U.S. Small Business Administration Small Business Development Centers Office Funding Opportunity No. SB-OEDSB-26-002

Small Business Development Center Office

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER PROGRAM

NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

PROGRAM YEAR 2027

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NO. SB-OEDSB-26-002

The purpose of this Funding Opportunity is to invite proposals for funding from entities that are current recipients of a Small Business Administration (SBA) Small Business Development Center (SBDC) award.

Only applications that are submitted by SBDC Lead Centers will be considered for funding.

Table of Contents

1.0 Section I – Funding Opportunity Description

1.1 Program Overview

1.2 Introduction

1.3 Background

1.4 Purpose

1.5 Leveraging of Resources

1.6 SBA Involvement and Oversight

1.7 Changes or Cancellation

2.0 Section II – Award Information

2.1. Estimated Funding

2.2. Expected Number of Awards

2.3. Period of Performance/Budget Periods

2.4. Project Start Dates

2.5. Funding Information

2.6. Funding Instrument

2.7. Matching Requirement

3.0 Section III – Eligibility Information

3.1. General

3.2. Eligible Applicants

3.3. Ineligible Applicants

4.0 Section IV – Application and Submission Information

4.1. Application Instructions

4.2. Submission Instructions

4.3. SBDC Applicant’s Timeline

4.4. Additional Proposal Information

5.0 Section V – Application Review Information

5.1. General

5.2. Evaluation Criteria

5.3. Review and Selection Process

6.0 Section VI – Award Administration

6.1. Award Notification

6.2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

6.3. Reporting

6.4. Recordkeeping Requirements

7.0 Section VII - Agency Contacts

7.1. Small Business Development Center Program Point of Contact

7.2. Financial/Grants Management Point of Contact

7.3. Grantsolutions.gov Technical Support

8.0 Section VIII - Other Information

8.1. Definitions

8.2. Guidelines

8.3. Advance Understandings

1.0 Section I – Funding Opportunity Description

1.1 Program Overview

1.1.1. Federal Agency Name U. S. Small Business Administration, Small Business Development Center Office

1.1.2. Funding Opportunity Title Small Business Development Centers

1.1.3. Announcement Type Initial

1.1.4. Funding Opportunity Number SB-OEDSB-26-002

1.1.5. CFDA Number 59.037

1.1.6. Closing Date for Submissions December 3, 2026

1.1.7. Authority Small Business Act, Section 21 (15 USC §648)

1.1.8. Duration of Authority Permanent

1.1.9. Funding Instrument Cooperative Agreement

1.1.10. Funding Funding is for a 12-month period.

1.1.11. Award Amount/Funding Range Section 21 of the Small Business Act sets forth a formula by which funds are to be distributed among the States. This formula, for the most part, rests upon a per capita basis, subject to the amount of an appropriation in any given fiscal year. The Recipient Organization receiving the Cooperative Agreement is required to match funding received on a 1:1 ratio unless otherwise authorized.

1.1.12. Project Duration Awards will be made for a twelve (12) month period of performance.

1.1.13. Project Starting Date January 1, 2027, for Funding Opportunity No. for PY 2027.

1.1.14. Proposal Evaluation Proposals will be reviewed for sufficiency in meeting the requirements of the Program as defined in 13 CFR Part 130. SBA may ask Applicants for clarification of the technical and cost aspects of proposals.

1.1.15. Agency Programmatic Point of

Contact

Small Business Administration, Small Business Development Center Office, Email: Traci.Giddens@sba.gov.

1.2 Introduction

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Program is the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) largest matching grant-funded program providing business counseling and training services to the small business community. The SBDC Program has 63 Recipient Organizations - one in each state (with the exception of four regional SBDC networks in Texas and five regional networks in California), the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands. The Recipient Organization is responsible for establishing a Lead Center and a network of partner Service Centers to cover its designated area of service. The SBDC Program links the resources of Federal, state, and local governments with the resources of the educational community and the http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/search/pagedetails.action?browsePath=Title%2B15%2FChapter%2B14a%2FSec.%2B648&granuleId=USCODE-2010-title15-chap14A-sec648&packageId=USCODE-2010-title15&collapse=true&fromBrowse=true mailto:Traci.Giddens@sba.gov mailto:SBDCGrantsq@sba.gov private sector to provide assistance to the small business community. In partnership with SBA’s Small Business Development Center Office (SBDCO) and District Offices, SBDCs develop business counseling and training programs, informational tools, and other services that support the economic development goals and objectives of SBA, in their respective service areas, and their local funding partners.

1.3 Background

Since its inception in 1953, SBA has served to aid, counsel, assist, and protect the interests of small businesses. While SBA is best known for its financial support of small businesses through its many lending programs, the Agency also provides funding to organizations that deliver technical assistance in the form of counseling and training to small business concerns and nascent entrepreneurs in order to promote growth, expansion, innovation, increased productivity, and management improvement.

