22-FAA-AWD-AP Aviation Workforce Development Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development .pdf

Federal Aviation Administration Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant Program

NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY (NOFO)

Funding Opportunity No. 22-FAA-AWD-AP

Date of Issue: April 26, 2022 Closing Date: June 10, 2022

ISSUED BY THE:

NextGen Procurement Services and Grants Management Division

FAA National Headquarters 800 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, DC 20591

Proposals responding to this Funding Opportunity must be submitted to www.grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. No other methods of submission will be permitted.

Proposals submitted after the stipulated deadline will be rejected without being evaluated.

http://www.grants.gov/

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

AIRCRAFT PILOTS WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT GRANT PROGRAM

Table of Contents

Section Subject Page

I Program Overview

II Award Information

III Eligibility Information

IV Application and Submission Information

V Application Review Criteria

VI Review and Selection Process

VII Award Administration Information 20

VIII Federal Awarding Agency Contact(s)

IX Other Information 22

Appendix I Grants.Gov Submission Instructions

Appendix II Application Checklist

Appendix III Project Narrative Sample Outline

Appendix IV Administrative Requirements

Glossary of Terms

Permanent Links

Section I - Program Overview

Federal Agency Name: U.S. Department of Transportation

800 Independence Ave., SW Washington, DC 20591 Attn: NextGen Grants Management Branch (ANG-A19) NextGen Management Services (ANG-A)

Funding Opportunity Title: FAA Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant Program

Announcement Type: Initial

Funding Opportunity Number: 22-FAA-AWD-AP

Funding Instrument: Grant

Federal Assistance Listing Number:

20.111

Authority: Pub. L. No. 115-254, Section 625

Award Amount: Up to $5,000,000. FAA expects to make at least 10 awards. FAA anticipates awards will be in the range of $25,000 to $500,000. Matching contribution is not required.

Funding: Funding is for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022

Project Duration: Awards will be made for a project period of 12 months

Key Dates: • Notice Date of Issue:

• Questions Accepted at: AWD-Grants@faa.gov until June 7, 2022 at

11:59 pm

• Electronic Applications Due Date: June 10, 2022 at 11:59 pm prevailing Eastern Standard Time

Agency Primary Point of

Contact:

Cynthia Nelson, Grant Program Analyst; AWD-Grants@faa.gov mailto:AWD-Grants@faa.gov

Introduction

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) hereby requests applications for the award of new grant agreements under the FAA Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant

Program (hereinafter referred to as “the Program”), Assistance Listing Number 20.111. The purpose of the Program is to attract future aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers, or unmanned aircraft systems operators to the aviation industry throughout the United States.

Legislative Authority

On October 5, 2018, the President signed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Pub. L. No. 115-254)

(hereinafter referred to as “the Act”). Section 625 of the Act addresses the projected shortages of aircraft pilots in the aviation industry by directing the establishment of an Aviation Workforce Development Grant

Program. This authority was supplemented by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020

(Pub. L. No. 116-92, Section 1743) (hereinafter referred to as the “NDAA”). Section 1743 of the NDAA and

Section 625 of the Act shall be collectively referred to throughout this NOFO as the “Authorizing

Legislation.”

Non-Discrimination Assurance

As a condition to receiving any Federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Transportation

(DOT), through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the applicant is subject to and will comply with the following; in addition to all other laws, regulations, executive orders and/or policies that are applicable to the grants awarded under the Program:

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. § 2000d et seq., 78 stat. 252);

49 CFR part 21 (entitled Non-discrimination In Federally-Assisted Programs of The Department of Transportation—Effectuation of Title VI of The Civil Rights Act of 1964);

49 U.S.C. § 47123 (Nondiscrimination Statute);

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, (42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.);

28 CFR § 50.3 (U.S. Department of Justice Guidelines for Enforcement of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964);

49 CFR part 28 (entitled Enforcement of Nondiscrimination On The Basis Of Handicap in Programs or Activities Conducted by the Department of Transportation);

49 CFR part 37 (entitled Transportation Services for Individuals with Disabilities (ADA));

28 CFR part 35 (entitled Discrimination On The Basis Of Disability in State and Local Government Services); and

Executive Order 13985 (entitled Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government).

Background

Through the award of these grants, the USDOT and the FAA will assist in providing meaningful educational experiences designed to prepare high school students throughout the Nation to become aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers, or unmanned aircraft systems operators, and support the related professional development of teachers. Consistent with Federal policy, by advancing equity across the Federal Government, we can create opportunities for the improvement of communities that have been historically underserved.

