BudgetNarrativeAttachments_1_2-V1.2.zip

This file is a compressed archive containing budget narrative attachments (version 1.2) for the 2026 National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share Grant Program administered by the USDA Forest Service. The program solicits applications for projects advancing community tree resource utilization by converting wood from pruning, removals, storm events, and pest or disease outbreaks into products such as lumber, slabs, furniture, flooring, and biochar. Applications are due October 12, 2026, with an anticipated award date of December 12, 2026. The Forest Service will distribute up to $1 million across 3-5 awards, with individual awards not exceeding $500,000. Eligible applicants include state, local, and tribal governments; 501(c)(3) nonprofits; public higher education institutions; independent school districts; county governments; city/township governments; special district governments; and public or Indian housing authorities.

Projects must demonstrate mandatory 1:1 cost matching using non-federal funds (cash, services, or in-kind contributions) and conform to Section 9 of the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act (16 U.S.C. 2105). Applications require a 10-page project narrative and budget narrative using SF-424 and SF-424A forms. Competitive proposals should outline anticipated wood products, partnerships with professional or industry organizations, and opportunities for job creation, training, or certification while applying industry-recognized safety and tree-care standards. Required performance indicators include 500 tons of wood diverted from waste, 200,000 board feet of wood products produced, $750,000 estimated value added, 120 individuals trained, 80 industry-recognized certifications earned, 60 jobs created or retained, 40 percent increased processing capacity, 25 recurring buyers, and $50,000 documented energy savings. Recipients must submit semi-annual performance reports. Unallowable costs include building construction, equipment purchases, and self-promotion marketing unrelated to the funded project. Grants are eligible for three-year awards with possible two-year extensions, not to exceed five years total. All applicants must maintain active SAM.gov registration and provide a valid Unique Entity Identifier.