20-Community Foods -Final-Posting.pdf

REQUEST FOR APPLICATION

Community Food Projects Competitive Grant

Program

FUNDING YEARS:

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

LETTER OF INTENT DEADLINE:

FY 2021 AMOUNT AVAILABLE:

Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021 June 3, 2020 and May 4, 2021

Not Required

$ 4,800,000

CATALOG OF FEDERAL

DOMESTIC ASSISTANCE NUMBER:

10.225

INITIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

National Institute of Food and Agriculture, United States (U.S.) Department of Agriculture

(USDA)

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance. The Community Food Projects Competitive Grant Program is listed in the Assistance Listings under the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance number 10.225.

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines

Task Description Deadline

Application: 5:00 P.M. Eastern, June 3, 2020 5:00 P.M. Eastern, May 4, 2021

Letter of Intent: Not Required Applicants Comments: Within six months from the issuance of this notice

(NIFA may not consider comments received after the sixth month)

Stakeholder Input. The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) seeks comments on all request for applications (RFAs) so it can deliver programs efficiently, effectively, with integrity, and with a focus on customer service. NIFA considers comments, to the extent possible when developing RFAs and use comments to help meet the requirements of Section 103(c)(2) of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (7 U.S.C. 7613(c)(2)).

Applicants may submit written comments to Policy@usda.gov (email is for comments only).

Please use the following subject line: Response to the Community Food Projects RFA.

https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource/Agricultural%20Research%2C%20Extension%2C%20and%20Education%20Reform%20Act%20of%20%201998.pdf https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource/Agricultural%20Research%2C%20Extension%2C%20and%20Education%20Reform%20Act%20of%20%201998.pdf https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource/Agricultural%20Research%2C%20Extension%2C%20and%20Education%20Reform%20Act%20of%20%201998.pdf mailto:Policy@usda.gov

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This notice identifies the objectives for Community Food Projects Competitive Grant Program (CFPCGP) projects, deadlines, funding information, eligibility criteria for projects and applicants, and application forms and associated instructions. NIFA requests applications for the Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program (CFPCGP) for fiscal year (FY) 2020 and 2021. The anticipated amount available for the CFPCGP in FY 2020 is approximately $4,800,000. Materials are available on the Internet at Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program. The Community Food Projects Competitive Grant Program (CFPCGP) has existed since 1996 as a program to fight food insecurity through developing community food projects that help promote the self-sufficiency of low-income communities. Community Food Projects are designed to increase food security in communities by bringing the whole food system together to assess strengths, establish linkages, and create systems that improve the self-reliance of community members over their food needs.

https://nifa.usda.gov/program/community-food-projects-competitive-grant-program-cfpcgp https://nifa.usda.gov/program/community-food-projects-competitive-grant-program-cfpcgp

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INITIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority B. Purpose and Priorities C. Program Area Description

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding B. Application Restrictions C. Project and Grant Types D. Ethical Conduct of Funded Projects

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements B. Cost Sharing or Matching

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application B. Content and Form of the Application C. Funding Restrictions

PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

A. NIFA’s Evaluation Process B. Evaluation Criteria C. Organizational Management Information D. Application Disposition

PART VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION

A. General B. Administrative and National Policy Requirements C. Expected Program Outputs and Reporting Requirements

PART VII. OTHER INFORMATION

A. Use of Funds and Changes in Budget B. Confidential Aspects of Applications and Awards C. Regulatory Information D. Materials Available on the Internet ................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.

APPENDIX I: AGENCY CONTACT

APPENDIX II: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

APPENDIX III: DEFINITIONS

TABLE OF TABLES

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines Table 2: Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program Webinar Information ..... Error!

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Table 3: Community Food Project Key Information Table 4: Planning Activity Key Information Table 5. Steps to Obtain Application Materials Table 6: Help and Resources Table 7: Key Application Instructions

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority The Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program (CFPCGP) (7 U.S.C. 2034) was authorized by Public Law 104-127 (Title IV, section 401(h), April 4, 1996) which amended the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2011) and added §25, Assistance for Community Food Projects (7 U.S.C. 2034). Public Law 88-525, §2, Aug. 31, 1964 (7 U.S.C. 2011) is cited as the Food Stamp Act of 1964. It was amended in 1971 (Public Law 91-671, § Jan. 11, 1971) and again in 1977 cited as the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (Public Law 95-113, §1301, Sept. 29, 1977).

In 2008 (June 18), Public Law 110-246, struck out “Food Stamp Act of 1977” (7 U.S.C. 2011) and inserted Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 and §4001(b) substituted “supplemental nutrition assistance program” for “food stamp program” each time it appeared.

