2020 NADPRP Funding Opportunity Announcement.pdf

National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program 2020 Cooperative/Interagency Agreements

Fiscal Year 2020 Funding Opportunity Announcement Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-APHIS-10025-VSSP0000-20-0001 Publication Date: July 15, 2020 Application Due Date: 11:59 PM EDT on September 14, 2020

Funding Opportunity: National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program 2020

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Veterinary Services (VS) is announcing the availability of cooperative/interagency agreement funding to carry out the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program (NADPRP) as described in Section 12101 of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (aka “2018 Farm Bill”). Through the NADPRP program, APHIS provides funds to support high-value projects that will help prevent the introduction and spread of foreign and emerging animal diseases that threaten U.S. agriculture. Each year, APHIS makes funding available to support projects in priority areas of animal disease preparedness and response identified via consultation with eligible entities and stakeholders. Additional details about the program and this funding opportunity are available on the USDA APHIS NADPRP website.

SYNOPSIS

Funding Opportunity Title: National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program (NADPRP) 2020

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-APHIS-10025-VSSP0000-20-0001

Funding Type: Initial Announcement

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number: 10.025, Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care

Dates: Applications must be received by 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Savings Time on September 14, 2020.

Applications received after this deadline will not be considered for funding.

Funding Opportunity Description: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Veterinary Services (VS) is announcing the availability of up to $15 million in funds to be divided between the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program (NADPRP) and the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN), with targets of $10 million in funds to NADPRP and $5 million in funds to NAHLN. In this funding opportunity, the NADPRP is seeking proposals for projects that will (1) advance capabilities and capacities related to rapid large-scale animal depopulation and carcass disposal in a high-consequence animal disease outbreak, or (2) enhance U.S.

livestock biosecurity. APHIS invites eligible entities to submit application packages for this funding opportunity. Applications may be submitted by State departments of agriculture; offices of State chief animal health officials; land-grant universities and other entities eligible to receive funds under a capacity and infrastructure program (as defined in section 251(f)(1)(C) of the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 6971); colleges of veterinary medicine, including veterinary emergency teams at such colleges; State, regional, or national livestock producer organizations with direct and significant economic interest in livestock production; State emergency agencies; State, national, allied, or regional veterinary organizations or specialty boards recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association; Indian Tribes; or Federal agencies. Funds will be awarded to successful applicants through cooperative or interagency agreements.

https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2/text https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/farm-bill/ad-preparedness-response-program/

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Synopsis A. Program Description

A.1 Funding Opportunity Description A.2 2020 Funding Priorities A.3 Alignment with USDA APHIS Goals A.4 Legislative Authoritiy

B. Federal Award Information B.1 Cost Guidance

C. Eligibility Information C.1 Eligibile Applicants C.2 Other Criteria for Eligibility C.3 Cost Sharing C.4 Threshold Eligibility Criteria

D. Application and Submission Information D.1 Obtaining an Application Package D.2 Content and Form of The Application Package D.3 Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM) D.4 Submission Dates and Times D.5 Intergovernmental Review D.6 Funding Restrictions D.6 Other Submission Requirements

E. Application Review Information E.1 Criteria E.2 Selection and Review Process

F. Federal Award Administration Information F.1 Award Notices F.2 Administrative and National Policy Requirements F.3 Reporting F. 4 Project Evaluation

G. Federal Awarding Agency Contacts H. Other Information

H.1 Definitions

APPENDIX 1. NEW APPLICANT INFORMATION

APPENDIX 2. APPLICATION CHECKLIST AND TIPS

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Awarding Agency Name: United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Veterinary Services (VS)

Funding Opportunity Title: National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program (NADPRP) 2020

Announcement Type: Initial Announcement

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number: 10.025

Key Dates: Applications must be received by 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Savings Time on September 14, 2020. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered for funding.

The agreement performance period is estimated to begin in January 2021 and end no later than 24 months after the start date.

Applicants can find the funding opportunity information on the ezFedGrants website or the Grants.gov website by searching CFDA number 10.025 or Funding Opportunity Number USDA-APHIS-10025- VSSP0000-20-0001. Information is also available on the USDA APHIS NADPRP website.

Non-Federal applicants must submit all application materials electronically using the ezFedGrants system.

Federal applicants should refer to Section D.4 for application submission information.

A.1 FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

This funding opportunity is provided to carry out the NADPRP as described in Section 12101 of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (aka “2018 Farm Bill”). Through the NADPRP program, APHIS provides funds to support high-value projects that will help prevent the introduction and spread of foreign and emerging animal diseases that threaten U.S. agriculture. Each year, APHIS makes funding available to support projects in priority areas of animal disease preparedness and response that are identified via consultation with eligible entities and stakeholders. Additional details about the program are available on the USDA APHIS NADPRP website.

