2024_DBI_RFA_Final_2.pdf

OMB No. 0581‐0240

Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives

Fiscal Year 2024 Request for Applications

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA‐AMS‐TM‐DBII‐G‐24‐0029

Publication Date: June 25, 2024

Application Due Date: 11:59 PM Eastern Time on August 27, 2024

OMB No. 0581‐0240

PROGRAM SOLICITATION INFORMATION

Funding Opportunity Title: Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA‐AMS‐TM‐DBII‐G‐24‐0029

Announcement Type: Initial

Assistance Listing Number: 10.176

Dates: Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on August 27, 2024, through Grants.gov. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered for funding.

Executive Summary: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), requests applications for the fiscal year (FY) 2024 from existing initiatives of the Dairy Business Innovation (DBI) Initiatives program: the California State University Fresno Foundation, the University of Tennessee, the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, and the University of Wisconsin.

These initiatives serve to:

• Diversify dairy product markets to reduce risk and develop higher value uses for dairy products;

• Promote business development that diversifies farmer income through processing and marketing innovation; and

• Encourage the use of regional milk production.

Approximately $12 million will be available to fund applications under this solicitation and administer the program. Initiatives must perform project activities from FY 2024 through FY 2027. Initiatives must submit a noncompeting application for each fiscal year in which the DBI Initiatives are appropriated funds.

This announcement identifies the application forms and associated instructions needed to apply.

AMS encourages Initiatives to benefit small dairy farm businesses, underserved dairy producers, veteran dairy producers, underserved communities, and partner and/or collaboratives with Minority Serving Institutions that have the expertise and can provide direct or indirect technical assistance to dairy businesses. For example, Initiatives may prioritize subawards to entities that are currently partnering with or receiving technical assistance from the above‐mentioned groups.

AMS also encourages Initiatives to support applications for projects that offer innovative solutions and alternatives to address the disruption of the milk packaging supply chain caused by the milk carton shortage. For example, Initiatives may use technical assistance (see section 1.3.1) and/or subawards to dairy businesses (see section 1.3.2) to address packaging supply shortages, packaging alternatives, and other solutions to store milk in serving‐size containers that can be used for schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and prisons.

USDA promotes climate‐resilient landscapes and rural economic systems, including tools to support agriculture, forests, grazing lands, and rural communities. AMS encourages applicants to consider including goals and activities related to reducing and stabilizing the levels of heat‐trapping greenhouse gases in the atmosphere or adapting to the already occurring climate change in their project’s design and implementation.

https://sam.gov/fal/4e30be80cb92442ab1525ca24c05dcd1/view http://www.grants.gov/

Stakeholder Input: AMS seeks comments about this Request for Applications (RFA). We will consider the comments in developing the next RFA for the program. E‐mail written comments within one year of the publication date of this RFA to: AMSGrants@usda.gov. (This e‐mail address is intended only for receiving comments regarding this RFA and not requesting information or forms.) In your comments, please state that you are responding to the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives RFA.

2024 HIGHLIGHTS AND CHANGES

Below are highlight of major changes to the program since last year.

The AMS General Terms and Conditions have been updated to reflect recent changes to the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200) and Buy America preference for infrastructure projects.

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

AMS requests applicants to read the entire RFA prior to submitting their application to ensure that they understand the program’s requirements. This application checklist provides the required documents for an application package.

This program requires that all application packages include the following:

� SF‐424 – Application for Federal Assistance (in Grants.gov) � SF‐424A – Budget Summary (in Grants.gov) � Project Abstract Summary (in Grants.gov) � Project Narrative Form (section 5.2.4 ) o Must use required template.

o Executive summary must not exceed 250 words.

o Ensure it does not exceed the page limit.

o Ensure application excludes unallowable costs and activities per section 4.5

� Signed Letter(s) of Commitment from each partner or collaborating organization at the time of application per section 5.2.5

If applicable, packages may also be required to include the following documents:

� Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) (PDF Attachment)

TIPS FOR APPLICANTS

• To do business with the Federal Government and to submit your application electronically using Grants.gov, you must— o Have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN);

o Be registered in SAM.gov, the Government's primary registrant database;

o Provide your UEI number and TIN on your application; and o Maintain an active SAM registration with current information throughout the application review period and, if you are awarded a grant, during the project period.

• Register in Grants.gov and submit applications early. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE DAY OF THE APPLICATION DEADLINE. AMS encourages you to submit your application at least two weeks before the application deadline to ensure all certifications are met.

mailto:AMSGrants@usda.gov https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/FY2024_AMSGeneralTermsandConditions.pdf

• Thoroughly read this RFA and follow all instructions.

• The applicant organization registration process may take more than four weeks to complete.

You must complete your organization registration to allow enough to meet the required application submission deadlines. See section 5.3.1 for information.

• Thoroughly review the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions and DBI specific Terms and Conditions to understand allowable and unallowable costs.