1.4 Purpose

Eligible organizations, as defined in Section 3.2, may apply to SBA for an award of financial assistance under this Funding Opportunity to fund an SBDC Program. SBDC Programs deliver professional, high quality, individualized business advising and technical assistance to existing small businesses and pre-venture entrepreneurs. SBDCs shall provide problem solving assistance to help small businesses access capital, develop and exchange new technologies, and improve business planning, strategy, operations, financial management, personnel administration, marketing, export assistance, sales and other areas required for small business growth and expansion, management improvement, increased productivity, and innovation.

1.5 Leveraging of Resources

Applicants selected for awards under this Funding Opportunity are required to maximize their efforts to leverage SBA funding by working in conjunction with SBA District Offices and other Federal, state, local and tribal government small business development programs and activities; SBA resource partners such as SCORE, Women’s Business Centers (WBCs), Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs), 7(j) Technical Assistance providers, Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs), U.S. Export Assistance Centers (USEACs), Certified Development Companies (CDCs), and SBA lenders; universities, colleges, and other institutions of higher education; and private organizations such as chambers of commerce, and trade and industry groups and associations.

1.6 SBA Involvement and Oversight

The SBDC Program is managed by the Associate Administrator for Small Business Development Center Office (AA/SBDCO) at SBA Headquarters, under the direction of the Associate Administrator for the Office of Entrepreneurial Development. The SBA will have substantial involvement in the administration, monitoring, and oversight of the Cooperative Agreement. SBDCO shall assign a Grants Management Specialist (GMS) to review the budget and all fiscal documentation for compliance with applicable Federal and program requirements. The Grants Management Officer (GMO) issues the Notice of Award.

A Program Manager within SBDCO serves as the Grants Officer’s Technical Representative (GOTR) responsible for overall monitoring and oversight of the Recipient’s SBDC Program award, including compliance with the terms of the Cooperative Agreement and program service delivery and performance.

The SBA District Office will review the proposal for Agency priorities, local relevance and performance goals and will designate a Project Officer (PO) to conduct delegated grant monitoring activities on behalf of SBDCO. SBA will also conduct biennial financial and programmatic examinations of each SBDC Recipient Organization, as required by statute. National performance goal measures have been established by SBDCO in coordination with the America’s Small Business Development Centers and the

SBA District Offices. SBDCs will include metrics for each of the measures in response to this Notice of Funding Opportunity and in collaboration with their respective District Office.

1.7 Changes or Cancellation

SBA reserves the right to amend or cancel this Funding Opportunity, in whole or in part, at the Agency’s discretion. Should SBA make material changes to this Funding Opportunity, the Agency will extend the closing date as necessary to afford Applicants sufficient opportunity to address such changes.

2.0 Section II – Award Information

2.1. Estimated Funding

Section 21(a)(4)(C) of the Small Business Act sets forth a formula by which funds are to be distributed.

Applicants should submit budget proposals that are in line with a $140 million program funding level.

Subject to the availability of funds and compliance with the terms and conditions of the Cooperative Agreement, SBA has the discretion to adjust the award to an amount consistent with the authorized funding level under the federal appropriations law.

2.2. Expected Number of Awards

SBA anticipates making no more than 62 awards under this Notice of Funding Opportunity.

2.3. Period of Performance/Budget Periods

The period of performance for this award is twelve (12) months.

2.4. Project Start Dates

Project start dates are January 1, 2027, for states/regions responding to Funding Opportunity No. SB- OEDSB-26-002 for Program Year 2027.

2.4.1. Continuation of Funds

The 2027 Budget does not request funding for the SBDC program. If Congress appropriates funding for the program in future years, SBA may issue a funding opportunity to invite proposals for award continuation. However, an SBDC may not receive continued funding if there has been a clear showing of poor performance, as measured by SBA. Poor performance is indicated by unsatisfactory oversight reviews (programmatic and/or financial), accreditation issues, failure to comply with Executive Orders, improper or insufficient activity affecting the operation and integrity of the SBDC and/or a failure to follow the rules and procedures set forth in the statute, regulation, and/or Funding Opportunity.

2.5. Funding Information

Funds provided under the SBDC Program must be used solely for the purposes stipulated in this Funding Opportunity and the Notice of Award and may not be commingled with any other monies. All costs proposed in an Applicant’s budget must meet the tests of allowability, allocability, and reasonableness set forth in the Office of Management and Budget Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR Part 200, Subpart E.

2.6. Funding Instrument

The funding instrument is a cooperative agreement and substantial involvement is expected between the awarding Agency and the Recipient when carrying out the activity contemplated in the Agreement.

2.7. Matching Requirement

The organization receiving the Cooperative Agreement is required, unless otherwise authorized by statute, to match Federal funds on a 1:1 ratio. Non-Federal matching funds may take the form of cash or cash equivalent, in-kind donations provided by a third party or unreimbursed indirect costs (i.e., waived indirect).

Cash match in an amount not less than 50 percent of the Federal funding is required. The remainder may be in the form of additional cash or in-kind contributions, and/or waived indirect costs.

No portion of the match may be from federal sources, with the exception of applicable Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Program income (e.g., fees collected from clients and/or attendees for training) may not be used as a source of matching funds.

