20_Alaska Nat_12-FINAL 508.pdf

REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS

ALASKA NATIVE-SERVING AND

NATIVE HAWAIIAN-SERVING

INSTITUTIONS EDUCATION

COMPETITIVE GRANTS PROGRAM

(ANNH)

FUNDING YEAR:

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

LETTER OF INTENT DEADLINE:

AWARD AMOUNT FOR FY 2020:

Fiscal Year 2020 and 2021

Fiscal Year 2020: February 20, 2020

Fiscal Year 2021: February 25, 2021

Not Required

$3,000,000

CATALOG OF FEDERAL

DOMESTIC ASSISTANCE NUMBER:

10.228

INITIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

National Institute of Food and Agriculture, United States (U.S.) Department of Agriculture

(USDA)

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance. The ALASKA NATIVE-SERVING AND NATIVE

HAWAIIAN-SERVING INSTITUTIONS EDUCATION COMPETITIVE GRANTS

PROGRAM (ANNH) is listed in the Assistance Listings under the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance number 10.228.

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines

Task Description Deadline

Application: Fiscal Year 2020:

5:00 P.M. Eastern, February 20, 2020 [Ref to Part I § C of this RFA]

Fiscal Year 2021:

5:00 P.M. Eastern, February 25, 2021 [Ref to Part I § C of this RFA]

Letter of Intent: Not Required Applicants Comments: Within six months from the issuance of this notice

(NIFA may not consider comments received after the sixth month)

Stakeholder Input. The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) seeks comments on all request for applications (RFAs) so it can deliver programs efficiently, effectively, with integrity, and with a focus on customer service. NIFA considers comments, to the extent possible when developing RFAs and use comments to help meet the requirements of Section 103(c)(2) of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (7 U.S.C. 7613(c)(2)).

Applicants may submit written comments to Policy@usda.gov (email is for comments only).

Please use the following subject line: Response to the Alaska Native-Serving and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions Education Competitive Grants Program RFA.

https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource/Agricultural%20Research%2C%20Extension%2C%20and%20Education%20Reform%20Act%20of%20%201998.pdf https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource/Agricultural%20Research%2C%20Extension%2C%20and%20Education%20Reform%20Act%20of%20%201998.pdf https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource/Agricultural%20Research%2C%20Extension%2C%20and%20Education%20Reform%20Act%20of%20%201998.pdf mailto:Policy@usda.gov

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

NIFA requests applications for the Alaska Native-Serving and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions Education Competitive Grants Program (ANNH) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 and Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 to promote and strengthen the ability of Alaska Native-Serving Institutions and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions to carry out education, applied research, and extension community development programs. The anticipated amount available for grants in FY 2020 is approximately $3,000,000.

This notice identifies the objectives for ANNH projects, deadlines, funding information, eligibility criteria for projects and applicants, and application forms and associated instructions.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INITIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority B. Purpose and Priorities

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding B. Types of Application C. Project and Grant Types D. Ethical Conduct of Funded Projects

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements B. Cost Sharing or Matching

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application B. Content and Form of the Application C. Funding Restrictions

PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

A. NIFA’s Evaluation Process B. Evaluation Criteria C. Organizational Management Information D. Application Disposition

PART VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION

A. General B. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

PART VII. OTHER INFORMATION

A. Use of Funds and Changes in Budget B. Confidential Aspects of Applications and Awards C. Regulatory Information

APPENDIX I: AGENCY CONTACT

APPENDIX II: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

APPENDIX III: DEFINITIONS

TABLE OF TABLES

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines Table 2: Program Key Information Table 3 ANNH Eligible Applicants Table 4. Steps to Obtain Application Materials Table 5: Help and Resources Table 6: Key Application Instructions

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority This program is administered under the provisions of section 1419B of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 USC 3156).

B. Purpose and Priorities The purpose of this program is to promote and strengthen the ability of Alaska Native-Serving Institutions and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions to carry out education, applied research, and related community development programs. NIFA intends this program to address educational needs, as determined by each institution, within a broadly defined area of FANH sciences.

NIFA is soliciting applications for the ANNH program that support:

1. Activities of collaborative membership of Alaska Native-Serving or Native Hawaiian- Serving Institutions to enhance educational equity for underrepresented students,

2. Strengthening institutional education capacities, including libraries, curriculum, faculty, scientific instrumentation, instruction delivery systems, and student recruitment and retention, in order to respond to identified state, regional, national, or international educational needs in the food and agriculture sciences,

3. Undergraduate and graduate students from underrepresented groups in order to prepare them for careers related to the FANH sciences and beginning with the mentoring of students from K-12, and continuing with the provision of financial support for students through their attainment of a doctoral degree; and

4. Cooperative initiatives between at least two or more Alaska Native-Serving or Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions, which may work in cooperation with one or more other entities including units of State government and private sector organizations, to maximize the development and use of resources, such as faculty, facilities, and equipment, to improve FANH science education programs.