B. Purpose and Priorities The primary goals of the CFPCGP are as follows (7 U.S.C. § 2034(B)):

1. Designed to:

a. Meet the food needs of low-income individuals through food distribution, community outreach to assist in participation in Federally assisted nutrition programs, or improving access to food as part of a comprehensive service;

b. Increase the self-reliance of communities in providing for the food needs of the communities; and

c. Promote comprehensive responses to local food access, farm, and nutrition issues; or

2. Meet specific state, local or neighborhood food and agricultural needs including needs relating to:

a. Equipment necessary for the efficient operation of a project;

b. Planning for long-term solutions; or

c. The creation of innovative marketing activities that mutually benefit agricultural producers and low-income consumers.

Community Food Projects are intended to bring together stakeholders from the distinct parts of the food system and to foster understanding of national food security trends and how they might improve local food systems. Communities that are partially or fully located in Opportunity Zones are particularly encouraged to apply.

The CFPCGP is aligned with the following USDA Strategic Goal #4: Facilitate Rural Prosperity and Economic Development;

https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:2034%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section2034)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://www.congress.gov/104/plaws/publ127/PLAW-104publ127.pdf https://fns-prod.azureedge.net/sites/default/files/PL_106-580.pdf https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:2011%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section2011)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:2034%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section2034)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://uscode.house.gov/statutes/pl/88/525.pdf https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:2011%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section2011)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://uscode.house.gov/statutes/pl/88/525.pdf https://uscode.house.gov/statutes/pl/91/671.pdf https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resource/nar77.pdf https://www.congress.gov/110/plaws/publ246/PLAW-110publ246.pdf https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:2011%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section2011)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true http://legcounsel.house.gov/Comps/Food%20And%20Nutrition%20Act%20Of%202008.pdf https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:2034%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section2034)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://opportunityzones.hud.gov/ https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda-strategic-plan-2018-2022.pdf

Table 2: Community Food Project Key Information

Title Description Program Code: CFP

Program Code Name Community Food Project Assistance Listing Number 10.225

Project Type: CFP Grant Type: Standard

Application Deadline June 3, 2020 May 4, 2021

Grant Duration: 24-36 Months Maximum Award Amount: $400,000 over four years

Table 3: Planning Activity Key Information Title Description

Planning Activity Duration: Up to 3 Years Maximum # of Awards Per Applicant: 1

Maximum Award Amount: Up to $35,000

C. Program Area Description Community Food Projects (CFP) and Planning Projects (PP). The purpose of the CFP is to support the development of projects with a one-time infusion of federal dollars to make such projects self-sustaining. CFPs are designed to create community-based food projects with objectives, activities and outcomes that are in alignment with CFPCGP primary goals. The purpose of a Planning Project (PP) is to complete a plan toward the improvement of community food security in keeping with the primary goals of the CFPCGP (see Part I, B of this RFA). PPs are to focus on a defined community and describe in detail the activities and outcomes of the planning project. Preference will be given to CFPs and PPs designed to:

1. Develop linkages between two or more sectors of the food system;

2. Support the development of entrepreneurial projects;

3. Develop innovative connections between the for-profit and nonprofit food sectors;

4. Encourage long-term planning activities, and multi-system, interagency approaches with collaborations from multiple stakeholders that build the long-term capacity of communities to address the food and agricultural problems of the communities, such as food policy councils and food planning associations; or

5. Develop new resources and strategies to help reduce food insecurity in the community and prevent food insecurity in the future by:

a. Developing creative food resources;

b. Coordinating food services with park and recreation programs and other community based outlets to reduce barriers to access; or

c. Creating nutrition education programs for at-risk populations to enhance food-purchasing and food-preparation skills and to heighten awareness of the connection between diet and health.

Examples of CFP Projects include, but are not limited to, community gardens with market stands, value chain projects, food hubs, farmers’ markets, farm-to-institutions projects, and marketing & consumer cooperatives. All projects must involve low-income participants.

Examples of PPs include, but are not limited to, community food assessments' coordination of collaboration development plan, GIS analysis, food sovereignty study, and farm-to-institution exploration. All projects must involve low-income participants.

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding The anticipated amount available for Community Food Projects Competitive Grant Program (CFPCGP) in FY2020 is approximately $4,800,000. USDA is not committed to fund any particular application or to make a specific number of awards. The Automated Standard Application for Payments, operated by the Department of Treasury, Bureau of Fiscal Service, is the designated payment system for awards resulting from this RFA.