2.7.1. Insular Area Territory Match Waiver

The SBA has the authority, per U.S. Code Title 48 – Territories and Insular Possessions, Chapter 10 – Territorial Provisions of a General Nature, Section 1469a(d) – Congressional declaration of policy respecting “Insular Areas”, to waive any requirement for matching funds otherwise required by law to be provided by the Insular Area involved. Additionally, § 601 of Pub. L. No. 96-205 and § 6 of Pub. L. No.

98- 213 together mandate that “notwithstanding any other provision of law, in the case of the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands, any department or agency shall waive any requirement for local matching funds under $200,000…”

The Insular Area Territory SBDCs are required to provide a 1:1 match that must include at least 50 percent in cash with the remainder consisting of a combination of cash, in-kind and non-reimbursed Facilities and Administrative costs (i.e., waived indirect costs) on all core SBDC grant funds of $200,000 and above. The waiver of the first $200,000 in local match is applied within the proposed budget in the amount of $199,999.99 deducted from the Federal funding level to equal the required match amount. The initial waiver is approved by SBA when the proposed budget is approved.

The core grant Insular Area Territory Match Waiver for any amount exceeding $200,000 requires a budget justification and must be requested in writing prior to the submission of the renewal application package and provided to the SBDCO Program Manager and to the AA/SBDCO for review and approval.

The requested waiver amount cannot exceed the Network’s allocation for the program year and must be approved by the AA/SBDCO. The core grant Insular Area Territory Match Waiver will not apply retroactively to previous, ongoing, or expired grants and is not transferable to other non-SBDC funding opportunities from SBA.

3.0 Section III – Eligibility Information

3.1. General

An organization may NOT submit more than one proposal per geographic community in response to this Funding Opportunity.

3.2. Eligible Applicants

To be eligible for this Funding Opportunity an Applicant must meet the requirements of Title 13 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Section 130.200.

3.3. Ineligible Applicants

The following will automatically be considered ineligible, and their applications will be rejected without being evaluated:

• Any organization that is NOT a currently funded SBDC Lead Center;

• Any organization currently having an outstanding, unresolved financial obligation to any Federal Agency;

• Any organization that is currently suspended, debarred or otherwise prohibited from receiving awards of contracts or grants from the Federal Government;

• Any organization with an outstanding and unresolved material deficiency reported under the requirements of the Single Audit Act or OMB Circular A-133 within the past three years;

• Any organization having at least one non-compliant condition within SBA program guidelines occurring while administering or implementing any SBA program, including denial of Accreditation;

• Any organization that has had a grant or cooperative agreement involuntarily terminated or non- renewed by SBA for cause;

• Any organization that has filed for bankruptcy within the past five years; and/or

• Any organization that proposes to serve as a pass-through and permit another organization to manage the day-to-day operations of the project.

4.0 Section IV – Application and Submission Information

4.1. Application Instructions

Applications must consist of the following elements: a.) Technical proposal; b.) Budget information; c.)

Certifications, Forms and Assurances; and d.) Attachments and Exhibits.

4.1.1. Technical Proposal (not to exceed 35 pages)

The technical proposal serves as the blueprint for the Applicant’s planned project. This information must be provided in a paginated attachment not to exceed 35 pages. It must include the following information:

4.1.1.1. Program Narrative:

• Organization and Structure

Provide an organizational chart for the total SBDC Network indicating the position of the Lead Center within the Applicant organization. Include the department/division and the individual (name, title, phone number, email address) to whom the SBDC Lead Center Director reports. In addition to the organization chart, include the following, and note any planned additions or reductions:

a. Total number of separately budgeted SBDC Network Service Center locations (Provide details in Network Listing requested in Section 4.1.1.3);

b. Total number of SBDC staff

• Number of SBDC management and support staff

• Full time and Part time

• Number of SBDC counseling staff:

• Full time employees

• Part time employees

• Contract consultants

• Also provide the total number of FTEs in the network – including consultants

4.1.1.2. Program Management

A brief description of:

a. SBDC Program Area of Service (must be statewide or region-wide);

b. Methodology, philosophy and justification for the distribution of service area resources, such as Service Centers, satellites and specialty programs, using factors such as population or business census, population/counselor distribution formulas, as well as any planned adjustments;

c. Correlation of resource distribution to needs assessment studies and the SBDC’s strategic plan for the management and coordination of SBDC services throughout the state or area being served;

d. Standard wait time for an initial client counseling appointment. Please note if changes are anticipated in the coming year, such as due to significant increase or decrease of resources, addition or closure of existing service locations etc.;

e. Management strategy for filling vacancies (interim measures and vacancy timeframes);

f. If applicable, describe plans for the addition of new Service Centers or programs, including the staffing plan; and

• Program Objectives SBDCs must include a brief summary of program objectives and ongoing programs, highlighting any new programs, unique skill sets or competencies, special projects or activities, with particular reference to planned activities for the program year that seek to address SBA’s Required Services listed in Section 5.