• Apply to the correct grant program in Grants.gov using the correct Assistance Listing Number “10.176” and Funding Opportunity Number “USDA-AMS-TM-DBI-G-24-0029.”

• Ensure you have the most recent copy of Adobe Reader installed on your computer and that it is compatible with Grants.gov software.

• Limit Application File Size/ File Name Characters (50 or less).

• Avoid Special Characters in File Names ($, %, &, *, Spanish "ñ", etc.).

• When uploading attachments, click the “Add Attachments” button (do NOT use the “paperclip” icon in Adobe Reader)

• Do not password‐protect your documents and make sure all tracked changes are “accepted”.

• Input the correct UEI number on the SF‐424 form cover page.

• Review the Grants.gov Applicant User and Registration Guides:

https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant‐faqs.html https://www.grants.gov/applicants/workspace‐overview.html

TIMING TO OBTAIN AND SUBMIT GRANTS.GOV REQUIRED ELEMENTS

Required Action Timing to Obtain/Submit AMS Deadline to receive final application and all supporting materials through Grants.Gov

August 27, 2024 – 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time

Obtaining Your Organization’s UEI Number (if you do not already have one) 7‐10 business days Establishing an Active SAM.gov Account (if you do not already have one) 7‐10 business days Obtaining a TIN/EIN (if you do not already have one) Up to 2 weeks Creating your Grants.gov profile and registering your Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) authorization Up to 2 weeks https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/DBISpecificTermsandConditions.pdf https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/DBISpecificTermsandConditions.pdf https://www.grants.gov/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-faqs.html https://www.grants.gov/applicants/workspace-overview.html

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 Funding Opportunity Description

1.1 Legislative Authority

1.2 Purpose

1.3 Program Description

2.0 Award Information

2.1 Type of Federal Assistance

2.2 Type of Applications

2.3 Available Funding

2.4 Federal Award Period Duration and size

3.0 Eligibility Information

3.1 Eligible Applicants

3.2 Partners and Collaborators

4.0 Funding Considerations

4.1 Cost Sharing and Matching

4.2 Indirect Costs

4.3 Supplanting

4.4 Subaward Allocation

4.5 Allowable and Unallowable Costs and Activities

4.6 Coordinator Meeting Travel

4.7 Support for Domestic Dairy Businesses

4.8 Funds Not Applied For

5.0 Application and Submission Information

5.1 Electronic Application Package

5.2 Content and Form of Application Submission

5.3 Grants.gov Application Submission and Receipt Procedures and Requirements

5.4 application submission requirements

5.5 Submission Date and Time

5.6 Intergovernmental Review

6.0 Application Review Information

7.0 Award Administration Information

7.1 Award Notices

7.2 ineligible Applicants

7.3 Administrative and National Policy Requirements

7.4 Reporting Requirements

7.5 Acknowledgement of USDA Support

8.0 Agency Contacts

8.1 Programmatic Questions

8.2 Available Resources

8.3 address

8.4 Grants.gov Questions

9.0 Other Information

9.1 Equal Opportunity Statement

9.2 Freedom of Information Act Requests

9.3 Paperwork Reduction

1.0 FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

1.1 LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY

The Dairy Business Innovation (DBI) Initiatives is authorized by 7 U.S.C. § 1632d.

1.2 PURPOSE

This program assists existing DBI initiatives in managing regional efforts to support dairy businesses in the development, production, marketing, and distribution of dairy products. These initiatives specifically focus on:

1. Diversifying dairy product markets to reduce risk and develop higher value uses for dairy products;

2. Promoting business development that diversifies farmer income through processing and marketing innovation; and

3. Encouraging the use of regional milk production.

This RFA is to award funding to current initiatives for FY 2024 through 2027. See section 2.4 for more information.

1.2.1 DEFINITIONS

Dairy Businesses are businesses that develop, produce, market, or distribute dairy products.

Initiatives are selected eligible entities that host this program with the purposes indicated under section 1.2.

Dairy Products are products manufactured for use by humans which are derived from the processing of milk and include fluid milk products. Products may include but are not limited to butter, cheese (whether natural or processed), skim milk, cream, whey, or buttermilk (whether dry, evaporated, stabilized, or condensed), and frozen desserts.

1.3 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Initiatives must provide direct technical assistance and make subgrants to dairy businesses. This includes continuing their capacity to provide consultation and expertise necessary to advance the purpose and activities of the program and to distribute and track subawards to dairy businesses. Initiatives should also build on previous efforts to engage existing dairy industry resources, including dairy farm density and suitability, as well as activities conducted by dairy promotion and research programs (authorized by the Dairy Production Stabilization Act of 1983 and the Fluid Milk Promotion Act of 1990), research organizations, dairy businesses, or academic or industry stakeholders. Initiatives may serve a certain product niche, such as specialty cheese, or serve dairy businesses with dairy products derived from the milk of a specific type of dairy animal, including dairy products made from cow milk, sheep milk, and goat milk.

