Final Belize CARSI NOFO FY2022 .pdf

NOFO Number: BH200-23-GR-200-WHA CARSI-ESF Grants Program: Strengthening Government through Civil Society Engagement

SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED

Notice of Funding Opportunity Strengthening Government through Civil Society Engagement

Announcement Type: New Grant Public Opportunity Title: CARSI-ESF Grants Program: Strengthening Government through Civil Society Engagement Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Listing: 19.750 Funding Amount: $1,000,000 Issuance Date: March 10, 2023

Deadline for Receipt of Questions: April 18, 2023, at 5:00 PM local time (Belize)

Deadline for Submission of Applications: May 11, 2023 at 11:59 PM Eastern time (Washington, D.C.)

Funding Activity Category: Governance Program Type: U.S. Embassy in Belmopan, Belize Grant Program: Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) Assistance Type: Grant Eligibility Category: U.S. Non-profit/non-governmental organizations (NGOs) having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS or overseas-based NGOs, institutions of higher education, and public international organizations (PIOs); Belizean NGOs are strongly encouraged to apply.

Est. Project Start Date: September 29, 2023 Est. Project End Date: Variable Fiscal Year: FY 2022 Award Ceiling: $250,000 Award Floor: $150,000 Expected # of Awards Funded: 4 to 6

Cost Sharing Requirement: No

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The U.S. Embassy in Belmopan, Belize announces a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to strengthen democratic governance through civil society engagement. The U.S. Embassy in Belmopan intends to issue awards in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000 in FY 2022 Economic Support Funds (ESF), pending availability of funding. The anticipated start date for successful proposals is September 29, 2023. U.S. Embassy Belmopan anticipates funding four to six awards between the amount of $150,000 and $250,000 each for this NOFO. Applications are due on May 11, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time (Washington, D.C).

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

Combating corruption, strengthening democratic governance, and advancing the rule of law.

Proposals should be oriented towards activities by civil society organizations working in partnership with governments to (1) promote transparency and anti-corruption, or (2) enhance public service delivery particularly to vulnerable and/or marginalized communities or (3) support access to justice.

Proposals should facilitate citizens’ ability to hold the government accountable for its responsibilities and advocate for change and/or improve government transparency across all levels.

Specific objectives and indicators should be included in the proposals that allow the organization to measure and demonstrate progress. Proposals may also support Pillars III - Promoting respect for human rights, labor rights, and a free press, and Pillar IV – Countering and preventing violence, extortion, and other crimes perpetrated by criminal gangs, trafficking networks, and other organized criminal organizations.

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

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

U.S. Embassy Belmopan reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for each award. The authority for this NOFO is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.

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

For more information, please contact:

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

NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

U.S. Embassy Belmopan is seeking applications from U.S. NGOs having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, overseas-based non-profit/non-governmental organizations, institutions of higher education, and PIOs for a grant to implement a program titled “Strengthening Government through Civil Society Engagement.” The authority for this NOFO is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.

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

Subject to the availability of funds, U.S. Embassy Belmopan intends to award four to six grants in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000 total. U.S. Embassy Belmopan will pay expenses under these grants from allocated funds, for a project period not to exceed two years. The anticipated start date for successful proposals is September 29, 2023. U.S. Embassy Belmopan reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for each award.

Eligible organizations interested in applying are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of project sought and the application submission requirements and technical review process.

To be eligible for this award, the applicant should submit all required information in its application through Grants.gov (http://www.grants.gov) or via email to BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov , including the requirements found in any attachments to this opportunity.

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

1. Section I – Funding Opportunity Description

2. Section II – Award Information

3. Section III – Eligibility Information

4. Section IV – Application and Submission Instructions

5. Section V – Application and Review Information

6. Section VI – Agency Contacts

This funding opportunity is posted on http://www.grants.gov and may be amended. See Section IV for further details. Potential applicants should regularly check the website to ensure they have the latest information pertaining to this NOFO. Applicants will need to have available or download the Adobe software program to view and save the Adobe forms properly. If you have difficulty http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ registering on http://www.grants.gov, please contact the Grants.gov helpdesk at 1-800-518-4726 or via email at support@grants.gov for technical assistance or BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov for difficulty accessing the NOFO.

It is the responsibility of the recipient of this NOFO document to ensure that the application has been received from http://www.grants.gov or that the application was received via email to BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov in its entirety. U.S. Embassy Belmopan bears no responsibility for data errors or undelivered emails resulting from transmission or conversion processes associated with electronic submissions. The deadline to submit applications is May 11, 2023, 11:59 PM Eastern time (Washington, D.C.).

