D25AS00214 NOFO FRMP - rev 1.pdf

The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI)

Interior Business Center (IBC) Acquisition Services Directorate (AQD)

On behalf of the

The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Office of Subsistence Management (OSM)

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Fisheries Resource Monitoring Program (2026-2029)

Funding Opportunity Number

D25AS00214

Contents

BASIC INFORMATION

ELIGIBILITY

Cost Sharing Requirement

GET READY TO APPLY

Required System Registrations

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals

Program Description

Legislative Authority

Type of Award

PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION

Application Contents and Format

Application Documents

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package

Submission Dates and Times

Submission Instructions

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

Eligibility Review

Merit Review Criteria

Review and Selection Process

Risk Review

AWARD NOTICES

POST‐AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION

Administration and National Policy Requirements

Reporting

BASIC INFORMATION

Department of the Interior (DOI), Interior Business Center (IBC), Acquisition Services Directorate (AQD)

Department of Interior (DOI), Office of Subsistence Management – Alaska Subsistence Management Fisheries Resource Monitoring Program (2026-2029)

Announcement Type: New Opportunity

Funding Opportunity Number: D25AS00214

Assistance Listing Number: 15.636

Total Anticipated Program Funding: $9,000,000.00 USD

Anticipated Number of Awards: 25 Approximately 25 awards are anticipated to be made from this NOFO. The actual number of awards will depend on the number of meritorious applications and the availability of appropriated funds.

Anticipated Amount Per Award: Award Max: $940,000 | up to $235,000 per year for up to a 4 year performance period

Cost Sharing Required? Matching is not required

Key Dates:

Submission Date and Time: May 16, 2025; 5:00 PM (UTC-8) Anticipated Award Date: March 30, 2026 Anticipated Project Start Date: April 1, 2026 Anticipated Project End Date: March 30, 2030

OMB Control Number: N/A

Have Questions?

For programmatic technical assistance, contact:

Scott Ayers 907-744-3824 Email: scott_ayers@ios.doi.gov

For program administration assistance, contact:

Michelle St. Peters Email: michelle_stpeters@ios.doi.gov

Executive Summary

Section 812 of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act mandates collaboration among Federal, state, and local entities to research and monitor subsistence use of fish and wildlife on Federal public lands and waters, with an emphasis on local knowledge.

The Federal government assumed responsibility for subsistence fisheries management on Federal public lands and waters in 1999, aiming to improve data quality, meaningful involvement by Alaska Native and rural organizations, and foster interagency collaboration to better manage subsistence fisheries in Alaska.

The Fisheries Resource Monitoring Program (FRMP) was developed to collect and disseminate data to support subsistence fisheries management and stewardship. It prioritizes projects that enhance partnerships and capacity building for Alaska Native and rural non-profit organizations, and Federally recognized Tribal Government communities.

Funding prioritizes projects meeting specific Priority Information Needs identified by Federal Subsistence Regional Advisory Councils available at the program’s website:

https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/frmp/funding. Proposals must align with Priority Information Needs or provide strong justification for alternate priorities.

Indicators of project success include technical rigor, administrative effectiveness, cost efficiency, incorporation of Indigenous Knowledges/Traditional Ecological Knowledges (IK/TEK), and active roles for rural community partners.

Proposals should address one of six Alaska regions, with multi-regional classification if the project spans multiple regions. See “Guidelines for Project Investigation Plan, Executive Summary, and Budget” at the Monitoring Program’s webpage https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/frmp/funding for further details.

The FRMP considers three primary data types: (1) harvest monitoring, (2) traditional ecological knowledge, and (3) stock status and trends, each with distinct research methods for comprehensive data collection. A project may address multiple data types.

Eligibility is open to all applicants with the necessary resources and expertise for successful project completion. Alaska Native Organizations (ANO), rural non-profit organizations, and Federally recognized Tribal Governments are encouraged to apply.

ELIGIBILITY

Eligible Applicants

X Unrestricted (i.e., open to any type of entity above), subject to any clarification in the text field entitled “Additional Information on Eligibility”

Additional Information on Eligibility

Applicants should have the necessary technical and administrative abilities and resources to ensure successful completion of studies.

To be considered for funding under the FRMP, a proposed project must have a direct linkage to Federal subsistence fishery management in Alaska. This means that either the subsistence fishery or fish stocks in question must occur in or pass through waters within and adjacent to Federal public lands in Alaska (i.e., National Wildlife Refuges, National Forests, National Parks and Preserves, National Conservation Areas, National Wild and Scenic River Systems, National Petroleum Reserves, National Trails System, Natural Wilderness Preservation System, and National Recreation Areas). Proposals that do not demonstrate a clear link to Federal subsistence fishery management in Alaska will not be considered. ANOs, rural non-profit organizations, and federally recognized Tribal Governments are encouraged to apply. Projects up to four years in duration are eligible for funding. Proposals requesting Monitoring Program funding that exceed $235,000 in any one year are not eligible for funding.

