2015 notice of funding opportunity (nofo final 2).docx

Notice of Funding Opportunity Job Creation and Alternative Activities for At-Risk Youth Central America Regional Security Initiative Economic Support Funds

Catalog of Federal Domestic

Deadline for Submission of Applications: May 8, 2015 at 5:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The U.S. Embassy in Belmopan, Belize announces a notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) to strengthen citizen security by focusing on job creation and providing alternative activities and better education for youth at higher risk of gang affiliation and/or engaging in criminal activity. Contingent upon the availability of funds and quality of proposals, U.S. Embassy Belmopan intends to issue three to five awards in an amount not to exceed $900,000 in total funding. Each award will be for an amount between $100,000 and $400,000. Project periods should not exceed two years, and the anticipated start date for successful proposals is September 30, 2015.

This funding will support U.S. Government objectives under the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) to target the underlying factors contributing to violence and crime in Belize. Many high school children in Belize stop attending school at or around the mandatory education age limit of 14 with few outlets or opportunities, making them vulnerable to recruitment into gangs or criminal enterprises. High dropout rates and insufficient education contribute to unemployed, idle youth which in turn contributes to high crime rates. Belizean youth, especially those at risk of joining gangs or engaging in criminal activity, need access to economic opportunity, job-related skills, and alternative activities to keep youth in school.

Project proposals should address the underlying factors of crime and violence in Belize, and provide at-risk youth with educational and economic opportunities in support of CARSI Pillar One – Creating Safe Streets. The focus will be on job creation and/or providing alternative activities for youth at higher risk of gang affiliation and/or engaging in criminal activity.

Applicants should address at least one of the following project objectives:

· Providing job creation opportunities for youth and marginalized communities as an alternative to crime and violence.

· Providing youth and marginalized communities with productive alternative activities that increase education and leadership opportunities.

· Improving the educational quality or curriculum for high school youth in Belize, especially those in underserved communities.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for the award. The authority for this NOFO is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.

Eligible organizations interested in submitting an application are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of project sought and the application submission requirements and evaluation process.

For further information, please contact:

U.S. Embassy Belmopan; BelmopanGrants@state.gov; +501.822.4011 x4306

NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

The United States Department of State U.S. Embassy Belmopan is seeking applications from qualified U.S. or overseas-based non-profit and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), Public International Organizations (PIOs), and Educational Institutions for a grant to implement a program entitled “Job Creation for At-Risk Youth.” The authority for this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.

Pursuant to 2 CFR 200.400g, it is U.S. Department of State policy not to award profit under assistance instruments. All reasonable, allocable, and allowable expenses, however, both direct and indirect, which are related to the agreement and are in accordance with applicable cost standards (2 CFR 200 for US and overseas-based non-profit organizations, and universities; the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 31 48 CFR 31.2 for-profit organizations; and the Mandatory Standard Provision “Allowable Costs (APR 2011)” for public international organizations), may be paid under the grant agreement. NOTE: overseas-based nonprofit organizations are legally required to comply with the 2 CFR 200.

Subject to the availability of funds, U.S. Embassy Belmopan intends to issue three to five awards in an amount not to exceed $900,000 in total funding. Each award will be for an amount between $100,000 and $400,000. The U.S. Dollar amount will be funded from U.S. Embassy Belmopan allocated funds, for a project period not to exceed two years. The anticipated start date for this activity is September 30, 2015. Three to five awards are anticipated as a result of this NOFO. U.S. Embassy Belmopan reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for the award.

Eligible organizations interested in submitting an application are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of project sought and the application submission requirements and evaluation process.

To be eligible for award, the applicant must submit all required information in its application through grants.gov, including the requirements found in any attachments to this grants.gov opportunity. This NOFO consists of this cover letter plus the following Sections:

This funding opportunity is posted on www.grants.gov and may be amended. See Section IV for further details. Potential applicants should regularly check the website to ensure they have the latest information pertaining to this NOFO. Applicants will need to have available or download the Adobe software program in order to view and save the Adobe forms properly. If you have difficulty registering on www.grants.gov or accessing the NOFO, please contact the grants.gov Helpdesk at 1-800-518-4726 or via email at support@grants.gov for technical assistance.

It is the responsibility of the recipient of this NOFO document to ensure that it has been received from Grants.gov in its entirety. U.S. Embassy Belmopan bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes associated with electronic submissions.