To facilitate the core award proposal review, categorize the information on planned program activities using the reporting categories listed in Section 6. The following post-award reporting categories should NOT be included in the proposal:

• 1500 SUCCESS STORIES

• 1900 UNPLANNED TRAVEL

• 2000 KEY PERSONNEL

• 2100 PROBLEMS

• 2200 BUDGET TO ACTUAL

In addition to planned activities described within these categories, the Proposal must include the following:

a. Planned performance service volume and changes, if any:

i. Counseling: List most recent 12-month program year total counseling hours and counseling clients for the Network for activities funded from core award funds and discuss any anticipated changes for the upcoming project period such as the opening or closing of centers; and

ii. Training: List prior year total training sessions and clients for the Network for activities from core award funds and discuss any anticipated changes for the upcoming project period such as the opening or closing of centers.

b. Planned milestones and outcomes:

i. List SBDC goals for: Clients Advised, New Business Starts, Capital Infusion Transactions, Capital Infusion Dollars, and Jobs Created. See also Section 4.1.4. Attachment 3 – Planned Milestones Chart. SBDCs should submit their goals with their 2027 Program Year funding proposals. Along with the numerical targets for each goal, SBDCs should include a business rationale for setting the goal. For example, an SBDC may look at a five-year average performance as a basis for the goal target. Alternatively, the SBDC may utilize other trend data to determine the target. An SBDC can choose any methodology they believe will provide a realistic level of achievement. SBDCO understands economic conditions change, physical disasters happen, and other local events contribute to changes in the state/regional economy. If the proposed goal target is less than the previous year’s achievement, the SBDC should include an explanation or rationale for a lower goal target.

If a goal target is too low or too high without a sufficient explanation, SBDCO may request additional clarification or an adjustment to the target.

SBDCO encourages SBDCs to establish their goals and focus area with their respective District Office. The District Office is not approving the goals. The collaboration should be on the needs of the small business community. If either an SBDC Network or a District Office has concerns about the goals after the collaborative discussions, either may reach out to SBDCO through their respective Program Manager.

ii. List Focus Area: Appendix A is modified to reflect current Agency priorities.

iii. Identify any other key milestones or performance goals for the project period for the core award not captured in Part b.i.

c. Collaboration, outreach, and/or jointly planned events the Network is planning to conduct with the District Office and/or other SBA resource partners (e.g., Women’s Business Centers, SCORE, Veteran Business Outreach Centers, Regional Innovation Clusters, and STEP; lender roundtables; and events with SBA 7(j) grantees and other SBA Government Contracting and Business Development Resources, Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs), APEX Accelerators, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and U.S. Department of Agriculture; and regional and local trade schools).

d. Client Satisfaction Rate: SBDC client satisfaction will be based on overall service, knowledge and expertise of the SBDC advisor, working relationship with the SBDC advisor, and if the client would recommend SBDC services. Describe the Network’s plan to collect client feedback on SBDC services and rate achieved in the most recent client satisfaction survey. This should be reported in Section 1400 of the Network’s Annual Report.

e. Online Client Services: SBA views the use of web-based technology as a means to increase outreach within existing budgets, to access populations or areas otherwise difficult to reach, and to offer services 24/7 when appropriate.

f. SBDC Operating Hours and Scheduled Closures: Provide a list of scheduled holidays and planned closures for the Lead Center and each Service Center. SBDC Lead Center and Service Centers must be accessible to the public during normal business hours throughout the year except for the scheduled closures listed in the Proposal. Operating hours must also be posted on each Service Centers’ webpage and displayed at the entrance of the SBDC location. Emergency closures must be reported in writing or by email to the SBA Project Officer and SBDCO Program Manager as soon as possible.

g. Partner Location Information Contact: Identify the SBDC contact designated to maintain information in SBA’s Partner Location Information, by name, title, phone number, and email address.

h. Advisory Board:

i. Provide a list of the members of the SBDC’s statewide/region-wide Advisory Board in accordance with 15 U.S.C §648(j), including their titles.

ii. Board representation should comply with Title 13 of the Code of Federal Regulations, §130.350.

iii. Include a description of the Board’s responsibilities and provide the date of the Board’s last meeting. There should be regular periodic meetings each year.

iv. The reasonable cost of travel of any board member for official board activities in the state/region/territory may be paid out of the SBDC’s non-Federal funds and must follow the Recipient Organization’s policy for per diem and related travel costs. See Section 4.

for additional guidance.

i. Conflict of Interest Policy: Include a copy of the SBDC’s current conflict of interest policy for the SBDC Network. Each SBDC Network must have a written conflict of interest policy signed annually by all employees, consultants, instructors, and volunteers of the SBDC Network. The policy must include enforceable elements safeguarding the SBDC Program from actual or apparent conflicts.

j. Training: Provide a list of the types of training to be offered during the budget period. The Lead Center is expected to provide the SBA Project Officer with a quarterly calendar of SBDC trainings or with electronic access to comparable information.

k. Personnel Resumes: Attach résumés (limited to 2 pages per resume) for any new key personnel directly employed by the SBDC (i.e., Lead and Service Center Directors or managers, managers or directors of specialty centers and programs, such as for technology or international trade and Partner Location Information designee) since the start of the last program year. If not stated on the résumé, please indicate the person’s current position in the SBDC Network. Do not include résumés for trainers, counselors or support staff.

l. Activities Supported with Program Income: Describe planned activities that will be supported with SBDC program income during the performance period and estimated cost. Program income must be used to expand the quantity or quality of services, resources or outreach provided by the SBDC Network. Planned expenditures from program income are subject to OMB Uniform Guidance and SBDC Program rules and requirements as set forth in 13 CFR §130. However, do NOT include program costs supported with program income on the Application, Network budget summary, or budget justifications.

m. Funds Managed Outside the Cooperative Agreement: Fully describe any other federal or state small business assistance programs, contributions or grant funds (excluding foundation accounts) managed by the SBDC Lead Center outside the SBA Cooperative Agreement (e.g., APEX Accelerator, State Small Business Credit Initiative and Manufacturing Extension Programs).