Program Goals

The Program is to provide grants to support the education of future aircraft pilots and the development of the aircraft pilot workforce by preparing high school students to fill the United States aviation industry’s anticipated demand for aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers, or unmanned aircraft systems operators, and support the related professional development of teachers.

Per the Authorizing Legislation, the Secretary may exercise discretion in selecting awards to ensure that the grantees selected will allow participation from a diverse collection of public and private schools in rural, urban and suburban schools.

Eligible Projects

Only projects that fall into one or more of the below categories will be eligible for award:

(a.) Projects that create and deliver curriculum1 designed to provide high school students with meaningful aviation education that is designed to prepare the students to become aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers, or unmanned aircraft systems operators; or

(b.) Projects that support the professional development of teachers using the curriculum described in subparagraph (a.)

Section II – Award Information

Type of Award and Funding

The Program is a competitive discretionary grant program. Subject to the availability of funds, the

Government intends to issue awards totaling up to $5,000,000 of FY2021 funding through this NOFO, with no single grant award below $25,000 or exceeding $500,000. If the request is below $25,000 or above

$500,000, the application will be considered ineligible.

The Government may not be able to award grants to all eligible applications.

1 The proposed project may utilize an applicant’s existing training curriculum as well, provided that such curriculum is consistent with the eligibility requirements set forth herein.

Number of Awards

The Government will determine the number of awards depending on the quality and quantity of proposals, but the FAA expects to make at least 10 awards under this announcement. However, the Government reserves the right to make more, fewer, or no awards. Submission of an application to Grants.gov is not a guarantee of award. The FAA may, at its discretion, award a grant based on an application in its entirety, award only portions of a grant based on its application, or not award a grant at all.

Funding Restrictions

Pre-award costs: The Government will not reimburse any pre-award costs or application preparation costs.

Construction and Research Activities: The Government will not reimburse for facility construction or research activities.

Administrative Cost Cap: The Government caps Administrative Costs to 10% of the total award.

Indirect Costs: The Government accepts all Federal negotiated Indirect Cost Rates contingent upon applicant attaching proof of agreement with their Cognizant Agency to their application for this grant. Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect cost proposals may also request indirect costs.

When an indirect cost rate is requested, those costs included in the indirect cost pool should not also be charged as direct costs to the award. If the applicant is requesting a rate which is less than what is allowed under the program, the authorized representative of the applicant organization must submit a signed acknowledgement that the applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed. The applicant can elect to accept 10% of the de minimis indirect cost rate of modified total direct costs (MTDC) if the applicant does not have a current negotiated (including provisional) rate. Per 2 CFR 200.214(f), in addition to the procedures outlined in the appendices in paragraph (e) of this section, any non- Federal entity that does not have a current negotiated (including provisional) rate, except for those non-Federal entities described in appendix VII to this part, paragraph D.1.b, may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10% of modified total direct costs (MTDC) which may be used indefinitely. No documentation is required to justify the 10% de minimis indirect cost rate. As described in 2 CFR 200.403, costs must be consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs, but may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. If chosen, this methodology once elected must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a non-Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the non-Federal entity may apply to do at any time. For more information, see 2 CFR Part 200.414.

Field Trips: Field Trips are permissible but costs should be kept to a minimum. Field Trip related expenses must be reflected in the Budget and Budget Narrative using standard government rates which can be located at https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates

Equipment: Grant funds may not be used to purchase and/or lease heavy equipment such as aircrafts and/or simulators. Grant funds may be used for the costs of fuel, routine maintenance, relevant equipment and other operating costs.

Award Funds: All funds provided must be expended solely for the purpose for which the funds are awarded in accordance with the approved application and budget, regulations, terms and conditions of the award, applicable federal cost principles, and DOT’s financial assistance regulations.

Lobbying and Litigation: Funds may not be used for lobbying or litigation.

Disallowed Funds: The Government will not reimburse any costs disallowed or stated as ineligible in 2 CFR Part 200.

https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates

Unexpended Funds

If the Government does not expend all funds under this NOFO, a second award cycle may occur at the sole discretion of the Government. If a grant recipient does not expend the funds made available for the grant award, remaining funds will be de-obligated within 90 days of the end of the period of performance as part of the closeout activities in accordance with the GONE Act.

Period of Performance

Subject to the availability of funds, the period of performance for grant awards under this Program will be 12 months from the effective date of the grant award. Applicants must only apply for projects that can be completed within the period of performance. If the period of performance is greater than 12 months, the application will be considered ineligible. The Government reserves the right to require, at its discretion and as a condition to award, a period of performance that is shorter than that proposed by the applicant.