Activities not eligible for funding under the Monitoring Program include:

Habitat protection, mitigation, restoration, and enhancement.

Hatchery propagation, restoration, enhancement, and supplementation.

Contaminant assessment, evaluation, and monitoring.

The rationale behind this approach is to ensure that existing responsibilities and effort by government agencies are not duplicated under the Monitoring Program. Land management or regulatory agencies already have direct responsibility, as well as specific programs, to address these activities.

Projects where the primary or only objective is outreach and education (for example, science camps, student training, and intern programs), rather than information collection, are not eligible for funding under the Monitoring Program. These types of activities (educator, outreach coordinator, and intern positions and science camps) are eligible for funding under the Partners for Fisheries Monitoring Program funded through the Office of Subsistence Management https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/partners/funding.

Applicants will be notified in writing if their proposals are not eligible for consideration through the Monitoring Program.

Cost Sharing Requirement No. Cost Sharing / Matching is not required.

GET READY TO APPLY

Required System Registrations

Unique Entity Identifier and SAM.gov Registration

Before applying, all applicants except individuals applying as a natural person must be registered in SAM.gov. During the SAM.gov registration the entity will obtain their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

The SAM.gov registration process can take several months. If your organization is not already registered in SAM.gov, begin the registration process as soon as possible.

To register in SAM.gov, go to the SAM.gov website and use the available resources to complete registration.

Financial assistance registrants must review and certify compliance with the SAM.gov “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications”.

Already registered? You already have a Unique Entity ID. Before applying, check that your “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications” on SAM.gov is complete. Remember to renew your registration every year to keep it active while you have an award or application in progress. You can update your registration whenever you need, including during renewal.

Need help? For additional information and contact information on the SAM.gov Help page.

This program may allow an applicant to apply while their SAM.gov registration is in progress, with prior approval. For more information, refer to the point of contact identified in the Basic Information section above.

GRANTS.GOV

This program accepts application through Grants.gov so once you receive your UEI return to Grants.gov to register with Grants.gov. Please allow for 30 days to register and set up a Workspace in Grants.gov. See Submission Instructions section below for additional details.

GRANTSOLUTIONS

This program accepts application through GrantSolutions.gov. You must register with GrantSolutions. See Submission Instructions.

EMAIL

If you are unable to submit an application package through Grants.gov, you may email the full application package to michelle_stpeters@ios.doi.gov and kristen_barth@ibc.doi.gov no later than 5:00 p.m. UTC-8 on May 16, 2025.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals

The mission of the FRMP is to identify and provide information needed to sustain subsistence fisheries on Federal public lands for rural Alaskans through a multidisciplinary, collaborative program.

Program Description

The Monitoring Program funds projects that collect, share, and apply information for managing federal subsistence fisheries in Alaska. It also supports partnerships and provides opportunities for capacity building of rural organizations, ANOs, communities, and individuals. Funding prioritizes projects meeting specific Priority Information Needs identified by Federal Subsistence Regional Advisory Councils available at the program’s website:

https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/frmp/funding.

The Office of Subsistence Management (OSM) will be substantially involved in projects under this funding opportunity. Participation and involvement will be determined collaboratively by OSM and awardees. Examples of substantial involvement include:

Review and approve any proposed modifications to the Investigation Plan by the recipient prior to their adoption or use and the award of subsequent funds.

Review and approve proposed modifications or sub-grants, prior to the award.

Help select project staff or trainees.

Review and approve one stage of work before the next stage can begin.

Participate and collaborate jointly with the recipient partner to train personnel or detail

Federal personnel to assist on the project effort (including fieldwork).

Direct or redirect the work because of interrelationships with other projects.

Immediately halt an activity if detailed performance specifications are not met.

Work in cooperation with project investigators to communicate and distribute project updates and results to Federal Subsistence Regional Advisory Councils, the Federal Subsistence Board, and the public.

Edit or help initiate technical report drafts.

Disseminate technical reports upon request.

Legislative Authority

Alaska National Lands Conservations Act (ANILCA) – Cooperative Agreements 16 USC 3119

Type of Award

Projects will be funded through Cooperative Agreements.

PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION

Application Contents and Format

The following information identifies all required application content in addition to the required forms or formats an applicant must utilize for submission.

Pre-applications, letters of intent, or white papers are not required.

