Frequently Asked Questions

America is more linguistically diverse than ever. Communicating effectively with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) individuals is essential—and in many sectors, including healthcare, government, and nonprofit services, it is required under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related regulations.

The good news: grant funding may be available to help offset the cost of language services.

Organizations that receive federal or state funding are often eligible to use grant dollars for language access, including interpretation and translation services.

Common funding sources include:

• National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH)
  Supports language access initiatives for cultural, educational, and public institutions.
   
• Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)
  Offers funding and guidance for healthcare providers, nonprofits, religious organizations, and educational institutions to improve language access.
   
• Healthcare-Focused Grants
  Agencies such as the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services provide funding to improve communication access in healthcare settings.
   

Private grants are often faster and more flexible than federal funding.

Organizations such as United Way, local foundations, and community-based nonprofits frequently support initiatives that promote inclusion, diversity, and language access. Applications typically require:

• A defined funding request
   
• A clear description of how funds will be used (e.g., remote interpreting, translated materials)
   
• Evidence of language need in your community
   

While most language-access grants target nonprofits and healthcare providers, some businesses may qualify for assistance.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) administers select grant programs through state agencies. Notably, the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) may help small businesses fund language access initiatives tied to international or export growth, such as multilingual websites or customer support.

If your organization serves LEP individuals, Silent Partner LSP can support your language access needs.

We provide on-demand interpretation and translation services in over 300 languages, including ASL—available 24/7 and billed only for minutes used.

Contact us to learn how to implement compliant, cost-effective language access solutions—or how grant funding may support your program.