Degree of Federal Involvement

In addition to all other customary and required Government oversight activities for grant programs of this type, the Government may conduct site visits of applicant institutions and facilities to observe curriculum delivery, review materials including, without limitation, books, records, activity plans, relevant documents, accounting procedures, processes, and related activities and resources. The Government will require quarterly progress reports and final reports.

Section III – Eligibility Information

Eligible Applicants

The following types of entities are eligible to submit an application for this funding opportunity:

a. An air carrier, as defined in section 40102 of title 49, United States Code, or a labor organization representing aircraft pilots;

b. An accredited institution of higher education (as defined in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)) or a high school or secondary school (as defined in section 7801 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801));

c. A flight school that provides flight training, as defined in part 61 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or that holds a pilot school certificate under part 141 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations;

d. A State or local governmental entity; or

e. An organization representing aircraft users, aircraft owners, or aircraft pilots.

http://uscode.house.gov/quicksearch/get.plx?title=20&section=1001 http://uscode.house.gov/quicksearch/get.plx?title=20&section=7801

The Government does not have authority to award grants to entities other than those identified above, nor does the Government have authority to provide scholarships or any form of financial assistance directly to individual applicants. Applicants must ensure (and be prepared to document) that all individuals supporting the proposed project possess the legal ability to work within the United States throughout the period of performance. The government will not award a grant to an applicant who already has an active award with

FAA’s Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant Program or Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers

Workforce Development Grant Program with a period of performance that will overlap with the award being granted under this NOFO.

Requirement to use E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility

Unless an exemption applies throughout the period of performance for the award, with respect to the hiring of any individual for employment in the United States under the “program or activity” that is funded in whole or in part under the award or sub-award, the recipient or sub-recipient must enroll (if not already enrolled) in

E-Verify, use E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility of all new hires, and take such steps as may be necessary to ensure award and sub-award recipient compliance with this award term and condition.

Proof of Eligibility

Applicants are required to identify how they qualify under Section III by uploading proof of eligibility.

Applicants must provide copies of any applicable accreditations and certifications, as well as provide a brief statement as to which eligibility category the applicant is applying under and how the applicant qualifies. The

Government reserves the right to validate proof of eligibility.

Partnerships

The Government encourages applicants to partner with others, such as trainers, consultants and/or contractors, as appropriate to satisfy program goals and to otherwise meet the requirements of the merit criteria including, without limitation, engaging in partnerships that will enhance an applicant’s ability to reach and include a diverse collection of public and private schools in rural, suburban, and urban areas; and to help the applicant provide additional opportunities, assistance, and resources to ensure success and sustainability of the proposed project. For purposes of clarification, partnerships are intended to refer to contractor relationships as set forth in 2 CFR 200.331(b). Sub-awards are prohibited under this NOFO.

Each partner must submit a letter of commitment to the project and signed formal agreement outlining the responsibilities of each partner. If an applicant submits a proposal without a letter of commitment and agreement from each partner, the proposal will be ineligible. An authorized official from the lead organization must submit the proposal on behalf of the team, and officially represent the members for administrative purposes. The Fiscal Officer identified by the Lead entity will be responsible for signing or co-signing the proposal submission, negotiating the final terms of the award with the FAA Grants Officer, accepting the grant on behalf of the team, and providing official reports, invoices and related materials as requested.

The Government will accept only one application from an eligible entity serving as a single applicant or as a

Lead for a partnership. An eligible entity may also participate as a non-lead partner on the application(s) of other eligible entities.

Cost Share or Matching

The Authorizing Legislation does not require cost share or matching contributions for this Program.

Other

All applicants must be registered in www.sam.gov. Per 2 CFR 200.206(a)(2), the FAA will check the Federal

Awardee Performance and Integrity System (FAPIIS) www.fapiis.gov. Entities found to be debarred or suspended will automatically be ineligible from participating in the Program.

Section IV – Application and Submission Information

Application Forms

Applicants may obtain application forms at Grants.gov under the NOFO number and Assistance Listing

Number (formerly CFDA) cited herein. Electronic applications must be submitted through Grants.gov.

Information for registering and submitting applications through Grants.gov can be found in Appendix I-

Grants.gov Submission Instructions of this announcement with detailed instructions on how to submit applications in Grants.gov. Please see Appendix I for information for obtaining accessibility assistance through the Grants.gov support desk. Documents required for application submission are listed in Appendix

II. For specific instructions and for the forms and attachments required at the time of submission, see https://Grants.gov/web/grants/applicants.html

Content and Form of Application Submission

The applicant must complete and submit all required application package forms, see Appendix II-Application

Checklist, and submit them directly online at Grants.gov under the NOFO cited herein. Applicants should refer to https://Grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html to access instructions for the current (SF-424) and other forms used to create grant application packages in Grants.gov. See Appendix II for a complete list of documentation required to be submitted with Narrative.