Due to size limitation, if a submission is sent via email, each must be limited to 6 MB each.

Multiple emails will be accepted. Submissions will utilize Times New Roman 11 pt font, single spaced, single sided, 8.5x11 paper. Graphics and tables will use no smaller than 8-point font size (any style).

Application Documents

Applicants must submit the following forms with their application as specified below.

Instructions for accessing and submitting application forms are provided in the Submission Instructions section of this document below. For instructions on completing form fields, see the form instructions on the Grants.gov Forms Repository.

FORMS REQUIREMENT

SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance

Note: For applicants requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funds, the Authorized Representative’s signature (or electronic equivalent) on the Application for Federal Assistance form also represents their certification of the statements in Appendix A to 43 CFR 18-Certification Regarding Lobbying.

Required from all applicants

SF-424A, Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs Required for non-construction projects

Project Abstract Summary (OMB 4040-0019) Required from all applicants SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities Required if requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funds and the applicant has used or plans to use funds other than Federal appropriated funds for lobbying related to the proposed project.

FORMS REQUIREMENT

Project Abstract Summary (OMB 4040-0019). Must include, in plain language:

• Award purpose,

• Activities to be performed,

• Expected deliverables or outcomes,

• Intended beneficiaries, Subrecipient activities (if known or specified at time of award)

Required from all applicants

If submitting a consolidated application, the forms above are only submitted by the primary applicant. The budget should include amounts for all entities combined.

Project Narrative

The Project Investigation Plan must be clear, concise, no more than 15 pages in length (not including references and appendices), and must be submitted in Microsoft Word using Times New Roman 11 pt. font (see “Guidelines for Project Investigation Plan, Executive Summary and Budget” https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/frmp/funding). Include the following:

(1) Issue Addressed. Proposals must clearly articulate their relevance to Federal subsistence management. This means that a proposed project must have direct association to a Federal subsistence fishery, and that either the subsistence fishery or fish stocks in question must occur in or pass through waters within or adjacent to Federal public lands. The Office of Subsistence Management is targeting this Funding Opportunity towards projects that address specific Priority Information Needs identified by Federal Subsistence Regional Advisory Councils (see “2026 Priority Information Needs” https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/frmp/funding.)

Show how, where, and when the subsistence fishery takes place within or adjacent to a Federal Conservation System Unit (i.e., National Wildlife Refuges, National Forests, National Parks and Preserves, National Conservation Areas, National Wild and Scenic River Systems, National Petroleum Reserves, National Trails System, Natural Wilderness Preservation System, and National Recreation Areas) or non-navigable waters on Bureau of Land Management general domain lands. The applicant must ensure that the species addressed in the proposal is a resource that is managed through the Federal Subsistence Management Program (see “2025- 2027 Fisheries Regulations” https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/fisheries). Describe why this project is necessary (significance/value) and include supporting information.

Summarize previous or ongoing efforts (by you/your organization, and other organizations or individuals) that are relevant to the proposed work. Explain the successes or failures of past efforts and how your proposed project builds on them. If you have received funding previously (from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or any other entity) for this specific project work or site, provide a summary of the funding, associated activities, and products/outcomes.

(2) Background. Describe the ecological, cultural, social, and fishery context for the project.

This information should provide the basis for defining key questions or hypotheses addressed by the project. Provide a concise review of pertinent information and past literature on the subject. This review could include information from published literature, agency, and organization reports, as well as unpublished information, personal contacts, etc. All sources of published information should be cited in the text (author and year) and listed in the References section. All sources of unpublished information are cited in the text only (name, affiliation, and personal communication). Provide a description of the extent and depth of subsistence use of the resource(s) proposed for the project. This use may be expressed as the actual number or pounds harvested, and/or the number of households or villages using the resource, as well as the extent of use over time.

(3) Objectives. State the long-term, overarching goal(s) and the objectives of the project.

Objectives are the specific outcomes to be accomplished to reach the stated goal(s). The project objectives should be specific, measurable, realistic, achievable, and time-bound (attainable within the project’s proposed project period). For continuing projects previously funded under the Monitoring Program, summarize project findings and justify continuation of the project, placing the proposed work in context with the past or ongoing work being accomplished.

(4) Project Activities and Methods. List the proposed project activities and describe how they relate to the stated objectives. Activities are the specific actions to be undertaken to fulfill the project objectives and reach the project goal(s). Provide a detailed description of the methods to be used to carry out each activity. To improve clarity, the Methods section should be divided into subsections that represent different components of the project, such as: Project Area, Project Design, Data Collection and Reduction, and Data Analysis. Include any resulting tables, spreadsheets, or flow charts within the body of the Project Investigation Plan and not as separate attachments. Where applicable, describe sample size and define how this was determined. For continuing projects, please state complete study design.