Please submit any questions concerning this NOFO in writing to BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov.

The deadline for submission of questions for this NOFO is April 18, 2023, 5:00 PM local time (Belize).

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

Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S.

government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of an application. In addition, final award of any resultant grant agreement cannot be made until funds have been fully appropriated, allocated, and committed through internal U.S.

Embassy Belmopan procedures. While it is anticipated that these procedures will be successfully completed, potential applicants are hereby notified of these requirements and conditions for award. Applications are submitted at the risk of the applicant. All preparation and submission costs are at the applicant's expense.

Sincerely, Michelle Kwan Ambassador mailto:support@grants.gov mailto:BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov http://www.grants.gov/ mailto:BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov

SECTION I – FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND

Communities in Belize, particularly in rural areas, face several challenges. Local and national authorities often have difficulty delivering services, including social services to victims of human trafficking and survivors of gender-based violence, to remote communities. Lack of government service provision oversight can increase inequities and create opportunities for corruption at various levels. The COVID-19 pandemic only exasperated challenges the government faces in providing needed services to citizens.

The objective of this grant is to support local, sustainable, community-based solutions to improve service delivery, economic development, and/or combat corruption and the perception of impunity. Community groups have tremendous potential to overcome these difficulties. They can leverage existing national government assistance, network with private and non-profit organizations, and collaborate with local government offices. Civil society organizations, with deep connections to their host communities, are in the best position to improve service delivery, democracy, and governance.

A secure and stable Central America leads to a safer and more prosperous United States. Through the RCS, of which the CARSI is a component, U.S. assistance seeks to secure U.S. borders and protect U.S. citizens by addressing the security, governance, and economic drivers of illegal immigration and illicit trafficking, and to promote fair and reciprocal trade in Central America. To promote improved governance, U.S. assistance in Central America supports anti-corruption efforts that improve the ease of doing business; strengthen the rule of law; promote strong institutions and government accountability; reduce impunity; and improve fiscal management by promoting efficient tax collection, civil society engagement, and institutional reform. CARSI ESF grants support programming to strengthen civil society’s role in improving governance and supporting a professional, non-partisan civil service.

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

The RCS is organized into five pillars. Due to congressional global earmarks for democracy and governance programming, projects must contribute to one or more of the Strategic Objectives under Pillar II of the RCS, Combating corruption, strengthening democratic governance, and advancing the rule of law:

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

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

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

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

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

Pillar III

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

Pillar IV

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

CARSI assistance supports a safer and more secure region where criminal organizations no longer wield the power to destabilize governments or threaten national and regional security and public safety. It also seeks to prevent the entry and spread of illicit drugs, violence, and transnational threats to countries throughout the region and to the United States. The five pillars of CARSI are:

1. Create safe streets for the citizens of the region.

2. Disrupt the movement of criminals and contraband within and among the nations of

Central America.

3. Support the development of strong, capable, and accountable Central American

Governments.

4. Re-establish effective state presence and security in communities at risk.

5. Foster enhanced levels of security and rule of law coordination and cooperation among the nations of the region.

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

PROJECT GOALS

Projects solicited under this NOFO will:

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

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

PROJECT OBJECTIVES

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

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

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

Objective 1:

Strengthen civil society organizations and support collaboration to improve government transparency by developing policies or procedures that reduce corruption and impunity and increase citizen participation in anti-corruption efforts. Proposals should encourage citizens and civil servants to participate in anti-corruption advocacy initiatives, support corruption-exposing investigative journalism, increase youth engagement in civic action, expand corruption reporting mechanisms, or seek to improve legislation or policies that promote transparency and accountability at all levels of government. Potential projects may include, but are not limited to, reducing corruption and enhancing participatory democracy, inspiring youth civic engagement, or promoting general civic engagement and public access to government.

AND/OR

Objective 2:

Support civil society working in collaboration with the government to improve accountability and delivery of services at all levels. Proposals should focus on activities by civil society organizations leveraging government, private, and civil society resources and networks to collectively improve, expand, or supplement government service delivery particularly to vulnerable and/or marginalized populations, particularly outside of the Belize City district. Examples of potential activities include, but are not limited to, digitizing government services or procurement processes to improve efficiency, delivery, and transparency; developing mobile hubs to extend services in remote areas; and improving digital literacy or capacity building for government institutions.