File Type http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.fapiis.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants.html http://www.grants.gov/ https://www.www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html

All documents must be submitted as PDF files.

Format

Narratives must be written in English using US Dollars, double spaced, using Times New Roman 12 Point

Font with 1-inch margins, page numbers must be placed in the lower right corner, and should not exceed a 10 page limit. Application charts, graphs, and tables can be single-spaced. The Narrative must include a cover letter signed by the authorized official representing the applicant or the team of applicants, and the proposal narrative must be organized in accordance with this paragraph and the Project Narrative section below, while addressing the Merit Criteria stated in Section V. Ensure that each header and/or sub-header are clearly labeled so that sections can be easily segregated and reviewers can look at the merit of the application before reviewing the cost proposals. If the proposal is not submitted in the aforementioned format, the application will be deemed ineligible.

Mandatory Forms

Failure to complete and submit any of the below forms may render the application ineligible for an award.

a. Application for Financial Assistance Form, SF-424

The SF-424 Form, Application for Financial Assistance Form, is used in all federal grant applications.

This form collects information, including type of applicant, applicant contact information, type of submission, the award request amount, and proposed project dates.

b. Project Abstract Summary Form

Briefly describe work that is proposed to be completed and indicate whether the activities proposed are a complete project or part of a larger project. Additionally, state if this is a new or existing project. State the eligible project category(s) from the above referenced Section I that are applicable to the proposed project.

The abstract should describe how this specific request for funding would achieve goals of the Program as stated in Section I. Applicant should use the Project Abstract Summary Form found on www.Grants.gov to complete this section.

c. Project Narrative (Please use a separate sheet of paper for this section)

In accordance with the below instructions, applicants must attach a project narrative file (the “Narrative”) to their Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424) during the submission to Grants.gov to successfully complete the proposal process. As a header, the narrative must include a project title. See APPENDIX III for a sample outline.

Page Length: The maximum page length of the Narrative is up to 10 pages. Applications exceeding the

10 page limit will be considered ineligible.

Description: Address each of the evaluation criteria set forth in Section V. Ensure all acronyms are spelled out in the description. This description should be clearly organized by evaluation criterion to aid the selection team in assigning a rating to each criterion.

Applicant information and coordination with other entities: Clearly identify the name(s) of the primary applicant, any other organization(s) supporting the proposed project, any volunteers supporting the proposed project, and include any organizations to be funded by the Lead Entity. Describe activities to be conducted in cooperation with all entities involved.

Conflict of Interest (COI): If the participation of the primary applicant, a member of a proposed team, or an organization supporting the proposed project results in a real or perceived COI, the applicant must provide a detailed explanation of how the risk will be mitigated or eliminated. The Government reserves the right to disqualify any applicant whose approach does not sufficiently mitigate the real or perceived COI. If no COI exists, a statement to that effect should be included.

d. Funding Request:

All applications must include a Funding Request. As stated above, each section of the application must be clearly labeled so that sections are easily segregated.

Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs Form, SF-424A: Complete the detailed budget form

Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs Form, SF-424A that describes both the direct and indirect costs associated with a particular project.

Budget Narrative: (Please use a separate sheet of paper for this section). Two-page limit. Provide a justification of the proposed itemized expenditures including identification of any other existing or anticipated financial resources, or unmet funding needs, beyond this request to the FAA.

Cost Policy Statement: The cost policy statement must describe all accounting policies and narrate in detail your proposed cost allocation plan. This plan must identify the procedures used to identify, measure, and allocate all costs to each benefiting activity. This policy should be signed by an authorized official. Name this document: Cost Policy.

Indirect Cost Rate Proposal: If the Applicant does not have such an agreement and wishes to request indirect costs, it must propose an indirect cost rate in accordance with the procedures set forth in the applicable cost principles circular OR it may use a 10 percent de minimis rate. An Applicant may use a 10 percent de minimis indirect cost rate until it has an approved ICRA by a cognizant Federal

Agency. Applicants with an approved ICRA in place may not use the de minimis rate.

ACH Vendor Payment Enrollment Attachment (SF-3881) Form

Submission Dates and Deadlines

Applications must be submitted to Grants.gov. Please see Appendix I of this announcement for detailed instructions on how to submit applications to Grants.gov.

Application Due Date/Time

11:59 pm Eastern Time

It is the responsibility of the applicant to allow for sufficient time to meet the Grants.gov application requirements stated at the time of this posting and to adhere to submission deadlines. Grants.gov will not accept applications after the due date and time. No other means of submission will be accepted.