B. Application Restrictions NIFA will evaluate applications using the criteria described in Part V of this RFA. Applications for FY 2020 are limited to the following applications types:

1. New application: New applications will be evaluated using the criteria described in Part V of this RFA and are subject to the due dates herein (see Appendix III for definition).

2. Resubmitted application: Resubmitted applications must include the respond to the previous review panel summary, and are subject to the same criteria and due dates herein.

Resubmitted applicants must enter the NIFA-assigned proposal number of the previously submitted application in the Federal Field (Field 4) on the application form (see Appendix III for definition).

C. Project and Grant Types The following describes the types of projects or grants that are eligible for funding:

1. Community Food Projects. Applicants should request a budget commensurate with the proposed project. No single CFP award will exceed $125,000 in any single year or $400,000 over four years (See Table 3). Applicants may request one, two, three, or four years of funding, but in all cases, the grant term may not exceed 4 years for any proposal.

A no-cost extension may be requested. A CFP project may be supported by only one grant under this program. All CFP awards will be made based on the merit of the proposed project with budgets considered only after the merits of the project have been determined. USDA reserves the right to negotiate final budgets with successful applicants.

2. Planning Projects. Applicants should request a budget commensurate with the proposed project (see Table 4). All PP awards will be made based on the merit of the proposed project with budgets considered only after the merits of the project have been determined.

USDA reserves the right to negotiate final budgets with successful applicants.

NIFA will not review applications for either CFP or PP that exceed the budgetary guidelines.

D. Ethical Conduct of Funded Projects In accordance with sections 2, 3, and 8 of 2 CFR Part 422, institutions that conduct USDA-funded extramural research must foster an atmosphere conducive to research integrity, bear primary responsibility for prevention and detection of research misconduct, and maintain and effectively communicate and train their staff regarding policies and procedures. In the event an application to NIFA results in an award, the Authorized Representative (AR) assures, through acceptance of the award that the institution will comply with the above requirements. Award recipients must, upon request, make available to NIFA the policies, procedures, and https://www.fiscal.treasury.gov/fsservices/gov/pmt/asap/asap_home.htm https://www.fiscal.treasury.gov/fsservices/gov/pmt/asap/asap_home.htm https://ecfr.io/Title-02/pt2.1.422 documentation to support the conduct of the training. See Responsible and Ethical Conduct of Research for further information.

https://nifa.usda.gov/responsible-and-ethical-conduct-research https://nifa.usda.gov/responsible-and-ethical-conduct-research

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements Applicants for the CFPCGP must meet all the requirements discussed in this RFA.

CFP and PP Eligibility. Applicants for CFP and PP must meet the eligibility in this section.

Public food program service providers, tribal organizations, or private nonprofit entities, including gleaners (see Definition in Appendix III of this RFA), meeting the following four requirements are eligible to receive a CFP or PP award:

1. They must have experience in the area of:

a. community food work, particularly concerning small and medium-size farms, including the provision of food to people in low-income communities and the development of new markets in low-income communities for agricultural producers;

b. job training and business development activities for food-related activities in low-income communities; and

c. efforts to reduce food insecurity in the community, including food distribution, improving access to services, or coordinating services and programs.

2. Demonstrate competency to implement a project, provide fiscal accountability, collect data, and prepare reports and other necessary documentation;

3. Demonstrate a willingness to share information with researches, evaluators, practitioners, and other interested parties, including a plan for dissemination of results; and

4. Collaborate with one or more local partner organizations to achieve at least one of the hunger-free communities goal. (See Steps for a Hunger-Free Community).

Failure to meet the eligibility criteria by the application deadline may result in exclusion from consideration or, preclude NIFA from making an award. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s Grants Overview provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

Partners and Collaborators. Applicants for CFP and PP awards are encouraged to seek and create partnerships with public or private, nonprofit or for-profit entities, including links with academic institutions (including minority-serving colleges and universities), and/or other appropriate professionals, community-based organizations, and local government entities. Only the applicant must meet the eligibility requirements. Project partners and collaborators need not meet the eligibility requirements. When planning collaborations, see Part III § B of this RFA.

Award recipients may sub-award to organizations not eligible to apply provided such organizations are necessary for the successful completion of the project. See Part IV § C of this

RFA.