Any questions concerning this NOFO should be submitted via email to BelmopanGrants@state.gov. The deadline for submission of questions for this NOFO is April 10, 2015, 5:00 PM Belize local time. Responses to questions will be made available to all potential applicants through an amendment to this NOFO and posted on grants.gov.

Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of an application. In addition, final award of any resultant grant agreement cannot be made until funds have been fully appropriated, allocated, and committed through internal U.S. Embassy Belmopan procedures. While it is anticipated that these procedures will be successfully completed, potential applicants are hereby notified of these requirements and conditions for award. Applications are submitted at the risk of the applicant. All preparation and submission costs are at the applicant's expense.

Sincerely, NOFO Number: BH200-15-GR-200-WHA-031615 Job Creation and Alternative Activities for At-Risk Youth

Ambassador Carlos Moreno

SECTION I – FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND

This funding will support U.S. Government objectives under the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) to target the underlying factors contributing to violence and crime in Belize. With the third highest per capita murder rate in the world in 2012 (according to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime), citizen security remains one of Belize’s most serious challenges. Belize’s poverty rate of approximately 43 percent, unemployment rate of 12.1 percent (over 25 percent for those persons aged 14- 25), and very young population (approximately 56 percent under 25) all present challenges for the future – particularly for the youth.

High unemployment among Belize’s young population contributes to continued high crime rates. At the same time, many high school children stop attending school at or around the mandatory education age limit of 14 with few outlets or opportunities, making them vulnerable to recruitment into gangs or criminal enterprises. High dropout rates and insufficient education contribute to unemployed, idle youth which in turn also contributes to high crime rates. Belizean youth, especially those at risk of joining gangs or engaging in criminal activity, need access to economic opportunity, job-related skills, and alternative activities to keep youth in school.

Within Central America (Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama), CARSI is enhancing the capabilities of national law enforcement, border and customs, prosecutorial, judicial, and prison agencies. These improvements are strengthening partner governments’ ability to fight street and organized crime, which threatens the security of governments in the region. The success of projects under the CARSI framework will enhance citizen safety and advance a wide range of other U.S. and regional shared security priorities. These improved capabilities will also provide a stronger platform for sustained bilateral and multilateral partnerships between the U.S., Central American nations, and other regional states.

Through the CARSI initiatives in Belize, U.S. Embassy Belmopan has worked to assist the Government of Belize to improve citizen security and decrease the impact of crime in Belize. The Embassy has helped the Government of Belize to:

· Build a culture of lawfulness that includes judicial and justice system reform;

· Strengthen and improve the criminal justice sector;

· Modernize correctional facilities;

· Improve Belize’s ability to secure its border;

· Counter criminal gangs by engaging at-risk youth in anti-gang/drug-related activities;

· Improve policy public cooperation to create safer communities;

· Implement projects to address the causes of crime, among other activities.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan seeks to achieve these goals with projects that build capacity through training, work across sectors, and demonstrate a vision of how to sustain a project beyond the life of a grant. A major focus of the Embassy is on assisting youth at risk of joining gangs or engaging in criminal activity, and addressing the root causes (poverty, education, health, and lack of economic opportunity) of an environment that leads to insecurity, crime, and hopelessness.

To support further progress in assisting at-risk youth, the U.S. Department of State has allocated US $900,000 in FY 2015 Economic Support Funds for grant proposals that address job creation, alternative activities and better education for at-risk youth.

PROJECT GOALS

The five goals of CARSI are:

1. Create safe streets for the citizens of the region;

2. Disrupt the movement of criminals and contraband within and among the nations of Central America;

3. Support the development of strong, capable and accountable Central American Governments;

4. Re-establish effective state presence and security in communities at risk; and

5. Foster enhanced levels of security and rule of law coordination and cooperation among the nations of the region.

The funds supporting this NOFO will focus on Goal 1.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES

Proposals should address the underlying factors of crime and violence in Belize, and provide at-risk youth with educational and economic opportunities in support of CARSI Pillar One goal - Creating Safe Streets. The focus will be to support job creation for at-risk youth, provide alternative activities for at-risk youth both in school and no longer in school, and improve the quality of education to encourage at-risk youth to graduate high school. At-risk youth refers to youth that are a) likely to affiliate with gangs or engage in criminal activity; b) come from communities that have high rates of rates of poverty, crime, unemployment, or teen parenthood; or c) live in areas with low high school graduation rates or low parental education levels.