Agency Contact

The applicant should include on the Application for Federal Assistance, SF-424 the contact information of a direct employee authorized to act on behalf of the organization. FAA will use this information to contact applicants as necessary throughout the competitive process and to inform parties of award determination. It is imperative that applicants provide an accurate email address and a telephone number for themselves, each team member, and all key personnel.

Communications with applicants and FAA may take place throughout the application and selection process, at the Government’s sole discretion. The purpose of communications is to ensure there are mutual understandings between the Government and applicants on all aspects of this Program and the applicant’s submission. Information disclosed because of oral or written communication with an applicant may be considered in the evaluation of an applicant’s submittal(s). The Government reserves the right to conduct communications with specific applicants only, with all applicants, or with no applicants. Communications with one applicant do not necessitate communications with other applicants.

Questions

Questions concerning general information contained in this Announcement should be directed via email to

AWD-Grants@faa.gov prior to the closing date of this announcement. To the extent possible and in the sole discretion of the Government, the Government will respond to inquiries and answers will be posted on the

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page, which can be found on http://www.faa.gov/go/awd http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.faa.gov/go/awd

Grants Officer Point of Contact

Questions regarding budgetary matters (i.e., questions related to the SF-424A standard form) related to this

Announcement should be directed to the Grants Office, Jazzmin Gayle via e-mail to Jazzmin.Gayle@faa.gov

Please Note: Other than the FAA Grants Officer, FAA and USDOT employees and support staff are not permitted to discuss or take questions regarding technical issues, the competition, or any matters related to this competition or the selection process.

Technical Assistance FAA will hold a pre-application technical assistance (TA) webinar for applicants seeking funding through these funding opportunities. The webinar will provide an overview of pertinent information in the NOFO and an opportunity for applicants to ask questions. Visit the FAA’s Aviation Workforce Development website at https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ang/grants/awd to learn more about the resources available for these funding opportunities.

Intergovernmental Review

An application under this NOFO is not subject to the State review under E.O. 12372.

Section V – Application Review Criteria

Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated on the following merit criteria, therefore applicants must address each criterion in the order presented below and respond to each in the Project Narrative, Section I (10 page limit).

Criterion 1—Project Plan (up to 30 points)

The extent to which the applicant has provided a clear and achievable plan to carry out the proposed project by including, without limitation, a clear and well-organized description of the planned activities, objective(s), performance goals and measures; and clearly define roles and responsibilities to be undertaken by the lead entity and each team member for the work to be performed. The proposed project may utilize an applicant’s existing training curriculum as well, provided that such curriculum is consistent with the eligibility requirements set forth herein. Applicants should also specify any potential plans to sustain the program.

mailto:Jazzmin.Gayle@faa.gov https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ang/grants/awd

Criterion 2—Applicant Resources (up to 25 points)

The extent to which the applicant has demonstrated that it has the capacity to carry out the proposed project plan by clearly demonstrating that sufficient facilities, equipment, human and fiscal resources are available to provide for student and teacher/instructor recruitment, academic and career counseling, public outreach activities, and otherwise demonstrating that sufficient resources are available to achieve program goals. Any examples of past activities and programs provided by the applicant will be evaluated in terms of the extent to which such past activities and programs enhance the applicant’s capacity to carry out the proposed project.

Criterion 3---Project Approach and Outcomes (up to 25 points)

The extent to which an applicant’s proposed project approach will support the education and development of high school students to prepare them to become aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers or unmanned aircraft systems operators; and/or the related professional development of teachers in the United States and U.S. territories. Applicant should include the projected number of students, trainees, and other individuals that will participate in the Program. Applications should describe benefits and outcomes of the proposed project that are clearly mapped to the goal of the Program.

Applicant should further describe how the strength of proposed partnerships and collaborative strategies, if any, will assist in the fulfilment of Program goals. To the extent applicable to the proposed project, applicants should describe the outreach and recruitment plans to target a diverse collection of public or private schools in rural, suburban, or urban areas.

Criterion 4—Project Administration and Monitoring (up to 20 points)

The extent to which the applicant has demonstrated a clear and achievable plan to control administrative expenses and a well-organized description of how the project activities will be monitored, assessed, and documented to determine the extent to which performance goals and metrics will be achieved. Explain how success will be measured and monitored. Identify method of tracking. Describe how the applicant will self-evaluate the lead’s performance on this project and how success will be determined.

Section VI - Review and Selection Process

Initial Screening

Applications will first be provided to the Grants Officer for initial review to confirm that the applicant 1) meets the eligibility requirements as set forth in Section III, Eligible Applicants, and 2) has included all of the items specified in Section IV, Content and Form of Application Submission in the proper format and within the applicable page limitations. If an application does not meet the eligibility requirements as set forth in

Section III, Eligible Applicants, or include all of the items specified in Section IV, Content and Form of

Application Submission in the proper format and within the applicable page limitations, the Grants Officer may deem the application ineligible. As noted above, all single applicants and team Leads must be registered at www.sam.gov Per 2 CFR 200.206.