Fiscal Agent. If an institution/organization cannot accept Federal funds directly, a letter must be included in the application stating that in the event the application results in an award, the award funds must be administered through a fiscal agent organization on their behalf. This agent must be identified in the letter from the applicant and the letter must be countersigned by an authorized representative of the fiscal agent organization. The letter should include the fiscal agent’s point of contact, address, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address. This letter is to be included as an attachment to Field 12, Other Attachments (see Part IV § B of this RFA). In the event an application is recommended for funding, NIFA will request that both the applicant school or https://nifa.usda.gov/sites/default/files/resources/Goals_for_aHungerFreeCommunity.pdf https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/grants-overview institution/organization and the fiscal agent organization submit complete management information (see Part V § C of this RFA).

Applications may only be submitted by public food program service providers, tribal organizations, or private nonprofit entities, including gleaners. A letter stating the non-profit status must be included with the application. Failure to meet an eligibility criterion by the application deadline may result in the application being excluded from consideration or, even though an application may be reviewed, will preclude NIFA from making an award.

Duplicate or Multiple Submissions – duplicate or multiple submissions are not allowed. NIFA will disqualify both applications if an applicant submits duplicate or multiple submissions. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s Grants Overview provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

B. Cost Sharing or Matching Match Required – CFP and PP applicants MUST provide matching on a dollar-for-dollar basis for all federal funds awarded. Match must be documented for all project years at the time the application is submitted. CFP and PP grantees must provide matching funds through cash and/or in-kind contributions, including third-party in-kind contributions, fairly evaluated, including facilities, equipment, or services.

The non-federal share of the funding may come from state government, local government, other non-profit entities, or private sources. Federal money cannot be used to match unless it is expressly authorized to be used for this purpose. Examples of qualifying matching contributions may include direct costs such as: rent for office space used exclusively for the funded project;

duplication or postage costs; and staff time from an entity other than the applicant for job training or nutrition education.

https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/grants-overview

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application Applicants must apply to this RFA electronically; no other method or response is accepted. The electronic application for this RFA and additional resources are available on Grants.gov and Grants 101. Table 5 provides instructions on how to obtain an electronic application. Part II § 1 of the NIFA Grants.gov Application Guide (Application Guide) contains detailed information regarding the Grants.gov registration process.

Table 4. Steps to Obtain Application Materials

Steps Action

Step One: Register New Users to Grants.gov must register early with Grants.gov prior to submitting an application (Register Here).

Step Two:

Download Adobe

Download and Install Adobe Reader (see Adobe Software Compatibility for basic system requirements)

Step Three: Find Application

Using this funding opportunity number USDA-NIFA-CFP-007312, search for application here: Opportunity Package.

Step Four: Assess Readiness

Contact an AR prior to starting an application to assess the organization’s readiness to submit an electronic application.

Table 5: Help and Resources

Grants.gov Support NIFA Support Grants.gov Online Support Telephone support: 800-518-4726 Toll- Free or 606-545-5035 Email support: support@grants.gov Self-service customer based support:

Grants.gov iPortal Key Information: Customer service business Hours 24/7, except federal holidays.

Phone: 202-401-5048 Key Information: Business hours: Monday thru Friday, 7a.m. – 5p.m. ET, except federal holidays

B. Content and Form of the Application The Application Guide is part of the corresponding application package for this RFA. The RFA overrides the Application Guide if there is a discrepancy between the two documents. NIFA will accept subsequent submissions to an application until the application deadline. However, applicants that do not meet the application requirements, to include partial applications, risk being excluded from NIFA’s review. NIFA will assign a proposal number to all applications that meet the requirements of this RFA. Applicants must refer to the proposal number when corresponding with NIFA. Table 7 outlines other key instructions for applicants.

https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/learn-grants/grants-101/pre-award-phase.html/ https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/register.html https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/search-opportunity-package.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/support.html mailto:support@grants.gov https://grants-portal.psc.gov/Welcome.aspx?pt=Grants https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/ https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/ https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/ https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf

Table 6: Key Application Instructions Instruction References

(All references are to the Application Guide)

Attachments must be in a portable document format (PDF) format.

Part III § 3

Check the manifest of submitted files to verify attachments are in the correct format.

Part III § 6.1

Conduct an administrative review of the application before submission.

Part VII and

Follow the submission instructions. Part IV § 1.5

Provide an accurate email address, where designated, on the SF-424 R&R.

Part IV § 1.5

Contact the Grants.gov helpdesk for technical support, and keep a record of the correspondence.

Contact NIFA if applicant does not received correspondence from NIFA regarding an application within 30 days of the application deadline.

SF 424 R&R Cover Sheet. See Part V § 2 and Part V § 2.17of the Application Guide for the required certifications and assurances.

