Belize CARSI NOFO.pdf

NOFO Number: BH200-22-GR-200-WHA CARSI-ESF Grants Program: Strengthening Government through Civil Society Engagement

SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Strengthening Government through Civil Society Engagement

Announcement Type: New Grant

Public Opportunity Title: CARSI-ESF Grants Program: Strengthening Government through Civil Society Engagement

Catalog of Federal Domestic

Assistance (CFDA) Listing: 19.750

Funding Amount: $500,000

Issuance Date: April 6, 2022

Deadline for Receipt of Questions: May 6, 2022 at 5:00 PM local time (Belize)

Deadline for Submission of

Applications: June 2, 2022 at 11:59 PM Eastern time (Washington, D.C.)

Funding Activity Category: Governance

Program Type: U.S. Embassy in Belmopan, Belize

Grant Program: Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI)

Assistance Type: Grant

Eligibility Category: U.S. Non-profit/non-governmental organizations (NGOs) having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS or overseas-based

NGOs, institutions of higher education, and public international organizations (PIOs); Belizean NGOs are strongly encouraged to apply.

Est. Project Start Date: September 30, 2022

Est. Project End Date: Variable

Fiscal Year: FY 2021

Award Ceiling: $250,000

Award Floor: $100,000

Expected # of Awards Funded: 2 to 3

Cost Sharing Requirement: No

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The U.S. Embassy in Belmopan, Belize announces a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to strengthen democratic governance through civil society engagement. The U.S. Embassy in

Belmopan intends to issue awards in an amount not to exceed $500,000 in FY 2021 Economic

Support Funds (ESF), pending availability of funding. The anticipated start date for successful proposals is September 30, 2022. U.S. Embassy Belmopan anticipates funding two to three awards between the amount of $100,000 and $250,000 each for this NOFO. Applications are due on June 2, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time (Washington, D.C).

The NOFO and submitted proposals should focus on Pillar II of the Root Causes Strategy (RCS):

Combating corruption, strengthening democratic governance, and advancing the rule of law. The projects should focus on activities by civil society organizations working with the Government of

Belize (GoB) to combat trafficking in persons (TIP) by identifying, preventing, and improving the protection of TIP victims, to promote anti-corruption and transparency, and to improve public service delivery to vulnerable and/or marginalized communities. Specific objectives and indicators should be included in the proposals that allow the organization to measure and demonstrate progress.

Proposals may also support Pillars III - Promoting respect for human rights, labor rights, and a free press, and Pillar IV – Countering and preventing violence, extortion, and other crimes perpetrated by criminal gangs, trafficking networks, and other organized criminal organizations.

Funding awarded under this NOFO cannot be used for law enforcement, to train members of law enforcement, or to provide social services.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan invites qualified U.S. non-profit/non-governmental organizations (NGOs) having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS or overseas-based NGOs, U.S. and overseas-based public and private institutions of higher education, and public international organizations (PIOs) to apply.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for each award. The authority for this NOFO is found in the

Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.

Eligible organizations interested in applying are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the scope of eligible projects, the application submission requirements, and the review process.

For more information, please contact:

U.S. Embassy Belmopan; BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov; +501.822.4011 x4371

NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

U.S. Embassy Belmopan is seeking applications from U.S. NGOs having a 501(c)(3) status with the

IRS, overseas-based non-profit/non-governmental organizations, institutions of higher education, and

PIOs for a grant to implement a program titled “Strengthening Government through Civil Society

Engagement.” The authority for this NOFO is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.

mailto:BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov

Entities receiving grant agreements may use funds awarded to pay for all reasonable, allocable, and allowable expenses, both direct and indirect, that are related to the agreement and are in accordance with applicable cost standards (2 CFR 200 for U.S.- and overseas-based non-profit organizations, and universities; the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 31 48 CFR 31.2 for-profit organizations; and the Mandatory Standard Provision “Allowable Costs (APR 2011)” for public international organizations). Pursuant to 2 CFR 200.400g, it is U.S. Department of State policy not to award profits under assistance instruments. NOTE: overseas-based non-profit organizations are required under U.S. law and regulations to comply with the 2 CFR 200.