Applications for the ANNH program will include activities that:

1. Enhance educational equity for underrepresented students;

2. Strengthen institutional educational capacities;

3. Prepare students for careers related to the FANH sciences; and

4. Maximize the development and use of resources to improve FANH education programs.

eXtension - ANNH encourages, but does not require, projects that develop content suitable for delivery through eXtension.

Leadership Skills Development. All ANNH projects are required to provide leadership skills opportunities. The development of leadership skills, knowledge and qualities are necessary for preparing students for agricultural related careers in private sector, government and academia.

Projects must demonstrably incorporate a leadership development component to ensure that students are equipped with both technical and leadership abilities upon graduation. Specific activities may include:

https://extension.org/

1. Developing practical applications to increase understanding of leadership roles, including critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills; ethics and professionalism;

and working in teams;

2. Connecting the academic classroom experience with daily leadership roles and organizational activities;

3. Providing opportunities for mentoring and shadowing; and

4. Organizing leadership academies, workshops, trainings, etc.

Incorporation of Social Sciences and Enhancing Impacts. The ANNH Grants Program supports social and behavioral science disciplines. ANNH projects that integrate social and biological sciences to provide experiential learning opportunities for students in applied research and related community development programs are encouraged. Incorporation of social and behavioral sciences is important for addressing many of the challenges facing agriculture and rural communities, such as increasing global demand for food production in the face of limited natural resources; improving health and reducing obesity by engaging in heathy lifestyles and consuming heathy diets; and alleviating poverty by fostering economic opportunity.

Metrics. The ANNH Grants Program requires all Project Directors to provide appropriate metrics and describe the expected products and results, outcomes, and their potential impact on strengthening the FANH Sciences in education, research and extension. Metrics to assess products, outputs and outcomes are to be clearly delineated in the proposal.

The ANNH is aligned with the following USDA Strategic Goals:

1. Strategic Goal 4: Facilitate Rural Prosperity and Economic Development.

Table 2: Program Key Information Title Description

Program Code: RD Program Code Name: Alaska Native-Serving and Native Hawaiian-

Serving Institutions Education Grant Program

(ANNH)

CFDA Number 10.228 Project Types: Education Projects, Extension Projects Research Projects Integrated Research, Extension and Education Projects

Grant Type: Standard and Collaborative Grants Application Deadline Fiscal Year 2020: February 20, 2020

Fiscal Year 2021: February 25, 2021 Grant Duration:

Number of Applications per Lead Institution:

Award Limit per Institution:

24-36 Months One Standard and One Collaborative as Lead Institution Two Grant Awards:

One Standard $150,000 to $450,000 and One Collaborative $300,000 to $1,000,000 https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda-strategic-plan-2018-2022.pdf

Title Description

Maximum Award Amount:

Program Materials Available on the Internet:

$3,000,000 ANNH Grants Program information will be made available on the NIFA website at Alaska Native-Serving and Native Hawaiian- Serving Institutions Education Competitive Grants Program (ANNH).

https://nifa.usda.gov/program/alaska-native-serving-and-native-hawaiian-serving-institutions-education-competitive-grants https://nifa.usda.gov/program/alaska-native-serving-and-native-hawaiian-serving-institutions-education-competitive-grants https://nifa.usda.gov/program/alaska-native-serving-and-native-hawaiian-serving-institutions-education-competitive-grants

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding The anticipated amount available for ANNH in FY2020 and FY 2021 is approximately $3,000,000 in grant funding each year. Actual funding will be based on FY 2020 and FY 2021 appropriation levels. USDA is not committed to fund any particular application or to make a specific number of awards. The Automated Standard Application for Payments, operated by the Department of Treasury, Bureau of Fiscal Service, is the designated payment system for awards resulting from this RFA.

B. Types of Application NIFA will evaluate applications using the criteria described in Part V of this RFA. Applications for FY 2020 and FY 2021 are limited to the following applications types:

1. New application: New applications will be evaluated using the criteria described in Part V of this RFA and are subject to the due dates herein (see Appendix III for definition).

2. Resubmitted application: Resubmitted applications must include the responses to the previous review panel summary, and are subject to the same criteria and due dates herein.

Resubmitted applicants must enter the NIFA-assigned proposal number of the previously submitted application in the Federal Field (Field 4) on the application form (see Appendix III for definition).

