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange in allocating funding through the Massachusetts AmeriCorps program. The Request for Proposals prioritized evidence-based interventions with ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’ evidence by attributing points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities.” Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.

An example from American Rescue Plan, State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) includes an investment in the Maryland Boys and Girls Clubs to provide positive youth development programs, mentoring and other educational enrichment activities as research shows Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have been linked to an increased risk of poor educational, behavioral, economic, and physical health outcomes. The Boys and Girls Club evidence-informed model has been shown to develop and enhance the key protective factors among youth. In addition to providing the time-tested Club model, the Alliance deployed resources, training, and support for youths and their families. The program will be supported in 15 Maryland communities across 23 jurisdictions and Baltimore City. BJAG NOFO

At the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, the Emergency Housing Program (EHP) is intended to reduce the number of individuals and households experiencing homelessness. Through the American Rescue Plan, an additional $15 million in funding was provided to Maryland’s 16 Continua of Care (CoCs) and Local Homeless Coalitions to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable households. Speed was required to help people regain stability in permanent housing and to prevent households from becoming homeless. Data, including the Urban Institute’s Eviction Risk Average Percentile Score, was used to establish the funding formula. And use of evidence was required, specifically the use of a Housing First approach from the Results First Clearinghouse, noting its positive impacts based on rigorous evaluations.

In 2022, the Michigan Department of Education launched the Great Start Readiness Program, providing over $337 million to fund local preschool programs for four-year-old children experiencing factors placing them at risk of educational failure. Applicants were required to use the Great Start Readiness preschool education model, an evidence-based practice rated as highly effective in the Results First Clearinghouse.

In 2022, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to define and prioritize evidence of effectiveness and to allocate funds through its AmeriCorps grant program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The Request for Proposals indicted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”. Evidence of effectiveness was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence.

In 2021, Michigan’s Department of Corrections (DoC) created the Evidence-Based Services for Youth in the Juvenile Justice System Grant Program. True to its title, the Michigan DoC required that applicants use the following evidence-based models: Multisystemic Therapy (MST), Multisystemic Therapy for Problem Sexual Behaviors (MST-PSB), or Functional Family Therapy (FFT). These interventions are all rated as highly effective in the Results First Clearinghouse.

In 2012, Michigan passed Act 291, requiring the state departments of Community Health, Human Services, and Education to allocate funding to those home visiting programs that have strong evidence of effectiveness. The law specifies that two categories of programs are eligible for funding: evidence-based programs—those that are supported by rigorous research and have clear designs and implementation standards—and promising programs. To be eligible for continued funding, promising programs are required to undergo an evaluation of their effectiveness. Because effective implementation plays a critical role in achieving expected outcomes, all programs are required to maintain fidelity with key elements of their designs. Similarly, in 2017, Michigan passed Act 5, requiring the Michigan Department of Corrections to allocate 100% of funding to evidence-based practices within four years of implementation.

In early 2022, Minnesota created a Grantmaking Impact Improvement Team composed of executive branch leaders with grantmaking and impact-oriented expertise. The Team also includes external advisors representing evidence-based policymaking and non-profit organizations. This group of experts established best practices intended to provide direction for how grant programs can maximize impact through evidence-based practices, community-based best practices, and accessible grantmaking processes. Additionally, they are charged with reviewing select grant programs for these standards and making associated recommendations.

A Minnesota law (Sec. 127) requires the Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) to systematically review the Department of Human Services’ use of evidence in allocating hundreds of millions of dollars in grant funding each biennium. This evaluation found one-third of the state-funded grant programs that were reviewed support at least one evidence-based practice. Minnesota estimates that about $15 million (or 6%) of the biennial allocations to these programs are for activities that have been demonstrated to impact outcomes of interest.

In 2022, the Minnesota Department of Human Services used an evidence-based framework in its Housing with Supports for Adults with Serious Mental Illness program. Grantees were required to use evidence-based interventions to assist people in transitioning to and sustaining permanent supportive housing.

In 2021, the Minnesota Department of Education provided funding through a Full-Service Community Schools Grant program that exclusively funds the implementation and expansion of evidence-based full-service community schools. In 2020, the Department used evidence-based frameworks to guide funding decisions for the Minnesota Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) Grant program.

In 2021, the Minnesota Department of Health’s Strong Foundations: Evidence-Based Home Visiting Start-Ups program exclusively funded start-up and expansion of the following evidence-based home visiting models: Healthy Families America, Nurse Family Partnership, Family Spirit, and Home-Based Early Head Start.