APHIS will make available up to $15 million in funds to be divided between the NADPRP and NAHLN, with a target of $10 million in funds to NADPRP. In this funding opportunity, the NADPRP is seeking proposals for projects that will (1) advance capabilities and capacities related to rapid large-scale animal depopulation and carcass disposal in a high-consequence animal disease outbreak, or (2) enhance U.S.

livestock biosecurity.

A.2 2020 FUNDING PRIORITIES

APHIS will consider project proposals that directly support at least one of the animal disease preparedness and response issues described below.

1. Livestock depopulation and carcass disposal during a high-consequence animal disease outbreak response. APHIS will support projects to improve capabilities and capacities for rapid and large-scale animal depopulation and/or carcass disposal during a high-consequence animal https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/farm-bill/ad-preparedness-response-program/ https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/farm-bill/ad-preparedness-response-program/ disease outbreak response. This priority has been identified through exercises and response events carried out by APHIS, States, and livestock industries. Priority will be given to projects that:

a. Develop and validate practical and effective tools and methods to conduct rapid and large-scale livestock depopulation during high-consequence animal disease outbreak responses. Priority will be given to projects that address gaps in livestock sectors where there is currently a significant lack of methods and tools, as well as projects that address situations where options may be restricted due to limited materials, concerns about disease spread, or other issues.

b. Develop and validate practical and effective tools and methods for disposal of carcasses and related materials during large-scale high-consequence disease outbreak responses.

Priority will be given to livestock sectors where there is currently a significant lack of methods and tools, as well as projects that address situations where options may be restricted due to limited materials, concerns about disease spread or contamination, local regulations, or other issues.

c. Develop and/or evaluate technologies for large-scale livestock depopulation and carcass disposal, while identifying best practices and solutions to obstacles that may prevent their practical application during high-consequence animal disease outbreaks.

d. Train response personnel to conduct large-scale livestock depopulation and carcass disposal during high-consequence animal disease outbreaks.

e. Advance outreach, education, and communication efforts related to large-scale livestock depopulation and carcass disposal during high-consequence animal disease outbreaks.

Activities may include but are not limited to consolidating information into a centralized resource site; improving information sharing among entities directly engaged in animal disease outbreak responses; and improving education and outreach to producers regarding options, methods, issues, roles & responsibilities, and other related topics.

2. Livestock Biosecurity. APHIS will support projects that will enhance U.S. livestock biosecurity. As with livestock depopulation and disposal, the need for science-based knowledge of practical and cost-effective biosecurity practices among key audiences has been identified through exercises and response events carried out by APHIS, States, and livestock industries. Priority will be given to projects that:

a. Develop and improve awareness and understanding of biosecurity, the best cost-effective and practical biosecurity measures, and the importance of biosecurity among key entities involved in pre-harvest animal agriculture production. Target audiences may include livestock producers, including producers for small and backyard operations, veterinarians, extension agents, haulers, livestock market, slaughter facility personnel, and others.

Projects may include but are not limited to training and exercises.

b. Identify minimum biosecurity knowledge that producers and agriculture sector workers should know and target outreach, education, and implementation towards this core knowledge.

c. Support State and local efforts to encourage producer participation in biosecurity programs and to increase accountability in developing and implementing biosecurity plans.

d. Implement and exercise existing Secure Food Supply plans.

e. Assess existing biosecurity methods and programs to identify what works best in practical and applied situations.

f. Develop, improve, and/or validate innovative and cost-effective biosecurity methods and / or approaches to increase producer implementation of effective biosecurity measures.

g. Enhance understanding of how biosecurity may impact risk associated with animal movement in an outbreak (e.g., within or out of a control zone) for the purpose of informing continuity of business policies.

For both priorities, applicants are encouraged to develop proposals that

• Address significant known gaps or problems that have been identified and documented at local, State, regional, and national levels through exercises and emergency response events.

• Align with and support published standards, regulations, and best management practices such as AVMA guidance for depopulation or State and federal environmental regulations for carcass disposal.

• Build on existing techniques or enhance science-based innovation.

• Advance outreach and education to agriculture sector response partners at all levels to foster understanding of practical options and methods to ensure livestock biosecurity and the need for rapid and humane large-scale depopulation and carcass disposal during a high-consequence disease outbreak response.

• Address the needs of high-risk, underserved, non-traditional, niche, or hard-to-reach audiences.

• Leverage effective partnerships across livestock and related industry and veterinary organizations, State, Federal, academic, cooperative extension, and other animal disease response collaborators.