Further, an application will be considered ineligible during the initial screening phase if the application does not meet the following requirements:

1) Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is required for Grants.gov registration. The identifier is used for tracking purposes and to validate address and point of contact information for Federal assistance applicants, recipients, and sub recipients. Obtaining a DUNS number or UEI is a free, one-time activity that can be completed by calling 1-866-705-5711 or by applying online at http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform.

2) All applicants for Federal financial assistance must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) to successfully register in Grants.gov. The SAM database is the repository for standard information about Federal financial assistance applicants and recipients. Applicants must update or renew their SAM registration at least once per year to maintain an active status; therefore, it is critical to check registration status well in advance of relevant application deadlines. Information about SAM registration procedures can be accessed at: https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/.

3) Applicant must have an active UEI and SAM registration at the time of applicant’s submission of its application.

4) Section III, Eligible Applicants, to include all of the items specified in Section IV, Content and Forms of Application Submission in the proper format and within the applicable page limitations.

5) Entities found to be debarred or suspended will be automatically be considered ineligible from participating in the Program.

Review Process

As further discussed below, if an application passes the initial screening discussed above, the application will then be reviewed by a Business Management and Fiscal Review team. Furthermore, if the Business

Management and Fiscal Review team recommends the application, the application will then be reviewed by the Technical Evaluation Team. The dual evaluation and review processes are intended to assure the selecting official that each proposal being considered for an award meets or exceeds the criteria presented by the

Government in this NOFO and mandated by Congress.

The FAA reserves the right to use outside expertise to perform application evaluation.

http://www.sam.gov/ http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/

The Business Management and Fiscal Review

The Business Management & Fiscal Review Team will conduct the risk assessment discussed below and examine the proposed budget and supporting narrative to ensure that the applicant’s proposed budget is reasonable, financially sound, and in accordance with the requirements of this NOFO. The Business

Management & Fiscal Review Team will address each of the below questions with regard to each application, and then the application will either be “recommended or not recommended” by the Business Management &

Fiscal Review Team:

1. Is the information provided by the applicant relating to their funding request compliant with the requirements of the NOFO?

2. Is the applicant’s proposed budget reasonable and financially sound?

3. Upon review of Applicant Risk (further discussed below), does the Management & Fiscal Review team find that the risk, if any, associated with making an award to this applicant is acceptable?

If the answer is yes to all three of the above questions, the Business Management & Fiscal Review Team will rate the application as “recommended” and the application will move forward to the Technical Evaluation

Review process.

If the answer is no to any of the above questions, the Business Management & Fiscal Review team will rate the application as “not recommended” and the application will be deemed ineligible for award.

Pursuant to Section 4.5.1.2 (Applicant Risk) of the USDOT Guide to Financial Assistance and applicable law, 2 CFR 200.206, the Government is required to assess information about an applicant in order to evaluate the risks posed by an applicant before they receive an award. The Business Management and Fiscal Review Team may consider, without limitation, the following factors as to the applicant’s eligibility, as applicable:

Designated integrity and history of performance of past federal awards through SAM and FAPIIS (see 41 U.S.C. 2313). Per the guidelines on government-wide suspension and debarment in 2 CFR Part 180, the Government will confirm that the Recipient and any named sub-applicants are not debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities;

Reports and findings from audits performed under Subpart F of 2 CFR Part 200 or the reports and findings of any other available audits;

The applicant's ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements imposed on non-Federal entities; and

Potential conflicts of interest on the part of the grantee. The grantee must disclose in writing any potential conflict of interest to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in accordance with applicable Federal awarding agency policy. 2 CFR 200.112.

As noted above, the Government reserves the right to reject an application if the Government finds, at its sole discretion, that an applicant presents an unacceptable level of risk based on the findings of this risk assessment. Additionally, if risks are identified but can, in the Government’s sole discretion, be sufficiently mitigated through the inclusion of special terms and conditions in the grant agreement or otherwise, the

Government reserves the right to proceed with award subject to any additional terms and conditions it deems appropriate.

Technical Evaluation Review

The Technical Evaluation Team may consider the Business Management and Fiscal Review team’s findings to determine an applicant’s risk. The Technical Evaluation Team will evaluate each application against each of the merit criteria set forth in Section V.