SF 424 R&R Project/Performance Site Location(s). See Part V § 3 of the Application Guide.

R&R Other Project Information Form. See Part V § 4 of the Application Guide.

1. Field 7. Project Summary (PS)/Abstract. The PS must show how the project goals align with the project goals of the CFPGP. See Part V § 4.7 of the Application Guide for instructions and suggested templates.

2. Field 8. Project Narrative (PN). The PN must not exceed 10 1.5 spaced pages of written text and up to 5 1.5 spaced additional pages for figures and tables (the font size for tables should be no smaller than 11 points, Times New Roman). The page limits outlined here ensure fair and equitable competition. Appendices to the PN are allowed if they are directly germane to the proposed project. Do not add appendices to circumvent the page limit. The PN must include all of the following:

Community Projects. The Project Narrative for CFPs must include the heading followed by the response for each of the points noted below.

a. The Community to Be Involved in the Project and the Needs to Be Addressed; Identify and succinctly describe the critical elements and needs of the local food economy or food system, including demographics, income, and geographic characteristics of the area or community to be served. Beyond a recitation of statistics, applications should describe local capabilities and assets, such as those identified in a community food assessment, and involvement of low-income communities in the context of project activities and operations.

https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/support.html https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf

Most relevant is an explanation of why the applicant and its partners selected the activities proposed in the application. Note the main targets or beneficiaries of the project and the community needs and opportunities being addressed. The needs addressed must directly relate to project goals and objectives described below. It is recommended that this section be no more than one and one-half pages.

b. The Organizations and Communities Involved in the Project; List the organizations and communities to be involved in carrying out the proposed project and the segments of the local food economy or system they link. Include a description of the relevant experience of each community group or organization, including the applicant organization that will be involved, and any related project history. Proposals should demonstrate extensive community linkages and coalitions. Applicant organizations should demonstrate a history of commitment to and direct involvement in food security projects in low-income communities or in communities with low-income groups, as well as success in outreach to low-income participants. The qualifications of staff involved with the proposed project and/or organizational leadership must reflect the expertise necessary to carry out the proposed project activities or similar types of activities. Experience in and connections with the community will be considered as important as academic or professional credentials in this regard.

Ensure that low-income residents are actively involved in planning project goals, objectives, and outcomes. In particular, describe how the communities being served – particularly the targeted residents and organizations – were involved in planning the project and will be engaged in its implementation. Please reference planning activities, assessments, meetings, or other activities that demonstrate community input into key decision-making.

Letters from the key organizations involved in the project, acknowledging their support and contributions, must be provided. A limited number of additional support letters – such as those from farmers or schools, where appropriate, are encouraged to provide evidence of broad community involvement in both planning and future decision-making. All support letters must be attached in Field 12, Other Attachments (See Part IV, B., below, Key Organization Support).

c. Project Goals and Intended Outcomes; List the goals and intended outcomes of the project. Outcomes must describe specific changes or results that will occur as a consequence of the project and that will constitute “success” for the initiative. These may include benefits caused by program activities such as changes in participants’ skills, behaviour, or qualities of life, and positive changes in conditions in the community served or reductions in negative conditions. Outcomes must be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely, describe what will be accomplished, and who and how many people, e.g., residents, participants, will benefit. It is recommended that this section be no more than two pages.

d. Activities to Achieve the Goals; Discuss how the goals and intended outcomes will be achieved. Discuss how the proposed project outcomes will be realized by providing a systematic description of how the most important steps or milestones will be accomplished. In addition to these descriptions, it is recommended that a table of up to three pages be provided with implementation details for these activities, including:

(a) specific steps and achievements in planning and implementation; (b) timetables for milestones, and, as relevant; (c) expected numbers of participants involved in each step of the process.

e. Relationship to Program Objectives; Discuss how the project and its proposed outcomes will address the objectives of the CFPCGP as described in Part I., B.

Discuss the specific changes that will result among participants or in the communities served that address these CFPCGP priorities. It is recommended that this section be no more than one page.

f. Evaluation; CFP proposals should contain a strong evaluation component. Innovative evaluation strategies are especially encouraged. Evaluations should focus on “logic models” (The logic model must be attached to Field 12, see Part IV.B) and the measurement of Indicators of Success in meeting the legislative goals and objectives of the CFPCGP. (See Appendix III, Definitions.) Through CFPCGP project operations and an evaluation of them, USDA seeks to determine best practices, including valuable lessons learned; therefore, proposals are encouraged that include both process evaluations (developing and monitoring indicators of progress towards the objectives) and outcome evaluations (to determine whether the objectives were met). In order to allow for sufficient evaluation of projects as described, it is recommended that applicants set aside between five and ten percent of the total project budget for evaluation purposes.

g. Self-Sustainability; USDA seeks to determine best practices, including valuable lessons learned; therefore, proposals are encouraged that include both process evaluations (developing and monitoring indicators of progress towards the objectives) and outcome evaluations (to determine whether the objectives were met). In order to allow for sufficient evaluation of projects as described, it is recommended that applicants set aside between five and ten percent of the total project budget for evaluation purposes.