All projects must observe appropriate research ethics (see National Science Foundation’s “Arctic Research Plan 2022-2026” https://www.nsf.gov/geo/opp/arctic/conduct.jsp). For projects that utilize human subjects for collecting data, including surveys, key informant interviews, community mapping, and other methods, researchers must follow general standards for ethical research with human subjects, including gaining informed consent, protection of privacy, dignity, and confidentiality, acknowledgment of local contributions, and return of results to participating communities. To maintain the highest ethical standards and scientific integrity, research on fishes should conform to the American Fisheries Society’s “Guidelines for Use of Fishes in Research” https://fisheries.org/docs/wp/Guidelines-for-Use-of-Fishes.pdf. Any exception must be described.

(5) Project Monitoring and Evaluation. Detail the monitoring and evaluation plan for the project. Building on the stated project objectives identify what you will measure (i.e., quantitative/quantifiable indicators) and how you will measure (i.e., methods, sample size, survey tools). Reference the stated project timetable and budget information. Identify the products/services to be delivered and how/to whom they will be delivered. Detail the expected direct effect(s) of the project on beneficiaries. Include any available questionnaires, surveys, curricula, exams/tests, or other assessment tools to be used for project evaluation. Describe the resources and organizational structure available for gathering, analyzing, and reporting monitoring and evaluation data. If applicable, describe how project participants and beneficiaries will participate in monitoring and evaluation activities. Describe how findings will feed back into decision making and project activities throughout the project period.

(6) Investigators Ability and Resources. Provide a brief description of the applicant organization and all participating entities and/or individuals. Identify which of the proposed activities each agency, organization, group, or individual is responsible for conducting or managing within the project. Describe the investigator(s) needs for substantial involvement or technical assistance with the project from OSM. For each investigator, clearly identify their roles and responsibilities. Provide complete contact information for the individual within the organization that will oversee/manage the project activities on a day-to-day basis. Provide resumes or abbreviated curriculum vitae of no more than five pages for each Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator that include descriptive overviews of their education, experience, and other skills that make them qualified to carry out the proposed project.

(7) Consultation Documentation and/or Letter(s) of Support. Include a summary of ongoing consultations with rural communities, ANOs, agencies, and other organizations. The purpose of the consultation is to ensure that local communities and organizations support the proposed project. To the greatest practical extent, consultations are also intended to identify opportunities for local communities and organizations to participate in projects. Letters of support for a project from these entities can strengthen a proposal. Each letter should be included as individual documents and addressed to the Director of the Office of Subsistence Management.

(8) Partnership and Capacity Building. Describe the ways in which this project will develop partnerships and build the capability and expertise of ANOs, rural non-profit organizations, or Federally recognized Tribal Governments to participate in the management of Federal subsistence fisheries. If applicable, describe specific plans to hire and train rural community residents and the type of skills that will be taught. Summarize how the project will promote interaction among rural residents, agencies, and other organizations in information gathering, data analysis, reporting, and information sharing.

Capacity may be built by increasing the technical capabilities of ANOs, rural non-profit organizations, and Federally recognized Tribal Governments. This can be accomplished via several methods, including increased technical experience for individuals and the acquisition of necessary gear and equipment. Increased technical experience would include all areas of project management including logistics, financial accountability, implementation, and administration. Other examples may include hiring Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program summer interns or other types of internships, providing opportunities within the project for outreach, modeling, sampling design, or project specific training. Another method to increase technical capabilities would be the acquisition of gear and equipment. Equipment purchased during the project could be transferred to rural communities and ANOs upon the conclusion of the project. Items such as boats, outboards, software, cameras, flow meters, GPS, nets, video monitoring, and other sampling gear would be a beneficial means to increase capabilities. Both methods would provide an opportunity for rural communities and ANOs to build actual capacity and have a meaningful role in research and monitoring of subsistence resources. This is not an inclusive list and these examples are intended to provide suggestions to incorporate capacity building into all proposals.

To aid investigators with developing a capacity building strategy into investigation plans see “Capacity Building in the Fisheries Resource Monitoring Program: A Guiding Document for Project Investigators”. https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/frmp/funding

(9) Deliverables/Products. Describe the products to be developed throughout the duration of the project. The project ends with submission of the reviewed and approved Final Technical Report.

(10) Schedule. Estimate the beginning and completion dates for critical segments of the project, including all deliverables, and provide in tabular form. Include in the timetable project activities (grouped by month) for each month over the project period.

