CARSI_FINAL_FY2019_Notice of Funding Opportunity FINAL.docx

NOFO Number: S-PM070-20-GR-501 Panama Forward Fund

Notice of Funding Opportunity Panama Forward Fund

Catalog of Federal Domestic

Issuance Date: April 280, 2020

Deadline for Receipt May 15, 2020 of Questions:

Deadline for Submission June 7, 2020 of Applications:

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The U.S. Embassy in Panama City announces a Notification of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to promote democratic institutions, accountability, and good governance in Panama with up to $750,000 in Fiscal Year 2019 Economic Support Funds for a project period between 18-24 months. The anticipated start date for this activity is September 30, 2020. The U.S. Embassy Panama anticipates funding a minimum of two awards and a maximum of four awards as a result of this NOFO.

The focus for this funding opportunity is on democracy, accountability, and governance. Successful proposals will develop projects aimed at: 1) Strengthening Panama’s institutions and civil service; 2) Promoting transparency and anti-corruption; 3) Empowering at-risk youth; and 4) Stronger gGovernment management of resources. Funding awarded under this NOFO cannot be used for law enforcement or to train members of law enforcement. Projects may focus on one or more of the objectives and must fulfill at least one sub-objective of the corresponding objectives outlined in Section I, Project Description, herein.

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

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

For further information, please contact:

Rachael Engle - Foreign Assistance Coordinator PanamaGrants@state.gov

NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

The U.S. Department of State at U.S. Embassy Panama City is seeking applications from Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Public International Organizations (PIOs), Educational Institutions, and other qualified organizations for a grant to implement a program entitled “Panama Forward Fund.” The authority for this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.

Pursuant to 2 CFR 200.400g, it is U.S. Department of State policy not to award profit under assistance instruments. All reasonable, allocable, and allowable expenses, however, both direct and indirect, which are related to the agreement project and are in accordance with applicable cost standards (2 CFR 200 for U.S. and overseas-based non-profit organizations, and universities; and the Mandatory Standard Provision “Allowable Costs (2 CFR 200.403)” for public international organizations), may be paid under the grant agreement. NOTE: Non-U.S.-based nonprofit organizations are legally required to comply with the 2 CFR 200.

Subject to the availability of funds, U.S. Embassy Panama City intends to issue two or more awards in an amount not to exceed $750,000.00 in total funding. The U.S. Dollar amount will be funded from U.S. Embassy Panama allocated funds, for a project period between 18-24 months per award. The anticipated start date for this activity is September 30, 2020. Contingent upon the availability of funds and quality of proposals, as many as four awards may be granted as a result of this NOFO. U.S. Embassy Panama City reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for each award.

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

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

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

It is the responsibility of the recipient of this NOFO document to ensure that it has been received from http://www.grants.gov in its entirety. U.S. Embassy Panama City bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes associated with electronic submissions. The deadline for submission of applications is June 7, 2020.

Submit any questions concerning this NOFO in writing to PanamaGrants@state.gov. The deadline for submission of questions for this NOFO is May 15, 2020. Responses to questions will be made available to all potential applicants through an amendment to this NOFO and posted on http://www.grants.gov.

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

Sincerely, Philip Laidlaw

NOFO Number: S-PM070-20-GR-501 CARSI Small Grants Program: Panama Forward Fund

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.

SECTION I – FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND

A secure and stable Central America contributes to a safer and more prosperous United States. Through the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI), U.S. assistance seeks to secure U.S. borders and protect U.S. citizens by addressing the security and governmental drivers of illegal immigration and illicit trafficking. To promote improved governance, U.S. assistance supports anti-corruption efforts that improve the ease of doing business; strengthen the rule of law; promote strong institutions and government accountability; reduce impunity; and improve fiscal management by promoting efficient tax collection, civil society engagement, and institutional reform. CARSI enhances the capabilities of government entities and civil society organizations to build more accountable, transparent, and effective public institutions. CARSI Economic Support Fund (ESF) small grants, such as this opportunity, provide programming to strengthen civil society’s role in improving governance and support a professional, non-partisan civil service.

CARSI objectives include:

1. Host-nation governments create a competent civil service that provides non-partisan continuity and service.

2. Host-nation governments increase revenues and are accountable for investing public resources responsibly.

3. Central American civil society demand government accountability without reprisal of their rights and are able to influence policy outcomes. Host-nation governments uphold the values and practices of liberal democracy; citizens hold their governments accountable for these actions.

4. Central American host governments and the justice sector within each implement meaningful institutional reforms to decrease impunity.

