(a) With the exception of training and research, as described in paragraph (b) of this section, any public or private entity, including an Indian tribe or tribal organization (as those terms are defined at 25 U.S.C. 450b) is eligible to apply for federal funding under this Part.

(b) Only public or nonprofit private institutions of higher learning may apply for training grants. Only public or nonprofit institutions of higher learning and public or private nonprofit agencies engaged in research or in programs relating to maternal and child health and/or services for children with special health care needs may apply for grants contracts or cooperative agreements for research in maternal and child health services or in services for children with special health care needs.