(11) Map of Project. Clearly delineate the project area. Maps should have simplicity and focus and include only essential elements relevant to the research question (e.g., key features, or boundaries), clear labeling with legible fonts with appropriate sizes for labels, title and legends, appropriate color schemes, effective legend that clearly explains symbols, colors, and patterns used on the map.

(12) Literature Cited. Provide complete citations for published literature referenced in the above sections.

Budget Narrative

A budget narrative (Word .docx) and an Excel budget table are required. A template of the budget table is located at: https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/frmp/funding. Itemize all budget items in sufficient detail to enable reviewers to evaluate the appropriateness of the funding requested. Include both direct and indirect costs. Federal agencies may assess indirect costs in alignment with their agency's policies regarding interagency agreements. Provide a copy of each agency/organization’s Indirect Cost Negotiation Agreement for the current approved indirect rate.

Proposals requesting Monitoring Program funding are capped at $235,000 in any one project year.

Applicants must describe and justify items and costs listed in their budget. The budget narrative must identify the following cost items: total estimated costs, non-Federal cost share, third-party contributions, and any pre-award costs. Total project cost is the sum of all allowable costs, including required and voluntary cost share and third-party contributions.

Budget items must be:

Reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary Compliant with 2 CFR §200 Subpart E cost principles

Indirect Costs: Applicants must indicate in their budget narrative how they will charge indirect costs, including the rate to be applied:

De Minimis Rate: If eligible, state if your organization is opting to use the de minimis rate of up to 15% of total modified direct costs. Entities that do not have a current Federal negotiated indirect cost rate (including provisional rate) may propose to use the de minimis rate. For more information, refer to 2 CFR 200.414(f).

Negotiated Rate: State if you will negotiate with your cognizant agency. If your organization has previously negotiated a rate, attach a copy of the most recently negotiated rate agreement (active or expired).

Other Required Information

Conflict of Interest and Unresolved Matters Disclosures: If any actual or potential conflict of interest exists related to this project at the time of application, the applicant must provide sufficient information to support a program determination of significance per 2 CFR 1402.112.

Refer to 2 CFR 200.112 Conflict of Interest and 2 CFR 200.113 Mandatory Disclosures.

Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement:

Applicants must state in their application if the activities, costs, or time commitment of key personnel proposed in this application overlap with those in any other Federal proposal or award or not. If no overlap exists, include a statement to that effect. If any overlap exists, provide:

Activities: Description any overlapping activities.

Costs: Description of any overlapping costs.

Time: Description of any overlapping key personnel time.

A copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential funding entity.

Details on when any overlapping proposal was submitted, to whom, and the expected date of the funding decision.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package This NOFO contains all application information needed to submit an application through www.grants.gov, GrantSolutions, or via email to Kristen_barth@ibc.doi.gov and Michelle_stpeters@ios.doi.gov.

NOFO documents may also be accessed at the Office of Subsistence Management’s website:

https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/frmp/funding.

All applications need to be submitted in accordance with (IAW) the submission instructions included in this NOFO to be eligible and considered for award.

Submission Dates and Times Applications must be submitted no later than 5:00PM UTC-8 on May 16, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Submission Instructions Apply Through Grants.gov

To apply through Grants.gov, please follow the instructions in the Quick Start Guide for Applicants. Before applying, ensure that at least one person at your organization is registered and has the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Only the AOR can submit the application. If you need more users, they must create their own Grants.gov account. Follow these steps below to apply:

Create a Workspace: Creating a workspace allows you to complete it online and route it through your organization for review before submitting.

Complete a Workspace: Invite participants to the workspace so you can collaborate on the application. Required applications forms are included in the Grants.gov Funding Opportunity Package and can be completed in the Workspace, unless noted otherwise in the Required Forms table above. Check for errors before submission.

Submit a Workspace: An application may be submitted through workspace by clicking the Sign and Submit button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab

Track a Workspace Submission: After successfully submitting a workspace application, a Grants.gov Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXX) is automatically assigned to the application.

The system generates a date and time stamp and sends it to the applicant’s AOR via email as proof of submission. Make sure your application passes the Grants.gov validation checks. Do not encrypt, zip, or password-protect any files. Only registered individuals in SAM as both a user and an AOR can submit applications. Please allow 30 days to register in Grants.gov.

Application System Technical Support For Grants.gov technical registration and submission, downloading forms, and application packages, contact:

Grants.gov Customer Support 1-800-518-4726 Support@grants.gov

Applications can be submitted electronically via email to michelle_stpeters@ios.doi.gov and Kristen_barth@ios.doi.gov by the submission date and time.