These initiatives also consult with any authorized dairy promotion program and AMS in carrying out the program and report on outcomes of the program as well as any related activities and opportunities to further increase dairy innovation. Host initiatives must maintain guidelines and procedures to prevent any conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest as required by 2 CFR § 400.2(b) while providing direct technical assistance and subgrants to dairy businesses mentioned below. AMS may suspend or terminate funds to an initiative if the Initiative is found to be in violation of conflict‐of‐ interest standards in accordance with 2 CFR 400.2(b) and 200.112 and the DBI Terms and Conditions.

http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section1632d&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-IV/part-400/section-400.2 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-IV/part-400/section-400.2 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-B/section-200.112

1.3.1 DIRECT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO DAIRY BUSINESSES

Initiatives should provide nonmonetary direct technical assistance to dairy businesses through either private consultation or widely available distribution. Technical assistance may be provided directly through the host initiative, through contracting with industry experts or through research institutions, including cooperative extension services. Specific forms of assistance may include:

• Business consulting, including business plan development for processed dairy products, strategic planning assistance, and distribution and supply chain innovation;

• Marketing and branding assistance, including market messaging, packaging innovation, consumer assessments, innovation in emerging market opportunities, and evaluation of regional, national, and international markets;

• Assistance in product innovation, including the development of value‐added products, innovation in byproduct reprocessing and use maximization, and dairy product production training, including in new, rare, or innovative techniques; and

• Development or facilitation of general informational websites, webinars, conferences, trainings, plant tours, and field days.

1.3.2 SUBAWARDS TO DAIRY BUSINESSES

An initiative should make competitive subawards to new and existing dairy businesses for the purposes of:

1. Modernization, specialization, and grazing transition on dairy farms;

2. Value chain and commodity innovation and facility and process updates for dairy processors;

and

3. Product development, packaging, and marketing of dairy products.

Initiatives may provide a noncompetitive subaward to an entity that receives direct technical assistance as described in section 1.3.1 to advance the business activities recommended as a result of that assistance.

Initiatives must implement subawards as follows:

• Allocate at least 50 percent of the allotted funds to make subawards to new or existing dairy businesses.

• There is no minimum subaward amount.

• The maximum subaward amount to a single dairy business will not be more than $500,000.

1.3.3 PRIORITY AREAS

Initiatives must prioritize the provision of direct technical assistance referenced in section 1.3.1 and the subawards described in section 1.3.2 to entities that are:

• Dairy farms and dairy businesses with limited access to other forms of assistance;

• Employee‐owned dairy businesses;

• Cooperatives; and

• Dairy businesses that seek to create dairy products that add substantial value in processing or marketing, such as specialty cheeses.

bookmark://_Subawards_to_Dairy/

2.0 AWARD INFORMATION

2.1 TYPE OF FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

AMS will use a Grant Agreement to provide the Federal award to applicants.

2.2 TYPE OF APPLICATIONS

New application. AMS will review all applications for conformance with the criteria in section 6.0 and may require the applicant to provide additional information or clarification by a specified date.

2.3 AVAILABLE FUNDING

AMS anticipates approximately $12 million (minus USDA administrative costs) will be available in FY2024. The distribution of funds among initiatives is shown in Section 2.4.

Enactment of a continuing resolution, appropriations act, or other authorizing legislation may affect the availability or level of funding for this program.

2.4 FEDERAL AWARD PERIOD DURATION AND SIZE

AMS expects applicants to complete their projects within the required performance period. AMS encourages applicants to take the full performance period to allow ample time to complete projects.

However, it is acceptable to complete a project before the scheduled performance period end date. The applicant must indicate the start and end dates on the SF‐424, “Application for Federal Assistance” in block 17.

Each initiative is eligible to apply for the eligible funding and for the period of performance indicated in the tables below.

If an initiative applies for less than its available amount, AMS will redistribute the remaining portion of available funds among the other initiatives.

Dairy Business Initiative Available Funding

California State University Fresno Foundation $690,000

University of Tennessee $3,450,000

Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets $3,450,000

University of Wisconsin $3,450,000

Duration (Months) Start date End Date

36 September 30, 2024 September 29, 2027

3.0 ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

3.1 ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

Eligible applicants are current initiatives which were competitively selected to fulfill the purpose of the program (see section 1.2). Initiatives will continue work already started under their previous awards. A list of the Initiatives with their selection fiscal year is listed below.

• The California State University Fresno Foundation (FY2021)

• The University of Tennessee (FY2019)

• The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (FY2019), and

• The University of Wisconsin (FY2019).

3.2 PARTNERS AND COLLABORATORS

An applicant may subcontract or subaward with partners and collaborators. Only the applicant must meet the eligibility requirements listed in this RFA.

• A partnership is a relationship involving close cooperation between parties having specified and joint rights and responsibilities in the management of the project.

• A collaborator is a person or an organization unaffiliated with the applicant that cooperates with the applicant in the conduct of the project and is not immediately connected to the management of the project.

Partners and collaborators may come from private or public, for‐profit, or nonprofit entities. Applicants must show evidence of existing community or industry support and engagement.