As applicable, proposals should specify the expected results from projects benefitting from these funds, such as number of jobs created, reduction in crime in targeted areas, or the number of project participants reporting a desire to continue their education or seek legitimate employment. All proposals should state clear objectives and show plans to measure project performance and contributions to meeting CARSI goals.

Applicants should address at least one of the following project objectives:

Objective 1:

Provide job creation opportunities for youth between the ages of 14 and 25 and marginalized communities as an alternative to crime and violence. Opportunities should contemplate innovative employment opportunities and demand side engagement. The work should focus on two or more beneficiary communities to maximize the benefits and results of the project. Projects that combine or underscore the relationships between economic opportunities, vocational/technology skills, and citizen security are encouraged. Proposals that tie in job training opportunities related to Belize’s natural resources, agriculture, and tourism industries are encouraged, as well. Given that the employment rate among females in Belize is roughly three times that of males (19.4% and 5.9% respectively), proposals that focus on providing jobs for women are highly encouraged. Activities may include, but are not limited to: vocational projects; employer needs assessments; business mentoring projects; and apprenticeship/internship projects. The implementer should not use funds to pay salaries for the targeted youth.

Objective 2:

Provide at-risk youth between the ages of 8 and 25 and marginalized communities with productive alternative activities that increase education and leadership opportunities. These opportunities should encourage cultural and social development, build self-confidence, and promote civic participation in order to prevent at-risk youth from joining gangs or engaging in criminal activity and create safer streets. Applicants are recommended to organize activities in two cohorts: at-risk youth between the ages of 8 and 17 who have the potential to stay in school, and at-risk youth between the ages of 14 and 25 who are no longer in school. Activities may include, but are not limited to: women and girls’ empowerment activities; leading other youth, reading, science, environment and math projects; and sports, dance, theatre, music and art projects.

Objective 3:

Improve the educational quality or curriculum for school-aged youth (ages 8-18) in Belize, especially those in at-risk communities. Applicants are recommended to focus efforts at the local level to be able to accurately measure changes (i.e., propose work that would benefit select schools in a province(s); do not propose to address national education reform). Work should envision conditions under which the Government of Belize would seek to replicate such best practices or curricula, and should contemplate support from the local schools and/or the Ministry of Education, as necessary. Activities may include, but are not limited to: trainings for school administrators and/or teachers; English or Spanish language programs for students and/or teachers; and tutoring services for students facing mandatory examinations.

CROSS-CUTTING AND ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

1. Utilize Local Resources and Expertise

Proposals that include the utilization of local resources and expertise are highly encouraged. International applicants should consider collaboration with domestic organizations and institutions.

2. Project Expansion

In the event of a successful project, U.S. Embassy Belmopan will consider the option of expanding the project to other areas of the country, subject to availability of future funding. Applicants may include in their proposal a brief section outlining how additional funds could potentially be used to expand work into further activities or additional areas in future years. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their project might leverage funding through the Government of Belize and/or other organizations.

DESIRED RESULTS AND ILLUSTRATIVE INDICATORS

By the end of the project, applicants should demonstrate that the effort has contributed to safer and more productive communities by providing job opportunities and/or alternative activities to at-risk youth, or by contributing to the improved quality of the educational system in Belize.

Outcomes are changes that take place because of your organization’s work. The outcomes of your project are the differences that will have been made by delivering your objectives and achieving your outputs. For example an outcome could be increased job placement as a result of the training, or reduction in local unemployment rates.

Required outcome indicators for the projects are provided below. The recipient can provide indicators in addition to the required indicators listed below. The recipient is expected to identify targets for these indicators based on what it can reasonably achieve within the performance period of the project, and based on the expected overall project results described above.

Outputs are the results of what your organization does. For example, the number of participants who successfully complete a job training course or received job placement through your activities are outputs.

Illustrative output indicators for funded projects are provided below. The below are examples, there are no specific output indicators required. However the recipient must develop and provide a list of output indicators and targets appropriate for the recipient’s application.