Apply Through GrantsSolutions

To apply through GrantSolutions, follow these steps:

Register your organization. Send an e-mail to help@grantsolutions.gov with:

- Subject: New Organization Request

- Entity name (organization or individual applying as a natural person)

- Entity type

- SAM.gov Unique Entity Identifier (not required for individuals)

- Employer Identification Number (individuals, do not include your SSN)

- Address

- Contact details (First and last name, e-mail, phone)

This information should be the same as entered on the entity’s SAM.gov profile.

Assign system user roles. Follow the GrantSolutions “Recipient user” registration instructions. Submit a separate Recipient User Account Request form for each official to be assigned a system role. At minimum, the Authorizing Official (ADO) and Principal Investigator/Program Director (PI/PD) must be assigned.

Log in. GrantSolutions requires users to log in through Login.gov. Each user must create a Login.gov account. For instructions, see the GrantSolutions Training Resources web page.

Find and apply to this Funding Opportunity. After logging in, click on either the “Begin an application” link (first time applicants) or the “Funding Opportunity” link to go to the “Competing Announcements-Application Kits” list screen. Search the list for this Funding Opportunity’s title and number. Click on the associated “Apply” link.

Follow the prompts from there. Required applications forms are provided with the Funding Opportunity in GrantSolutions unless otherwise indicated on the Required Forms table above. Please note that the "Project Abstract Summary" form does not allow use of commas.

For detailed instructions, see the GrantSolutions Training Resources web page.

Need help? Find help topics and contact information on the GrantSolutions Contact Us page.

Apply Through Email

Applications can be submitted electronically via email to: michelle_stpeters@ios.doi.gov and kristen_barth@ibc.doi.gov by the submission date and time cutoff.

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

Eligibility Review During the eligibility review, the application is checked for timely submission, completed packages (see Application Documents above) and alignment with the requirements of this announcement. The Federal agency may remove an application if it does not pass the eligibility review.

If an applicant selected for funding hasn't finished their SAM.gov registration (see 2 CFR 25.200 and 2 CFR 25.110) when the federal agency is ready to make an award, we may decide that the applicant is ineligible for the award and choose to grant it to someone else. Please refer 2 CFR

25.205 for more information.

Prior to making an award, the DOI checks the anticipated recipient and their key project personnel against the current list of prohibited or restricted persons or entities in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Exclusions database. We are prohibited from making an award if a recipient or any key personnel are found ineligible, prohibited, restricted, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in an award, as their ineligibility condition applies to this program.

If removed from consideration for ineligibility, the Federal agency will notify the applicant in writing.

Merit Review The Technical Review Committee (TRC) will evaluate project investigation plans using five equally weighted critical components worth up to 20 points each (maximum points available is 100). The TRC is a standing inter-agency committee of senior technical experts, with representatives from Federal agencies involved with subsistence management in Alaska and relevant experts from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Their function is to provide evaluation, technical oversight, and strategic direction to the Monitoring Program throughout each funding cycle.

The five critical components are Strategic Priority, Technical-Scientific Merit, Investigator Ability and Resources, Partnership and Capacity Building, and Cost benefit.

1. Strategic Priorities (20 points). Applicants must demonstrate how a proposed project will address a strategic Priority Information Need. The 2026 Priority Information Needs can be accessed at the Monitoring Program’s Website:

https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/frmp/funding. Applicants wishing to address information needs other than those identified in the list must include compelling rationale regarding strategic importance and application to Federal subsistence management.

Projects should address the following topics to demonstrate links to strategic priorities:

Federal jurisdiction. The extent of Federal public waters in or nearby the project area or the extent to which the subsistence fishery or fish stocks in question occur in or pass through these areas.

Direct subsistence fisheries management implications.

Conservation mandate. Threat or risk to conservation of species and populations that support subsistence fisheries.

Data gaps. Amount of information available to support subsistence management and how the project answers specific questions related to these gaps.

Role of the resource. Contribution of a species to a subsistence harvest (e.g., number of villages affected, pounds of fish harvested, miles of river) and qualitative significance (e.g., cultural value, unique seasonal role).

Local concern. User concerns over subsistence harvests (e.g., upstream vs.

downstream allocation, effects of recreational use, changes in fish abundance and population characteristics).

2. Technical-Scientific Merit (20 points). Quality of study designs must meet accepted standards for information collection, compilation, analysis, and reporting. To demonstrate technical and scientific merit, applicants should describe how projects:

Advance science.

Address an immediate subsistence management or conservation concerns.

Have rigorous sampling and/or research designs.

Have objectives that are specific, measurable, realistic, achievable, and time-bound

(attainable within the project’s proposed project period).

Incorporate traditional knowledge and methods.

Data collection, compilation, analysis, and reporting procedures should be clearly stated.

Analytical procedures should be understandable to the non-scientific community.