A.3 ALIGNMENT WITH USDA APHIS GOALS

This funding opportunity supports APHIS Veterinary Services’ (VS) mission to protect animal health as well as USDA APHIS Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safeguard American Agriculture, Objective 2.3: Ensure effective emergency preparedness and response systems.

A.4 LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITIY

Legislative authority is provided under Section 12101 of the 2018 Farm Bill.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/about_aphis/downloads/aphis-strategic-plan.pdf https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/7/8308a

B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

Total Amount to be Awarded: APHIS will make available up to $15 million in funds to be divided between the NADPRP and NAHLN programs, with a target of $10 million in funds to NADPRP. There is no commitment by USDA to fund any particular application or to make a specific number of awards.

Type of Assistance Instrument: Most awards will be funded via cooperative agreements; interagency agreements may be used if the recipient is a Federal agency. Cooperative agreements include substantial involvement by APHIS to assist in the completion of the goals and objectives of the work.

Anticipated Awards: APHIS anticipates that most agreements awarded will not exceed $500,000. In 2019, NADPRP awarded 39 proposals; the average award was $135,000.

Anticipated Award Start Date: APHIS anticipates that work covered under these agreements will begin in January 2021 or soon after.

Period of Performance: Projects must be completed within 2 years. Funding will not be allowed, nor activities approved to occur, outside of the designated period of performance.

Competitive Process: Funds will be awarded through a competitive award process. Proposals will be evaluated by a team of reviewers who will recommend proposals for funding based on the merits of the application. Final funding decisions are at the discretion of USDA.

Based on reviewer recommendations, APHIS may award less than the requested amount of funds to a project. In these cases, applicants may accept or decline the award that is offered. If accepted, applicants will submit a revised application that addresses reviewer concerns and aligns with the proposed award amount. APHIS will provide additional guidance to applicants in these situations.

B.1 COST GUIDANCE

All APHIS awards are subject to the terms and conditions, cost principles, allowable and unallowable costs, direct and indirect costs, cost share and matching, and other considerations as described and defined in:

• Guidelines for Use of Funds document for APHIS Veterinary Services Farm Bill Cooperative Agreements.

• 2 CFR Subpart E, Cost Principles – General Provisions for Selected Items of Cost.

All applicants must adhere to the Guidelines for Use of Funds for APHIS Veterinary Services Farm Bill Cooperative Agreements in developing their project proposal Financial Plan. Note that indirect costs are capped at 10% of the total project costs.

C. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

C.1 ELIGIBILE APPLICANTS

Eligible applicants are:

1. State departments of agriculture.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/farmbill/nadprp-guidelines-funds.pdf https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=36bff1b1599bd122d722fcb83c76da10&mc=true&node=sp2.1.200.e&rgn=div6 https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/farmbill/nadprp-guidelines-funds.pdf

2. Offices of the chief animal health official of a State.

3. Land-Grant Universities and other entities eligible to receive funds under a capacity and infrastructure program (as defined in section 251(f)(1)(C) of the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 6971(f)(1)(C))). This includes entities eligible for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture Federal Assistance Programs.

4. Colleges of veterinary medicine, including a veterinary emergency team at such college.

5. State or national livestock producer organizations with direct and significant economic interest in livestock production.

6. State emergency agencies.

7. State, national, allied, or regional veterinary organizations or specialty boards recognized by the

American Veterinary Medical Association.

8. Indian Tribes.

9. Federal agencies.

C.2 OTHER CRITERIA FOR ELIGIBILITY

Applicants will be checked against the System for Award Management (SAM) to ensure they have not been disbarred or suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from covered transactions by any Federal department or agency. See Section D.3.

C.3 COST SHARING

Cost sharing, matching, or cost participation is not required. As described in the 2018 Farm Bill Section 12101, “When deciding whether to enter into an agreement under the Program with an eligible entity described in paragraph (3), the Secretary— (i) may take into consideration an eligible entity’s ability to contribute non-Federal funds to carry out such an agreement; and (ii) shall not require such an eligible entity to make such a contribution as a condition to enter into an agreement.”

C.4 THRESHOLD ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Application packages must meet these initial screening criteria to be considered for further review.

Proposals that do not meet these initial screening criteria will not be considered.

1. Proposals must be submitted by eligible entities.

2. Proposals must address the funding priorities described in Section A.

3. All required documents and forms listed in Section D.2 must (a) be included in the application package, and (b) comply with the submission instructions described in Section D of this announcement. Any application package with missing or incomplete documents or forms will not be considered for review.