Include the source and amount of funds provided by each organization and the purpose for which the funds have been provided.

In accordance with 15 USC §648(a)(5), before bidding on another federal contract, the SBDC must obtain prior written approval from the AA/SBDCO as to the subject and general scope of the project. SBDC Lead Centers may not manage other funds, regardless of funding source, when the scope of activity is inconsistent with this Funding Opportunity.

The SBDC must maintain an updated list of funding sources and amounts for each source of funds received by the SBDC Network including grants, contracts and contributions. In addition, for each source of funds, documentation regarding the name and phone number of the donor/contractor/grantor, the amount of funding, the intended purpose and any requirements, stipulations or deliverables must be maintained and made available during the biennial financial examination process.

SBDCs managing other small business programs outside the SBA Cooperative Agreement must maintain separate accounting/financial records to ensure a clear audit trail for the funds provided under the SBDC Cooperative Agreement.

n. Micro-purchase and the Simplified Acquisition Thresholds for Grantees for Financial Assistance:

Awards are subject to major revisions to the federal procurement rules found at 2 CFR, including the acquisition thresholds established 2 CFR §200.320. The SBDC Lead Center must provide a statement acknowledging they are adhering to these thresholds. The SBDC Lead Center will be responsible for ensuring Services Centers are also following the guidelines for the micro-purchase threshold.

The approval to use a higher threshold only applies to the non-federal entity (Lead Center office) and not to each Service Center. For a Network Service Center to use a higher threshold, the Service Center host would also need to follow the same procedure to obtain approval from their cognizant agency for indirect cost and provide that documentation to the SBDC Lead Center Office.

Additionally, if a Network is requesting an increase for their micro-purchase threshold it should be included in the proposal Cost Price Analysis workbook.

4.1.1.3. Planned Milestones Worksheet

Complete all sections of the Planned Milestones Worksheet and include the worksheet as Attachment #3 to the Proposal.

4.1.1.4. SBDC Network Listing

Provide a list of all service locations by name, host institution, key contact, physical address, phone number and Partner Location Information code. Identify the Lead Center, and indicate whether each location is a Service Center, specialty center, or other location with a minimum of dedicated part-time personnel. This information must also be maintained in SBA’s NEXUS system.

4.1.2. Cost Proposal

Information on proposed project costs must be provided through the completion or submission of the following in Grantsolutions.gov:

a. Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424). Included in Grantsolutions.gov package;

b. Budget Information - Non-Construction Programs (SF-424A). Included in Grantsolutions.gov package;

• In Section B of SF-424A, line 6 g titled “Construction” shall be used for Consultant costs as described in the SBDC Budget Justification Instructions Section 4.1.2.3(c).

SBDC Cost Price Analysis and Budget Justifications templates are available from the Grantsolutions.gov SBDC application kit.

• Include a separate budget justification form with required cost detail for the Lead Center and each Network Service Center.

• Personnel lists must include each person’s name, position, salary, and percent time budgeted to the SBDC Program.

• Applicants may use their own budget justification form, as long as the Applicant’s format includes ALL budget details required in SBDCO’s template and the guidance herein. If the Applicant chooses to use their own budget justification format (i.e., not the SBDCO form) it must ALSO include a separate SF 424A for the Lead Center and each Network Service Center. It must be uploaded as Attachment #4.

c. Budget Narrative If all required cost detail is not shown on the SBDC budget justification and personnel list, include a separate budget narrative for the Lead Center and each Network Service Center.

d. Indirect Cost Rate (ICR) Agreements negotiated with the cognizant Federal Agency; Provide a complete signed copy of the current ICR Agreement for the Lead Center and each Network Service Center that plans to claim indirect costs. See also Section 4.

e. Cost Price Analysis and Budget Justifications Worksheet SBDCO recommends the use of the updated template available in the Grantsolutions.gov application kit which includes a template for the SBDC Network’s Cost Price Analysis and Budget Justifications Worksheet.

4.1.2.1. Budget Preparation

SBDCO will provide SBDCs with projected funding levels to be used in budget preparation.

• Budget information must describe the financial resources contributed by the Applicant. The amount and source of funds provided as match must be clearly indicated, in Box 18 of SF-424, and the budget summary SF-424A, Lead Center and each Network Service Center budget justification form must clearly indicate which program costs will be paid by Federal dollars, cash, in-kind and waived indirect. Applicants must show how the value of each in-kind match contribution is determined. This applies to costs incurred by Service Centers as well as Recipient costs.