Subject to the availability of funds, U.S. Embassy Belmopan intends to award two to three grants in an amount not to exceed $500,000 total. Each award will be for an amount between $100,000 and

$250,000. U.S. Embassy Belmopan will pay expenses under these grants from allocated funds, for a project period not to exceed two years. The anticipated start date for successful proposals is

September 30, 2022. U.S. Embassy Belmopan 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 applying are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of project sought and the application submission requirements and technical review process.

To be eligible for this award, the applicant must submit all required information in its application through Grants.gov (http://www.grants.gov), including the requirements found in any attachments to this opportunity. Please contact Grants.gov for Applicant Support at 1-800-

518-4726 and support@grants.gov with any submission problems. If the applicant has persistent problems submitting through Grants.gov and Grants.gov Applicant Support cannot solve the issue, please email your submission to BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov and include a screen shot of the issue on Grants.gov with any additional details. Emailed submissions will be considered on a select basis depending on the Grants.gov submission issues noted.

This NOFO consists of this cover letter and the following Sections:

1. Section I – Funding Opportunity Description

2. Section II – Award Information

3. Section III – Eligibility Information

4. Section IV – Application and Submission Instructions

5. Section V – Application and Review Information

6. Section VI – Agency Contacts

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 in order to view and save the Adobe forms properly. If you 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 the application has been received from http://www.grants.gov in its entirety. U.S. Embassy Belmopan bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes associated with electronic submissions. The deadline to submit applications is June 2, 2022, 11:59 PM Eastern time mailto:support@grants.gov mailto:BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ mailto:support@grants.gov http://www.grants.gov/

(Washington, D.C.).

Submit any questions concerning this NOFO in writing to BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov. The deadline for submission of questions for this NOFO is May 6, 2022, 5:00 PM local time (Belize).

Responses to questions will be made available to all potential applicants through an additional document posted on 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

Belmopan 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, Leyla Moses-Ones

Chargé d'Affaires, a.i.

SECTION I – FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND

Communities in Belize, particularly in rural areas, face several challenges. Local and national authorities often have difficulty delivering services, including social services to victims of human trafficking, to remote communities. Lack of effective government oversight over social programs can contribute to corruption at various levels and increase inequities. The COVID-19 pandemic only increased these challenges.

The objective of this grant is to support local, sustainable, community-based solutions to improve service delivery, economic development, and/or combat corruption and the perception of impunity.

Communities have tremendous potential to overcome these difficulties. They can leverage existing national government assistance, network with private and non-profit organizations, and collaborate with local government offices. Civil society organizations, with deep connections to their host communities, are in the best position to improve service delivery, democracy, and governance.

A secure and stable Central America leads to a safer and more prosperous United States. Through the RCS, of which the CARSI is a component, U.S. assistance seeks to secure U.S. borders and protect U.S. citizens by addressing the security, governance, and economic drivers of illegal immigration and illicit trafficking, and to promote fair and reciprocal trade in Central America. To promote improved governance, U.S. assistance in Central America 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. The Strategy enhances the capabilities of government entities and civil society organizations to build more accountable, transparent, and effective public institutions. CARSI ESF grants support programming to strengthen civil society’s role in improving governance and supporting a professional, non-partisan civil service.

The RCS identifies, prioritizes, and coordinates actions to improve security, governance, human rights, and economic conditions in the region. The RCS lays out a framework to use the policy, resources, and diplomacy of the United States, and to leverage the expertise and resources of a broad group of public and private stakeholders, to build hope for citizens in the region that the life they desire can be found at home. The end goal is a democratic, prosperous, and safe Central America, where people advance economically, live, work, and learn in safety, have confidence in public institutions, and enjoy opportunities to create futures for themselves and their families at home.

The RCS is organized into five pillars. Due to congressional global earmarks for democracy and governance programming, projects must contribute to one or more of the Strategic Objectives under

Pillar II of the RCS, Combating corruption, strengthening democratic governance, and advancing the rule of law:

• Strengthen democratic institutions to improve governance and rule of law. The United

States will work with countries to promote reform agendas across all branches of government, so government better serves all citizens. This will include a focus on adequately resourcing judicial and oversight institutions, ensuring their independence, and promoting reform of personnel selection and retention processes.