The recipient will develop a project-level Performance Monitoring plan (PMP) with annual and end-of- project targets and results anticipated for key performance indicators. The following tables show example outcome and output indicators that will be measured, as well as illustrative targets, upon which the recipient will be responsible for monitoring and reporting during and after the project. In addition, U.S. Embassy Belmopan will regularly monitor the project’s performance to assess whether project activities are on track and targets are being achieved.

It is important to note that these are only for reference. The recipient shall be responsible for proposing, monitoring and reporting on its own output and outcome indicators. Applicants should propose indicators that demonstrate that project outcomes and outputs contribute to safer and more productive communities.

Example output indicators for the project are provided below.

The recipient may propose outputs, indicators, and/or targets as appropriate. The recipient will be required to collect baseline data for all the PMP indicators during the first year of the project. In addition, certain terms included in the outcomes and indicators will need to be defined at the very beginning of the project so that it is possible to measure the change during and at the end of the project. Examples of such are “capacity”, “spread effect”, etc. Baseline information will be critical for both monitoring and evaluation of project progress and results.

[END OF SECTION I]

SECTION II – AWARD INFORMATION

U.S. Embassy Belmopan expects to award three to five grant agreements based on this NOFO. The anticipated total federal funding amount is US $900,000. The period of performance is a maximum of two years with an anticipated start date of October 1, 2015.

The U.S. government may issue one or more awards resulting from this NOFO to the responsible applicants whose applications conforming to this NOFO are the most responsive to the objectives set forth in this NOFO. The U.S. government may (a) reject any or all applications, (b) accept other than the lowest cost application, (c) accept more than one application, (d) accept alternate applications, and (e) waive informalities and minor irregularities in applications received.

The U.S. government may make awards on the basis of initial applications received, without discussions or negotiations. Therefore, each initial application should contain the applicant's best terms from a cost and technical standpoint. The U.S. government reserves the right (but is not under obligation to do so), however, to enter into discussions with one or more applicants in order to obtain clarifications, additional detail, or to suggest refinements in the project description, budget, or other aspects of an application.

[END OF SECTION II]

SECTION III – ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

(1) Eligible Entities: Applicants who are eligible to apply are U.S. and overseas-based U.S. or overseas-based non-governmental and non-profit organizations (NGOs), Public International Organizations (PIOs) and Non-Profit Educational Institutions who are able to respond to the NOFO and be able to mobilize in a short period of time.

To be eligible for a grant award, in addition to other conditions of this NOFO, organizations must have a commitment to non‐discrimination with respect to beneficiaries and adherence to equal opportunity employment practices. Non‐discrimination includes equal treatment without regard to race, religion, ethnicity, gender, and political affiliation.

Applicants are reminded that U.S. Executive Orders and U.S. law prohibits transactions with, and the provision of resources and support to, individuals and organizations associated with terrorism. It is the legal responsibility of the Recipient to ensure compliance with these Executive Orders and laws. This provision must be included in any sub‐awards issued under this grant award.

(2) U.S. Embassy Belmopan encourages applications from Belizean organizations and institutions, as well as potential new partners.

[END OF SECTION III]

SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

U.S. Embassy Belmopan urges prospective applicants to immediately confirm their organization has a current Dun and Bradstreet (DUNS) number as well as a current Central Contractor Registration (www.sam.gov).

Applicant organizations that do not have DUNS number, may obtain one at no cost by calling the toll-free DUNS request line at 1-866-705-5711 or visiting the D&B website at: https://iupdate.dnb.com/iUpdate/viewiUpdateHome.htm

NOTE: Organizations must obtain a DUNS number prior to completing the SAM.gov registry process.

Applicant organizations can obtain assistance for SAM.gov registration by using the following link: https://www.fsd.gov or calling 1-866-606-8220 (U.S. calls)/or 1-324-206-7828 (international calls).

NCAGE Code - Special Requirements for Non-U.S. Applicants

Non-U.S. organizations must first obtain a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) CAGE (NCAGE) Code from the appropriate source. Organizations may request an NCAGE code using the following link: https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/scage/CageList.aspx

TECHNICAL FORMAT REQUIREMENTS

For all application documents, please ensure:

A) All pages are numbered, including budgets and attachments, B) All documents are formatted to 8 ½ x 11 paper, portrait orientation only, and C) All Microsoft Word documents are single-spaced, 12 point Times New Roman font, with a minimum of 1-inch margins.

Complete applications must include the following for proposal submissions:

1. Completed Cover Sheet which includes a project title, name of the solicitation organization, and Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS). See Tab E.