• In addition, matching funds included in the budget information must also be listed by amount and contributor (i.e., state, university, private sector) in Section 5 of the Planned Milestones Worksheet required as part of the Technical Proposal. See Section 4.

• Applicants must NOT include SBDC program income, nor unspent program funds from prior budget periods on the Application SF-424, Budget Information SF-424A or SBDC budget justification forms submitted in response to this Funding Opportunity. Planned program income expenditures should be described instead as part of the Technical Proposal. See Section 4 for guidance. Specifically:

o Leave BLANK and do not include program income on the line f in Box 18, “Total Estimated Funding” of the SF-424;

o Leave BLANK line 7 for “Program Income” on the SF-424A; and o Do NOT include program income costs in the detailed budget justification.

4.1.2.2. Network Service Center Costs

An Applicant may contract with other entities to deliver SBDC services and must include a provision in the Network Service Center agreement to comply with the Uniform Guidance in 2 CFR 200 and all appropriate flow-down provisions.

If an Applicant proposes to use Network Service Centers for delivery of SBDC client services (also referred to herein as subcontracted Service Centers), it shall include the Network Service Center costs in the contractual budget element on the SBDC Network’s SF-424A Budget Summary form, and provide separate detailed budget justifications, with a line item breakout for Federal dollars, cash match, in-kind and indirect costs associated with the SBDC services to be provided by the proposed Network Service Center organization. If the Network Service Center proposes its own contractual costs (sub-subcontracts), it must provide supporting budget details such as a statement of work, the number of hours, and rate of pay must be provided for each contractor.

For those SBDCs operating separate International Trade Centers (ITCs), as part of the Cooperative Agreement, the Proposal must identify each Service Center’s specialty designation. An Applicant may substitute its own forms or spreadsheets in place of the SBDC Budget Justification Worksheet so long as it includes all of the information requested in Section 4.1.2.3.

4.1.2.3. SBDC Budget Justification Instructions

The budget cost categories and required cost details for each category are described below. The direct cost and indirect cost total must agree with the SF-424 and SF-424A.

a. Personnel: List name and title of all personnel charged to federal and non-federal funds (direct costs). For vacancies, show position title in budget justification. If additional space is needed to explain the cost, include a budget narrative. Use the personnel list to show annual salary, number of months, level of effort in percentage, and total amount budgeted for each position as the basis used to estimate personnel costs charged to the SBDC Program. Employees of the entity should be budgeted as Federal or cash match.

b. Fringe Benefits: Indicate the fringe rates approved by your cognizant Federal Agency for audits when available. If not available provide the schedule used. Do not include fringe cost in the total amount required for personnel.

c. Travel: For local travel, provide total anticipated mileage, and mileage rate. For out of state/region/territory travel, provide estimated cost and justification including a.) Purpose, b.)

Destination, c.) Mode of transportation and rate (i.e., airfare or mileage and rate), d.) Number of trips, and e.) Number and position of travelers. Federal grant funds are not authorized for foreign travel or to attend out of state/region conferences.

d. Equipment: List items per unit above the cost threshold established in 2 CFR 200 and having at least one year of useful life. The Recipient Organization must maintain an inventory of equipment purchased with program dollars including cost, location, and detailed description of each item. Equipment inventory must be made available upon request of SBA.

e. Supplies: Show anticipated cost of supply items such as general office, operational, computer supplies and other supply items above the threshold established in 2 CFR 200. The Recipient Organization must maintain an inventory of controlled supplies of higher dollar value and high potential for loss such as computers, and it must be made available upon request of the SBA.

f. Contractual: List costs for contractual services that support program operations, such as website support, equipment maintenance or meeting facilitation. Provide budget details including a.) Name of contractor, b.) Statement of work, c.) Number of hours and d.) Rate of pay.

If Applicant proposes to contract with another entity to provide SBDC client services (i.e., a Network Service Center), costs for the Network Service Center contract may be included on the Contractual line for the Network SF-424A Budget Summary, but the Applicant must also include a separate budget justification with cost detail by line item for each Network Service Center.

Please be reminded that if the Applicant uses a budget format other than SBDCO template, the Applicant must also include a separate SF-424A Budget Summary form for each Network Service Center along with its detailed budget justification form.

g. Consultants: Provide detail for consultant costs shown on the line 6 g of SF-424A. (Note that form SF- 424A lists category g. as “Construction”, but Applicants are asked to use this line for SBDC Consultant costs only.)

Consultant costs include costs for non-employee SBDC advisors, trainers and other staff who provide client services on an hourly or fee for service basis. Provide consultant(s) name, if known, specify purpose, and indicate the number of hours, and rate of pay.

h. Other: List all expenses included in this cost category separately, with planned cost per item.

Other expense items may include, but are not limited to, computer software, copying, postage, printing, publications, subscriptions, dues, telephone, conference fees, and office space rental, see 2 CFR 200.465. If rental costs are proposed, provide square footage required for SBDC activities and rate.