3. Renewal application. Renewal applications must contain the same information as required for new applications and must contain a progress report. The progress report must include the implementation of the data management plan (DMP) of the previously funded project. Renewal applications are subject to the same criteria and due dates herein. Applicants submitting a renewal application must enter the NIFA-assigned proposal number of the previously approved application in the Federal Field (Field 4) on the application form (see Appendix III for definition).

4. Resubmitted renewal application. Resubmitted renewal applicants must provide a progress report, respond to the previous review’s panel summary, and are subject to the same criteria and due dates herein. The progress report must include the implementation of the data management plan (DMP) of the previously funded project. Applicants submitting a renewal application must enter the NIFA-assigned proposal number of the previously approved application in the Federal Field (Field 4) on the application form (see Appendix III for definition).

C. Project and Grant Types

The following describes the types of projects or grants that are eligible for funding:

1. Project Types. ANNH is soliciting applications for the ANNH Grants Program under the following project types and need areas:

a. Education/Teaching Projects. Single-function Education/Teaching Projects conduct programs and activities that have formal classroom instruction, laboratory instruction, and practicum experience in the FANH sciences and may also support faculty development, student recruitment and services, curriculum development, instructional materials and equipment, and innovative teaching methodologies.

https://www.fiscal.treasury.gov/fsservices/gov/pmt/asap/asap_home.htm

Need Areas: ANNH projects should focus on one or more of the need areas listed below. Please note that at least one of these need areas must be indicated in the project summary (See Part IV, B. 2).

i. Curricula Design, Materials Development, and Library Resources. To promote the development of courses of study and degree programs, new and improved curricula, and instructional materials and technology;

promote the acquisition of library resources including books and journals relating to the food and agricultural sciences; and stimulate the use of new approaches to the study of traditional subjects, new research on teaching and learning theory, and new applications of knowledge.

ii. Faculty Preparation and Enhancement for Teaching. To advance faculty development in the areas of teaching competency and leadership, subject matter expertise, or student recruitment and advising skills. Examples include:

1. Obtaining experience with recent developments and new applications;

2. Expanding competence in innovative technologies and instruction delivery;

3. Developing new skills in a field of science or education including student advising skills; pursuing graduate-level study in a field related to the FANH sciences.

Each faculty recipient of support for developmental activities must be an “eligible participant;” please refer to: 7 CFR 3430, Competitive and Noncompetitive Non-formula Financial Assistance Programs--General Award Administrative Provisions for applicable definitions for this NIFA grant program.

iii. Instructional Delivery Systems. To encourage the use of alternative methods of delivering instruction to enhance the quality, effectiveness, and cost efficiency of teaching programs. Examples include:

1. Incorporating alternative instructional methodologies that respond to differences in student learning styles;

2. Inter-institutional collaborations that deliver instruction in ways that maximize program quality and reduce unnecessary duplication;

3. Consideration and implementation of innovative instructional techniques, methodologies, and delivery systems in response to advances in knowledge and technology.

iv. Scientific Instrumentation for Teaching and Research. To provide students and faculty in science-oriented courses with suitable, up-to-date equipment in order to involve them in work central to scientific understanding and progress. Examples include:

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&SID=2a6f6bfbef4c918616eebe5353d0793c&rgn=div5&view=text&node=7%3A15.1.12.2.13&idno=7&7%3A15.1.12.2.13.1.17.2 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&SID=2a6f6bfbef4c918616eebe5353d0793c&rgn=div5&view=text&node=7%3A15.1.12.2.13&idno=7&7%3A15.1.12.2.13.1.17.2 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&SID=2a6f6bfbef4c918616eebe5353d0793c&rgn=div5&view=text&node=7%3A15.1.12.2.13&idno=7&7%3A15.1.12.2.13.1.17.2

1. Acquiring new, state-of-the-art instructional, laboratory, classroom, and research scientific equipment;

2. Upgrading existing equipment or replacing non-functional or obsolete equipment.

v. Student Experiential Learning. To further the development of student scientific and professional competencies through experiential learning programs that provide students with opportunities to solve complex problems in the context of real-world situations. Project focus may include:

1. Preparing future graduates to advance knowledge and technology, enhancing quality of life, conserve resources, and addressing community and economic development issues.