4.0 FUNDING CONSIDERATIONS

4.1 COST SHARING AND MATCHING

This funding opportunity does not have a federal cost sharing or matching requirement. Applicants should not include this content in the submitted application nor subsequent performance or financial reports.

4.2 INDIRECT COSTS

Indirect costs (also known as “facilities and administrative costs”—defined at 2 CFR § 200.1) are those costs incurred for a common or joint purpose benefitting more than one cost objective, and not readily assignable to the cost objectives specifically benefitted, without effort disproportionate to the results achieved.

In accordance with 2 CFR § 200.414 (f), any non‐Federal entity that does not have a current, negotiated (including provisional) indirect cost rate, except State and Local Government and Indian Tribe Indirect Cost Proposals, may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent of modified total direct costs (MTDC). The de minimis rate does not require documentation to justify its use and may be used indefinitely. As described in 2 CFR § 200.403, costs must be consistently charged as either direct or indirect costs and may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. Once elected, this methodology must be used consistently for all Federal awards until a recipient chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the recipient may apply to do at any time.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-A/subject-group-ECFR2a6a0087862fd2c/section-200.1 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRd93f2a98b1f6455/section-200.414 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRea20080eff2ea53/section-200.403

All applicants who elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent must use the MTDC as the base.

MTDC are defined in 2 CFR § 200.1 as all direct salaries and wages, applicable fringe benefits, materials and supplies, services, travel, and up to the first $25,000 of each subaward (regardless of the period of performance of the subawards under the award). MTDCs exclude equipment, capital expenditures, charges for patient care, rental costs, tuition remission, scholarships and fellowships, participant support costs, and the portion of each subaward in excess of $25,000. Other items may be excluded only when necessary to avoid a serious inequity in the distribution of indirect costs, and with the approval of the cognizant agency for indirect costs.

If an applicant has a negotiated indirect cost rate approved by its cognizant agency, the applicant must submit a copy of its approved NICRA with its application. Entities that would like to negotiate an indirect cost rate must contact their cognizant agency. For assignments of cognizant agencies see 2 CFR § 200.1.

4.3 SUPPLANTING

The funds awarded through this funding opportunity must increase, expand, or replace, and not duplicate, existing activities of the host initiatives.

4.4 SUBAWARD ALLOCATION

Each initiative must allocate at least 50 percent of its DBI grant to subawards.

4.5 ALLOWABLE AND UNALLOWABLE COSTS AND ACTIVITIES

All AMS awards are subject to the terms and conditions, cost principles, and other considerations described in the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions and in the DBI specific terms and conditions.

As outlined in the DBI specific terms and conditions, equipment purchases to be used for onsite dairy production and processing are generally allowable as special purpose equipment, both for the applicants (DBI Initiatives) and subrecipients (dairy producers and processors). Special purpose equipment purchases in subawards must meet one or more of the following purposes:

1. Modernization, specialization, and grazing transition on dairy farms;

2. Value chain and commodity innovation and facility and process updates for dairy processors;

and

3. Product development, packaging, and marketing of dairy products.

Purchases over $5,000 must be approved and the purchased equipment monitored by AMS, as required by 2 CFR § 200.313.

DBI funds may be used for alteration and repair of buildings and improvements. The cost of altering any one building during the fiscal year shall not exceed 10 percent of the current replacement value of the building. Improvements and repair of buildings may include improvements, rearrangements, and/or alterations of an existing building or facility to use a space more effectively and to accommodate new or upgraded equipment and processes, as well as to expand processing capacities. Any such activities must meet one of the purposes listed above in this section.

DBI funds may not be used for new construction or structural changes to an existing building/facility resulting in an expansion of square footage, expansion, or changes to the to the building’s floor, foundation, and exterior or load bearing walls.

Applicants that have questions concerning the allowability of costs after reviewing this document should contact AMS staff using the contact information listed under section 8.0 Agency Contacts.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-A/subject-group-ECFR2a6a0087862fd2c/section-200.1 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-A/subject-group-ECFR2a6a0087862fd2c/section-200.1 https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/FY2024_AMSGeneralTermsandConditions.pdf https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/DBISpecificTermsandConditions.pdf https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/DBISpecificTermsandConditions.pdf https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR8feb98c2e3e5ad2/section-200.313

4.6 COORDINATOR MEETING TRAVEL

Recipients are expected to attend an AMS‐sponsored grants management meeting during the project’s period of performance. The proposed budget should include travel funds for the Project Coordinator and any additional key personnel as reasonably determined by the recipient and AMS.

To estimate these costs in the budget section, please account for flight, hotel, per diem, and ground transportation expenses for a 3‐day, 2‐night stay. Location and dates are to be determined with a possibility of a virtual conference. If the conference is virtual, recipients will be able to reallocate those funds to another allowable item.

4.7 SUPPORT FOR DOMESTIC DAIRY BUSINESSES

Technical assistance, when provided directly to a specific dairy business and is not publicly available, and grants cannot be made available to a foreign person or entity making direct investment in the United States, as defined in 15 CFR § 801.2.