If nominal costs for meals and hospitality expenses associated with client workshops or related events are proposed, include a justification that demonstrates such costs are reasonable and necessary to support the SBDC program mission and goals. Details may be included on the budget justification form, budget narrative or in a clearly marked section of the technical narrative.

Do not list other items with zero amounts.

• Indirect Costs: Applicants may waive indirect costs, and choose not to include indirect costs in their budget. Applicants may request reimbursement for indirect costs using their established Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA, if applicable) or the de minimis rate of 15% of Modified Total Direct Costs (MTDC) per 2 CFR §

200.414. o MTDC are calculated as defined in 2 CFR § 200.1 “Modified Total Direct

Cost (MTDC)”. For more information on indirect costs for recipients, refer to 2 CFR §§

200.413 and 200.414.

• If applying using a NICRA, a copy of the NICRA is required to be provided.

• Organizations that do not have a current negotiated (including provisional) rate, may elect the De Minimis rate (2 CFR 200.414). The Uniform Guidance offers the option of electing to charge a de Minimis rate of 15 percent of modified total direct costs

(MTDC) which may be used indefinitely. As detailed in 2 CFR 200.403, costs must be charged consistently as either indirect or direct costs but may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. If elected, this methodology must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a non-Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which it may do at any time.

• Reimbursement of indirect costs charged to federal funds will be capped at a maximum of 20 percent per 13 CFR § 130.460 (c) . The amount remaining of the total indirect cost is the waived portion (i.e., indirect match, if any).

You may only use rates which appear on the ICR under “Applicable To” which indicate one of the

• Other Sponsored Activity

• All Projects

• Instruction

• SBDC Programs

Other categories may apply. Check with the Grants Management Officer for any necessary clarification.

4.1.3. Certification Forms and Assurances

Consistent with 2 CFR § 200.415 Financial Certifications and Assurances. The SF-424B and SF-LLL are incorporated as part of SAM.gov registration. All other required Certification Forms included in GrantSolutions.gov can be obtained online from the GrantSolutions application kit and uploaded as Attachments to the Application. See Section 4.1.4 for the list of Attachments.

4.1.4. Attachments

Please upload in GrantSolutions the following in the appropriate section and include “Attachment #” in the document name.

• Attachment #1: List of Attachments submitted through GrantSolutions.gov;

• Attachment #2: Technical Proposal, including program narrative, organization chart, Network listing, resumes and other required information;

• Attachment #3: Planned Milestones worksheet; Also include the Network’s selected Focus Area.

• Attachment #4: Cost Proposal, including SBDC budget narrative, detailed budget justification by line item, personnel listing and other required cost details for each Network Service Center and the Cost Price Analysis Worksheet;

• Attachment #5: Indirect Cost Rate Agreement for Network Lead and Service Centers (if any);

• Attachment #6: Cost Sharing Proposal; Must reflect a minimum of 50 percent cash match; Attach the SBA Form 1224;

• Attachment #7: Letter of Support from SBA District Director (if provided); and

• Attachment #8: Additional information or other documentation the Grantor and the Applicant deems (e.g., A-133 Audit specific to the SBDC Program) necessary to support its Proposal.

4.1.5 Financial Guidelines

4.1.5.1 Administrative Requirements and Cost Principles

SBDCs are governed by the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, in accordance with 2 CFR Part 200.

4.1.5.2 Budget Preparation & Funding

Specific items of cost may be included in the Proposal and considered allowable under the additional conditions and requirements set forth below.

1. Travel

All travel performed as part of this Agreement must be in accordance with SBDC Program objectives and in compliance with the Recipient's travel policy. To obtain Prior Approval details must be provided as indicated under Section 4.

Prior written approval for travel is limited to the following types of trips:

• Any travel by state/local/tribal government officials; and

• Out-of-state travel is permitted to areas impacted by federally designated disasters, but prior approval is required from the local District Office and SBDCO when the cost exceeds $10,000.

• Travel outside the United States and its territories which is either: (1) Charged to the Cooperative Agreement; or (2) Performed while on duty for the Recipient Organization must be submitted to the District Office who shall recommend to the AA/SBDCO or his/her designee for his/her approval or denial no less than 30 days before departure on a case-by-case basis. (Travel to be completed using vacation time regularly earned is not subject to approval by the AA/SBDCO.) Failure to obtain 30-day prior approval from the AA/SBDCO or his/her designee may result in disallowance of the travel costs but may also include suspension or termination of funding.

2. Payment of Dues

The proposed budget must show amounts estimated for payment of memberships, subscriptions and dues for business, technical and professional associations, including the America’s SBDC (ASBDC). Costs proposed for membership in any civic or community organization, however, must be justified in terms of the benefit to the SBDC derived from this expenditure. In addition, all memberships purchased with project funds must be in the name of the SBDC Program rather than in the name of an individual.

3. Lobbying

There is a broad federal restriction on all grantees of the Federal Government, which prohibits the use of federal appropriated funds to lobby Congress or agencies concerning certain specified federal actions 31 U.S.C. §1352 (also known as the Byrd Amendment).

4. Justification of Costs

All costs proposed require justification and narrative explanation for the Lead Center and each Network Service Center. All proposed costs must be included in the specific line items and fully justified. All forms contained in the financial application package must be completed accurately and in full.