CARSI assistance supports a safer and more secure region where criminal organizations no longer wield the power to destabilize governments or threaten national and regional security and public safety, as well as to prevent the entry and spread of illicit drugs, violence, and transnational threats to countries throughout the region and to the United States. The five pillars of CARSI are:

1. Create safe streets for the citizens of the region

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

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

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

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

Solicitations must primarily reflect support for CARSI pillar three (strong, capable, and accountable governments), and results, particularly indicators, will be reported under the Strategy’s Governance objective. Applicants must provide governance indicators to track results, and that correlate with CARSI pillar three, U.S. federal assistance seeks to promote improved governance in the following ways: supporting anti-corruption efforts; promoting strong institutions; government accountability; and improving fiscal management thus strengthening government entities and civil society organizations to build more accountable, transparent, and effective public institutions. In addition, applicants should consider the implications of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on project activities and any possible restrictions in Panama. The risk template (Tab G) should include a contingency plan for the various restrictions that may occur due to COVID-19 and a review of project activities that may can be completed virtually if necessary.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES

Successful grant proposals will pursue objectives that reinforce a democratic, secure, and a well-governed Panama through: 1) strengthening Panama’s institutions and civil service; 2) promoting transparency and anti-corruption; 3) empowering at-risk youth; and 4) Improved government management of resources.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Ideal projects will focus on one of the following sub-objectives:

Sub-Objective 2.1: Comment by Ceriale, Jennifer K: what do these sub objectives refer to? Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): Numbering corrected. Comment by Ceriale, Jennifer K: we interpret these four objectives to be the following: 1. Improving the civil service; 2. transparency and accountability in the public sphere; 3. human rights and raising the voices of marginalized groups; 4. improving the judicial system. we have tried to rearange and slim down the program suggestions and make them only illustrative. As it stands, there are too many options of programs, unclear end goals, and a distinct sense that the post is seeking specific projects and trying to make them fit into objectives. This is not the spirit of the SGP. Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): These objectives are correct. We didn’t have specific projects in mind but will remove that language.

Host-nation governmentsPanama creates a competent civil service that provides nonpartisan continuity and service to all residents of Panama..

Illustrative examples of projects may include: U.S. Embassy Panama City is looking for projects that will help either the judicial, executive, or legislative branches of the Panamanian government to develop a robust and independent civil service through modernization of records management;, and/or the promotion of a strong professional civil servant workforce that can provide continuity and preserve institutional knowledge through change in administrations.

Sub-Objective 2.2:

Host-nation governments Panamaincrease manages public revenues transparently and is accountable for investing public resources responsibly.

Potential projects would encourage the Government of Panama to make more data publicly available, and use that data for projects that promote transparency, anti-corruption, and responsibility. Illustrative projects can include but are not limited to: helping the Government of Panama promote transparency and expediency of government services by making processes and services accessible online; creating a pilot program to standardize public data collection, analysis, and publication. Potential projects should focus on strengthening the prosecution of complex crimes that require specialized resources such as environmental crimes, or in training the judicial branch on best practices in processing these types of crimes (ex. illegal fishing, logging, etc.). Comment by Ceriale, Jennifer K: not clear how the subfocus on judicial branch training relates to teaching governments how to manage resources responsibly. There is a disconnect here. Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): Language has been more appropriately updated to match the objective.

Sub-Objective 2.3 Central AmericanPanamanian civil society demands government accountability without reprisal of their rights and are able to influence policy outcomes. Host-nation governments uphold the values and practices of liberal democracy; citizens hold their governments accountable for these actions.

A healthy democracy needs strong voices from every part of society, especially those from marginalized and underrepresented populations such as women, Afro-Panamanians, indigenous, or LGBTQ+ groups. Projects that support the advocacy training and mentorship of marginalized leaders or development of these groups are encouraged. A potential project wcould includebe capacity building for indigenous groups to haveing full access to the legal system to advocate for their rights or designing and implementing a continuing education or vocational program for at-risk youth and high-school dropouts.

Sub-Objective 2.4 Central AmericanPanamanian Executive and Judicial Brancheshost governments and the justice swithin each implement meaningful institutional reforms to decrease impunity.

Potential projects would encourage the Government of Panama to make more data publicly available, and use that data for projects that promote transparency, anti-corruption, and responsibility. A project could encourage the Panamanian public to more regularly demand access to information, such as public contracts, crime statistics, campaign financing, or information on other decisions made by Panamanian elected officials. Some examples include, but are not limited to:d to: strengthening the prosecution of complex crimes that require specialized resources such as environmental crimes, or in training the judicial branch on best practices in processing these types of crimes, public corruption, or revenue-related democracy and governance cases, illegal fishing, logging, etc.) helping the Government of Panama promote transparency and expediency of government services by making processes and services accessible online; creating a pilot program to standardize data collection, analysis, and publication; training NGOs to engage with press and government interlocutors through raising awareness within the educating the judicial branch regarding freedoms the press has to investigate and report their findings or teaching best practices in the interpretation of slander and libel laws to journalists. Comment by Ceriale, Jennifer K: why these particular examples and not public corruption or revenue-related democracy/governannce cases? Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): We've added other examples. Not limiting to just these examples but trying to address and include issues we have heard about and are a priority at the embassy.