2. Completed and signed SF-424, SF-424a [and SF424b,] submitted to grants.gov, as well as, if applicable, your organization’s most recent audit.

3. Table of Contents (not to exceed one [1] page in Microsoft Word) that includes a page-numbered contents page, including any attachments.

4. Executive Summary (not to exceed two [2] pages in Microsoft Word) that includes:

a) the target country(ies),

b) name and contact information for the project’s main point of contact,

c) a statement of work or synopsis of the project, including a concise breakdown of the project’s objectives, activities, and expected results,

d) the total amount of funding requested and project length, and

e) a brief statement on how the project is innovative, sustainable, and will have a demonstrated impact.

5. Proposal Narrative (not to exceed ten [10] pages in Microsoft Word). Please note the ten page limit does not include the Table of Contents, Executive Summary, Attachments, Detailed Budget, Budget Narrative or NICRA.

6. Budget Narrative (preferably in Microsoft Word) that includes an explanation and justification for each line item in the detailed budget spreadsheet, as well as the source and a description of all cost-share offered. For ease of review, U.S. Embassy Belmopan recommends applicants order the budget narrative as presented in the detailed budget. Personnel costs should include a clarification of the roles and responsibilities of key staff and percentage of time devoted to the project. The budget narrative should communicate to U.S. Embassy Belmopan any information that might not be readily apparent in the budget, not simply repeat with words what is stated numerically in the budget.

7. Detailed Line-Item Budget (preferably in Microsoft Excel) that includes three [3] columns including the request to U.S. Embassy Belmopan, any cost sharing contribution, and total budget (see below for more information on budget format). A summary budget should also be included using the OMB approved budget categories (see SF-424 as a sample). Costs must be in U.S. dollars.

8. Attachments (not to exceed nine [9] pages total, preferably in Microsoft Word) that include the following in order:

a) Page 1-2: Monitoring and Evaluation Plan (see below for more information on this section).

b) Page 3: Roles and responsibilities of key project personnel with short bios that highlight relevant professional experience. This relates to the organization’s capacity. Given the limited space, CVs are not recommended for submission.

c) Page 4: Timeline of the overall proposal. Components should include activities, evaluation efforts, and project closeout.

d) Page 5-7: Additional optional attachments. Attachments may include further timeline information, letters of support, memoranda of understanding (MOU)/agreement, etc. For applicants with a large number of letters/MOUs, it may be useful to provide a list of the organizations or government agencies that support the project rather than the actual documentation.

9. If your organization has a negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA) and will include NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA must be included as a .pdf file. This document will not be reviewed by the panelists, but rather used by project and grant staff if the submission is recommended for funding and therefore does not count against the submission page limitations, as described above. If your proposal involves subgrants to organizations charging indirect costs, please submit the applicable NICRA also as a .pdf file (see below for more information on indirect cost rates). Specify if your organization elects to charge the de minimis rate of 10% of the modified total direct costs.

Note: U.S. Embassy Belmopan retains the right to request additional documentation for those items not included on this form.

INFORMATION ON STANDARD FORMS

Please see Tab D for instructions for completion of Standard Forms 424, 424A, and 424B.

OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET (OMB) CIRCULARS

Organizations should be familiar with 2 CFR 200 on cost accounting principles. For a copy of the OMB circular cited, please contact Government Publications or download from http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl. Overseas-based nonprofit organizations are legally required to comply with 2 CFR 200. Public international organizations retain their privileges and immunities as such, but are encouraged to address this OMB Circular.

AUDITS

The recipient’s proposal should include the cost of an audit that:

1) Complies with the requirements of 2 CFR 200 Subpart F “Audit Requirements;”

2) Complies with the requirements of American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Statement of Position (SOP) No. 92-9, "Audits of Not-for-Profit Organizations Receiving Federal Awards;"

3) Complies with AICPA Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards AU Section 551, "Reporting on Information Accompanying the Basic Financial Statements in Auditor-Submitted Documents," where applicable. When the U.S. Department of State is the largest direct source of Federal financial assistance (i.e., the cognizant Federal Agency) and indirect costs are charged to Federal grants, a supplemental schedule of indirect cost computation is required;

4) A non-Federal entity that expends $750,000 or more during the non-Federal entity's fiscal year in Federal awards must have a single or project-specific audit conducted for that year in accordance with the provisions of 2 CFR 200 subpart F.