In 2022, Serve Minnesota, a nonprofit organization that administers state AmeriCorps funding, utilized a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to determine fund allocations through the Minnesota AmeriCorps program. The Request for Proposals prioritized evidence-based interventions with ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’ evidence for consideration.

Two laws going into effect in 2022 make similar requirements in various programs. Starting July 1, 2022, state law required all state-funded grant programs overseen by the Minnesota Department of Education to compile grantee-level reports that indicate the evidence of effectiveness for the strategies used along with other performance data. Effective July 1, 2022, the Minnesota Legislature required Minnesota Management and Budget to inventory evidence-based activities and conduct impact evaluations of county-based adult mental health programs.

In 2022, the Missouri Department of Economic Development used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define and prioritize evidence, as well as allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Missouri State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points.

The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence. In improving the evidence design of Missouri’s current AmeriCorps programs and applicants, Missouri is more competitive on the national stage. To that end, in May 2022, it was announced that Missouri would be receiving two new competitive AmeriCorps grants, and this led to an increase of $912,290 in federal support to Missouri communities they would not have otherwise seen. The Missouri Community Service Commission expects this number to increase again next year.

In 2022, the Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define and prioritize evidence, as well as allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Mississippi State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence.

In 2020, the Montana Office of Public Instruction utilized evidence-based resources to inform Montana’s Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) Grant program. The State prioritized evidence by allocating up to 60 points (out of 200) for project selection criteria which includes using evidence-based practices. The Montana Office of Public Instruction released a process for selecting relevant, evidence-based interventions qualifying as Strong or Moderate, and provided resources to several research clearinghouses such as the The U.S. Department of Education’s What Works Clearinghouse (WWC), the Institute of Education Science Resource Guides, and the Pew Results First Clearinghouse (Results First).

In 2022, the Montana Governor’s Office of Community Service used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define and prioritize evidence, as well as allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Serve Montana State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities;” thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence. Montana’s State Service Plan was also provided to give applicants more support towards defining and prioritizing evidence.

In 2021, Volunteer New Hampshire, a nonprofit organization that administers state AmeriCorps funding, used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to determine fund allocations through the New Hampshire AmeriCorps program. The Request for Proposals prioritized evidence-based interventions with ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’ evidence for consideration by attributed points within the overall Evidence Base section (worth 12 points) towards evidence-based criteria, including both Evidence Tier and Evidence Quality. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities.” Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) were required to provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.

In 2022, the New Jersey Department of State used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define and prioritize evidence, as well as allocate funds through its AmeriCorps New Jersey State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 4%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.

In 2022, the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to define and prioritize evidence of effectiveness in the allocation of funds through its AmeriCorps grant program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers. Full evidence-based regulations were also highlighted online at www.ecfr.gov.

In 2020, the Nevada Department of Education’s Adult Education and Family Literacy programming required applicants to use Adult Basic/Secondary Education (ABE/ASE), including teaching English as a Second Language (ESL), with up to 60 points awarded for quality of the evidence-based instructional approaches proposed.

In 2021, the Nevada Department of Education’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, which funds services providing academic and enrichment opportunities for children and their families, required applicants to demonstrate that each proposed intervention meets one of the Every Student Succeeds Act Evidence Levels (Tiers 1-4). In the process of scoring applications for funding, up to 20 points were awarded for evidence alignment and completeness.

In 2022, the New York Office of Children and Family Services used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to define and prioritize evidence of effectiveness when allocating funds through its AmeriCorps New York State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” If applicants assessed in the Pre-Preliminary evidence tier did not provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality Standards, AmeriCorps New York would not consider them for funding. Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.

In 2020, the Ohio Department of Education used a tiered evidence-based framework from both the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and the U.S. Department of Education’s What Works Clearinghouse to define evidence and allocate funding for the Ohio Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) Grant program. Evidence-based strategies assessed as Strong or Moderate were required components for funding consideration. The State asserted that eligible applicants would be determined based on a weighted measure and cut score of two indicators: students on free and reduced lunch, and students who are in foster care or homeless. The RFP prioritized equity by encouraging grantees to award subgrants to entities with one or more local education agencies that serve children from birth through kindergarten entry who are from families with income levels at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty line, or are serving a high number/percentage of high-needs schools.

In 2021, the Oregon Office of Workforce Investments used a tiered evidence framework from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) to both define and prioritize evidence, as well as allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Oregon State Grant Program. Criteria from the CNCS assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant assigned points within the Evidence Base section (up to 20), with Evidence Tier allotted 12 points and Evidence Quality 8 points. The RFP prioritized evidence by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.