• Prioritize an anticorruption agenda. The United States will work regionally, bilaterally, and, if we must, unilaterally to root out corruption and enhance transparency across the region.

• Improve administration of public resources. The United States will work with governments to establish proper budgeting, management, and use of public resources at the local and national levels to enhance service delivery for all citizens, including in underserved areas and vulnerable populations.

Proposals may also focus on Pillar III - Promoting respect for human rights, labor rights, and a free press; and Pillar IV – Countering and preventing violence, extortion, and other crimes perpetrated by criminal gangs, trafficking networks, and other organized criminal organizations, where the proposal shows a clear link to strengthening democracy and governance.

Proposals could contribute to one or more of the Strategic Objectives under Pillars III and IV:

Pillar III

• Enhance Respect for Human Rights: Governments prevent, reduce, and mitigate risk factors and reduce human rights violations. Civil society organizations and a robust free press hold government actor accountable. At-risk populations have national and international recourse, including U.S. government support and advocacy.

Pillar IV

• Build Safe Communities through Violence Prevention and Intervention: Governments make legal and policy reforms in violence prevention, support rehabilitation and re-insertion into society of former gang members and individuals previously incarcerated and provide protection to at-risk youth and victims of violence, and other marginalized populations, including prevention of human trafficking.

CARSI assistance across the region 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. It also seeks 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 under this NOFO must primarily reflect support for CARSI pillar three (strong, capable, and accountable governments). Applicants must provide governance indicators to track results that correlate with CARSI pillar three and RCS pillar two.. The proposal should also include a contingency plan for the various restrictions that may occur due to COVID-19 and a review of project activities that could be completed virtually if necessary.

PROJECT GOALS

Projects solicited under this NOFO will:

(a) Support the GoB to create a competent civil service that provides non-partisan continuity and efficient service delivery.

(b) Support Belizean civil society demand for government accountability without compromise of human rights. Host nation-governments will uphold values and practices of liberal democracy; citizens hold their governments accountable for these actions.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES

Proposals should specify the expected and sustainable results from projects receiving these funds.

For example, results may indicate the number of government policies, programs, or services transformed or implemented; an improvement in government accountability; the effect on and number of vulnerable or marginalized communities and citizens impacted; or indicate other metrics of improvement in basic government services that impact citizens. All proposals should state clear objectives and specify plans to measure project performance and contributions in meeting objectives. Funds cannot be used to provide direct social services or support for law enforcement officers or forces.

Proposals should be orientated towards civil society organizations working in collaboration with government entities to improve delivery of basic government services at the local, municipal and/or central level particularly to vulnerable and/or marginalized communities.

Applicants should address one or more of the following project objectives:

Objective 1:

To develop and strengthen mechanisms that improve coordination and cooperation among key stakeholders to curb human trafficking and improve services to vulnerable and marginalized populations especially women and children. Proposals should focus on increased public awareness about the social impacts of human trafficking and building the capacity of individuals such as civilian frontline personnel and institutions to identify, respond to, and serve victims of human trafficking. Examples of activities may include specialized victim services for all victims, improving government service delivery to victims, developing standardized victim identification procedures for all key stakeholders/institutions, training for service providers and community partners in victim identification and referral, or creating a prevention program to provide education and support to an at-risk group.

AND/OR

Objective 2:

To support civil society efforts in working with government to institute reforms to reduce corruption and impunity. Proposals should support the reduction of corruption and the promotion of transparency and accountability across all levels to create strong capable and accountable governments. Examples of activities may include building legislative and regulatory drafting abilities to better implement Belize’s strategic goals, public procurement training workshops for finance officers or projects intended to decrease corruption including assistance towards implementing the UN Convention Against Corruption and Sustainable

Development Goal 16.