4.8 FUNDS NOT APPLIED FOR

Initiatives that do not apply and request for all available eligible funding during the specified grant application period will forfeit that portion of available funding not requested. AMS will allocate funds not applied for via the prescribed formula, by a date determined by AMS, according to the program formula, to the remaining Initiatives that submitted applications.

5.0 APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

5.1 ELECTRONIC APPLICATION PACKAGE

Applicants MUST apply for this program electronically via Grants.gov. No other submission method is accepted. AMS urges applicants to submit early to the Grants.gov system. For an overview of the Grants.gov application process, see Grants.gov’s How to Apply for Grants webpage. This RFA contains the information needed to obtain and complete required application forms and AMS‐specific attachments. More information about applying through Grants.gov can be found in section 5.3 Grants.gov Application Submission and Receipt Procedures and Requirements.

Applicants can find the opportunity under either the Assistance Listing number “10.176,” or the DBI Funding Opportunity Number “USDA-AMS-TM-DBII-G-24-0029.”

5.2 CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION SUBMISSION

5.2.1 FORM SF‐424 APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

Required. Form SF‐424 is available via the opportunity at Grants.gov. Applicants must use the following supplemental instructions associated with specific blocks on form SF‐424.

Box Instructions 1 ‐ Type of Submission Select Application 2 ‐ Type of Application Select New 8.c ‐ Organizational Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)

Enter applicant UEI for the organization submitting the application.

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=6db66248456b2764d37cec4f30a7d98a&mc=true&node=pt15.3.801&rgn=div5 https://www.grants.gov/applicants/grant-applications/how-to-apply-for-grants

Box Instructions 8.d – Address Enter the organization street address as it appears in SAM.gov. P.O. Boxes will not be accepted. Enter a 9‐digit zip code

10 ‐ Name of Federal Agency AMS, USDA 11 ‐ Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number (Assistance Listing Number)

Enter 10.176

12 ‐ Funding Opportunity Number Enter USDA‐AMS‐TM‐DBII‐G‐24‐0029 13 ‐ Competition Identification Number Not applicable 14 ‐ Areas Affected by Project Enter cities, counties, States affected by project 15 ‐ Descriptive Title of Applicant’s Project

Provide a short descriptive title of the project

16a ‐ Congressional Districts for Applicant

Enter the Congressional district where the applicant is located

16b ‐ Congressional Districts for Program/Project

Enter the Congressional district where your project will be implemented, or “All” if the project will be implemented in more than one location

17 ‐ Proposed Project Start Date and End Date

Enter Start Date: September 30, 2024 Enter End date: September 29, 2027

18.a ‐ Estimated Funding ‐ Federal Enter the total Federal amount requested 18.b – 18.f Estimated Funding – Applicant

Enter the total match amount from the applicant organization and/or other partners

19 ‐ Is Applicant Subject to Review by State Under Executive Order 12372 Process?

See section 5.6.

5.2.2 FORM SF 424A BUDGET SUMMARY

Required. SF‐424A is available via the application package in Grants.gov. Most information blocks on the required form are either self‐explanatory or adequately explained in the form instructions. The following supplemental instructions must be used for specific boxes on the form. Do not use instructions found on Grants.gov or elsewhere on the internet for the boxes below.

On SF‐424, please complete only Sections A and B. Do not complete Sections C, D, E, F.

Section A – Budget Summary

Box Instructions 1.a – Grant Program Function or Activity Enter “DBI– Federal” 1.b – Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number

Enter “10.176”

1.e – Federal Enter the amount of Federal funding requested for the project

1.f – Non‐Federal Enter the total match contribution amount provided for the project

Section B – Budget Categories

Box Instructions 6.a – 6.j – Object Class Categories In Column 1, enter the amount of Federal funds requested for each Object Class Category. Do not include match funding

For example, if you are requesting $2,000 in Federal funds for “Travel”, enter 2000 in Column 1, box 6.c

5.2.3 PROJECT ABSTRACT SUMMARY

Required. The Project Abstract Summary form will be used as the award description for the overarching Federal award. This is separate from the DBI Project Narrative form. The Project Abstract box must include:

• Project purpose;

• Activities to be performed;

• Deliverables and expected outcomes;

• Intended beneficiary(ies): Who will benefit from this beyond the applicant organization; and

• Subrecipient, key partner, and collaborator activities. Identify the key partners, collaborators and subrecipients you know will be part of the work and how their engagement will support the program goal.

5.2.4 PROJECT NARRATIVE

Required. Applicants MUST prepare and submit a narrative using the DBI Project Narrative form. The Project Narrative must clearly describe how this funding will build upon the work performed under previous DBI grants, including any new objectives and goals, types and sequence of project activities, monitoring and evaluation strategies associated with the proposed activities, and how the initiative will manage the project (including the subaward process).