4. Proposals, including all associated documents and forms, must be received on or before the proposal submission deadline. Proposals received after the submission deadline will not be considered.

https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource/National-Institute-of-Food-and-Agriculture-Program-Listing-May-2018.pdf https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource/National-Institute-of-Food-and-Agriculture-Program-Listing-May-2018.pdf

D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

Applicants may submit more than one project proposal. Applicants who submit more than one proposal must submit each proposal as a separate application package.

Indirect costs are capped at 10% of the total project costs.

New applicants should refer to Appendix 1: New Applicant Information for initial steps to take when submitting an application.

D.1 OBTAINING AN APPLICATION PACKAGE

Applicants can find all application materials on the USDA APHIS NADPRP website. Applicants unable to access the NADPRP website should send a message to the NADPRP mailbox, VS.NADPRP@usda.gov, for assistance no later than 72 hours prior to the expiration date of the Funding Opportunity Announcement.

Applicants can also find the funding opportunity information on the ezFedGrants website or the Grants.gov website by searching CFDA number 10.025 or Funding Opportunity Number USDA-APHIS-

10025-VSSP0000-20-0001.

D.2 CONTENT AND FORM OF THE APPLICATION PACKAGE

The application package must include the following:

□ SF-424, “Application for Federal Assistance”.

□ SF-424A, “Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs”.

□ Certification Regarding Lobbying (for Federal Assistance greater than $100,000).

□ SF-LLL “Disclosure of Lobbying Activities” (for Federal Assistance greater than $100,000).

□ Copy of the current, signed Indirect Cost Rate Agreement, if indirect costs are being claimed.

□ If applicable, a waiver or approval response letter from the State’s Single Point of Contact (SPOC) if the applicant is from States that are required to comply with Executive Order 12372, Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.

□ Project proposal WORK PLAN. See below.

□ Project proposal FINANCIAL PLAN. See below.

These forms and additional information are provided on the USDA APHIS NADPRP website.

Applicants should refer to the Appendix 2: Checklist for Application and Tips before submitting their application package. Failure to submit any of the required documents will result in a rejected application.

Project Proposal Work Plan

Applicants must submit a project proposal Work Plan that includes all information outlined in the NADPRP Project Proposal Work Plan Template. The template is available on the USDA APHIS NADPRP website.

Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to use the NADPRP Project Proposal Work Plan Template.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/farm-bill/ad-preparedness-response-program/ mailto:VS.NADPRP@usda.gov https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/farm-bill/ad-preparedness-response-program/ https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/farm-bill/ad-preparedness-response-program/

Project Proposal Financial Plan

Applicants must submit a project proposal Financial Plan that matches and provides additional details on the information provided in the required form SF-424-A. The Financial Plan must include the information shown in the NADPRP Project Financial Plan Template. The template is available on the USDA APHIS NADPRP website. Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to use the NADPRP Project Proposal Financial Plan Guidance and Template.

When preparing a Financial Plan, applicants must comply with the guidance and funding restrictions described in the Guidelines for Use of Funds for APHIS Veterinary Services Farm Bill Cooperative Agreements.

D.3 UNIQUE ENTITY IDENTIFIER AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT (SAM)

Under Presidential Memorandum M-20-17 in response to COVID-19, awarding agencies can relax the requirement for an active System for Award Management (SAM) registration at time of application in order to expeditiously issue funding. If the proposal is awarded funds, applicants must have an active SAM registration to finalize the award.

System for Award Management (SAM)

All applicants (except Federal agencies) are required to register in the System for Award Management (SAM) prior to submitting an application and to maintain current information throughout the award period of performance (2 CFR §200.205). To register, go to the SAM website. Please allow a minimum of 5 days to complete the SAM registration. Frequently Asked Questions, User Guides, Demonstration Videos, etc., can be found on the SAM website, under the “Help” tab. Registration is free. Be sure to complete the Marketing Partner ID (MPIN) and Electronic Business Primary Point of Contact fields during the registration process. These are mandatory fields that are required when submitting grant applications.

Data Universal Number System (DUNS)

All applicants (except Federal agencies) are required to have a valid Data Universal Number System (DUNS) number in order to register in SAM. A DUNS number is a unique nine-character identification number provided by the commercial company, Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). To see if your organization already has a DUNS number or to obtain a DUNS number, contact D&B at 1-866-705-5711 or visit the Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) website. Please note that the registration may take up to 14 business days to complete. Registration is free.