The audit costs shall be identified by 2 CFR 200.425.

INDIRECT COST-RATE

An organization with a negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA) negotiated with a cognizant federal government agency other than the U.S. Department of State must include a copy of the cost-rate agreement. Applicants should indicate in the proposal budget how the rate is applied and if any of the rate will be cost-shared. Per 2 CFR 200.414. any non-Federal entity that has never received a negotiated indirect cost rate, except for those non-Federal entities described in Appendix VII to Part 200—States and Local Government and Indian Tribe Indirect Cost Proposals, paragraph D.1.b, may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10% of modified total direct costs (MTDC) which may be used indefinitely. As described in 2 CFR 200.403, factors affecting allowability of costs, costs must be consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs, but may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. If chosen, this methodology once elected must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a non-Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the non-Federal entity may apply to do at any time.

TAB A: PROPOSAL GUIDELINES

Proposals should include the following components:

· Introduction and Problem Statement

· Planned Activities

· Indicators

Problem Statement and Rationale: Describe the problem and how the project will achieve or contribute to achieving a sustainable solution and a measurable outcome. The applicant should explain the extent of existing assistance within the particular geographic area, and how the proposed intervention may complement (or differ from) other similar interventions. The implementer should also explain, as necessary, the particular experience and qualifications they bring to the project. The rationale should also reflect understanding of the priorities and policies of the bureau/post or program with which this agreement is associated.

Planned Activities and Indicators: Describe the planned activities, and relevant stakeholders for implementation. The implementer should highlight key stakeholders and their expected role in the project, along with any contingencies. The implementer should list assumptions that are dependent on the ultimate success of the project. This could include elements like geographic location, coordination efforts with other international organizations, or political will from host governments, private sector, and NGOs. As appropriate, limited contingency possibilities should be included in the proposal, in case the initial planning assumptions are not met. Example of a planned activity and contingency:

In the proposal, there should be a clearly defined link between each of the following elements as delineated:

Problem Statement Planned Activities/Inputs Process Indicators Output Indicators Outcome Indicators Impact

Process Indicators measure the activity that has been completed. Please delineate the specific activities to be conducted, such as workshops, roundtables, trainings, forums, exchanges, policy dialogues, etc. All indicators must include targets. Example of a process indicator:

Output Indicators, otherwise known as deliverables associated with the agreement, should be included. Unlike process indicators, outputs are what is produced, and are often tangible. At this level, it is the measurement of ability, knowledge, skills, or access. All indicators must include targets. Example of an output indicator involving the same participants:

Outcome Indicators measure the change in system or behavior or practice. Expected outcomes are the results that come from a series of activities that are necessary to achieve impact. All indicators must include targets. Example of an outcome indicator:

All indicators must include measurable, numerical targets, which should serve as the foundation for monitoring and evaluation efforts. Ultimately, proposed activities and achievement of indicator targets will lead to impact.

TAB B: PROJECT MONITORING AND EVALUATION PLAN

U.S. Embassy Belmopan will work with recipient organizations to implement the appropriate monitoring and evaluation plan that meets both the needs of U.S. Embassy Belmopan and the implementing partner. Incorporating a well-designed monitoring and evaluation component into a project is one of the most efficient methods of documenting the progress and potential success of a project. Successful monitoring and evaluation depend on the following:

· Setting objectives that are specific, measurable, attainable, results-focused, and placed in a reasonable time frame (SMART);

· Linking project activities to stated objectives;

· Developing key performance indicators that measure realistic progress towards the objectives.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan expects implementing organizations will track participants or partners as appropriate and be able to respond to key evaluation questions, including satisfaction with the project/training, information learned as a result of the project/training, changes in attitude and behavior as a result of the project, and effects of the project on institutions in which participants work or partner with. Applicants should include the monitoring and evaluation process in their timeline.

Recipients will be required to provide reports with an analysis and summary of their findings, both quantitative and qualitative, in their regular progress reports to U.S. Embassy Belmopan.

The monitoring and evaluation plan should include, at a minimum, the following elements:

· A results “Logic Model” planning document (see sample)

· Indicators, as described in Tab A, as well as details on how each indicator will be measured, frequency of the measurements, units of measure, etc. Provide indicators at the output and outcome levels. Monitoring and evaluation plans should include a chart component that clearly delineates indicators and targets. All indicators must include measurable, numerical targets.