Based upon the strengths, weaknesses and risks identified, the Technical Evaluation Review team will assign an adjectival rating to each merit criterion from the Adjectival Rating Table below. Each merit criterion will then receive the corresponding score as set forth in the Merit Criterion Points table below. Based on the sum of the scores assigned to the individual merit criteria, an overall adjectival rating will be assigned to the application as set forth in the Overall Ratings table below.

The Technical Evaluation score will be one factor among several in the ultimate selection of awardees.

Adjectival Rating Table:

ADJECTIVAL RATING DEFINITION

EXCEEDS

STANDARDS

The applicant's proposal comprehensively responds to the merit criteria and demonstrates a thorough understanding of the goals of the Program. The

Applicant's response exceeds the standard requirements for a “Meets

Standard” rating. There may be some weaknesses or risks, although they are mostly minor. Strengths outweigh any weaknesses or risks.

MEETS STANDARDS

The applicant's proposal adequately addresses the merit criteria and the application demonstrates an understanding of the Program goals. There may be several weaknesses and/or risks; however, the combined impact of any strengths is approximately equal to the combined impact of any weaknesses or risks.

BELOW STANDARDS

The applicant's proposal does not provide sufficient information or does not respond adequately to the merit criteria, therefore, the applicant's proposal is inadequate. The proposal does not demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of the goals of the Program, contains many weaknesses or risks, and little or no strengths. Weaknesses or risks far outweigh any strengths.

Merit Criterion Points Table:

Criterion 1 – Project Plan Below Standards =

20 points Meets Standards = 25 points

Exceeds Standards = 30 points

Criterion 2 – Applicant Resources

Below Standards = 15 points

Meets Standards = 20 points

Exceeds Standards = 25 points

Criterion 3 – Project Impact

Below Standards = 15 points

Meets Standards = 20 points

Exceeds Standards = 25 points

Criterion 4 – Project Administration

Below Standards = 10 points

Meets Standards = 14 points

Exceeds Standards = 20 points

Total:

Overall Ratings Table:

Overall Adjectival Rating

Total Points

Exceeds Standards 100-80

Meets Standards 79-61

*Below Standards 60-0

*An applicant that receives an overall adjectival rating of Below Standards will not be considered for selection.

The adjectival ratings will be evaluated using the following definitions for strengths, weaknesses and risks:

Strength An aspect of an application that would positively impact the likelihood of the applicant successfully carrying out the proposed project, that exceeds the requirements for grant award, or otherwise supports the education and development of the aircraft pilots workforce (including aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers or unmanned aircraft systems operators) in the United States including, if applicable to the applicant’s proposed project, the extent to which the applicant’s proposed project approach supports the related professional development of teachers.

Weakness An aspect of an application that would negatively impact the likelihood of the applicant successfully carrying out the proposed project, that fails to meet the requirements for award, or otherwise fails to support the education and development of the aircraft pilots workforce (including aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers or unmanned aircraft systems operators) in the United States including, if applicable to the applicant’s proposed project, the extent to which the applicant’s proposed project approach supports the related professional development of teachers.

Risk An aspect of an application that presents an uncertainty as to the ability of the applicant to successfully carry out the proposed project, meet the requirements for award, or otherwise to support the education and development of the aircraft pilots workforce (including aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers or unmanned aircraft systems operators) in the United States including, if applicable to the applicant’s proposed project, the extent to which the applicant’s proposed project approach supports the related professional development of teachers.

The initial screening and dual evaluation review processes are intended to assure the Grants Officer makes a grant award recommendation to the selecting official in accordance with the criteria and considerations set forth in this NOFO, and mandated by Congress. The maximum score any application can receive is 100 points. The minimum acceptable score will be 61 points. Only those applications that meet or exceed the minimum acceptable score will be considered for funding. Note that a score of 61 or more does not guarantee that the Applicant will receive an award.

If the Government does not make a Federal award to an applicant because the official determines that the applicant does not meet either or both of the minimum qualification standards as described in 2 CFR 200.206, the Government will report that determination in FAPIIS. Applicants found to be in violation of Federal

Statutes described herein or otherwise deemed relevant by the Government to receiving the grant or to have previous disbarments will automatically be considered ineligible.

Other Review Considerations

After the Business Management & Fiscal Review and Technical Evaluation Review, the Government may consider the following factors prior to final award selection.

The extent to which the project supports the policy objectives of applicable Executive Orders including, without limitation, Executive Order of January 20, 2021 on Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government;

The geographic distribution throughout the United States of the activities of the collective group of awarded proposals;

Whether a project is located in a qualified opportunity zone designated pursuant to 26 U.S.C. § 1400Z-1;

Consistent with the Department's R.O.U.T.E.S. Initiative (https://www.transportation.gov/rural), the Department recognizes that rural transportation networks face unique challenges. To the extent that those challenges are reflected in the merit criteria listed in this section, the Department will https://www.transportation.gov/rural consider how the activities proposed in the application will address those challenges, regardless of the geographic location of those activities;

For applicants with existing awards, FAA may consider award balances when making final funding decisions.