Projects must provide evidence, e.g., a market analysis or the outline of a business plan, to demonstrate that it is likely to become self-sustaining and provide employees with important job skills. Business plan outlines or any other document of evidence for sustainability are limited to five pages and should be included as an appendix.

Such evidence should be included as an Other Attachment, Field 12 (see Part IV.B).

Planning Projects. The Project Narrative for PP should include the heading followed by the response for each of the points noted below.

a. The Community to Be Involved in the Project and the Needs to Be Addressed. Identify and succinctly describe your approach to determining the critical elements and needs of the local food economy or food system, including demographics, income, and geographic characteristics of the area or community to be served. It is strongly recommended that assets of low-income communities be included in the analysis. The needs addressed should directly relate to project goals and objectives described below. It is recommended that this section be no more than one and one-half pages.

b. The Organizations and Communities Involved in the Project; List the organizations and communities to be involved in carrying out the proposed PP and the segments of the local food economy or system they link. Include a description of the relevant experience of each community group or organization, including the applicant organization, that will be involved, and any related project history. Proposals should demonstrate extensive community linkages and coalitions. Planning Projects must address how the proposed project assists applicants, eligible entities, and others in understanding the primary goals of the CFPCGP which are to: (1)(a) meet the food needs of low-income individuals through food distribution, community outreach to assist in participation in Federally assisted nutrition programs, or improving access to food as part of a comprehensive service; (b) increase the self-reliance of low-income communities in providing for their own food needs; and (c) promote comprehensive responses to local food access, farm, and nutrition issues; or (2) meet specific State, local, or neighborhood food and agriculture needs for (a) equipment necessary for the efficient operation of a project; (b) planning for long-term solutions; or (c) the creation of innovative marketing activities that mutually benefit agricultural producers and low-income consumers. It is recommended that this section be no more than two pages.

Letters from the key organizations involved in the project, acknowledging their support and contributions, must be provided. A limited number of other support letters – such as those from farmers or schools – where appropriate, are encouraged to provide evidence of broad community involvement. All support letters should be attached in Field 12, Other Attachments (See Part IV § B below, Key Organization Support).

c. Project Goals and Objectives; List the outcome-based goals and objectives of the project and a justification for the goals in terms of the identified need(s). Be specific.

Ensure that low-income residents are actively engaged in planning project goals, objectives, and outcomes. Also include a description of low-income input and decision-making in the formulation of the goals and objectives. Discuss how significant the low-income food security issues are that will be addressed by the proposed project; is there an informative description of the community, its characteristics, assets, and needs; discuss specifically how the community named in this description will benefit from the proposed project. It is recommended that this section be no more than two pages.

d. Activities to Achieve the Goals: Discuss how the goals and intended outcomes will be achieved. Discuss how the proposed project outcomes will be realized by providing a systematic description of how the most important steps or milestones will be accomplished. In addition to these descriptions, it is recommended that a table of up to three pages be provided with implementation details for these activities, including:

(a) specific steps and achievements in planning and implementation; (b) timetables for milestones; and, as relevant, (c) expected numbers of participants involved in each step of the process. It is recommended that this section be no more than two pages, although a table may be added as an additional page (within the total 15 page limit) to relate specific activities to goals and outcomes.

e. Relationship to Program Objectives; Discuss how project outcomes will address the objectives of the CFPCGP as described in Part I § B and how the project will make a difference for the low-income community. It is recommended that this section be no more than one page.

3. Field 12, Add Other Attachments. See Part V § 4.12 of the Application Guide.

a. Response to Previous Review. This requirement only applies to "Resubmitted

Applications” Part II § B identifies the type of application(s) that may be submitted in response to this RFA. PDs must respond to the previous review summary on no more than one page titled "RESPONSE TO PREVIOUS REVIEW" and save file as ResponsetoPreviousReview. If desired, additional comments may be included in the text of the Project Narrative subject to the page limitations of that section.

b. Results from Prior CFPCGP Support. This requirement only applies to applicants who have received prior grant award(s) under this program. If the PD or a co-PD has received CFPCGP, including support in the past five years, information on results from that prior funding is required. This information will be used in the review of the application. PDs must summarize prior results from funding and limit the response to one page per award.