2. Enhancing student decision-making and communication skills, and improving real-life technological expertise.

3. Developing internships, practicum experiences, and study abroad opportunities.

4. Participation with faculty on applied research and related community development projects.

vi. Student Recruitment, Retention, and Educational Equity. The purpose of this initiative is to enhance educational equity for underrepresented students, and to strengthen student recruitment and retention programs in order to promote the future strength of the Nation's scientific, professional, and technical work force in the FANH sciences. Examples include:

1. Initiating new projects or supplementing current efforts to attract increased numbers of students from underrepresented groups to attend college;

2. Developing agricultural and science literacy programs at the high school level to attract students to college and careers in the FANH sciences;

3. Mentoring programs and other initiatives for student retention;

4. The provision of student financial support to attend college.

Each student recipient of monetary support for education costs or developmental purposes must be enrolled at an eligible institution and meet the requirement of an "eligible participant" please refer to: 7 CFR 3430, Competitive and Noncompetitive Non-formula Financial Assistance Programs--General Award Administrative Provisions for applicable definitions for this NIFA grant program.

b. Extension Projects. Single-function Extension Projects must deliver science-based knowledge and informal educational programs that lead to practical decision making. Program delivery may range from community-based to national audiences and use communication methods from face-to-face to electronic or a combination thereof. Extension Projects may also include related matters such as http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&SID=2a6f6bfbef4c918616eebe5353d0793c&rgn=div5&view=text&node=7%3A15.1.12.2.13&idno=7&7%3A15.1.12.2.13.1.17.2 http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&SID=2a6f6bfbef4c918616eebe5353d0793c&rgn=div5&view=text&node=7%3A15.1.12.2.13&idno=7&7%3A15.1.12.2.13.1.17.2 http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&SID=2a6f6bfbef4c918616eebe5353d0793c&rgn=div5&view=text&node=7%3A15.1.12.2.13&idno=7&7%3A15.1.12.2.13.1.17.2 certification programs, in-service training, client recruitment and services, curriculum development, instructional materials and equipment, and innovative instructional methodologies appropriate to informal educational programs.

Extension Projects may address one or more of the following:

i. Support informal education to increase food and agricultural literacy in youth and adults;

ii. Promote science-based agricultural literacy by increasing understanding and use of food and agricultural science data, information, and programs;

iii. Build science-based capability to engage audiences and enable informed decision making;

iv. Develop new applications of instructional tools and curriculum structures that increase technical competency and ensure global competitiveness;

v. Offer non-formal learning programs that increase accessibility to new ideas and technologies that are appropriate for community development;

vi. Develop programs that increase public knowledge and citizen engagement leading to actions that protect or enhance the Nation’s food supply, agricultural productivity, environmental quality, community vitality, and/or public health and well-being.

These projects must lead to measurable, documented changes in learning, actions, or conditions in an identified audience or stakeholder group. In addition, these projects shall synthesize and incorporate a wide range of the latest relevant research results.

c. Research Projects. Single-function Research Projects support applied research conducted by individual investigators, or co-investigators within the same discipline, or multidisciplinary teams. Applied research means research that includes expansion of the findings of fundamental research to uncover practical ways in which new knowledge can be advanced to benefit individuals and society.

Multi-disciplinary projects are those in which investigators from two or more disciplines collaborate to address a common problem. These collaborations, where appropriate, may integrate the various disciplines in the FANH sciences.

d. Integrated Research, Education and Extension Projects. An Integrated Project includes at least two of the three functions of the agricultural knowledge system (research, education, and extension) within a project. Some Integrated Project applications include all three components of the agricultural knowledge system.

Applicants should consult the program area description in Table 2. of the RFA for their specific requirements of the program area to which they are applying.

The functions addressed in the project should be focused around the problem or issue and should be interwoven throughout the life of the project to complement and reinforce one another. While the functions can be interdependent and necessary for the success of the project, resource allocation between the functions need to be balanced.

Integrated Projects aim to resolve today’s problems through the application of science-based knowledge and address needs identified by stakeholders. Integrated Projects clearly identify anticipated outcomes and have a plan for evaluating and documenting the success of the project. These projects will lead to measurable, documented changes in learning, actions, or conditions in an identified audience or stakeholder group.

Integrated Project applicants are encouraged to review Integrated Programs Application Information for additional information on integrated programs, including tips for writing Integrated Project applications and an example of an integrated application. Those interested in submitting Integrated Project applications are encouraged to contact the program contact (See Part VII) to discuss the anticipated project parameters and outcomes to ensure the application content appropriately meets the requirements of an Integrated Project.

Integrated Project applications are required to include a Logic Model (2-Page limit). Failure to include this component may result in the application not being accepted by the program for evaluation.

2. Grant Types. The following is a list of available grant types under this RFA

a. Standard Grant: Supports targeted, original, scientific Education projects. Applicants must be an eligible ANNH institution (two or 4-year independent branch campus, or branch institution of a State system) with project activities to be undertaken principally on behalf of and for the benefit of the lead applicant. Applicants may partner with other ANNH or non-ANNH without the requirement of sharing grant funds with other project partners.

b. Collaborative Grant: Supports projects with at least one additional partner or a multi-partner approach to enhance education programs. Collaborative Grants build linkages to generate a critical mass of expertise, skill, and technology to address education/teaching programs related to the food, agricultural, and natural resources, and human sciences.