The Project Narrative also includes a budget narrative and justification section. A general line‐item for “grants” may be provided under Contracts in the application’s budget. The individual subaward budgets are not expected at the submission of this application. However, initiatives will be expected to provide a comprehensive plan detailing each subgrant project, associated outcomes, and applicable expenses to draw down on the funds associated with this line item.

The Project Narrative must be typed and single‐spaced in an 11‐point font, not to exceed twenty (20) pages 8.5 x 11 pages (excluding existing form content). For example, if the form is 15 pages before you begin entering your project information, your form may be up to 35 pages (15 original pages + 20 pages of applicant content). DO NOT modify the margins of the Project Narrative form. Applicants must submit the DBI Project Narrative form as a PDF and attached to the Grants.gov application package using the “Project Narrative Attachment Form” on the application package. Handwritten applications or applications in MS Word will not be accepted.

Prior to submitting the application to Grants.gov, please make sure no tracked changes or mark‐up edits and comments are visible.

https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/readonly/Project_AbstractSummary_2_0-V2.0.pdf https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/dbi/apply https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/dbi/apply

The supporting documents in subsequent sections do not count toward the 20-page limit for the Project Narrative.

5.2.5 LETTERS OF COMMITMENT FROM PARTNER AND COLLABORATOR ORGANIZATIONS

Required. Applicants MUST provide letters of commitment from all project partners and collaborators at the time of application. More information can be found on partners and collaborators in section 3.2. The letter must state the partner or collaborator agrees to the project management plan presented in the Project Narrative.

The Letter of Commitment must include the following:

• Project Applicant;

• Project Title;

• A short introduction describing the partnering organization’s mission and its interest in this program’s development;

• What the organization commits to participating in and supporting;

• The time period of the partnership;

• Roles of the participating individuals, as applicable, and any individual time commitment; and

• A statement that these individuals and the organization agree to abide by the management plan contained in the application.

Instructions for organizations submitting Letters of Commitment: Submit letters on letterhead and addressed to the applicant (i.e., Project Director). Clearly indicate at the top that they are LETTERS OF COMMITMENT. Letters must accompany the proposal at the time of application. AMS will not accept unsigned letters or letters emailed separately.

Letter(s) must be attached to the Grants.gov application package using the “Add Attachments” button under Form SF‐424 item #15.

PLEASE NOTE: AMS does not require Congressional letters of support and such letters do not carry additional weight during the evaluation process.

5.2.6 NEGOTIATED INDIRECT COST RATE AGREEMENT (NICRA)

Required if the applicant has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA). Refer to section 4.2 for more information. The NICRA must be in PDF format and attached to the Grants.gov application package using the “Add Attachments” button under SF‐424 item #15.

5.3 GRANTS.GOV APPLICATION SUBMISSION AND RECEIPT PROCEDURES AND

REQUIREMENTS

5.3.1 HOW TO REGISTER TO APPLY

Applicants MUST have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), an active SAM.gov account, and a Grants.gov account to submit an application. AMS recommends that applicants start the registration process in these systems immediately to allow enough time to meet application submission deadlines. Registration in these systems collectively may in some cases take more than four weeks to complete. The steps below provide details on how to complete each registration.

Organization applicants can find complete instructions here:

https://apply07.grants.gov/help/html/help/Register/OrganizationRegistration.htm https://apply07.grants.gov/help/html/help/Register/OrganizationRegistration.htm

1. Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI): Entities applying for funding, including renewal funding, must have a UEI from SAM.gov. Applicants must enter the UEI number in the data entry field labeled "Organizational UEI" on the SF‐424. Getting a UEI requires validation steps in SAM.gov.

Applicants are encouraged to start this process as early as possible, and, if applicable, this includes providing guidance to subapplicants on getting their own UEI.

2. Register with the System for Award Management (SAM): In addition to having a UEI number, organizations applying online through Grants.gov must register with SAM. Current SAM registrants have already been assigned their UEI and can view it within SAM.gov. All organizations must register with SAM to apply online. Failure to register with SAM will prevent your organization from applying through Grants.gov. SAM.gov accounts must be renewed annually, and your organization must have an active SAM.gov account to submit your application to Grants.gov. Organizations must maintain an active SAM registration with current information throughout the application review period and, if you are awarded a grant, during the project period.

3. Create a Grants.gov Account: The next step in the registration process is to create an account with Grants.gov. Applicants must know their organization's UEI number to complete this process. Completing this process automatically triggers an email request for applicant roles to the organization's E‐Business Point of Contact (EBiz POC) for review. The EBiz POC is a representative from your organization who is the contact listed for SAM. To apply for grants on behalf of your organization, you will need the Authorized Organization Role (AOR).

a) Watch the video on how to Register in Grants.gov and create an institutional profile.

Applicants are required to use Login.gov to sign into Grants.gov. See the Grants.gov help article for more information on logging in with Login.gov credentials. The Grants.gov validation process also includes a check for an active SAM.gov registration. Applicants without a current SAM.gov registration will be rejected.