DESIRED RESULTS AND INDICATORS

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

Example and required outcome indicators for the projects are provided below. The applicants are expected to identify targets for these indicators based on what can be reasonably achieved within the performance period of the project and based on the expected overall project results described above.

Required Indicators:

OR

TBD

Sub-Objective 2.1 Host-nation governments create a competent civil service that provides nonpartisan continuity and service. Panama creates a competent civil service that provides nonpartisan continuity and service to all residents of Panama.

U.S. Embassy Panama City is looking for projects that will help either the judicial, executive, or legislative branches of the Panamanian government to develop a robust and independent civil service through modernization of records management, and/or the promotion of a strong professional civil servant workforce that can provide continuity and preserve institutional knowledge through changes in administrations.

Sub-Objective 2.2 Host-nation governments increase revenues and are accountable for investing public resources responsibly. Panama manages public revenues transparently and is accountable for investing public resources responsibly.

Potential projects should focus on strengthening the prosecution of complex crimes that require specialized resources such as environmental crimes, or in training the judicial branch on best practices in processing these types of crimes (ex. illegal fishing, logging, etc.). Comment by Ceriale, Jennifer K: remove the sample projects from here -- just one sentence describing the end state of the objective. Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): Removed.

Create an awareness platform to organize and educate communities on government management of resources Comment by Pereira, Cristina B: don't understand the relationship between S-O 2.2 and this indicator. Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): Done

TBD

Sub-Objective 2.3 Central American civil society demand government accountability without reprisal of their rights, and are able to influence policy outcomes. Host-nation governments uphold the values and practices of liberal democracy; citizens hold their governments accountable for these actions.

A healthy democracy needs strong voices from every part of society, especially those from marginalized and underrepresented populations such as women, Afro-Panamanians, indigenous, NiNi, or LGBTQ+ groups. Projects that support the training and mentorship of marginalized leaders or development of these groups are encouraged. A potential project would be capacity building for indigenous groups having full access to the legal system to advocate for their rights or designing and implementing a continuing education or vocational program for at-risk youth and high-school dropouts. Panamanian civil society demands government accountability without reprisal of their rights and are able to influence policy outcomes.

Sub-Objective 2.4 Panamanian state governments and the justice sector within each implement meaningful institutional reforms to decrease impunity.

Central American host governments and the justice sector within each implement meaningful institutional reforms to decrease impunity.

Potential projects would use open data laws to encourage the Government of Panama to make more data publicly available, and use that data for projects that promote transparency, anti-corruption, and responsibility. A project could encourage the Panamanian public to more regularly demand access to information such as public contracts, crime statistics, campaign financing, or information on other decisions made by Panamanian elected officials. Other potential projects could include helping the Government of Panama promote transparency and expediency of government services by making processes and services accessible online; Or, creating a pilot program to standardize data collection, analysis, and publication; or, training NGO’s to engage with press and government interlocutors and/or raising awareness within the judicial branch on the freedom the press has to investigate and report their findings and best practices in the interpretation of slander and libel laws has to investigate and report their findings and best practices in the interpretation of slander and libel laws. Comment by Pereira, Cristina B: Not sure what this is saying here--are these run together? Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): Fixed.

Raise awareness of illicit logging and fishinFramework to make available information on criminal cases to the general public including information that would allow statistical analysis of criminal patterns.

Creation of website to consistently compile data across institutions

The applicant may propose additional outputs, indicators, and/or targets as appropriate. Recipient will be required to collect baseline data for all the Performance Monitoring Plan indicators during the first year of the project. In addition, applicants should define certain terms included in the outcomes and indicators at the very beginning of the project so that it is possible to measure the change during and at the end of the project. Examples of such are “capacity,” “spread effect,” etc. Such baseline information will be critical for both monitoring and evaluation of project progress and results. Comment by Ceriale, Jennifer K: spell out PMP, since it has not been used up to this point. Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): Done

[END OF SECTION I]

SECTION II – AWARD INFORMATION

U.S. Embassy Panama expects to award up to four grant agreements based on this NOFO. The anticipated total federal funding amount is $750,000.00. The period of performance for each award is between 18-24 months with an anticipated start date of September 30, 2020. Comment by Ceriale, Jennifer K: this is the first time the POP was listed as a possible 18 month duration. Either eliminate that or put it in earlier. Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): Added to executive summary

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

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

[END OF SECTION II]

SECTION III – ELIGIBLITY INFORMATION

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

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

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

(2) U.S. Embassy Panama encourages applications from potential new partners.