These grants will reduce duplication of efforts and build capacity and must be organized and led by a strong applicant with documented project management knowledge and skills to organize and carry out the initiative. The partners must share grant funds (see explanation of required funds distribution percentage among partners in the definition in Part VIII, D.). The amount of funds awarded to collaborative members as sub-grantees does NOT have to be the same for each sub-grantee. All collaborators must have a substantive role in the collaboration that is reflected in the budget allocation to partners.

Grant awards may differ from the amounts requested in the application and revised budgets and revised plans of work may be required by NIFA before an award is made.

The project period may range from 24 to 36 months. The project start date must not occur prior to September 30, 2020 for FY 2020 or September 30, 2021 for FY 2021.

https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/integrated-programs-application-information https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/integrated-programs-application-information

D. Ethical Conduct of Funded Projects In accordance with sections 2, 3, and 8 of 2 CFR Part 422, institutions that conduct USDA-funded extramural research must foster an atmosphere conducive to research integrity, bear primary responsibility for prevention and detection of research misconduct, and maintain and effectively communicate and train their staff regarding policies and procedures. In the event an application to NIFA results in an award, the Authorized Representative (AR) assures, through acceptance of the award that the institution will comply with the above requirements. Award recipients must, upon request, make available to NIFA the policies, procedures, and documentation to support the conduct of the training. See Responsible and Ethical Conduct of Research for further information.

https://ecfr.io/Title-02/pt2.1.422 https://nifa.usda.gov/responsible-and-ethical-conduct-research https://nifa.usda.gov/responsible-and-ethical-conduct-research

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements Applicants for the ANNH must meet all the requirements discussed in this RFA. Failure to meet the eligibility criteria by the application deadline may result in exclusion from consideration or, preclude NIFA from making an award. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s Grants Overview provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

For the purpose of the ANNH Grants Program, an eligible institution means an individual public or private, nonprofit Alaska Native-Serving and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions of higher education that meet the definitions of Alaska-Serving Institutions or Native Hawaiian-Serving Institution established in Title III, Part A of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (20 U.S.C. 1059d.).

Table 3 ANNH Eligible Applicants

Branch Institutions of a State System

For the purpose of this program, the individual branches of a state university system or public system of higher education that are separately accredited as degree granting institutions are treated as separate, individual institutions, eligible to apply for and receive awards, provided that they otherwise satisfy the definition of Alaska Native-Serving Institution or Native Hawaiian- Serving Institution as specified above

Independent Branch Campuses

Independent branch campuses of individual institutions may apply for and receive grant awards under this program, provided that they otherwise satisfy the definition of Alaska Native-Serving Institution or Native Hawaiian-Serving Institution as specified above. An “independent branch campus” means a unit of a 2-year or 4-year institution of higher education that is geographically apart from the main campus, is permanent in nature, offers courses for credit and programs leading to an associate or bachelor’s degree, and is autonomous to the extent that it has its own faculty and administrative or supervisory organization and its own budgetary and hiring authority.

Collaborative Arrangements

Two or more eligible, individual institutions, independent branch campuses, or branch institutions of a state system may form a https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/grants-overview collaboration to carry out education, applied research, and extension programs in the FANH sciences. In addition to the individual eligible institutions (or independent branch campuses, etc.), such a collaboration also may include units of State government and private sector entities.

An existing collaboration consisting of at least two or more eligible, individual institutions, independent branch campuses, or branch institutions of a state system, which demonstrates its ability to carry out allowed activities and its commitment to the goals of the ANNH Grants Program, also may apply for and receive a Collaborative Grant.

Certification of Eligibility. Eligibility documentation must be submitted with the application.

At the time of application, each primary applicant will be required to demonstrate or certify that it is an eligible institution under the ANNH Grants Program. If the applicant is a new or existing collaborative project, each member of the collaborative must demonstrate or certify that they are an eligible individual institution, independent branch campus, or a branch institution of a state system.

If an institution has received a “Designation as an Eligible Institution” letter for FY 2020 funding under the Title III, Part A, Alaska Native-Serving Institutions Program or the Native Hawaiian- Serving Institutions Program from the U.S. Department of Education, the institution must submit a copy of the letter along with its application to satisfy the demonstration of eligibility requirement. The same process will be followed in FY 2021.

If an institution currently has a Title III, Part A. grant from the U.S. Department of Education that does not end prior to September 30, 2020, the institution must submit a copy of the “Notice of Award” letter for that grant along with its application to satisfy the demonstration of eligibility requirement. Otherwise, an institution must submit a letter, signed by the institution’s Authorized Representative, (AR) certifying that it meets the requirements of an Alaska Native-Serving Institution or Native Hawaiian-Serving Institution as defined above.