For each award, list the NIFA award number, the amount and period of support, the title of the project and a summary of the results of the completed work. Save file as PriorCFPCGPSupport.

c. Key Organization Support. Attach signed letters from key organizations involved in the project acknowledging their support, contributions and commitment; title the attachment ‘Key Organization Support’. Provide evidence of broad community involvement in both planning and decision-making. This section is limited to two page letters of support for each key organization. (See subsection 1. or 2., as appropriate, of Part IV, B for additional information).

d. Matching Funds Documentation. For CFP and PP applicants, this grant program requires applicants to match Federal funds awarded on a dollar-for-dollar basis from non-Federal sources as described in Part III § B. For grants that require matching funds as specified under Part III § B, the Budget Justification must list matching sources along with the identification of each entity providing the match as well as the total dollar amount being pledged. NIFA is no longer requiring written verification of commitments of matching support (a pledge agreement). However, you are still subject to documentation, valuing and reporting requirements, etc. as specified in 2 CFR Part 200, “Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (the Uniform Guidance),” 7 CFR 3430, “Competitive and Noncompetitive Non-Formula Federal Assistance Programs – General Award Administrative Provisions,” and program-specific regulations, as applicable. In instances where match is required, any resulting award will require the signature of an Authorized Representative. Only when NIFA receives the award signed by the AR will award funds be released and available for drawdown.

e. Appendices to Project Narrative. Title the attachment as ‘Appendices’ in the document header and save file as ‘Appendices’. Appendices to the Project Narrative are allowed if they are directly germane to the proposed project. The addition of appendices must not exceed seven (7) pages for CFP and PP proposals and should not be used to circumvent the text and/or figures and tables page limitations.

f. Logic Model. Title the attachment as ‘Logic Model’ in the document header and save file as ‘LogicModel’. Applicants should seek the help of academic or other experts in evaluation design and implementation, as appropriate and available. A logic model or chart may also be used. It is recommended that this section be no more than one page.

See Logic Model Planning Process for more information.

g. Fiscal Agent Letter. See Part III.A. If it is necessary to include a fiscal agent letter then title the attachment as ‘Fiscal Agent’ in the document header and save file as ‘FiscalAgent’.

R&R Senior/Key Person Profile (Expanded). See Part V § 5 of the Application Guide for profile requirements, details about the biographical sketch, and suggested support templates.

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R&R Personal Data. This information is voluntary and is not a precondition of award (see Part V § 6 of the Application Guide).

R&R Budget. See Part V § 7 of the Application Guide.

1. Match – If an applicant concludes that the matching requirements described under Part III

§ B of this RFA is not applicable to them; the applicant must include an explanation of their conclusion in the budget justification. NIFA will consider this justification when determining final matching requirements or if required matching can be waived. NIFA retains the right to make final determinations regarding matching requirements.

Grants that require matching funds as specified under Part III § B of this RFA must list in their budget justification the matching sources, the identification of the entity(ies) providing the match, and the total pledged amount. A written verification of commitments of matching support (a pledge agreement) is not required. However, applicants are subject to the documentation, valuing and reporting requirements, as specified in 2 CFR Part 200, “Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (the Uniform Guidance),” and 7 CFR 3430, “Competitive and Noncompetitive Non-Formula Federal Assistance Programs – General Award Administrative Provisions.”

2. Indirect costs (IDC) – See Part IV § C of this RFA for funding restrictions regarding indirect cost, and Part V 7.9 of the Application Guide for additional information.

3. Domestic Travel - During the tenure of a grant, PDs must attend a PD meeting each year.

The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss their projects, opportunities for collaborative efforts, and to enhance dissemination of exemplary end products/results.

Reasonable travel expenses to attend this meeting may be included in the application’s budget under travel expenses.

Data Management Plan. A DMP is required for this program. Applicants should clearly articulate how the project director (PD) and co-PDs plan to manage and disseminate the data generated by the project. The DMP will be considered during the merit review process (see Part V § B of this RFA, Part III § 3.1 of the Application Guide and NIFA’s Data Management Plan).

Supplemental Information Form. See Part VI § 1 of the Application Guide.

Field 2. Program to which the applicant is applying. Enter the program name Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program

• For Community Food Project applications, enter the program code LN.C

• For Planning Projects, enter the program code LN.B (Accurate entry is critical.)

• Field 8. Conflict of Interest List. See Part VI § 1.8 of the Application Guide.