[END OF SECTION III]

SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

TECHNICAL FORMAT REQUIREMENTS

For all application documents, please ensure:

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

Complete applications must include the following for proposal submissions:

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

2. Completed and signed SF-424, SF-424a [and SF424b] submitted to www.grants.gov, as well as, if applicable, the organization’s most recent audit. The SF-424B is required only for those applicants who have not registered in SAM.gov or recertified their registration in SAM.gov since February 2, 2019 and completed the online representations and certifications.

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

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

a) The target country(ies)

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

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

d) The total amount of funding requested and project length

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

5. Proposal Narrative (not to exceed ten [10] pages in Microsoft Word). Please note the ten-page limit does not include the Table of Contents, Executive Summary, Attachments, Detailed Budget, Budget Narrative, or NICRA. Applicants are encouraged to submit multiple documents in a single Microsoft Word, (i.e., Table of Contents, Executive Summary, Proposal Narrative, and Budget Narrative in one file).

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

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

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

a) Page 1-2: PMP(see below for more information on this section). Comment by Ceriale, Jennifer K: call this a PMP, as referenced earlier in the NOFO Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): Done

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

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

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

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

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

INFORMATION ON STANDARD FORMS

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

ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS, COST PRINCIPLES AND AUDIT REQUIREMENTS FOR FEDERAL AWARDS Organizations should be familiar with 2 CFR 200 on cost accounting principles. For a copy of the Code of Federal Regulations, go to http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl. Non-U.S.based nonprofit organizations are legally required to comply with 2 CFR 200. Public international organizations retain their privileges and immunities as such, but are encouraged to address requirements in outlined in 2 CFR 200.

AUDITS

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

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

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

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

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

The audit costs shall be identified by 2 CFR 200.425.

INDIRECT COST-RATE

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

TAB A: PROPOSAL GUIDELINES

Proposals should include the following components:

· Introduction and Problem Statement

· Planned Activities

· Indicators

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TAB B: PROGRAM MONITORING PLAN (PMP)

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

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

· Linking project activities to stated objectives

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

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

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

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

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

· Indicators, as described in the NOFO and in Tab A, as well as details on how each indicator will be measured, frequency of the measurements, units of measure, etc. Provide indicators at the output and outcome levels. Monitoring plans should include a chart component that clearly delineates indicators and targets. All indicators must include measurable, numerical targets. Comment by Ceriale, Jennifer K: flagging that indicators are also in the NOFO and Tab A. please square these up. Comment by Engle, Rachael (Panama): Done

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

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

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

Sample Evaluation Plan

Activity: Vocational Training

Activity: Government Roundtable

Sample “Logic Model” Planning Tool

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

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

Outcome 1 Improved production and productivity of female and male producers

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

Output 1.1 Farmer Field Schools Established

Output 1.2 Improved access to input supply systems/services

Output 2.1 Home Gardens Established

Output 2.2 Improved knowledge of nutrition practices é é é é

Activities Train producers on FFS methodology

Conduct agro-forestry training

Develop and translate materials

Conduct meetings with suppliers

Distribute new seed varietals

Organize and hold supply fairs

Train producers on how to develop home gardens

Distribute new seeds

Train producers in food conservation and preparation

TAB C: BUDGET GUIDELINES

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

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

A. PERSONNEL

a) Primarily Headquarters-Based Personnel

b) Primarily Field-Based Personnel

Subtotal Personnel

B. FRINGE BENEFITS

Subtotal Fringe Benefits

C. TRAVEL

a) Monitoring Travel

b) Field Travel

Activity 1: Workshop

Activity 2: Town Hall Meeting

Subtotal Travel

D. EQUIPMENT

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

d) Primarily Field-Based Equipment

Subtotal Equipment

E. SUPPLIES

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

b) Primarily Field-Based Supplies

Subtotal Supplies

F. CONTRACTUAL

a) Subgrants

b) Consultant Fees

Subtotal Contractual

H. OTHER

a) Other Direct Costs

Subtotal Other

I. TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES

(Sum of A-H Subtotals)

J. INDIRECT CHARGES

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

Subtotal Indirect Charges

K. TOTAL COSTS (Sum I-J)

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

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

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

LINE-ITEM BUDGET –

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

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

C. Travel - Staff and any participant travel:

1) International airfare

2) In-country travel

3) Domestic travel in Country X., if any

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

5) Staff refers to grantee staff…