The AR must certify that:

1. The institution, or parent institution in the case of an independent branch campus, is legally authorized by the state in which it is located to provide an educational program for which it awards an associate or bachelor’s degree, or that it is a junior or community college.

2. The institution, or parent institution in the case of an independent branch campus, is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or association determined by the Secretary of Education to be a reliable authority as to the quality of training offered, or making reasonable progress toward such accreditation;

3. At least 50 percent of enrolled degree students are receiving need-based assistance under Title IV of the Higher Education Act, or that a substantial percentage of students are receiving Pell Grants in comparison with the percentage of students receiving Pell Grants at all similar institutions (institution of higher education, or junior or community college);

4. Unless waived by the Secretary of Education, the average educational and general expenditures per full-time equivalent undergraduate student are low in comparison with the average educational and general expenditures per full-time equivalent student at institutions that offer similar instruction; and

5. For an Alaska Native-Serving Institution, at the time of application, it has an enrollment of undergraduate students that is at least 20 percent Alaska Native students (where the term “Alaska Native” has the meaning given the term in Section 7306 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7546); or

6. For a Native Hawaiian-Serving Institution, at the time of application, it has an enrollment of undergraduate students that is at least 10 percent Native Hawaiian students (where the term “Native Hawaiian” has the meaning given the term in section 7207 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7517).

The same process will be required in FY 2021.

Fiscal Agent (not required):

If an applicant uses a fiscal agent, a letter must be included in the application stating that in the event the application results in an award, the award funds will be administered through a fiscal agent organization on their behalf. This agent must be identified in the letter from the applicant and the letter must be countersigned by an authorized representative of the fiscal agent organization. The letter must include the fiscal agent’s point of contact, address, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address. This letter is to be included as an attachment to Field 12, Other Attachments (Part IV.B.3.c.). In the event an application is recommended for funding, NIFA will request that both the applicant or institution/organization and the fiscal agent organization submit complete management information (see Part V, D.).

Please note that the collaboration may designate fiscal agents as members of the collaborative arrangement and allocate funds among them. Examples of fiscal agent arrangements include, but are not limited to, the following scenarios:

1. A state university system or a public system of higher education may apply on behalf of an eligible, individual institution, independent branch campus, or branch institution in the State. In such cases, the State system will act as fiscal agent for the eligible institution under a Standard Grant award to advance the purposes of the ANNH Grants Program.

2. A research foundation or other, similar foundation established and maintained by an eligible, individual institution to facilitate the application and management of externally funded grant awards may apply on behalf of its eligible, parent institution. In such cases, the foundation will act as fiscal agent for the eligible, individual institution under a Standard Grant award to advance the purposes of the ANNH Grants Program.

3. A state university system or a public system of higher education may apply on behalf of two or more eligible, individual institutions, independent branch campuses, or branch institutions in its State under a Collaborative Grant arrangement. In such cases, the State system will act as fiscal agent for the eligible institutions under a Collaborative Grant award to advance the purposes of the ANNH Grants Program.

4. A research foundation, or other similar foundation, established and maintained by an eligible, individual institution to facilitate the application and management of externally-funded grant awards, may apply on behalf of its parent institution and at least one additional eligible, individual institution, independent branch campus, or branch institution of a State system under a collaborative arrangement. In such cases, the foundation will act as fiscal agent for the eligible institutions under a Collaborative Grant award to advance the purposes of the ANNH Grants Program.

Award recipients may subcontract to organizations not eligible to apply provided such organizations are necessary for the conduct of the project. An applicant’s failure to meet an eligibility criterion by the time of an application deadline will result in the application being excluded from consideration or, even though an application may be reviewed, will preclude NIFA from making an award.

Duplicate or Multiple Submissions – duplicate or multiple submissions are not allowed. NIFA will disqualify both applications if an applicant submits duplicate or multiple submissions. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s Grants Overview provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

B. Cost Sharing or Matching No Match Required - The ANNH has NO matching requirement. NIFA will not factor matching resources into the review process as an evaluation criterion.

https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/grants-overview

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application Applicants must apply to this RFA electronically; no other method or response is accepted. The electronic application for this RFA and additional resources are available on Grants.gov and Grants 101. Table 4 provides instructions on how to obtain an electronic application. Part II § 1 of the NIFA Grants.gov Application Guide (Application Guide) contains detailed information regarding the Grants.gov registration process.

Table 4. Steps to Obtain Application Materials Steps Action

Step One: Register New Users to Grants.gov must register early with Grants.gov prior to submitting an application (Register Here).