D.4 SUBMISSION DATES AND TIMES

Non-Federal applicants must submit all application materials electronically using ezFedGrants. We urge applicants to submit early to the ezFedGrants system. An overview of the ezFedGrants application process can be obtained at ezFedGrants Applications and Agreements. Applicants who encounter problems with the eFG application process may contact VS.SP.Agreements@usda.gov – at least 48 hours before the deadline – for additional assistance in submitting their application package.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/farm-bill/ad-preparedness-response-program/ https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/farm-bill/ad-preparedness-response-program/ https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/farmbill/nadprp-guidelines-funds.pdf https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/M-20-17.pdf https://www.sam.gov/SAM/ https://sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/help/samQUserGuides.jsf https://fedgov.dnb.com/webform https://fedgov.dnb.com/webform https://iupdate.dnb.com/iUpdate/companylookup.htm https://iupdate.dnb.com/iUpdate/companylookup.htm https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/Training/Online/ezFedGrants/Resources/FAQ-eFG_Applications_Agreements.php mailto:VS.SP.Agreements@usda.gov

Federal applicants must submit all required application materials via email to VS.NADPRP@usda.gov by the deadline listed above. Following submission, Federal applicants will receive further communication from APHIS regarding requirements and processes for Interagency Agreements.

All applications and attachments must be completed and received no later than September 14, 2020, 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Savings Time. The electronic date and time stamp from ezFedGrants or the email system will be used to determine whether applications were received before the deadline.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

All applicants should refer to Appendix 2, Application Checklist and Tips, to ensure that required documents are included.

D.5 INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW

The Intergovernmental Review Process (CFDA/Assistance Listing 10.025) is subject to Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs”. Awards will not be made until this process has been completed in applicable States. Names and addresses of States’ Single Point of Contact (SPOC) are listed in the OMB State SPOC List.

D.6 FUNDING RESTRICTIONS

Funding restrictions, including unallowable costs, indirect cost cap, and cost restrictions, are provided in the Guidelines for Use of Funds for APHIS Veterinary Services Farm Bill Cooperative Agreements.

Applicants must adhere to guidance in this document when developing their application materials.

D.6 OTHER SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Letters of support are not required but may be included in the application package. Applicants should not request letters of support from APHIS Veterinary Services employees.

Application packages from non-Federal entities must be submitted electronically through the ezFedGrants system only. No hard copy application packages will be accepted from non-Federal entities.

Applicants experiencing technical difficulties should contact VS.NADPRP@usda.gov before the application deadline. APHIS complies with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

E. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

E.1 CRITERIA

Evaluation Criteria

1. Addresses the priorities and requirements in the announcement. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal strongly supports and clearly addresses one of more of the priority areas described in Section A.

mailto:VS.NADPRP@usda.gov https://beta.sam.gov/help/assistance-listing https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/spoc_1_16_2020.pdf https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/farmbill/nadprp-guidelines-funds.pdf https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php mailto:VS.NADPRP@usda.gov https://www.fcc.gov/general/section-508-rehabilitation-act

a. Strong and direct support for the funding priority. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposed activities strongly and directly address the concern identified in the funding priority, as well as the extent to which the expected outcomes and deliverables will strongly support the funding priority area of concern.

b. Sound knowledge of existing activity associated with the funding priority topic. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal demonstrates awareness of current concerns, known gaps, activities conducted by other entities, and, if applicable, the regulatory landscape related to the funding priority topic. Proposals supported with Farm Bill SEC 12101 funds should complement and build on existing activities, address known gaps, and avoid redundancy with similar work already conducted by other entities, including but not limited to work conducted by USDA. Proposed activities also must align with current Federal and State regulations.

2. Feasibility of success. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal is likely to successfully produce the expected outcomes and deliverables based on key factors such as a well-organized and high-quality approach; a reasonable schedule and budget; effective partnerships and collaborations; and the investigator’s skills, knowledge, and experiences.

a. Well organized and high-quality approach. This criterion assesses the extent to which the Work Plan and Financial Plan lay out a plan of action that is logical, well-organized, complete, and likely to successfully produce the expected outcomes and deliverables. It considers whether the approach is explained in sufficient detail for the reader to understand what activities will be performed, how they will be conducted, and what will be produced.

b. Adequate budget. This criterion assesses the extent to which the budget is realistic, adequate, and sufficient to successfully produce the outcomes and deliverables described in the proposal.

c. Reasonable schedule. This criterion assesses whether the project schedule allows an appropriate amount of time for completing all activities in a 1-2 year performance period, including but not limited to considering a reasonable amount of time to complete each activity, the competing time commitments of stakeholders who are critical to project completion, and other risks that may cause schedule delays.

d. Partnerships. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal identifies and describes the partnerships and collaborations necessary to successfully produce the expected outcomes and deliverables. It also considers the likelihood that the project will develop and strengthen relationships that are likely to foster progress in the funding priority area or related areas.

e. Skills, knowledge, and experience. This criterion considers the extent to which the key persons who will carry out the project have the qualifications, skills, ability, and experience to successfully conduct the proposed activities and produce successful outcomes and deliverables.