4. Authorize Grants.gov Roles: After creating an account on Grants.gov, the EBiz POC receives an email notifying him or her of your registration and request for roles. The EBiz POC will then log in to Grants.gov and authorize the appropriate roles, including the AOR role, thereby giving you permission to complete and submit applications on behalf of the organization. You will be able to submit your application online any time after you have been approved as an AOR.

5. Track Role Status: After registering with Grants.gov and authorizing the applicant AOR, Grants.gov allows you to track your status.

6. Electronic Signature: When applications are submitted through Grants.gov, the name of the organization's AOR who submitted the application is inserted into the signature line of the application, serving as the electronic signature. The EBiz POC must authorize individuals who are able to make legally binding commitments on behalf of the organization to act as an AOR; this step is often missed, and it is required for valid and timely submissions.

5.3.2 HOW TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION TO AMS VIA GRANTS.GOV

Applicants may use the Grants.gov Workspace, a shared, online environment where members of a grant team may simultaneously access and edit different webforms within an application. For each funding opportunity announcement, you can create individual instances of a Workspace.

1. Create a Workspace: This allows you to complete your Workspace online and route it through your organization for review before submitting.

https://gsa.gov/entityid https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://www.grants.gov/register https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3Dsj3X2XPAQ5g&data=05%7C02%7Cmargaret.haidet%40usda.gov%7Ce6ccf49f2f544d8a5f9c08dc03328344%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638388763903888947%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=4YyLEnN2E19uNQrVfsWBZ17q28pG1s5h%2Fqe4lSORXy0%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.login.gov%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cmargaret.haidet%40usda.gov%7Ce6ccf49f2f544d8a5f9c08dc03328344%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638388763903888947%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=3uFLRqjAu%2BviBfz%2F9Z43npvJZS2KzhnWWNvKgcrzWq0%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgrants.gov%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cmargaret.haidet%40usda.gov%7Ce6ccf49f2f544d8a5f9c08dc03328344%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638388763903888947%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=gICgWU0ZEBzBmwdUaMH%2BFzfucTJAK03u%2B6x2YATCaBM%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgrantsgovprod.wordpress.com%2F2022%2F05%2F04%2Fhow-to-create-a-grants-gov-account-and-link-to-a-login-gov-account%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cmargaret.haidet%40usda.gov%7Ce6ccf49f2f544d8a5f9c08dc03328344%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638388763903888947%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=eVl7IKs6BPHFeEjYeWwmyiCdNZVsb9vwBO0Qb77EwDI%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgrantsgovprod.wordpress.com%2F2022%2F05%2F04%2Fhow-to-create-a-grants-gov-account-and-link-to-a-login-gov-account%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cmargaret.haidet%40usda.gov%7Ce6ccf49f2f544d8a5f9c08dc03328344%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638388763903888947%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=eVl7IKs6BPHFeEjYeWwmyiCdNZVsb9vwBO0Qb77EwDI%3D&reserved=0 https://apply07.grants.gov/help/html/help/Applicants/Management/ManageRolesForApplicant.htm https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/

2. Complete a Workspace: Add participants to the workspace, complete all the required forms, and check for errors before submission.

a) Adobe Reader: If you decide not to apply by filling out webforms you can download individual PDF forms in Workspace so that they will appear similar to other Standard or AMS forms. The individual PDF forms can be downloaded and saved to your local device storage, network drive(s), or external drives, and then accessed through Adobe Reader.

b) NOTE: You may need to visit the Adobe Software Compatibility page on Grants.gov to download the appropriate version of the software.

c) Mandatory Fields in Forms: Fields marked with an asterisk and a different background color are mandatory fields you must complete to successfully submit your application.

d) Complete SF-424 Fields First: The forms are designed to fill in common required fields across other forms, such as the applicant’s name, address, and UEI number. To trigger this feature, an applicant must complete the SF‐424 form information first. Once it is completed, the information will transfer to the other forms.

3. Submit a Workspace: Submit your application through Workspace by clicking the Sign and Submit button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab. Grants.gov recommends submitting the application package at least 24-48 hours prior to the due date to provide you with time to correct any potential technical issues that may disrupt the application submission.

SPECIAL NOTE: Grants.gov does not check for AMS required attachments. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all required attachments listed in section 5.2 Content and Form of Application Submission are included.

4. Track a Workspace: After successfully submitting a workspace package, Grants.gov automatically assigns a Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) to the package, which will be listed on the Confirmation page generated after submission.

Applicant Support: Grants.gov provides additional training resources, including video tutorials.

Applicants may also call the 24/7 toll‐free support number 1‐800‐518‐4726, or email support@grants.gov. Grants.gov will issue a ticket number that you and Grants.gov can refer to if the issue is not resolved. For questions related to the specific grant opportunity, contact the person(s) mentioned in section 8.0.

5.4 APPLICATION SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

AMS will not consider any applications received after the deadline, any applications submitted by fax, email, or postal mail, and any applications not responsive to the requirements of this RFA (eligibility, incomplete application, missing required attachments documents, etc.). See AMS’ Late Applications, Denials and/or Appeal Procedures Policy.