3. Investigator Ability and Resources (20 points). Investigators need to show they are capable of successfully completing the proposed project. They must provide information on the ability (training, education, experience, and letters of support) and resources (technical and administrative) they possess to conduct the work. Investigators that have received prior funding via the Monitoring Program will be evaluated and scored on their past performance(s), including fulfillment of meeting deliverable and financial accountability deadlines. A record of failure to submit reports or delinquent submittal of reports will be considered when rating investigator ability and resources.

4. Partnership and Capacity Building (20 points). Investigators and their organizations should demonstrate their ability to maintain effective local relationships and commitment to capacity building. This includes a plan to facilitate and develop partnerships so that investigators, communities, and regional organizations can pursue and achieve the most meaningful level of involvement. Proposals demonstrating multiple, highly collaborative efforts with rural community members or ANOs are encouraged. Successful capacity building requires developing trust and dialogue among investigators, local communities, and regional organizations. Investigators need to be flexible in modifying their work plan in response to local knowledge, issues, and concerns, and must also understand that capacity building is a reciprocal process in which all participants share and gain valuable knowledge. The reciprocal nature of the capacity building component(s) should be clearly demonstrated in proposals. Investigators are encouraged to develop the highest level of community and regional collaboration that is practical including joining as co-investigators. A “meaningful partner” is a partner that is actively engaged in one or more aspects of project design, logistics, implementation, and reporting requirements. Any letters of support from local communities or organizations that will either support or partner on the proposed project must be included in the Application Package. Letters should be addressed to the Director of the Office of Subsistence Management.

Proposals are measured on the degree to which they incorporate collaborative partnerships and capacity building within Alaska Native Organizations and rural communities. Investigators are asked to include a strategy for integrating local capacity development in their study plans or research designs.

5. Cost Benefit (20 points). This criterion evaluates the reasonableness of the funding requested to provide benefits to the Federal Subsistence Management Program. Benefits could be tangible or intangible. Examples of tangible outcomes include data sets that directly inform management decisions or fill knowledge gaps and opportunities for youth or local resident involvement in monitoring, research, and/or resource management efforts. Examples of possible intangible goals and objectives include enhanced relationships and communications between managers and communities, partnerships and collaborations on critical resource issues, and potential for increased capacity within both communities and agencies.

Review and Selection Process This program reviews proposed budgets to ensure:

figures are correct.

estimated costs are necessary and reasonable and clearly linked to project narratives.

avoid unallowable costs IAW Cost Rules in the Uniform Guidance.

identify costs requiring prior approval.

ensure indirect cost rates are applied correctly.

confirm cost sharing requirements are reflected in the budget.

This program reviews applications for potential overlap or duplication between the proposed project and any other funded or proposed project. Depending on the circumstances, DOI may choose to not make an award.

Project investigation plans and budgets will be initially reviewed by Program staff for completeness to ensure proposals address the mission of the Monitoring Program and the three broad categories of information needed (harvest monitoring, traditional ecological knowledge, and stocks, status, and trends, or a combination of these). The TRC will evaluate, score, and rank the proposals based on the criteria provided in the Merit Review Criteria section and simplified below:

Critical Component 1: Strategic Priorities (20 points)

How well does the project address Federal strategic plans and/or specific Priority Information Need identified by the Subsistence Regional Advisory Councils?

How well does the project address and answer specific subsistence questions and data needs?

Does the project have a wide geographic implication?

Does the project address a current or high-level threat or risk to a species, population, or subsistence practice?

Does the project have direct management applications of subsistence resources?

Does the project address a critical subsistence research need, information gap, or lack of baseline data?

Does the project involve more than one significant subsistence resource?

Critical Component 2: Technical-Scientific Merit (20 points)

Does the project incorporate the latest applicable science, and does it have rigorous sampling research design?

Does the project have appropriate, clearly stated, and achievable objectives?

Does the project have a proven ability to achieve technical results?

Does the project utilize traditional knowledge or methods?

Does the project have clear data collection, compilation, analysis, and reporting procedures?

Does the project use justifiable analytical procedures that are understandable to the non-scientific community?

How well and in what way(s) does the project advance science and answer immediate subsistence management or conservation concerns?

Critical Component 3: Investigator Ability and Resources (20 points)

Have the Principal Investigator(s) of the project successfully completed two or more Fisheries Resource Monitoring Program or other similar type projects?

If the Principal Investigator is new to the FRMP, do they have multiple favorable letters of support and substantial resources available?

Does the Principal Investigator have a demonstrated track record of successful completion of similar projects and reporting requirements?