3. Critical need. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal addresses one or more current and urgent needs directly related to the funding priority as well as the extent to which the proposal identifies an important gap in knowledge or capabilities related to the funding priority area and how the proposal’s outcomes and deliverables will address and close that gap.

4. Impact and value of outcomes. This criterion assesses the extent to which the expected outcomes and deliverables are likely to have measurable and significant impact and value in the funding priority area.

a. Value of outcomes. This criterion assesses the likelihood that the project will produce outcomes and deliverables that are high-value with respect to positively impacting the funding priority area. It considers the extent to which the project will produce outcomes and deliverables that are critically needed, do not already exist, and are unlikely to be produced with existing or alternative funding sources.

b. Scope of impact. This criterion assesses the scope of impact on U.S. animal agriculture in several dimensions, including whether the project will create impact at State, regional, national, or other geographic levels and also whether the project will have impact in one livestock sector or many.

c. Knowledge transfer. This criterion assesses the extent to which the outcomes and deliverables are likely to be used by other groups and stakeholders, either by replicating the activity in other regions or livestock sectors or by using the information to support policies and decisions. Proposals should indicate how the applicant will share the project outcomes and deliverables so other entities can make use of them.

5. Cost effectiveness. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal identifies a cost-effective approach to produce the desired outcomes and deliverables as compared to alternatives.

a. All costs are reasonable and necessary. This criterion assesses the extent to which the Financial Plan is clear, logical, and includes only reasonable and necessary costs to produce the expected outcomes and deliverables. It also assesses the extent to which the Financial Plan provides sufficient detail for reviewers to fully understand how each budget item specifically supports the activities outlined in the Work Plan, without including budget items that are not allowed or appear superfluous or tangential to producing the outcomes and deliverables.

b. Good use of existing resources. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal includes cost-saving measures by leveraging existing resources where possible. For example, the proposal describes practical use of existing personnel, vehicles, computers, venues, supplies, and other items to complete the project.

6. Best practices and/or innovation. This criterion assesses the extent to which the proposal identifies and includes best practices and innovative approaches.

a. Best practices. The proposal demonstrates understanding and application of current and/or best practices that will enhance efficiency in conducting the project and/or assure high-quality results or products. The approach references industry standards and/or best practices where applicable.

b. Creativity or innovation. The proposal demonstrates creative thinking and/or an innovative approach to address the priority described in the FOA.

E.2 SELECTION AND REVIEW PROCESS

The USDA is responsible for approving NADPRP funded projects.

Applications that meet the eligibility criteria in Section C will be evaluated by a team of reviewers based on the merits of the application. USDA will consider the review team’s recommendations in making final funding determinations. Reviewers are subject matter experts nominated by APHIS VS or by the NADPRP Consultation Board. Reviewers may have no association with projects they are reviewing in order to avoid potential conflicts of interest. In the event of a real or perceived conflict of interest, a reviewer shall recuse themselves as appropriate. The review team may seek counsel from additional subject-matter experts as appropriate.

In addition to the evaluation criteria described in Section E.1, the review team and USDA may consider the dispersion of projects across geographic areas, multiple livestock sectors, and different critical aspects of the funding priorities described in Section A.

The 2018 Farm Bill specifies that USDA may give priority to applications submitted by:

(A) A State department of agriculture or an office of the chief animal health official of a State; or

(B) An eligible entity that will carry out program activities in a State or region in which—

(i) An animal pest or disease is a Federal concern; or

(ii) The Secretary determines a potential exists for the spread of an animal pest or disease after taking into consideration

(I) The agricultural industries in the State or region;

(II) Factors contributing to animal pests or diseases in the State or region, such as the climate, natural resources, and geography of, and native and exotic wildlife species and other disease vectors in, the State or region; and the movement of animals in the State or region.

F. FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

APHIS will administer the agreements and collaborate with project recipients to provide advice, receive and review project documents, offer comments and suggestions, track project performance, and communicate with recipients as necessary to ensure progress in accomplishing the project, identifying obstacles, and resolving concerns.

Recipients will track performance and expenditures, provide progress reports and project deliverables in accordance with the project Work Plan, and communicate with VS staff to assess and evaluate progress.

F.1 AWARD NOTICES

All applicants will be notified by email after the spending plan is approved by the Secretary and announced by USDA. Applicants selected for funding will receive instruction on next steps to process a Notice of Award (NOA) via ezFedGrants. Awards will be executed as quickly as possible after the spending plan is announced. Pre-awards may be requested in circumstances where there is urgency to begin work before the award can be executed.