Ensure that all components are complete before submission. Allow enough time for the application process, as it may take more than one attempt before your application is successfully submitted. AMS encourages you to submit your application at least two weeks before the application deadline to ensure all certifications and registrations are met.

https://www.grants.gov/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-training.html mailto:support@grants.gov https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/AMSPolicyonConsiderationofLateNonresponsiveApplications.pdf https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/AMSPolicyonConsiderationofLateNonresponsiveApplications.pdf

Proof of timely submission is automatically recorded by Grants.gov using an electronic date/time stamp generated when the application is successfully received by Grants.gov. The applicant AOR will then receive an acknowledgment of receipt and a tracking number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) from https://www.grants.gov/. Applicant AORs will also receive the official date/time stamp and Grants.gov tracking number in an email serving as proof of their timely submission.

Special Note for Applicants with Slow Internet Connections: Applicants using slow internet, such as dial‐ up connections, may experience significantly longer transmission times when submitting their application to Grants.gov, especially if there are large attachments contained in the upload. Again, Grants.gov will provide either an error message or a successfully received transmission notification via email to the applicant AOR.

5.5 SUBMISSION DATE AND TIME

Applicants must submit applications electronically via Grants.gov by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on August 27, 2024. AMS cannot consider applications received after this deadline for funding. See AMS’ Late Applications, Denials and/or Appeal Procedures Policy.

5.6 INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW

This program is not subject to Executive Order 12372 (Intergovernmental Review), which requires intergovernmental consultation with state and local officials.

6.0 APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

This is a non‐competitive RFA restricted to eligible applicants listed in section 3.1. AMS will review each project narrative to ensure that it meets the statutory purpose of the program, all application submission criteria are fulfilled in accordance with section 5.0, and all costs are allowable.

AMS will notify the individual listed on the SF‐424 “Application for Federal Assistance” in block 8.f if additional information is required after the initial review of the application. AMS will work with applicants to negotiate any revisions if necessary and possible. Failure to provide requested information in a timely manner may result in a project not receiving funding.

7.0 AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

7.1 AWARD NOTICES

Upon announcement of the Federal awards, AMS will prepare and send a Notice of Award (NOA) to each recipient for signature by the appropriate official. The NOA will be signed by AMS and the AOR.

The NOA will provide pertinent instructions and information including, at a minimum, the information described in 2 CFR § 200.211 and reference to the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions and DBI Specific Terms and Conditions.

7.2 INELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

This RFA is open only to current DBI initiatives (see sections 2.4 and 3.1). Ineligible applicants will be contacted by AMS via email as soon as possible after the close of the application period.

https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/AMSPolicyonConsiderationofLateNonresponsiveApplications.pdf https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/AMSPolicyonConsiderationofLateNonresponsiveApplications.pdf https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fecfr.gov%2Fcgi-bin%2Ftext-idx%3FSID%3Dee82f7b5882adf7c5bc8bfebbb19f99a%26mc%3Dtrue%26node%3Dse2.1.200_1211%26rgn%3Ddiv8&data=04%7C01%7C%7Ceb1c340af93c4f44569f08d9b4451f44%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C0%7C0%7C637739031231844965%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=8ynSvDn93Aj1E3w5X5j5YOreH7cIUyoi6SGhLdCqhgI%3D&reserved=0

7.3 ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS

As part of the NOA, all AMS recipients must abide by the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions and DBI Specific Terms and Conditions which reference applicable Administrative and National Policy Requirements.

7.4 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Reporting and award closeout requirements are included in the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions. If there are any program or award‐specific award terms, they will be identified in the award.

7.5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF USDA SUPPORT

Proper acknowledgment of your USDA‐AMS funding in published solicitations (e.g., for state competitions), presentations, press releases, and other communications is critical for the success of our agency’s programs. Grantees must meet the acknowledgment requirements outlined in the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions.

8.0 AGENCY CONTACTS

8.1 PROGRAMMATIC QUESTIONS

After closely reviewing this RFA in its entirety, applicants and other interested parties are encouraged to contact the DBI staff by e‐mail with questions about the grant program at IPPGrants@usda.gov.

For additional information, please visit the DBI Website: www.ams.usda.gov/dbi.

8.2 AVAILABLE RESOURCES

AMS provides resources and information on the DBI website (www.ams.usda.gov/dbi) that may be helpful to applicants, including descriptions of funded projects and required application forms.

8.3 ADDRESS

Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Room 1510‐S South Building, Stop 0264 Washington, DC 20250‐0264

8.4 GRANTS.GOV QUESTIONS

All questions regarding Grants.gov technical assistance must be directed to Grants.gov’s Applicant Support Center.

9.0 OTHER INFORMATION

9.1 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/FY2024_AMSGeneralTermsandConditions.pdf https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/DBISpecificTermsandConditions.pdf https://www.ams.usda.