AND/OR

Objective 3:

Support and enhance mechanisms among key stakeholders to leverage services to curb human trafficking and gender-based violence. Proposals may involve supporting early detection and institutional support systems for victims and survivors of human trafficking and gender-based violence, strengthening polices and protocols, and ensuring adequate and efficient delivery of justice and access to government services. Examples of potential activities include, but are not limited to, strengthening formal procedures for trauma-informed victim identification in vulnerable populations, improving mechanisms for data gathering, increasing access to legal aid and sustainable support for survivors, engaging men and boys in programs as partners and champions of gender equity, and reinforcing youth-focused programs to improve violence prevention or increase access to mental health services for youth.

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

CROSS-CUTTING AND ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

Utilize Local Resources and Expertise

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

DESIRED RESULTS AND REQUIRED OUTCOME INDICATORS

The applicant will develop a project-level Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) (see Section IV Tab B) with annual and end-of-project targets and results anticipated for key performance indicators.

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

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

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

Applicants are encouraged to set additional, project-specific outcome indicators.

Required Indicator Required targets:

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

TBD

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

TBD

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

TBD

Total number of civil servants having received training. TBD

ILLUSTRATIVE OUTPUT INDICATORS

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

Example Output Indicators: Required targets:

Platforms developed to facilitate public requests for services.

3 platforms

Women that attend weekly individual counseling sessions.

20 women

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

The grantee will be required to collect baseline data for all the Performance Monitoring and Evaluation indicators during the first year of the project. In addition, certain terms included in the outcomes and indicators will need to be defined at the very beginning of the project so that it is possible to measure the change during and at the end of the project. Examples of such are “capacity,” “spread effect,” etc. Baseline information will be critical for both monitoring and evaluation of project progress and results.

[END OF SECTION I]

SECTION II – AWARD INFORMATION

U.S. Embassy Belmopan expects to award four to six grant agreements based on this NOFO.

The anticipated total federal funding amount is $1,000,000. The period of performance for each award is a maximum of two years with an anticipated start date of September 29, 2023.

The U.S. government may issue one or more awards resulting from this NOFO to the responsible applicant(s) whose applications conforming to this NOFO are the most responsive to the objectives set forth in this NOFO. The U.S. government may: (a) reject any or all applications, (b) accept other than the lowest cost application, (c) accept more than one application, (d) accept alternate/revised applications, or (e) waive informalities and minor irregularities in applications received.

After a merit review panel, the U.S. government may make an award based on initial applications received, without discussions or negotiations. Therefore, each initial application should contain the applicant's best terms from a cost and technical standpoint. The U.S.

government reserves the right (but is not obligated) to enter discussions with one or more applicants to obtain clarification, additional detail, or to suggest refinements in the project description, budget, or other aspects of an application.

[END OF SECTION II]

SECTION III – ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

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

To be eligible for a grant award, in addition to other conditions of this NOFO, organizations must have a commitment to non-discrimination with respect to beneficiaries and adherence to equal opportunity employment practices. Non-discrimination includes equal treatment without regard to race, religion, ethnicity, gender, and political affiliation.

Applicants are reminded that U.S. Executive Orders and U.S. law prohibits transactions with, and the provision of resources and support to, individuals and organizations associated with terrorism. It is the legal responsibility of the recipient to ensure compliance with these Executive Orders and laws. This provision must be included in any sub-awards issued under this grant award.

(2) U.S. Embassy Belmopan encourages applications from Belizean organizations and institutions, as well as potential new partners.

(3) In order to be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov.

Please see Section IV for more information. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.

[END OF SECTION III]

http://www.sam.gov/

SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

U.S. Embassy Belmopan urges prospective applicants to immediately confirm their organization has a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov.

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

Required Registrations:

All organizations, 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.

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 http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/ 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=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

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.

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:

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.

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

2. Technical Format Requirement

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

For all application documents, please ensure:

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

• All documents are in English

• All budgets are in U.S. dollars

• All pages are numbered, including budgets and attachments,

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

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

Complete applications must include the following for proposal submissions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

government agencies.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

E. Detailed Line-Item Budget (in Microsoft Excel) that includes three [3] columns including the request to U.S. Embassy Belmopan, any cost sharing contribution, and total budget (see below for more information on budget format Tab C). A summary budget should also be included using the OMB approved budget categories (see SF-424 as a sample). Costs must be in U.S. dollars.