The Notice of Award will provide pertinent instructions and information including but not limited to the information described in 2 CFR § 200.210 and a reference to the APHIS General Terms and Conditions.

https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=70b44cfc44976f4a7742464f7cfbb37e&mc=true&node=se2.1.200_1210&rgn=div8 https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/business-services/financial-management-division/Financial_Services_Branch/Agreements_Service_Center/Terms-Conditions-for-APHIS-Awards

F.2 ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS

Successful applicants must comply with the requirements contained in the 2 CFR Part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. Successful applicants also must comply with the APHIS General Terms and Conditions, the approved project Work Plan, and the approved project Financial Plan.

F.3 REPORTING

The Recipient’s Project Coordinator shall provide quarterly program reports to the APHIS Project Manager through the ezFedGrants system and in compliance with the APHIS General Terms and Conditions. Two quarterly reports are due each quarter, including (1) a progress report on program activities outlined in approved Work Plan, and (2) a Federal Financial Report, SF-425. The reports will be used to verify compliance with provisions of this Agreement.

For any award under this solicitation where APHIS anticipates that the total Federal share will be greater than the simplified acquisition threshold over the period of performance (see 2 CFR §200.88 Simplified Acquisition Threshold— the threshold is $150,000 but it is periodically adjusted;), applicants are notified:

1. That APHIS prior to making a Federal award with a total amount of Federal share greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, is required to review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM (currently FAPIIS) (see 41 U.S.C. 2313);

2. That an applicant, at its option, may review information in the designated integrity and performance systems accessible through SAM and comment on any information about itself that a Federal awarding agency previously entered and is currently in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM;

3. That APHIS will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to the other information in the designated integrity and performance system, in making a judgment about the applicant's integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under Federal awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as described in 2 CFR §200.205, Federal awarding agency review of risk posed by applicants.

F. 4 PROJECT EVALUATION

The Recipient’s performance will be evaluated through the review of quarterly progress and financial reports, as well as periodic discussions of project progress with the Program Manager. Performance is evaluated based on the following criteria to determine if the Recipient met the project standards and if the results and benefits were achieved:

1. Adherence to project schedule.

2. Adherence to project budget.

3. Delivery of results that meet the agreement performance standards and achieve the stated outcomes.

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G. FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACTS

For questions about this funding opportunity and the NADPRP program, please contact VS.NADPRP@usda.gov. You may also contact Julie Wallin, NADPRP Program Coordinator, Julie.e.wallin@usda.gov, 970-494-7258 or Melinda Springer, NADPRP Management Analyst, Melinda.a.springer@usda.gov, 352-745-0576.

For questions pertaining to the documents required or the ezFedGrants application process, please contact VS.SP.Agreements@usda.gov. You may also contact Donna Shultz, Grants Supervisor, Donna.shultz@usda.gov, 919-855-7268 or Laura Wilson, Grants Specialist, Laura.s.wilson@usda.gov, 970-494-7208.

H. OTHER INFORMATION

The USDA is not obligated to make any award as a result of this announcement nor to make any changes to future announcements. Only the APHIS Authorized Departmental Officer can bind the Government to an expenditure of funds and this obligation of funds shall only occur in writing by authorized officials and under the approved USDA, APHIS Cooperative Agreement format.

H.1 DEFINITIONS

This announcement uses definitions as described in Section 8302 of the Animal Health Protection Act.

mailto:VS.NADPRP@usda.gov mailto:Julie.e.wallin@usda.gov mailto:Melinda.a.springer@usda.gov https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php mailto:Donna.shultz@usda.gov mailto:Laura.s.wilson@usda.gov https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section8302&num=0&edition=prelim

APPENDIX 1. NEW APPLICANT INFORMATION

Register in SAM

• New applicants are required to be registered in SAM.gov.

Obtain a DUNS Number

• New applicants are required to have a DUNS number.

• To see if your organization already has a DUNS number or to obtain a DUNS number, contact D&B at 1-866-705-5711 or visit the Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) website.

Apply for an eAuth Account

• New applicants are required to have a USDA eAuthentication Account. Use the eAuthentication Account Creation job aid to get started.

• An individual in the applicant organization may apply for a USDA eAuthentication Account by visiting the Create an Account – Getting Started page. For help with eAuthentication accounts or passwords, contact the eAuthentication help desk at eAuthHelpDesk@ftc.usda.gov.

Getting Started in ezFedGrants

• New applicants are required to establish an account in the USDA ezFedGrants system.

• In order to launch an ezFedGrants application from the ezFedGrants Client Services Landing Page, applicants must have a USDA level 2 eAuthentication account. USDA eAuthentication is the system used by USDA agencies to enable customers to obtain accounts that will allow them to access USDA Web applications and services via the Internet. Please note that USDA will only accept eAuthentication Accounts from individuals.

