Technical Assistance ToolkitFrequently Asked Questions
About The TA Toolkit
What is the Technical Assistance Toolkit?
The Technical Assistance Toolkit (formerly called the Technical Assistance Guidelines for State Agencies) offers best practices and actionable resources to programs seeking to provide TA for the first time or refine existing TA offerings. Specifically, the document offers guidance and best practices to support State agencies in evaluating options, making key decisions, and avoiding pitfalls as they develop effective TA programs. This TA Toolkit may also help TA providers and recipients interested in better understanding the State’s TA processes.
Who is the intended audience for the TA Toolkit?
The intended audience is funders of all kinds who are interested in offering TA. This guidance can be helpful and applicable to state agencies, regional and local governments, federal agencies, foundations and private funders, and non-governmental organizations that currently offer TA or want to provide TA in the future.
How was the TA Toolkit created?
In early 2020, SGC convened a TA Work Group that included staff from 13 State agencies to gather input from TA and capacity building experts whose work cover a variety of sectors and issue areas. SGC staff worked closely with this group to ensure that this guidance reflects a broad range of experiences with TA and will be relevant and applicable to diverse programs, grant types, and community members. During this time, SGC also hosted listening sessions with representatives of approximately 40 entities, including local and regional government agencies, professional organizations, non-profit organizations, philanthropies, and community groups to better understand barriers to achieving community-driven climate and equity goals.
Why did SGC create the TA Toolkit?
Recognizing the importance of TA in meeting the State’s climate and equity goals, the State enacted Senate Bill 1072 (2018, Leyva), directing the SGC to develop the TA Guidelines.
How do I use the TA Toolkit?
The TA Toolkit seeks to support all funders, regardless of their experience with TA. Those newer to TA can begin with the “Getting Started.” Those who administer TA programs can visit “Implementation” to find information and resources that will help expand offerings or enhance TA delivery. Readers can also review the Case Studies for inspiration and adapt the various templates and sample materials to suit their needs.
How often is the TA Toolkit updated?
SGC staff seeks to update the Toolkit every few years.
Does SGC offer support to state agencies using the TA Toolkit?
Yes! State agency staff are welcome to connect with the Community Assistance for Climate Equity Program for thought partnership on their TA program. Please email CACE@sgc.ca.gov.
Can California state agencies submit case studies to be featured?
Yes! Please contact CACE@sgc.ca.gov if you are interested in having your TA effort included as a resource for others. Staff will provide you with a template and additional details.
Providing & Receiving TA
What is technical assistance?
The process of providing targeted support to an agency, organization, or community with a development need or resource gap. TA may be delivered in many ways, such as one-on-one consultation, small group facilitation, technical resources and analysis, or through a web-based clearinghouse. TA is one of the most effective methods for building the capacity of an organization.
What/who is a technical assistance provider?
TA providers are third-party consultants with expertise relevant to the funding program. They may be individual organizations or teams of multiple organizations. TA providers often have lived experiences or deep knowledge of the experiences of under-resourced communities. Their goal is to facilitate successful applications and support project implementation that deliver meaningful benefits in under-resourced communities.
How does an organization provide TA for the State?
Outlined in the Contracting Guidance section, the State employs several procurement options available to them to select TA providers. The most common way is through a competitive bid process, such as a request for proposals or request for qualifications). The Department of General Services website providers more details on conducting business with the state. For information about selecting TA providers see Step 5 in the Getting Started section.
Who receives the TA?
TA recipients are potential applicants or program grantees in need of implementation support. These may include individuals from public agencies, tribes, community-based organizations, private businesses (housing developers, planning consultants, agricultural producers), or other entities in need of assistance.
How can I receive TA?
Most TA is provided for specific grant application or implementation support. Many funding programs prioritize TA for potential applicants from under-resourced, low-income, and tribal communities and have an intake survey process to select recipients. Government agencies are starting to develop TA programs that are not tied to a single grant program and are offering an array of tailored and supportive services. Examples of these programs include the BOOST Program, the Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Program, and the Distressed Cities and Persistent Poverty Technical Assistance Program.