Step Two:

Download Adobe

Download and Install Adobe Reader (see Adobe Software Compatibility for basic system requirements)

Step Three: Find Application

Using this funding opportunity number USDA-NIFA-AHSI-007032 search for application here: Opportunity Package.

Step Four: Assess Readiness

Contact an AR prior to starting an application to assess the organization’s readiness to submit an electronic application.

Table 5: Help and Resources

Grants.gov Support NIFA Support Grants.gov Online Support Telephone support: 800-518-4726 Toll-Free or 606-545-5035 Email support: support@grants.gov Self-service customer based support:

Grants.gov iPortal

Key Information: Customer service business Hours 24/7, except federal holidays.

Email: electronic@usda.gov Phone: 202-401-5048 Key Information: Business hours: Monday thru Friday, 7a.m. – 5p.m. ET, except federal holidays

B. Content and Form of the Application The Application Guide is part of the corresponding application package for this RFA. The RFA overrides the Application Guide if there is a discrepancy between the two documents. NIFA will accept subsequent submissions to an application until the application deadline. However, applicants that do not meet the application requirements, to include partial applications, risk being excluded from NIFA’s review. NIFA will assign a proposal number to all applications that https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/learn-grants/grants-101/pre-award-phase.html/ https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/register.html https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/search-opportunity-package.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/support.html mailto:support@grants.gov https://grants-portal.psc.gov/Welcome.aspx?pt=Grants https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/ https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/ mailto:electronic@usda.gov https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/ https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf meet the requirements of this RFA. Applicants must refer to the proposal number when corresponding with NIFA. Table 5 outlines other key instructions for applicants.

Table 6: Key Application Instructions Instruction References

(All references are to the Application Guide)

Attachments must be in a portable document format (PDF) format.

Part III § 3

Check the manifest of submitted files to verify attachments are in the correct format.

Part III § 6.1

Conduct an administrative review of the application before submission.

Part VII and

Follow the submission instructions. Part IV § 1.5

Provide an accurate email address, where designated, on the SF-424 R&R.

Part IV § 1.5

Contact the Grants.gov helpdesk for technical support, and keep a record of the correspondence.

Contact NIFA if applicant does not received correspondence from NIFA regarding an application within 30 days of the application deadline.

SF 424 R&R Cover Sheet. See Part V § 2 and Part V § 2.17of the Application Guide for the required certifications and assurances.

SF 424 R&R Project/Performance Site Location(s). See Part V § 3 of the Application Guide.

R&R Other Project Information Form. See Part V § 4 of the Application Guide.

1. Field 7. Project Summary (PS)/Abstract. The PS must not exceed 250 words. The PS must show how the project goals align with the project goals of the ANNH. See Part V §

4.7 of the Application Guide for instructions and suggested templates.

2. Field 8. Project Narrative (PN). The PN must not exceed 18 1.5 spaced pages of written text and up to 5 1.5 spaced additional pages for figures and tables (the font size for tables should be no smaller than 11 points, Times New Roman). The page limits outlined here ensure fair and equitable competition. Appendices to the PN are allowed if they are directly germane to the proposed project. Do not add appendices to circumvent the page limit. The PN must include all of the following:

a. Potential for Advancing the Quality of Education; Significance of the Problem:

i. Identification of Educational Problem and Project Impact. Briefly state:

(1) the specific instructional problem/challenge (or opportunity) to be addressed; (2) the anticipated project audience; and (3) the project’s target objectives (what change in education is proposed?) and its https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/support.html https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf anticipated, overall impact on improving the quality of FANH sciences education.

ii. Project Justification: Summarize the body of knowledge justifying the need for the proposed project. Discuss how the project’s Educational Need Area (Part II, C.1) will be of value at the state, regional, national, or international level(s), and where applicable, how it will improve the FANH science capabilities of students. Describe any previously funded projects that are ongoing or recently completed that are related to the proposed project

iii. Institutional Long-range Goals: Explain how the project will help satisfy the institution/organization's high-priority objectives, or how the project is linked to and supported by the institution/organization's strategic plan

iv. Innovation: Describe the proposal’s creative approach to improving the quality of FANH sciences education, solving an educational problem, or promoting programs that advance equal opportunity for all students.

Using either actual experiences or literature background information, show why this approach was chosen.

v. Multidisciplinary and/or Problem-based Focus: Indicate how the project is relevant to multiple disciplines in FANH sciences education and how the project will enhance students’ understanding of complex agricultural systems. Also, discuss whether the project may be adapted by, or serve as a model for other institutions.

b. Proposed Approach and Cooperative Linkages:

i. Plan of Operation and Methodology. Describe procedures for accomplishing the objectives of the project. Describe plans for management of the project to ensure its proper and efficient administration. Describe the way in which resources and personnel will be used to conduct the project.

ii. Timetable. Identify all important project milestones (performance targets that indicate when project goals will be met) and dates as they relate to project start-up, execution, evaluation, dissemination, and closeout.

iii. Products, Results and Measurable Outputs. Outline the expected products, results, measurable outputs, and their outcome (impact) on strengthening FANH sciences education.