· Establish, where possible, performance baseline data and expected performance targets for each indicator/outcome. In some cases, the baseline may be zero.

· Describe monitoring and evaluation tools, such as rapid assessment surveys, site visits, key stakeholder interviews, etc., that will be used.

· Plans should describe how the project’s impact and effectiveness will be monitored and evaluated throughout the project.

Sample Evaluation Plan

Activity: Training Course

Activity: Government Roundtable

Sample “Logic Model” Planning Tool

Note: Outcomes, outputs, and activities should include numerical, measurable targets. A Logic Model is a useful tool for planning, and it is utilized when designing monitoring and evaluation methodology and frameworks.

Impact: Improved Food Security for 50,000 households in Country X

Outcome 1 Improved production and productivity of female and male producers

Outcome 2 Increased adoption of appropriate nutrition practices, by female and male beneficiaries

Output 1.1 Farmer Field Schools Established

Output 1.2 Improved access to input supply systems/services

Output 2.1 Home Gardens Established

Output 2.2 Improved knowledge of nutrition practices

Activities Train producers on FFS methodology

Conduct agro-forestry training

Develop and translate materials

Conduct meetings with suppliers

Distribute new seed varietals

Organize and hold supply fairs

Train producers on how to develop home gardens

Distribute new seeds

Train producers in food conservation and preparation

TAB C: BUDGET GUIDELINES

Complete budgets will provide a detailed line-item budget outlining specific cost requirements for proposed activities. A minimum of three columns should be used to delineate the bureau funding request, cost-share by applicant, and total project funding. Complete applications will include a budget narrative to clarify and justify individual line-items (i.e. calculations of how the costs were derived per month or year, their necessity, and overall contribution to the project’s cost-effectiveness).

The three-column proposal line item budget should include the following components, in the suggested format below:

A. PERSONNEL

a) Primarily Headquarters-Based Personnel

b) Primarily Field-Based Personnel

Subtotal Personnel

B. FRINGE BENEFITS

Subtotal Fringe Benefits

C. TRAVEL

a) Monitoring Travel

b) Field Travel

Activity 1: Workshop

Activity 2: Town Hall Meeting

Subtotal Travel

D. EQUIPMENT

a) Primarily H.Q.-Based Equipment (if applicable)

d) Primarily Field-Based Equipment

Subtotal Equipment

E. SUPPLIES

a) Primarily H.Q.-Based Supplies (if applicable)

b) Primarily Field-Based Supplies

Subtotal Supplies

F. CONTRACTUAL

a) Subgrants

b) Consultant Fees

Subtotal Contractual

H. OTHER

a) Other Direct Costs

Subtotal Other

I. TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES

(Sum of A-H Subtotals)

J. INDIRECT CHARGES

a) Indirect Costs/NICRA (X% of costs)

Subtotal Indirect Charges

K. TOTAL COSTS (Sum I-J)

Note: This budget is designed to serve as an example of the format for complete budget submissions and is NOT exhaustive. Individual line items included in each applicant’s budget should reflect specific project activities. (pax = participants)

Before grants are awarded, the Embassy reserves the right to reduce, revise, or increase proposal budgets in accordance with the needs of the Embassy’s program and availability of funds.

As mentioned above, the detailed budget should also include an accompanying budget notes document that explains and justifies each line item, in the suggested format below:

LINE-ITEM BUDGET –

A. Personnel – Identify staffing requirements by each position title and brief description of duties. For clarity, please list the annual salary of each position, percentage of time and number of months devoted to the project. (e.g., Administrative Director: $30,000/year x 25% x 8.5 months; calculation: $30,000/12 = $2,500 x 25% x 8.5 months = $5,312.).

B. Fringe Benefits - State benefit costs separately from salary costs and explain how benefits are computed for each category of employee - specify type and rate.

C. Travel - Staff and any participant travel:

1) international airfare

2) in-country travel

3) domestic travel in Country X., if any

4) per diem/maintenance: includes lodging, meals and incidentals for both participant and staff travel. Rates of maximum allowances for U.S. and foreign travel are available from the following website: http:/www.policyworks.gov/. Per diem rates may not exceed the published U.S. government allowance rates; however, institutions may use per diem rates lower than official government rates.