AND/OR

Objective 3:

To strengthen civil society and government collaboration to improve service delivery at the local, municipal, or national levels. Proposals should focus on activities by civil society organizations leveraging government, private and civil society resources, and network opportunities to jointly strengthen, expand or complement service delivery particularly in areas related to COVID response. Example of potential activities may include capacity building focused on teacher strategies for the return to the classroom, improving digital literacy, or promoting transparency and expediency of government services by making processes and services accessible online (including implementing actions outlined in the

Belize National Digital Agenda 2022-2025).

Proposals should include specific objectives and indicators that allow the organization to measure and demonstrate progress. Funding awarded under this NOFO cannot be used for law enforcement or to train members of law enforcement.

CROSS-CUTTING AND ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

Utilize Local Resources and Expertise

Locally based projects involving community interaction with local civic and government leadership historically have had the best chances of success. Proposals that include the utilization of local resources and expertise are highly encouraged. Partnerships between civil society organizations also can increase the likelihood of sustainable impacts. International applicants must include collaboration with domestic organizations and institutions.

DESIRED RESULTS AND REQUIRED OUTCOME INDICATORS

The applicant will develop a project-level Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) (see Section IV Tab

B) with annual and end-of-project targets and results anticipated for key performance indicators.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan will regularly monitor project performance to assess achievement of project activities.

By the end of the project, applicants must demonstrate that the project has contributed to strengthened policies/procedures to improve government services, contributed to making government stronger, more capable and accountable, and enhanced engagement between government and civil society that will be sustained beyond the project timeframe.

Below are required outcome indicators for the project. The applicant is expected to identify targets for these indicators based on what it can reasonably achieve within the performance period of the project and based on the expected overall project results described above. Applicants are encouraged to set additional, project-specific outcome indicators.

Required Indicator for the RCS: Required targets:

Number of civil society organizations strengthened to promote policy dialogue, advocate for change and/or serve as watchdogs on key issues.

TBD

Number of civil society organizations receiving USG assistance engaged in advocacy interventions.

Number of government service providers and civil society organizations that reduce corruption opportunities in service provision.

ILLUSTRATIVE OUTPUT INDICATORS

Illustrative output indicators for funded projects are provided below. Outputs are the results of what your organization does. For example, the number of participants who successfully complete a job-training course or received job placement through your activities are outputs. Below are examples of required output indicators.

Example Output Indicators: Required targets:

Platforms developed to facilitate public requests for services.

3 platforms

Women that attend weekly individual counseling sessions.

20 women

The applicant should provide output and outcome indicators in addition to the required indicators listed above. Any data collection focused on individuals should be reported by gender, if possible.

The grantee will be required to collect baseline data for all the Performance Monitoring and

Evaluation indicators during the first year of the project. In addition, certain terms included in the outcomes and indicators will need to be defined 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. Baseline information will be critical for both monitoring and evaluation of project progress and results.

[END OF SECTION I]

SECTION II – AWARD INFORMATION

U.S. Embassy Belmopan expects to award two to three grant agreements based on this NOFO.

The anticipated total federal funding amount is $500,000. The period of performance for each award is a maximum of two years with an anticipated start date of September 30, 2022.

The U.S. government may issue one or more awards resulting from this NOFO to the responsible applicant(s) whose applications 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, or (e) waive informalities and minor irregularities in applications received.

After a merit review panel, the U.S. government may make an award 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 obligated) to enter discussions with one or more applicants to obtain clarification, additional detail, or to suggest refinements in the project description, budget, or other aspects of an application.

[END OF SECTION II]

SECTION III – ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

(1) Eligible Entities: Applicants that are eligible to apply are U.S. and overseas-based NGOs, non-profit educational institutions, and PIOs that can respond to the NOFO and be able to mobilize in a short period. Belizean NGOs are strongly encouraged to apply.

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 Belmopan encourages applications from Belizean organizations and institutions, as well as potential new partners.

(3) In order to be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity

Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov. Please see Section IV for more information. Individuals are not required to have a

UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.

[END OF SECTION III]

http://www.sam.gov/

SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

1. Content and Form of Application Submission

Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible.