• Applicants new to ezFedGrants should review the Job Aids by either clicking on the Training icon on the ezFedGrants Client Services Landing Page or by clicking on this link on Applying to Opportunities in ezFedGrants.

• The USDA eFG External User Onboarding Quick Reference Job Aid in the Training Section under Frequently Asked Questions, Onboarding and Accessing ezFedGrants summarizes the process for users to gain access to the ezFedGrants external portal.

• The ezFedGrants system requires each applicant to have a minimum of at least one Grants Administrative Officer (GAO) and one Signatory Official (SO).

• To begin creating an application, the applicant must access the “Search Opportunities” screen and search for opportunity number USDA-APHIS-10025-VSSP0000-20-0001.

• For help with the USDA ezFedGrants system, applicants may contact the ezFedGrants help desk at ezFedGrants@cfo.usda.gov.

https://sam.gov/SAM/pages/public/index.jsf https://www.dnb.com/ https://iupdate.dnb.com/iUpdate/companylookup.htm https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/Training/Online/ezFedGrants/Resources/JA-Request_eAuthentication.pdf https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/Training/Online/ezFedGrants/Resources/JA-Request_eAuthentication.pdf https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/Training/Online/ezFedGrants/Resources/JA-Request_eAuthentication.pdf mailto:eAuthHelpDesk@ftc.usda.gov https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/ https://nfc.usda.gov/FSS/Training/Online/ezFedGrants/Resources/JA-EP_Application_Management.pdf https://nfc.usda.gov/FSS/Training/Online/ezFedGrants/Resources/JA-EP_Application_Management.pdf https://nfc.usda.gov/FSS/Training/Online/ezFedGrants/Resources/FAQ-eFG_Onboarding_Accessing.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php https://www.nfc.usda.gov/FSS/ClientServices/ezFedGrants/index.php mailto:ezFedGrants@cfo.usda.gov

APPENDIX 2. APPLICATION CHECKLIST AND TIPS

APPLICATION CHECKLIST for NON-FEDERAL APPLICANTS

☐ Standard Form (SF) 424 – Application for Federal Assistance; in ezFedGrants.

☐ Standard Form (SF) 424A – Budget; in ezFedGrants.

☐ Certification Regarding Lobbying, if the award request is greater than $100,000.

☐ Disclose of Lobbying, SF-LLL, if the award request is greater than $100,000.

☐ Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA), if indirect costs are claimed.

☐ Single Point of Contact (SPOC) correspondence, if applicable.

☐ NADPRP Proposal Work Plan.

☐ NADPRP Detailed Financial Plan.

TIPS FOR APPLICANTS

• Submit applications early; DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE DAY OF THE APPLICATION DEADLINE.

• Apply to the correct opportunity by searching CFDA number 10.025 or Opportunity Number USDA-

APHIS-10025-VSSP0000-20-0001.

ezFedGrants Tips

• Read the Creating Applications in ezFedGrants ADVISORY, located in ezFedGrants.

• When uploading attachments in ezFedGrants, click the “Add Attachments” button.

• Attachment titles must be 8 characters or less in ezFedGrants.

• Accept all tracked-changes in documents before attaching them.

• Avoid special characters in attachment file names ($, %, &, *, Spanish "ñ", etc.).

• Do not password-protect attached documents.

• Ensure that at least two individuals are listed as contacts in the Partner section of the Application in ezFedGrants.

SF-424 Tips

• Check the SF424, Box 16 to ensure the congressional district for the Applicant and Project are listed.

• If your organization has a SPOC requirement, indicate the status on the SF424, Box 19.

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Work Plan Tips

• If you wish to submit proposals for more than one project, submit each project proposal in a separate application package. This makes it easier for reviewers to score and rank proposals, improves the likelihood of funding, and speeds up the award process for funded projects.

• Remember that the review panel’s job is to ensure the government’s funds are being well spent.

Assure that budget requests are reasonable and justifiable.

• Take some time to think out your proposal. A proposal that is well written and easy to follow will be well received by the review panel. In your work plan:

• Align your proposal with the NADPRP funding priorities for 2020 described in Section A.

• Do not exceed the 350 word limit for the executive summary; only the first 350 words of the executive summary will shared with reviewers. Check that the executive summary clearly, specifically, and succinctly describes the problem or need that the project will address, what the project will do and who will do it, and what the project will deliver or accomplish.

• Form SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time bound) project objectives.

• Provide sufficient detail for a reviewer to be convinced that you have thought out the process well, and understand the resources needed to complete the proposed tasks.

• Check your proposal against the review criteria described in Section E.