Representations Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax Delinquent Status for Corporate Applicants. This is required for corporate applicants. See Part VI § 2 of the Application Guide for a description of the term, “corporation.”

C. Funding Restrictions Fully negotiated rate. Applicants must use the current negotiated Indirect Cost (IDC) rate established by its cognizant Federal agency (the agency that provides the most funds). If awarded, the applicant will be required to produce a negotiated IDC rate agreement from the cognizant agency in order to recover IDC. If unable to obtain a negotiated rate from its cognizant https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=39448527cdd5ebd0a063b91b8b44f0f5&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=39448527cdd5ebd0a063b91b8b44f0f5&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://ecfr.io/Title-07/pt7.15.3430 https://ecfr.io/Title-07/pt7.15.3430 https://ecfr.io/Title-07/pt7.15.3430 https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/data-management-plan-nifa-funded-research-projects https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/opportunities/instructions/PKG00249520-instructions.pdf agency, the applicant is not permitted indirect cost reimbursement. Rather, the applicant may only be reimbursed for allowable direct costs. Violation of cost accounting principles is not permitted when re-budgeting or charging costs to awards. Rather, costs must be consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs.

If the applicant wants full IDC, but does not have a negotiated rate, and NIFA is the cognizant agency, the applicant must calculate an IDC rate in order to request IDC (see Sample IDC calculations). Applicants are not required to complete the IDC package during the application process. Applicants need only to calculate an IDC rate to serve as a basis for requesting IDC. If awarded, the applicant will be required to submit a complete IDC proposal package in order to obtain a negotiated rate.

Construction and Renovation. With prior approval from NIFA, and in accordance with applicable Federal cost principles, grant funds may be used to plan, acquire, or construct a building or facility, or to acquire land; and for improvements, alterations, renovations, or repairs to land or buildings, necessary to carry out a funded project under this program. However, requests to use grant funds for such purposes must demonstrate that such expenditures are essential to achieving the major purpose for which the grant request is made.

Sub-award Restriction. The applicant must perform a substantive portion of the project and no more than 50 percent of a CFP or PP, as determined by budget expenditures, may be sub awarded. Projects may divide their budget allocations between partners as it fits their work plan.

(For additional knowledge or expertise that is not available within the applicant organization, funds for expert consultation may be included in the “All Other Direct Costs” section of the proposed budget.)

Funding Period Limitation. The funding period will commence on the effective date cited in the award instrument. Any such limitation also applies to sub-awards made under awards subject to a funding period limitation.

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PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

A. NIFA’s Evaluation Process NIFA evaluates each application in a two-part process. First, we screen each application to ensure that it meets the administrative requirements as set forth in this RFA. Second, a scientific peer- review process will be used to technically evaluate applications that meet the administrative requirements using a review panel (see NIFA Peer Review Process)..

Scientific Peer Review Process:

NIFA selects reviewers for the review panel based upon their training and experience in relevant scientific, extension, or education fields, taking into account the following factors:

• the level of relevant formal scientific, technical education, or extension experience of the individual, as well as the extent to which an individual is engaged in relevant research, education, or extension activities;

• the need to include experts from various areas of specialization within relevant scientific, education, or extension fields;

• the need to include other experts (e.g., producers, range or forest managers/operators, and consumers) who can assess relevance of the applications to targeted audiences and to program needs;

• the need to include experts from a variety of organizational types (e.g., colleges, universities, industry, state and Federal agencies, and private profit and non-profit organizations) and geographic locations;

• the need to maintain a balanced composition with regard to minority and female representation and an equitable age distribution; and

• the need to include reviewers who can judge the effective usefulness of each application to producers and the general public.

After each peer review panel has completed its deliberations, the responsible program staff of NIFA will recommend that your project is either approved for support from currently available funds or declined due to insufficient funds or unfavorable review.

NIFA reserves the right to negotiate with the PD/PI and/or the submitting organization or institution regarding project revisions (e.g., reductions in the scope of work, funding level, period, or method of support) prior to recommending any AFRI project for funding.

After the review process has been completed, NIFA sends copies of reviews, not including the identity of reviewers, and a summary (if applicable) of the review panel comments to the PD.

Conflicts of interest. NIFA takes extreme care to prevent any actual or perceived conflicts of interest that may influence the review or evaluation (see NIFA Peer Review Process for Competitive Grant Applications).

B. Evaluation Criteria NIFA will use the following criteria to evaluate Community Food Projects (CFP), listed in priority order of importance to review applications submitted in response to this RFA:

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