Note: Make sure to differentiate among the three terms: 1) “Products” may be actual items or services acquired with funds, e.g., “…developed three, new web-based courses”; 2) “Results” are accomplishments related to the products, e.g., “...additional course materials now available online to reinforce student learning during non-classroom hours”; and 3) “Impacts” are the benefits to your audience. Impacts are the consequences of your project and the most critical elements in your Evaluation Plan. They are a measure of the results by comparison to what might have happened in the absence of the funded project, e.g., “…an observed, overall increase in student learning based upon 8 percent higher average test scores of those students who both attended class and used the supplemental, web-based course materials”.

iv. Evaluation Plan. All ANNH projects must have an Evaluation Plan that includes both a strategy for monitoring the project as it evolves (to provide feedback to guide these efforts), as well as a strategy for evaluating the effectiveness of the project. Grantees are encouraged to obtain an independent evaluator to secure appropriate documentation of the project’s outcomes and impacts. As a guide, up to 10 percent of the grant funds may be used to support this purpose.

v. Dissemination Plans. The application must document how project accomplishments (products, results and impacts, etc.) will be published or otherwise disseminated to the broadest extent throughout the academic community. This may include educational journals or other professional discipline publications, and presentations at regional or international conferences and workshops, including the ANNH Project Directors’ Meeting. Discuss the institution/organization’s commitment to disseminate project results and products and the potential for institutionalization. Identify target audiences and explain methods of communication.

vi. Partnerships and Collaborative Efforts. Explain how the project will maximize partnership and collaborative efforts to strengthen FANH sciences education (e.g., involvement of faculty in related disciplines at the same institution, collaborative projects with other educational institutions/organizations, or cooperative activities with business or industry). Provide evidence, via letters from the parties involved in the partnership or collaborative arrangement

c. Institutional Capability and Capacity Building

i. Institutional/Organizational Commitment and Capability. Demonstrate that the program administration is committed to this project and has the capability to ensure its completion.

ii. Institutional/Organizational Resources. Document the necessary institutional/organizational resources (administrative, facilities, equipment, and/or materials), and other appropriate resources, that will be made available to the project. Demonstrate how these resources, when combined with the support requested from USDA, will be adequate to carry out the activities of the project.

iii. Academic Enhancement. Document how this project will improve and strengthen teaching at the institution (including any partner institutions/organizations). Include how any project performance target(s) identified above (2.b., Timetable) will be incorporated into academic instruction at the institution. Discuss how the benefits to be derived from the project will transcend the applicant institution/organization or the grant period.

iv. Continuation Plans. Discuss the likelihood of, or specific plans for, continuation or expansion of the project beyond the period of USDA support. Describe how the institution’s/organization's long-range budget or academic plan provides for the realistic continuation or expansion of the initiative undertaken by this project after the grant period ends. Explain the plans for eventual self-support built into the project, and the plans to institutionalize the program if it is successful.

Describe any indications of other continuing non-Federal support.

Provide details of the expected outcomes, and the targeted audience that would benefit from the continuation of this project. This is optional for Planning Activity grant applications.

d. Key Personnel:

Discuss the adequacy and specific attributes and project responsibilities of each key person associated with the project. Also include the background and qualifications of those personnel who will be responsible for assessing project results and administering the project evaluation and reporting process.

e. Budget and Cost-effectiveness:

i. Budget: In addition to the separate, required budget forms and budget justification, discuss how the budget specifically supports the proposed project activities. Explain how such budget items as professional or technical staff time and salary, travel, equipment, etc., are necessary and reasonable to achieve project objectives. Justify that all funds requested from USDA are allocated adequately between the applicant and any collaborating institution/organization(s), and will be appropriate to carry out the activities of the project. If the application addresses more than one Educational Need Area (see Part II, C.1.), you must include estimates of the proportion of the funds requested from USDA that will support each respective area.

ii. Cost-effectiveness: Justify the project's cost-effectiveness. Show how the project maximizes the use of limited resources, optimizes educational value for the dollar, achieves economies of scale, or leverages additional funds. For example, discuss how the project has the potential to generate a critical mass of expertise and activity focused on a need area.

iii. Project Director’s Meeting. During the tenure of a grant, Project Directors (PDs) must attend at least one PD meeting. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss project and grant management, opportunities for collaborative efforts, future directions for education reform, and…