The availability of funds.

Based on the recommendation of the Business Management & Fiscal Review Team, the overall adjectival rating assigned by the Technical Evaluation Team, and after taking into account the other considerations set forth in this NOFO for award, the Grants Officer shall recommend applications for award to the selecting official, who will then make the final award decision.

Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates

The FAA anticipates announcing grant recipients and making awards in 3rd Quarter Fiscal Year 2022.

Section VII – Award Administration Information

Federal Award Notices

a. Selection Notification

The FAA Grants Officer will notify the recipient’s Fiscal Officer or designated point of contact when selected for award. The Grants Officer will sign and send award documents to the official responsible for acting on behalf of the applicant named as the designated point of contact in the proposal.

The Grants Officer is the individual authorized by the Senior Procurement Executive to commit the Government to a course of action and bind the Federal Government to the expenditure of funds.

Expenses incurred during proposal preparation are not reimbursed. The officially signed grant award, when executed, is the authorizing document that enables the recipient to begin the agreed upon activities.

Awards made under this Program are subject to the 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards.

https://www.ecfr.gov/. These Terms and Conditions will be incorporated in the award by reference.

Awardees receipt of funds is contingent on execution of the Government’s award agreement.

b. Non-Selection Notification

The FAA Grants Officer will notify applicants that have not been selected, in writing, as promptly as possible after the determination has been made. Ineligible applicants will be notified via e-mail.

Administrative and National Policy Requirements

The applicant must adhere to all Local, State and Federal laws and directives including National Policies identified in required form SF-424B, Assurances Non-Construction, and including those outlined in the updated Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards.

To review 2 CFR Part 200, effective November 2020, visit the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations.

Further, please see Appendix IV for additional important policy statements.

http://www.ecfr.gov/ http://www.ecfr.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl

Degree of Federal Involvement

In addition to all other customary and required Government oversight activities for grant programs of this type, the Government may conduct site visits of applicant institutions and facilities to observe curriculum delivery and review materials including, without limitation, books, records, activity plans, relevant documents, accounting procedures, processes, and related activities and resources. The Government will require quarterly progress reports and final reports.

Reporting

Grantee Monitoring and Reporting

The following metrics are examples of what will be used in measuring relevant outcomes for this grant

Program. The FAA reserves the right to request other information and metrics from a grantee in order to ensure that performance is aligned with the program goals and requirements.

a) Recruitment and Outreach: Efforts designed to increase awareness of anticipated gaps in the aviation industry’s labor pool and encourage the high school student population to participate in the grantee’s program(s). Identify plans to allow participation from a diverse collection of public and private schools in rural, urban and suburban schools. Document the actual activities, number and location of recruitment events conducted and number of attendees.

b) Registration: Number of those enrolled in the proposed program(s) and/or activities as measured by actual program registration and attendance by the high school student population.

c) Program Completion: Number of high school students successfully completing the curriculum.

d) Certification: Number of the high school student population having completed the application or certification requirements necessary to become licensed aircraft pilots, aerospace engineers, or unmanned aircraft systems operators.

The grant recipient is responsible for complying with the reporting requirements for eligible participants of

FAA funded projects during the term of the period of performance, as applicable to the project. The grant recipient will submit this information electronically with required quarterly and final reports.

The following reports must be submitted electronically, unless otherwise requested by the FAA:

Quarterly Reports

At the discretion of the FAA Grants Officer, a quarterly report will be required, and must provide a narrative to include but not be limited to: noteworthy activities or events performed during the period; summary of accomplishments; sources of all funds and other contributions generated; fiscal expenditures; performance metrics by the recipient; obstacles and problems encountered, remedies or proposed solutions; and a Financial

Statement of funds expended to date to show progress.

Quarterly Progress Reports must include the following details about the relevant Milestones and Goals:

Detailed accounting of the activities conducted including activities of team members and number of students reached during the reporting period;

Plans for accomplishments in the next reporting period;

Problems or delays that the recipient has experienced in the conduct of the activities; and

Updated SF-425 Federal Financial Report 4040-0014 and SF-425A Federal Financial Report Attachment to document expenditures and the status of funds.

Final Closeout Report

The Grant Recipient must prepare and electronically submit the Grant Closeout report to the FAA Grants

Officer within 90 days after the end of the grant award period of performance. The fully inclusive Closeout

Report must…