For all application documents, please ensure:

• The proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity

• All documents are in English

• All budgets are in U.S. dollars

• All pages are numbered, including budgets and attachments,

• All documents are formatted to 8 ½ x 11 paper, portrait orientation only, and

• 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:

A. Completed Cover Sheet, which includes a project title, name of the solicitation organization, and Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). (See Tab E)

B. Completed and signed SF-424, SF-424a [and SF424b] submitted to www.grants.gov , as well as, if applicable, your organization’s most recent audit. (See Tab D)

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

D. Proposal (not to exceed ten [10] pages in Microsoft Word): The proposal should contain sufficient information that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do. You may use your own proposal format, but it must include all the items below.

• Executive Summary: Short narrative that outlines the proposed program, including program objectives and anticipated impact.

• Introduction to the Organization or Individual applying: A description of past and present operations, showing ability to carry out the program, including information on all previous grants from the U.S. Embassy and/or U.S.

government agencies.

• Problem Statement: Clear, concise, and well-supported statement of the problem to be addressed and why the proposed program is needed

• Program Goals and Objectives: The “goals” describe what the program is intended to achieve. The “objectives” refer to the intermediate accomplishments on the way to the goals. These should be achievable and measurable.

• Program Activities: Describe the program activities and how they will help achieve the objectives.

• Program Methods and Design: A description of how the program is expected to work to solve the stated problem and achieve the goal. Include a logic model as appropriate.

• Proposed Program Schedule and Timeline: The proposed timeline for the program activities. Include the dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events.

• Key Personnel: Names, titles, roles and experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program. What proportion of their time will be used in support of this program?

• Program Partners: List the names and type of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees.

• Program Monitoring and Evaluation Plan: This is an important part of successful grants. Throughout the time-frame of the grant, how will the activities be monitored to ensure they are happening in a timely manner, and how will the program be evaluated to make sure it is meeting the goals of the grant?

• Future Funding or Sustainability Applicant’s plan for continuing the program beyond the grant period, or the availability of other resources, if applicable.

E. Detailed Line-Item Budget (in Microsoft Excel) that includes three [3] columns including the request to U.S. Embassy Belmopan, any cost sharing contribution, and total budget (see below for more information on budget format Tab C). 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.

F. Budget Justification 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. 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 Belmopan any information that might not be readily apparent in the budget, not simply repeat the words stated numerically in the budget. (Please see Tab C).

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

a) Page 1-2: Project Monitoring Plan (see Tab B)

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: Supporting Documentation. Attachments may include letters of support, memoranda of understanding (MOU)/agreement, etc.

H. If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICRA) and will include NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA must be included as a .pdf file. This document will not be reviewed by the Embassy, but rather used by 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 your 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 your organization elects to charge the de minimis rate of 10% of the modified total direct costs (MTDC).

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

2. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov) (NOTE: This section is required and not optional, except for NOFOs targeting applications from individuals instead of organizations)

Required Registrations:

All organizations applying for grants (except individuals) must obtain these registrations. All are free of charge:

• www.SAM.gov registration which will generate a UEI

• NCAGE/CAGE code

Any applicant with an exclusion in the System for Award Management (SAM) is not eligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989

Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.”

The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-

282, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards. SAM.gov is the Federal government's primary database for complying with FFATA reporting requirements. OMB designated SAM.gov as the central repository to facilitate applicant and recipient use of a single public website that consolidates data on all federal financial assistance. Under the law, it is mandatory to register in SAM.gov.

Starting April 2022, the UEI will be assigned when an organization registers or renews its registration in SAM.gov at www.SAM.gov. To access SAM.gov an organization is required to have a Login.gov account. Organization can create an account at https://login.gov/. As a reminder, organizations need to renew its sam.gov registration annually.

US-based organizations: A CAGE code will be automatically assigned when the U.S.

organizations registers in www.sam.gov. CAGE must be renewed every 5 years. Site for

CAGE: https://cage.dla.mil/Home/UsageAgree. Grantees may be asked for more information to finalized and must comply.

Foreign-based organizations: Must apply for a NCAGE code before registering in SAM.gov.