Critical Component 4: Partnership and Capacity Building (20 points)

Is the Principal or Co-Principal Investigator(s) a rural community or ANO member active in the daily and overall administration of the project?

Does the project include rural residents or student hires to assist with project management and fieldwork?

Does the project include 2-3 meaningful partners?

Does the project increase the institutional as well as the technical capacity of rural communities or ANOs?

Critical Component 5: Cost Benefit (20 points)

Are project tangible and intangible benefits clearly described and strongly justified?

Are requested project funds highly reasonable?

Does the project budget include extraneous items or services?

Statewide Priority Information Needs, Project Executive Summaries, and associated TRC proposal justification will be assembled into a draft “2026 Fisheries Resources Monitoring Plan.”

The draft plan will be distributed for public review and comment through Regional Advisory Council meetings beginning in September 2025. The Federal Subsistence Board will review the draft plan and will accept additional written and oral comments at its Work Session in late January or early February 2026. At that time, the Federal Subsistence Board will make a recommendation to the selecting official, the Director of the Office of Subsistence Management, on the suite of projects to include within the final “2026 Fisheries Resource Monitoring Plan.”

The selecting official may use geographical dispersion in selecting applications for Federal award. The Director of the Office of Subsitence Management makes the final determination on selections based on recommendations and programmatic budget. Investigators will subsequently be notified in writing of the status of their proposals.

Risk Review Prior to making an award, the program assesses the risk posed by the applicant per 2 CFR

200.206. If an award will be made, the program may apply special conditions corresponding to the risk assessed. For awards over the simplified acquisition threshold (currently $250,000), the program reviews eligibility and financial integrity information in the applicant’s SAM.gov records per 2 CFR 200.206(a). The program also assesses financial management capabilities, project delivery experience, staffing resources, past performance, administration and reporting compliance records, and overall project complexity and potential challenges.

AWARD NOTICES

Notices of Federal Award are sent electronically via GrantSolutions or e-mail. These notices outline the terms, conditions, and payment instructions per 2 CFR 200.211. The Notice of Federal Award signed by an authorized Grants Officer is the legal instrument obligating financial assistance to a recipient. Any other prior notice is not an authorization to begin work. If the program allows pre-award costs per 2 CFR 200.458, beginning performance before receiving a Notice of Federal Award is at the applicant’s own risk.

Anticipated Project Start Date: April 1, 2026

Anticipated Project End Date: March 30, 2030

Awards are expected to be issued March 30, 2026. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified in writing by February 28, 2026.

POST-AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND

ADMINISTRATION

Administration and National Policy Requirements For award administration and national policy requirements, see the DOI Standard Terms and Conditions. Infrastructure projects require the use of American iron, steel, manufacture products, and construction materials per 2 CFR 184.

Reporting The recipient’s Notice of Award will detail all reporting requirements, including frequency, due dates, and instructions for requesting extensions. In general, but not limited to, recipients must:

Electronically submit Federal Financial and Performance reports, as well as Program

Technical reports within 120 days of the end of the period of performance.

Use the Federal Financial Report (SF-425) form for financial reporting, Monitor award activities and report on program performance per 2 CFR 200.329, Promptly notify the awarding program in writing of any issues, delays, or conditions impairing award objectives per 2 CFR 200.329(e), Disclose any conflicts of interest related to their award that arise during the award period per 2 CFR 1402.112, Report on the status of real property acquired under the award in which the Federal government retains an interest per 2 CFR 200.330, and Report all violations of Federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the Federal award per 2 CFR 200.113.

Report any matters related to recipient integrity and performance to SAM.gov per

Appendix XII to 2 CFR 200.

Report present exclusions or disqualifications, any civil or criminal indictments or convictions, and any public transactions that have been terminated within the preceding three years for cause or default per 2 CFR 180.335.

Immediately give notice if you failed to disclose information as required in 2 CFR

180.335 or if you or any of the principals now meet any criteria in 2 CFR 180.335 per 2

CFR 180.350.

If the Federal share of the award is more than $100,000 and the recipient makes or agrees to make any payment using non-appropriated funds for lobbying in connection to the award, disclose those activities using the Disclosure of Lobbying (SF-LLL) form per

43 CFR 18.100.

Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (FFATA) requires certain recipients to report information on executive compensation through SAM.gov and information on all sub-awards, subcontracts, and consortiums over $30,000 to the FFATA Subaward Reporting System (FSRS).

All reporting will conform to the Revised 508 Standards prior to submitting. Reports that are not 508 Compliant will be rejected.

Raw project data will be provided to OSM staff within 30 calendar days of request.

If the project will produce a deliverable Technical Report, the period of performance for the project concludes with submission and acceptance of the reviewed and approved Final Technical Report.