A 2003 Oregon law provides a definition of evidence-based program as a program that “incorporates significant and relevant practices based on scientifically based research; and is cost effective” and states that the Oregon Department of Corrections, the Oregon Youth Authority, the Oregon Youth Development Division, and “the part of the Oregon Health Authority that deals with mental health and addiction issues” shall (1) spend at least 75% of state moneys that the agency receives for programs on evidence-based programs; (2) perform cost-benefit analyses; and (3) compile a biennial program inventory with results from funded programs. As of 2018, the Oregon Youth Authority spent “90% of General Fund and almost 92% of total funds subject to Oregon’s Senate Bill 267 (SB267) on evidence-based programming.” In a 2020 report to the legislature, the Oregon Department of Education Youth Development Division  indicated that 92% of reported expenditures support local programs that have met evidence-based practice criteria (an interim progress report is avail

In August 2021, the Department of Labor and Industry released a Notice of Grant Availability for up to $4 million of funding for Pennsylvania Industry Partnerships grants. Grant applicants will be evaluated in part by data collection and performance outcomes (15 points out of 100) as well as evidence building and project effectiveness (10 points out of 100). As part of the latter category, applicants must identify their level (or category) of evidence and “explain how they intend to strengthen their ability to utilize evidence for the purposes of evaluating program outcomes.”

In 2020, the Pennsylvania Workforce Development Board voted unanimously to define evidence of effectiveness for Pennsylvania’s public workforce system for the first time. The four-tiered evidence framework is drawn from both the Corporation for National and Community Service and the US Department of Labor’s Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment Evidence-Based Requirements.

Tennessee’s Office of Criminal Justice Programs administers a criminal justice grant to increase the presence of evidence-based programming in local jails. Grantees are required to propose evidence-based interventions categorized in the highest rated or second highest rated evidence tiers according to the Pew Results First Clearinghouse Database.

The governmental organization Volunteer Tennessee uses a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to define and prioritize evidence of effectiveness when allocating funds through its state AmeriCorps program. In the process of scoring applications for funding, up to 20 points (out of 100) were awarded based on evidence of effectiveness of the proposed services, as defined by the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange. The State requires applicants who have previously received 3+ years of funding for the same project to submit impact evaluation plans according to the approved AmeriCorps requirements.

In 2022, the Tennessee Department of Education defined and prioritized evidence of effectiveness in two grant programs, All Corps and Summer Programming. The All Corps program funds the implementation and strengthening of high-dosage, low-ratio tutoring programs for students, an evidence-based approach. The Summer Programming grant exclusively funds summer learning programs (rated highly effective in Results First Clearinghouse) intended to prevent summer learning loss.

In 2022, the Virginia Department of Social Services used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define and prioritize evidence, as well as allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Virginia State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.

In 2018, the Vermont Agency of Education adopted four tiers of evidence, based on the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), to inform the distribution of education funds, including federal education and state-funded grants (such as BEST/Act 230 and Flexible Pathways; see sample statement of evidence). The guidance states: “applying the same requirement to both federal and state grants will allow for greater consistency in the review and approval of grant applications.” In 2019, the Agency built on this guidance, creating the Vermont School Wellness Policy Guidelines and Implementation guide. This resource created the Local Wellness Policy (LWP) that informs program creation for local education agencies (LEAs), including requiring the use of evidence-based strategies in determining the policy’s goals.

In 2022, the governmental organization Serve Washington used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define and prioritize evidence, as well as allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Washington State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within the Evidence Base (up to 20) depending on the evidence tier reached, from Pre-Preliminary to Strong. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.

In 2022, the Wisconsin Department of Social Services used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define and prioritize evidence, as well as allocate funds through its AmeriCorps Wisconsin State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.

In 2022, the statewide governmental organization Volunteer West Virginia used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to both define and prioritize evidence, as well as allocate funds through its AmeriCorps West Virginia State Grant Program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. To do this, the grant attributed points within Program Design (worth 50% of total points) towards evidence-based criteria, including Evidence Tier (worth 12%) and Evidence Quality (worth 8%). Evidence Base was subsequently awarded up to 20 points and Evidence Tier was allotted 12 points. The RFP asserted that “many of these interventions have demonstrated effectiveness in improving outcomes for individuals living in underserved communities and that the agency has committed resources to supporting grantees seeking to replicate and evaluate these interventions in similar communities”; thus, evidence was prioritized by stating that “all applicants must propose program designs that are either evidence-based or evidence-informed. Applicants assessed as lower than the Preliminary evidence tier (i.e., Pre-Preliminary) must provide adequate responses to the Evidence Quality review criteria in order to be considered for funding.” Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers.