DOS-SEN-NOFO-2024-01- Bajenu Gox Capacity Building.pdf

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

U.S. Embassy Dakar

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Funding Opportunity Title: Bajenu Gox Capacity Building to Counter Violent Extremism in

Local, Border Communities of Senegal Funding Opportunity Number: DOS-SEN-NOFO-2024-01 Deadline for Applications: June 21, 2024 Assistance Listing Number: 19.222

Total Amount Available: $250,000

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

U.S. Embassy Dakar announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a program to build the capacity of Bajenu Gox members (neighborhood godmothers- English translation) to counter violent extremism (CVE) in local communities along the eastern border regions of Senegal. Please follow all instructions below.

Background:

As noted in the U.S. Department of State's 2022 Annual Country Report on Terrorism for Senegal, the Government of Senegal (GOS) considers the spread of violent extremism in the Sahel and the threat of terrorism at their eastern border a top security threat. To combat this threat, GOS is focused on increasing the number and operational capacity of military and Gendarmerie units in the eastern border regions of Tambacounda and Kédougou to prevent violent extremist organizations (VEO) from infiltrating and exploiting remote border communities. However, fewer resources have been devoted to community-based CVE approaches, and there remains a need to engage and empower women in the preservation of peace and security.

In Senegal, women are leaders within their households and communities—the Bajenu Gox even more so. As elected volunteers who promote maternal, newborn, and infant health and provide psycho-social counseling to vulnerable community members, these women are uniquely and intimately connected to the families and communities they serve. These privileged links provide the Bajenu Gox a unique perspective on violent extremism risk factors at the individual level and an unrivaled capacity to intervene by providing counseling and/or referral to available social services.

Leveraging this access, the project aims to increase the awareness of members of the Bajenu Gox of early warning signs and indicators of violent extremism and to empower their members engage local resources or authorities, as appropriate, to prevent or respond to radicalization.

The project is designed to be implemented by NGO partners who speak local languages and can deliver training in the regions and communities where participants are located. Trainings will strategically integrate local law enforcement and municipal government representatives to build trust and enhance communication. This approach enhances individual leadership skills, encourages participants to serve as community role models, and positions Bajenu Gox representatives to seek greater leadership responsibilities in peace and security.

Program Goal:

Increase community resiliency to violent extremism (VE) by building the capacity of women of

Bajenu Gox to contribute safely and effectively to counter violent extremism efforts, in line with local contexts.

Theory of Change:

IF Bajenu Gox members in sub-national geographic regions of Tambacounda and Kédougou in Senegal along the eastern tri-country border with Mali and Guinea build their awareness and common understanding of the definition of violent extremism, security threats, and community impacts, and build their capacity to identify early warning signs and indicators, and;

IF Bajenu Gox members leverage their trusted relationship and personal access with the community through informal observations and community consultations to recognize risks and indicators of VE radicalization or violent extremist organization (VEO) activities; and;

IF Bajenu Gox members effectively apply capacities learned from this project by: referring the at-risk or suspected individual and family to existing social support resources that seeks solutions to the drivers of insecurity; aid in dissuasion of community members from VE activities, ideologies; communicate the dangers posed by VE; and report to local authorities the threat potential where applicable;

THEN Bajenu Gox members will elevate their contributions as women agents of peace and security and enhance their leadership roles within the community to reduce VE risks of recruitment and activities by reporting early warning signs in the Senegalese border regions of Tambacounda and Kédougou through Bajenu Gox community engagement efforts;

BECAUSE the Government of Senegal and local law enforcement have limited resources to combat terrorism and violent extremism despite increasing regional instability and the persistent threat of terrorism spillover from neighboring countries; and effective preventing VE requires community education and engagement to prevent, deter, and detect VE particularly in rural, border regions that are most susceptible.

Priority Regions: Tambacounda and Kédougou, Senegal

Program Objectives:

1. By the conclusion of this project, 80% of Bajenu Gox members that participate in trainings demonstrate a common understanding of VE definition, indicators, and early warning signs, and can articulate the risks and impacts of VE to their communities compared to the beginning of the project (baseline).

2. By the conclusion of this project, 70% of Bajenu Gox training participants actively work within the community to spread information and/or serve as a reference to support systems in their community to aid in the reduction of VE activity and recruitment.

3. Before the conclusion of this project, Bajenu Gox training participants develop, propose, and implement a trial run of a confidential reporting mechanism with local government and law enforcement officials to signal potential VE within their communities suited to their local contexts in Tambacounda and Kédougou that can serve as regional examples for national adoption.

Possible Activities:

Preparatory Assessments and Mapping

1. Conduct a survey of existing law enforcement reference materials in French and local language (booklet, audio capsule, video, and PowerPoint) on VE indicators and early warning signs suitable to community users. Adapt or develop new materials as needed.

2. Map available national and sub-national social services and resources available for referral in response to identified VE indicators.

3. Establish or reinforce local and/or national communication network of Bajenu Gox members to share updates, contact and resource information, and training materials.

4. Conduct a leadership training needs assessment for Bajenu Gox members in both regions.

Engagements and Training

5. VE Indicators Training: Organize and deliver trainings to Bajenu Gox members in

Tambacounda and Kédougou on VE definition, indicators, and early warning signs to establish a common understanding of the problem using reference materials previously developed or adapted. Discuss the risks and impacts of VE to local communities using international, regional, and local examples including presentation of Senegalese terrorist law(s) and definitions.

6. Bajenu Gox Integration Roundtables: Facilitate roundtable discussions in both regions with local government officials, law enforcement representatives, and Bajenu Gox members that include: an introduction of local law enforcement and government roles and responsibilities with respect to public safety and counterterrorism, identification of social service referral mechanisms, and reporting mechanisms for early warning s igns and indicators of VE to local authorities (governmental and security).

7. Using outcomes from the Integration Roundtables, draft confidential reporting guidelines, best practices, and recommendations for Bajenu Gox members.

8. Pilot Reporting Mechanisms: Pilot confidential reporting mechanisms in both regions and conduct assessments of their confidentiality, use, and effectiveness. Refine mechanisms as needed.

9. Validation Workshop: Convene validation workshop of proposed confidential reporting mechanisms with local government officials, law enforcement representatives, and Bajenu Gox members and present findings of the pilot.

10. Leadership Visioning Exercise: Conduct visioning exercise with Bajenu Gox members to determine the feasibility and required support for Bajenu Gox members to lead VE threat awareness-raising dialogues in their communities when/where/how appropriate without jeopardizing their respected and privileged access to intimate affairs. (Note:

this could include multiple informal or formal meetings with Women’s Associations, community meetings or gatherings, awareness raising community walks, etc.)

11. Support Bajenu Gox leadership skills as determined by visioning exercise.

12. Inter-regional Workshop and Awards Ceremony: Host inter-regional workshops with

Tambacounda and Kédougou Bajenu Gox members, Dakar Bajenu Gox leadership, and

Ministry of Health representation to share project implementation activities, experiences, and lessons learned. Identify national level implementation and framework recommendations of Bajenu Gox pilot model. Recognize Bajenu Gox, local government, and law enforcement representatives’ contributions and achievements in the successful project.

Budget Considerations:

1. Grantee should be based in either Tambacounda or Kédougou with ability to work and travel to both as needed. Reasonable transportation costs for implementing personnel will be covered by the grant.

2. Implementation in local language (TBD by the regions) and all records and reports to be documented in French and English. Awardee should consider local NGO implementers to leverage these linguistic abilities to reduce translation cost, time, and vocabulary mismatch. If not, simultaneous interpreters and document translation will be required.

3. Literacy expectancy of program participants is uncertain in either language, and project should budget for and design material with audible files to the extent possible.

Alternatives may include designated personnel to read aloud material where audible files are not sufficient.

4. Most activities are designed to occur in Tambacounda and Kédougou regions to minimize travel costs and barriers to participation. Grant funds should cover daily travel stipends paid to program participants during activities. Grant funds will pay for invitational participants travel stipend, per diem, and lodging only on exceptional cases where relevant. (Inter-regional activities and invitational participants from Dakar are anticipated).

5. Traditional custom entails providing meal and/or refreshment services for workshops and meetings depending on length of activity. During the month of Ramadan, packed meals are customary to send home with participants.

6. Recognition items for participants such plaques, certificates, and photos should be accounted for in grant funding.

7. Meeting venue should be included in the budget although existing governmental space (town meeting halls, etc.) can be considered where logical.

8. Training equipment, supplies, and materials should be allocated in the budget.

9. U.S. Embassy branded items should be provided to participants in the nature of: pens, notepads, reusable bags, folders, key chains, t-shirts, etc. to promote U.S. Mission engagement and support of initiative.

Limitations:

1. Activities and participation during month of Ramadan and Christmas holidays are limited.

2. Annual seasonal rains are from July-September and can impact mobility within the regions. Adapted work plans to develop training content and conduct remote consultations with Bajenu Gox during this period is recommended to maintain productivity.

3. Remote cellular and data coverage to be anticipated in the implementing regions.

Cellular credit and data hotspots should be built into the budget.

Participants and Audiences: prioritize the inclusion and participation of women in all activities in the regions where the project is implemented.

1. Regional and Inter-regional Trainings: Bajenu Gox members in Tambacounda and Kédougou regions

2. Awareness raising: Bajenu Gox members and community members in Tambacounda and

Kédougou regions with a focus of women in the community.

3. Roundtable Workshops: Bajenu Gox members, municipal government leaders, and local law enforcement in Tambacounda and Kédougou regions with participation of local community female leaders where appropriate

4. Reporting Mechanism Pilot: Bajenu Gox members, municipal government leaders, local law enforcement, and community members in Tambacounda and Kédougou regions

5. Award Ceremony: Bajenu Gox members, municipal government leaders, and local law enforcement in Tambacounda and Kédougou regions, Bajenu Gox leadership members (presumably from Dakar)

6. Validation and Inter-regional Workshop: Bajenu Gox members, municipal government leaders, and local law enforcement in Tambacounda and Kédougou regions, Bajenu Gox leadership members (presumably from Dakar), and Ministry of Health representative

7. Stakeholder mapping, leadership training assessment, training material development, and guidelines drafting: NGO staff with input of Bajenu Gox, municipal government, and local law enforcement representatives.

8. Bajenu Gox communication network: national and local representatives of Bajenu Gox

B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

Length of performance period: 18 months Number of awards anticipated: 1 award of $250,000 Type of Funding: FY23 Economic Support Funds under the Foreign Assistance Act Anticipated program start date: November 1, 2024

This notice is subject to availability of funding.

Funding Instrument Type: Grant

Program Performance Period: Proposed programs should be completed in 18 months or less.

The Department of State will entertain applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State.

C. ELIGILIBITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants

The following organizations are eligible to apply:

• Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations

• Public and private educational institutions

• Public International Organizations

2. Cost Sharing or Matching This funding opportunity project has no requirement for cost sharing. Cost sharing will not be taken into consideration in evaluating proposals.

3. Other Eligibility Requirements

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 D.3 for more information. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.

Applicants are only allowed to submit one proposal per organization. If more than one proposal is submitted from an organization, all proposals from that institution will be considered ineligible for funding.

D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. Address to Request Application Package

Application forms required below are available at www.sn.usembassy.gov and grants.gov.

2. 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.

Content of Application Please ensure:

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

http://www.sam.gov/

• All documents are in English

• All budgets are in U.S. dollars

• All pages are numbered

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

• All Microsoft Word documents are single-spaced, 12-point Calibri font, with a minimum of 1-inch margins.

The following documents are required:

1. Mandatory application forms

• SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance – organizations) at www.sn.usembassy.gov

• SF-424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs) at www.sn.usembassy.gov

• SF-424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) (note: the SF-424B is only required for individuals and for organizations not registered in SAM.gov)

• All submissions must include the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance and the

SF-424A Budget Information—Non-Construction. These forms and the instructions for completing them are available at grants.gov/forms under the heading “SF-424 Family.” NOTE: The SF-424B is required only for those applicants who have not registered in SAM.gov. An authorized signature by the applicant must be provided on this form.

2. Summary Page: Cover sheet stating the applicant name and organization, proposal date, program title, program period proposed start and end date, and brief purpose of the program.

3. Proposal (14 pages maximum): 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.

• Proposal 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.

http://www.sn.usembassy.gov/

• 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 if applicable.

• Program Monitoring and Evaluation Plan: This is an important part of successful grants. Throughout the timeframe 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.

4. Budget Justification Narrative: After filling out the SF-424A Budget (above), use a separate file to describe each of the budget expenses in detail. See section H. Other Information: Guidelines for Budget Submissions below for further information.

5. Required Attachments:

• 1-page CV or resume of key personnel who are proposed for the program. If an individual for this type of position has not been identified, the applicant may submit a 1-page position description, identifying the qualifications and skills required for that position, in lieu of a résumé.

• Letters of support from program partners describing the roles and responsibilities of each partner

• If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included as a PDF file.

• Official permission letters, if required for program activities

6. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov)

Required Registrations:

All organizations, whether based in the United States or in another country, must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration with the SAM.gov. A 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. Registration through www.SAM.gov is free of charge.

Note: As of April 2022, a DUNS number is no longer required for federal assistance applications.

The 2 CFR 200 requires that sub-grantees obtain a UEI number. Please note the UEI for sub-grantees is not required at the time of application but will be required before an award is processed and/or directed to a sub-grantee.

Note: The process of obtaining or renewing a SAM.gov registration may take anywhere from 4-8 weeks. Please begin your registration as early as possible.

• Organizations based in the United States or that pay employees within the United States will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue

Service (IRS) and a UEI number prior to registering in SAM.gov.

• Organizations based outside of the United States and that do not pay employees within the United States do not need an EIN from the IRS but do need a UEI number prior to registering in SAM.gov.

• Please note that as of November 2022 and February 2022 respectively, organizations based outside of the United States that do not intend to apply for

U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) awards are no longer required to have a NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code or CAGE code to apply for non- DoD foreign assistance funding opportunities. If an applicant organization is mid-registration and wishes to remove a CAGE or NCAGE code from their SAM.gov registration, the applicant should submit a help desk ticket (“incident”) with the Federal Service Desk (FSD) online at www.fsd.gov using the following language: “I do not intend to seek financial assistance from the Department of Defense. I do not wish to obtain a CAGE or NCAGE code. I understand that I will need to submit my registration after this incident is resolved in order to have my registration activated.”

Organizations based outside of the United States and that DO NOT plan to do business with the DoD should follow the below instructions:

Step 1: Proceed to SAM.gov to obtain a UEI and complete the SAM.gov registration process. SAM.gov registration must be renewed annually. If an organization does not have an active registration in SAM.gov prior to submitting an application, the application could be deemed ineligible.

Organizations based outside of the United States and that DO plan to do business with the DoD in addition to Department of State should follow the below instructions:

Step 1: Apply for an NCAGE code by following the instructions on the NSPA NATO website linked below:

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2Fgsafsd_sp%3Fid%3Dgsafsd_kb_articles%26sys_id%3Dc81018e71b1601d0937fa64ce54bcb57&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=W2ShcazZBQbanYGj0cLOTnUJwv%2BGL4xfwr83%2BycQY2E%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fsd.gov%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=t32ANWzgpiB93pMWoq%2BFCSHz4YJY9QF1S1iQzCsS6RM%3D&reserved=0

NCAGE Homepage:

https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/sc/CageList.aspx

NCAGE Code Request Tool (NCRT):

Exemptions

An exemption from the UEI and sam.gov registration requirements may be permitted on a case-by-case basis if:

• An applicant’s identity must be protected due to potential endangerment of their mission, their organization’s status, their employees, or individuals being served by the applicant.

• For an applicant, if the Federal awarding agency makes a determination that there are exigent circumstances that prohibit the applicant from receiving a unique entity identifier and completing SAM registration prior to receiving a Federal award. In these instances, Federal awarding agencies must require the recipient to obtain a unique entity identifier and complete SAM registration within 30 days of the Federal award date.

Organizations requesting exemption from UEI or SAM.gov requirements must email the point of contact listed in the NOFO at least two weeks prior to the deadline in the NOFO providing a justification of their request. Approval for a SAM.gov exemption must come from the warranted Grants Officer before the application can be deemed eligible for review.

7. Submission Dates and Times

Applications are due no later than June 21, 2024, at 23:59 Senegal time.

8. Funding Restrictions

The following activities and costs are not covered under this announcement:

• Construction is not an allowable activity under this award.

• Activities that appear partisan or that support individual or party electoral campaigns.

• Direct support or the appearance of direct support for any religious organization, to include repair or building of structures used for religious purposes.

• Military assistance of any kind, including weapons buy-back or rewards programs.

• Purchase of firearms, ammunition, or removal of unexploded ordnances.

• Para-police (i.e., militias, neighborhood watch, security guards) and prison-related projects. This restriction includes no funding of any secondary need in a law-enforcement organization.

• Payments for any partner government, military, or civilian government employee salary or pension.

• Duplication of services immediately available through municipal, provincial, or national government.

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Feportal.nspa.nato.int%2FAC135Public%2Fscage%2FCageList.aspx&data=05%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C0cc4e2b471f44abcd32308db093ecead%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638113937577534024%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=v3TLT8F%2FNfk5SuTcI2zw7SMhV4HK542OhP9XDx4ln%2BY%3D&reserved=0

• Funds for market research, advertising (unless public service related to grant program), or other promotional expenses.

• Expenses made prior to the approval of a proposal or unreasonable expenditures will not be reimbursed.

• Charitable activities;

• Fund-raising campaigns;

• Lobbying for specific legislation or projects;

• Scientific research;

• Projects intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization;

• Projects seeking funds for personal use;

• Projects that require a participation fee.

9. Other Submission Requirements

All application materials must be submitted by email to DakarCVEProject2024@state.gov.

E. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

1. Criteria

Each application will be evaluated and rated based on the evaluation criteria outlined below.

Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea – 20 points: The program idea is well developed, with detail about how program activities will be carried out. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline.

Organizational Capacity and Record on Previous Grants – 20 points: The organization has expertise in its stated field and has the internal controls in place to manage federal funds. This includes a financial management system and a bank account. The organization demonstrates that it has a clear understanding of the underlying issue that the project will address.

Program Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives – 15 points: Goals and objectives are clearly stated, and program approach is likely to provide maximum impact in achieving the proposed results.

Monitoring and evaluation plan – 15 points: Applicant demonstrates it is able to measure program success against key indicators and provides milestones to indicate progress toward goals outlined in the proposal. The program includes output and outcome indicators and shows how and when those will be measured.

mailto:DakarCVEProject2024@state.gov

Budget – 10 points: The budget justification and narrative are detailed. Costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed activities and anticipated results. The budget is realistic, accounting for all necessary expenses to achieve proposed activities.

Sustainability – 10 points: The project proposal describes clearly the approach that will be used to ensure maximum sustainability or advancement of project goals after the end of project activity.

Support of Equity and Underserved Communities – 10 points: Proposals should clearly demonstrate how the program will support and advance equity and engage underserved communities in program administration, design, and implementation.

2. Review and Selection Process

All applicants will receive acknowledgment of receipt of their proposal.

A merit review panel will evaluate all eligible applications.

All submissions are screened for technical eligibility. If a submission is missing any required forms/documents listed above in Section D, it will be considered ineligible and will not be reviewed by the grants review committee. The review panel will review eligible proposals based upon the criteria noted in this NOFO.

3. Responsibility/Qualification Information in SAM.gov (formerly, FAPIIS)

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

ii. An applicant, at its option, may review and comment on any information about itself that a Federal awarding agency previously entered. Currently, federal agencies create integrity records in the integrity module of the Contractor Performance Assessment and Reporting System (CPARS) and these records are visible as responsibility/qualification records in

SAM.gov;

iii. The Federal awarding agency will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to the other information in the designated integrity and performance system, in making a judgment about the applicant's integrity, business ethics, and record of perf ormance under Federal awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as described in §200.206 Federal awarding agency review of risk posed by applicants.

4. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates on or before September 30, 2024.

F. 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.

Payment Method: Request for Payment will be submitted through a SF-270. Payments shall be disbursed via EFT upon receipt of a signed SF-270 form and required reporting.

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=pt2.1.170&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).

In accordance with the Executive Order on Advancing Racial Equity and Underserved Communities, proposals should demonstrate how the program advances equity with respect to race, ethnicity, religion, income, geography, gender identity, sexual orientation, and disability. The proposal should also demonstrate how the program will further engagement in underserved communities and with individuals from underserved communities. Proposals should demonstrate how addressing racial equity and underserved communities will enhance the program’s goals and objectives, as well as the experience of participants.

The support of underserved communities will be part of the review criteria for this opportunity. Therefore, proposals should clearly demonstrate how the program will support and advance equity and engage underserved communities in program administration, design, and implementation.

3. Reporting

Reporting Requirements: Recipients will be required to submit quarterly financial reports and program reports. Performance Indicator Reference Sheet (PIRS), project schedule and timeline, budget, and significant activities (SPOT) report summary will also be required. The award document will specify how often these reports must be submitted. Program reports include the following:

1. Activities planned for this quarter.

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fbriefing-room%2Fpresidential-actions%2F2021%2F01%2F20%2Fexecutive-order-advancing-racial-equity-and-support-for-underserved-communities-through-the-federal-government%2F&data=04%7C01%7CReisigAR%40state.gov%7C0dbdd75a0a664b32ef2508d8fb59f8f5%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C637535711126807160%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=Hk82GX1SCF8LaoHg%2B2vrmdCRK6gGWYwQXU9CB6cLb5E%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fbriefing-room%2Fpresidential-actions%2F2021%2F01%2F20%2Fexecutive-order-advancing-racial-equity-and-support-for-underserved-communities-through-the-federal-government%2F&data=04%7C01%7CReisigAR%40state.gov%7C0dbdd75a0a664b32ef2508d8fb59f8f5%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C637535711126807160%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=Hk82GX1SCF8LaoHg%2B2vrmdCRK6gGWYwQXU9CB6cLb5E%3D&reserved=0

2. Progress on activities this quarter. What was completed; what is in progress; what is on track/not on track, and why? Were there any unexpected setbacks?

3. Progress toward expected results/outcomes (i.e., the changes that are expected to occur as a result of project activities). To what extent is the project on track to achieve the expected results? What is going well, what is not going well, and why?

4. Based on the above analysis of the project’s activities and results, do you have any recommendations about adjustments to the project that would be beneficial?

5. Success stories and photos if available from this quarter.

6. Planned activities for the next quarter.

7. Risks to project implementation that will be monitored in upcoming quarters, how likely they are to occur, and what the potential effects on the project would be.

8. Other comments (to include staffing and/or budget updates, as desired).

Progress and financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final certified programmatic and financial reports are due 120 days after the close of the project period.

Foreign Assistance Data Review: As required by Congress, the Department of State must make progress in its efforts to improve tracking and reporting of foreign assistance data through the Foreign Assistance Data Review (FADR). The FADR requires tracking of foreign assistance activity data from budgeting, planning, and allocation through obligation and disbursement. Successful applicants will be required to report and draw down federal funding based on the appropriate FADR Data Elements, indicated within their award documentation. In cases of more than one FADR Data Element, typically program or sector and/or regions or country, the successful applicant will be required to maintain separate accounting records.

G. FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACTS

If you have any questions about the funding opportunity or grant application process, please contact: DakarCVEProject2024@state.gov.

Applicants should not expect an email response to questions, as questions received will be answered in a question-and-answer document and posted at https://grants.gov/.

H. OTHER INFORMATION

Guidelines for Budget Justification

Budgets shall be submitted in U.S. dollars and final grant agreements will be conducted in U.S. dollars.

mailto:DakarCVEProject2024@state.gov

Personnel and Fringe Benefits: Describe the wages, salaries, and benefits of temporary or permanent staff who will be working directly for the applicant on the program, and the percentage of their time that will be spent on the program.

Travel: Estimate the costs of travel and per diem for this program, for program staff, consultants or speakers, and participants/beneficiaries. If the program involves international travel, include a brief statement of justification for that travel.

Equipment: Describe any machinery, furniture, or other personal property that is required for the program, which has a useful life of more than one year (or a life longer than the duration of the program), and costs at least $5,000 per unit.

Supplies: List and describe all the items and materials, including any computer devices, that are needed for the program. If an item costs more than $5,000 per unit, then put it in the budget under Equipment.

Contractual: Describe goods and services that the applicant plans to acquire through a contract with a vendor. Also describe any sub-awards to non-profit partners that will help carry out the program activities.

Other Direct Costs: Describe other costs directly associated with the program, which do not fit in the other categories. For example, shipping costs for materials and equipment or applicable taxes. All “Other” or “Miscellaneous” expenses must be itemized and explained.

Indirect Costs: These are costs that cannot be linked directly to the program activities, such as overhead costs needed to help keep the organization operating. If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, attach a copy of your latest NICRA. Organizations that have never had a NICRA may request indirect costs of

10% of modified total direct costs as defined in 2 CFR 200.68.

“Cost Sharing” refers to contributions from the organization or other entities other than the

U.S. Embassy. It also includes in-kind contributions such as volunteers’ time and donated venues.

Alcoholic Beverages: Please note that award funds cannot be used for alcoholic beverages.

Branding Requirements

As a condition of receipt of a grant award, all materials produced pursuant to the award, including training materials, materials for recipients or materials to communicate or promote with foreign audiences a program, event, project, or some other activity under an agreement, including but not limited to invitations to events, press materials, and backdrops, podium signs, etc. must be marked appropriately with the standard, rectangular U.S. flag in a size and prominence equal to (or greater than) any other logo or identity. Note: Exceptions to the branding requirement are allowable under certain conditions. If an applicant is notified that their award has been chosen for funding, the Grants Officer will determine, in consultation with the applicant, if an exception is applicable.