5) staff refers to grantee staff only, and not sub-grantee staff or contractors

D. Equipment – please provide justification for any equipment purchase/rental, defined as tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year and an acquisition cost of $5000 or more.

E. Supplies - list items separately using unit costs (and the percentage of each unit cost being charged to the grant) for photocopying, postage, telephone/fax, printing, and office supplies (e.g., Telephone: $50/month x 50% = $25/month x 12 months).

F. Contractual –

a) Subgrants. For each subgrant/contract please provide a detailed line-item budget breakdown explaining specific services. Please provide a subgrant budget using the approved OMB budget format. (See Tab C: Budget Guidelines, above.)

b) Consultant Fees. For example lecture fees, honoraria, travel, and per diem for outside speakers or independent evaluators: list number of people and rates per day (e.g., 2 x $150/day x 2 days).

G. Other - these will vary depending on the nature of the project. The inclusion of each should be justified in the budget narrative. All costs must be allowable, allocable, and reasonable, and consistent with OMB guidelines. Line items such as “Miscellaneous,” “Contingency Fund,” and “Reserve Fund” are not permitted.

H. Indirect Charges - See 2 CFR 200.414 , "Indirect Costs”

Cost Share/Cost-Effectiveness – Cost sharing is not required. Explanation of contributions should be included, whether cash or in-kind. Assign a monetary value in U.S. dollars to each in-kind contribution. If the proposed project is a component of a larger program, identify other funding sources for the proposal and indicate the specific funding amount to be provided by those sources. In addition, it is recommended that budget narratives address the overall cost-effectiveness of the proposal, including leveraging of institutional or other resources. Cost sharing or matching refers to a portion of project or program cost that is not borne by the Federal Government. Grantees must follow cost sharing or matching policy as stipulated in 2 CFR 200.306. Cost sharing amounts proposed will be incorporated as part of the allowable budget items. If selected for an award, your organization will have to provide the minimum amount of cost sharing as stipulated in the budget approved by the Grants Officer. If your organization does not meet its cost share amount stipulated in the approved budget by the end of the period of performance the Embassy will have the option to (1) reduce its contribution in proportion to your organization’s contribution in the event that you do not provide the minimum amount of cost sharing stipulated in the budget or (2) hold your organization accountable for the amount specified in the approved budget.

BUDGET CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS:

The Embassy does not pay for the following:

· Publication of materials for distribution within the U.S.;

· Administration of a project that will make a profit;

· Expenses incurred before or after the specified dates of award period of performance (unless prior written approval received);

· Projects designed to advocate policy views or positions of foreign governments or views of a particular political faction;

· Alcoholic beverages;

· Costs of entertainment, including amusement, diversion, and social activities and any associated costs are unallowable, except where specific costs that might otherwise be considered entertainment have a programmatic purpose and are authorized either in the approved budget for the Federal award or with prior written approval of the Federal awarding agency;

· Land;

· Construction.

The Embassy may make conditions and recommendations on proposals to enhance proposed projects. Conditions and recommendations are to be addressed by the applicant before approval of the award. To ensure effective use of U.S. Embassy Belmopan funds, conditions or recommendations may include requests to increase, decrease, clarify and/or justify costs.

TAB D: GUIDELINES FOR STANDARD FORMS

SF-424 – Complete all fields except fields noted as “Leave Blank” below.

1. Type of Submission: Application

2. Type of Application: New

3. Date Received: Leave blank. This will automatically be assigned

4. Applicant Identifier: Leave blank 5a. Federal Entity Identifier: Leave blank 5b. Federal Award Identifier: Leave blank

6. Date Received by State: Leave blank. This will automatically be assigned

7. State Application Identified: Leave blank. This will automatically be assigned 8a. Enter the legal name of the applicant organization.

8b. Employer/Taxpayer ID Number: N/A.

8c. Organizational DUNS: Organizations can request a DUNS number at http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform 8d. Enter the full address of the applicant 8e. Enter the name of the primary organizational unit (and department or division, if applicable) that will undertake the assistance activity, if applicable 8f. Enter the name, title, organization, and contact information of person to be contacted on matters involving this application

9. Select an applicant type (type of organization)

10. Enter: U.S. Embassy Belmopan

11. Enter: N/A

12. Enter the…