5. Supplies, Printing, and Costs Related to SBDC

Generally, promotional items are not an allowable expense using SBDC Program funds (including program income). Promotional items are objects such as gifts, memorabilia, awards, mugs, and any other item which does not have a specific direct benefit to the SBDC. However, costs proposed for printing the SBDC logo on SBDC training supplies such as pens, notepads or flash drives (which contain course material), are allowable. Costs for awards that are part of an employee recognition program are not considered promotional items and are allowable. Certain promotional items (e.g., clothing imprinted with the SBDC logo) may be charged to Program funds on a case-by-case basis and should be listed in detail in the Proposal. SBDCO will review such proposed costs on a case-by-case basis to determine reasonableness and allowability. The SBDCO Grants Management Specialist may request further information if required to make this determination.

This Section does not include advertising materials specifically allowed in 2 C.F.R. § 200.421 such as:

(a) The recruitment of personnel required by the non-Federal entity for performance of a Federal award;

(b) The procurement of goods and services for the performance of a Federal award;

(c) The disposal of scrap or surplus materials acquired in the performance of a Federal award except when non-Federal entities are reimbursed for disposal costs at a predetermined amount;

or

(d) Program outreach and other specific purposes necessary to meet the requirements of the Federal award.

6. Miscellaneous or Contingency Costs

No miscellaneous or contingency costs may be included in the budget. Contributions to a contingency reserve or any similar provision made for unforeseen events are unallowable.

7. Subcontracting

All subcontracting awarded as a result of this Agreement will be in accordance with 2 CFR §200.317-332.

8. Proposal Costs

This request does not commit the Federal Government to pay any costs incurred in the submission of a proposal.

9. State/Regional Advisory Board Compensation

With the exception of travel costs, compensation for the State/Regional SBDC Advisory Board members is not allowed. This includes compensation reimbursed from Federal funds or donated by the Advisory Board member and used as non-cash match (in-kind).

10. Improvements to SBDC Facilities

If minor construction/physical improvement to SBDC facilities is proposed, Applicant must provide justification for use of program funds, estimated costs and facilities or lease agreement or other documentation from property owner.

4.2. Submission Instructions

In order to receive your award, you must successfully complete the application process via www.grantsolutions.gov using amounts no greater than those to be provided in your directed announcement email from SBDCO. You will receive an invitation to apply, also referred to as your directed announcement, for this cooperative agreement from www.grantsolutions.gov and the application period will be provided. SBA will only accept applications submitted via www.grantsolutions.gov. Intermediaries that submit incomplete application packages, or do not submit a package via www.grantsolutions.gov within the application deadline may not receive funding.

http://www.grantsolutions.gov/

All SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. If you have questions regarding the development and submission of your grant application, please contact help@grantsolutions.gov for assistance.

Applicants must submit an electronic copy of the SBDC Proposal to the SBA District Office for review approximately two weeks before the submission to Grantsolutions.gov. All proposals (narratives and forms) must be submitted electronically via the Federal Government-wide portal, www.Grantsolutions.gov. Applicants should save and print written proof of an electronic submission made at Grantsolutions.gov. If problems occur while using Grantsolutions.gov, the Applicant is advised to a.) Print any error message received; and b.) Contact Grantsolutions.gov for immediate assistance.

Applicants may obtain advice and assistance with the Grantsolutions.gov submission process by visiting www.Grantsolutions.gov or by calling 1-866-577-0771 or 202-401-5282 Monday through Friday 7 AM – 8 PM EDT (closed Federal holidays) or email: help@grantsolutions.gov.

4.3. SBDC Applicant’s Timeline

SBDCs funded on the CALENDAR year:

October 19, 2026: 2027 Notice of Funding Opportunity posts to Grantsolutions.gov November 26, 2026: Draft proposal due to SBA District Office for review.

December 3, 2026: Proposal due via electronic submission on http://www.grantsolutions.gov/at 11:59 pm EDT

4.4. Additional Proposal Information

4.4.1 Treatment of Proposal Information

If the SBDC’s Proposal contains confidential data, such information will be treated in accordance with 13 CFR Part 102.

4.4.2 Treatment of Client Information (Privacy Requirements)

Unless otherwise specified, all financial, statistical, personnel and/or technical information and data furnished, produced or otherwise made available to the SBDC by its small business customers during the performance of this Agreement shall not be used for purposes other than performance of work under this Agreement. The above information received by the SBDC may be privileged and must not be released or disclosed by the SBDC without the prior written consent of the client unless otherwise required by law. If such information is requested in a legal proceeding, the SBDC must take the necessary precautions and legal recourse to protect privileged information.

For clients who have responded “yes” to Question 11 in Part I of SBA Counseling Information Form 641, the SBDC shall provide the information and data contained in Part I along with the small business name every 90 days. SBA will safeguard client and customer Personal Identifiable Information (PII).

No files or records will be removed from the premises of any government agency with which the Recipient may work without the approval of the agency in possession of such documents.

Except where a client consents in writing or as directed by SBA, SBDCs are not permitted to disclose any…