Go to: https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/CageTool/home to apply for a NCAGE code. NCAGE codes must be renewed every 5 years.

It is in the organization’s best interest to check if their CAGE/or NCAGE codes are active. Organizations are required to register/or renew their CAGE or NCAGE codes prior to registering or renewing www.sam.gov . Both registration and renewals for both CAGE and

NCAGE can take up to 10 days. Organization’s legal address in NCAGE/CAGE must mirror www. sam.gov.

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If an organization plans to issue a sub-contract or sub-award, those sub-awardees must also have a unique entity identifier (UEI number). Those entities can register for a UEI only at

SAM.gov.

If an organization does not have an active registration in SAM.gov prior to submitting an application, the application will be deemed ineligible. All organizations applying for grants

(except individuals) must obtain these registrations, the latter are free of charge.

Note: As of April 2022, a DUNS number is no longer required.

[END OF SECTION IV]

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SECTION V – FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

1. Federal Award Notices

The grant award or cooperative agreement will be written, signed, awarded, and administered by the Grants Officer. The assistance award agreement is the authorizing document, and it will be provided to the recipient for review and signature by email. The recipient may only start incurring program expenses beginning on the start date shown on the grant award document signed by the Grants Officer.

If a proposal is selected for funding, the Department of State has no obligation to provide any additional future funding. Renewal of an award to increase funding or extend the period of performance is at the discretion of the Department of State.

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 proposals. Further, the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

Before submitting an application, applicants should review all the terms and conditions and required certifications which will apply to this award, to ensure that they will be able to comply.

These include:

• 2 CFR 25 - UNIVERSAL IDENTIFIER AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD

MANAGEMENT

• 2 CFR 170 - REPORTING SUBAWARD AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

INFORMATION

• 2 CFR 175 - AWARD TERM FOR TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

• 2 CFR 182 - GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE

WORKPLACE (FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE)

• 2 CFR 183 - NEVER CONTRACT WITH THE ENEMY

• 2 CFR 600 – DEPARTMENT OF STATE REQUIREMENTS

• U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS

In accordance with the Office of Management and Budget’s guidance located at 2 CFR part

200, all applicable Federal laws, and relevant Executive guidance, the Department of State will review and consider applications for funding, as applicable to specific programs, pursuant to this notice of funding opportunity in accordance with the following: NOTE:

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.25&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.25&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.170&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.170&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.175&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.182&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.182&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.183&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2chapterVI.tpl https://www.state.gov/about-us-office-of-the-procurement-executive/

• Guidance for Grants and Agreements in Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2

CFR), as updated in the Federal Register’s 85 FR 49506 on August 13, 2020, particularly on:

o Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering results based on the program objectives through an objective process of evaluating Federal award applications (2 CFR part 200.205), o Prohibiting the purchase of certain telecommunication and video surveillance services or equipment in alignment with section 889 of the National Defense

Authorization Act of 2019 (Pub. L. No. 115—232) (2 CFR part 200.216), o Promoting the freedom of speech and religious liberty in alignment with

Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty (E.O. 13798) and Improving Free

Inquiry, Transparency, and Accountability at Colleges and Universities (E.O.

13864) (§§ 200.300, 200.303, 200.339, and 200.341), o Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to maximize use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United States (2 CFR part

200.322), and o Terminating agreements in whole or in part to the greatest extent authorized by law, if an award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities (2

CFR part 200.340).

3. Reporting

Reporting Requirements: Recipients will be required to submit quarterly financial and program reports. The award document will specify how often these reports must be submitted.

4. Audits

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

• Complies with the requirements of 2 CFR 200 Subpart F, “Audit Requirements”

• 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"

• 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

• 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.

5. Indirect Cost Rate

An organization with a 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-https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 shared. Per 2 CFR 200.414 any non-Federal entity that has never received a NICRA, 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) that 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 the non-

Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the non-Federal entity may apply to do at any time.

[END OF SECTION V]

SECTION VI – APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

The technical applications will be evaluated in accordance with the technical review criteria set forth below. Applicants shall organize the narrative sections of their technical applications in the same order as the selection criteria. Technical evaluation of applications will be based on the extent and appropriateness of proposed approaches and feasibility of achieving the strategic objectives, in accordance with the following criteria.

If award is not made on the initial applications, U.S. Embassy Belmopan may request clarification and supplemental materials from applicants whose applications have a reasonable chance of being selected for award. The entry into discussion is to be viewed as part of the technical review process and shall not be deemed by U.S. Embassy Belmopan or the applicants as indicative of a decision or commitment upon U.S. Embassy Belmopan to make an award to the applicants with whom discussions are being held.

1. TECHNICAL REVIEW CRITERIA

A technical review committee, using the criteria shown in this Section, will assess the technical applications. The various functional elements of the technical criteria are assigned weighted scores, so that the applicants will know which areas require emphasis in the preparation of applications.

Where applications are considered technically essentially equal, cost may be the determining factor. Applicants should note that these criteria serve as the standard against which all applications will be reviewed and serve to identify the significant matters which applicants should address in their applications.

The relative importance of each criterion is indicated by the number of points assigned. A total of 100 points is possible.

Quality of Project Idea Rating (Total Possible 20) – Rating:

1. Responsive to the solicitation (4 points)

2. Appropriate in the country/regional context (4)

3. Exhibits originality, substance, and precision (4)

4. Prioritizes innovation, but is feasible (4)

5. In countries where similar activities are already taking place, provides an explanation as to how new activities will not duplicate or merely add to existing activities (4)

Project Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives Rating (Total Possible 25) – Rating:

• Includes a clear articulation of the proposed program activities’ expected contributions to the overall program objectives (3)

• Each activity is clearly developed and detailed (3)

• Provides a comprehensive quarterly work plan for project activities that demonstrates substantive undertakings within the logistical capacity of the organization (3)

• Objectives are clear, specific, attainable, measurable, results-focused, and placed in a reasonable time frame (3)

• Addresses how the program will engage or obtain support from relevant stakeholders and identifies local partners where appropriate (3)

• Describes the division of labor among the direct applicant, any partners and any potential sub-grantees (2)

• Proposal clearly articulates understanding of the security situation/operating environment and plans for ensuring safety of participants (2)

• Includes contingency plans for potential difficulties in executing the original work plan (6)

Project Monitoring Plan (Total Possible 20) - Rating:

• The Project Monitoring Plan includes:

o Narrative explaining how monitoring and evaluation will be carried out and who will be responsible for monitoring and evaluation activities (7) o Table listing by project objectives the output- and outcome-based performance indicators with baselines and (yearly and cumulative) targets; data collection tools; data sources; types of data disaggregation, if applicable; and frequency of monitoring and evaluation (9) o Logic model that includes outcomes, outputs, and activities that specify measurable numerical targets (4)

Cost Effectiveness (Total Possible 15) - Rating:

• The overhead and administration of the proposal, including salaries and honoraria, are explained and justified for the work involved (5)

• All budget items are necessary, appropriate and linked to project objectives (5)

• Personnel costs are reasonable for the work involved (5)

• NOTE: Cost share is not required. Applicants may offer cost share, however, cost share will not be considered or factored in when proposals are reviewed.

Multiplier Effect/Sustainability of Impact Rating (Total Possible 10) - Rating:

• Clearly delineates how elements of the project will have a multiplier effect (5)

• Clearly delineates how impact will be sustainable beyond the life of the grant (5)

Institution’s Record and Capacity Rating (Total Possible 10) - Rating:

• The proposal demonstrates an institutional record of successful programs in the proposed country, the content area (e.g., media, access to justice), or other (describe) (4)

• Personnel and institutional resources are adequate and appropriate to achieve the project's objectives (2)

• Roles, responsibilities, and brief bios/resumes are included for primary staff, and demonstrate relevant professional experience (2)

• Applicant is a current/past Embassy grantee where performance: (2) o Was/is on target o Showed/shows responsible fiscal management

OR

• The proposal is from a NEW APPLICANT and proposal: (2) o Demonstrates capacity for responsible fiscal management o Illustrates success in similar sized projects

COST REVIEW

Cost will be assessed for realism,…