F. Budget Justification Narrative (preferably in Microsoft Word) that includes an explanation and justification for each line item in the detailed budget spreadsheet, as well as the source and a description of all cost-share offered. Personnel costs should include a clarification of the roles and responsibilities of key staff and percentage of time devoted to the project.

The budget narrative should communicate to U.S. Embassy Belmopan any information that might not be readily apparent in the budget, not simply repeat the words stated numerically in the budget. (Please see Tab C).

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

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

b) Page 3: Roles and responsibilities of key project personnel with short bios that highlight relevant professional experience. This relates to the organization’s capacity. Given the limited space, CVs are not recommended for submission.

c) Page 4: Timeline of the overall proposal. Components should include activities, evaluation efforts, and project closeout.

d) Page 5-7: Supporting Documentation. Attachments may include letters of support, memoranda of understanding (MOU)/agreement, etc.

H. If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICRA) and will include NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA must be included as a .pdf file. This document will not be reviewed by the Embassy, but rather used by project and grant staff if the submission is recommended for funding and therefore does not count against the submission page limitations, as described above. If your proposal involves sub-grants to organizations charging indirect costs, please submit the applicable NICRA also as a .pdf file (see below for more information on indirect cost rates). Specify if your organization elects to charge the de minimis rate of 10% of the modified total direct costs (MTDC).

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

[END OF SECTION IV]

SECTION V – FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

1. Federal Award Notices

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

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

Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S.

government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of proposals. Further, the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

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

These include:

• 2 CFR 25 - UNIVERSAL IDENTIFIER AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT

• 2 CFR 170 - REPORTING SUBAWARD AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION INFORMATION

• 2 CFR 175 - AWARD TERM FOR TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

• 2 CFR 182 - GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE

(FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE)

• 2 CFR 183 - NEVER CONTRACT WITH THE ENEMY

• 2 CFR 600 – DEPARTMENT OF STATE REQUIREMENTS

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

In accordance with the Office of Management and Budget’s guidance located at 2 CFR part 200, all applicable Federal laws, and relevant Executive guidance, the Department of State will review and consider applications for funding, as applicable to specific programs, pursuant to 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/ this notice of funding opportunity in accordance with the following: NOTE:

• Guidance for Grants and Agreements in Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR), as updated in the Federal Register’s 85 FR 49506 on August 13, 2020, particularly on:

o Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering results based on the program objectives through an objective process of evaluating Federal award applications (2 CFR part 200.205), o Prohibiting the purchase of certain telecommunication and video surveillance services or equipment in alignment with section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2019 (Pub. L. No. 115—232) (2 CFR part 200.216), o Promoting the freedom of speech and religious liberty in alignment with Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty (E.O. 13798) and Improving Free Inquiry, Transparency, and Accountability at Colleges and Universities (E.O.

13864) (§§ 200.300, 200.303, 200.339, and 200.341), o Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to maximize use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United States (2 CFR part 200.322), and o Terminating agreements in whole or in part to the greatest extent authorized by law, if an award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities (2 CFR part 200.340).

3. Reporting

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

4. Audits

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

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

• Complies with the requirements of American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

(AICPA) Statement of Position (SOP) No. 92-9, "Audits of Not-for-Profit Organizations Receiving Federal Awards"

• Complies with AICPA Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards AU Section 551, "Reporting on Information Accompanying the Basic Financial Statements in Auditor- Submitted Documents" where applicable. When the U.S. Department of State is the largest direct source of Federal financial assistance (i.e., the cognizant Federal Agency) and indirect costs are charged to Federal grants, a supplemental schedule of indirect cost computation is required

• A non-Federal entity that expends $750,000 or more during the non-Federal entity's fiscal year in Federal awards must have a single or project-specific audit conducted for that year in accordance with the provisions of 2 CFR 200 subpart F.

The audit costs shall be identified by 2 CFR 200.425.

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=81a5f41de81c46a9844617d93a9db081&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5

5. Indirect Cost Rate

An organization with a NICRA negotiated with a cognizant Federal government agency other than the U.S. Department of State must include a copy of the cost-rate agreement. Applicants should indicate in the proposal budget how the rate is applied and if any of the rate will be cost-shared. Per 2 CFR 200.414 any non-Federal entity that has never received a NICRA, except for those non-Federal entities described in Appendix VII to Part 200—States and Local Government and Indian Tribe Indirect Cost Proposals, paragraph D.1.b, may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10% of modified total direct costs (MTDC) that may be used indefinitely. As described in 2 CFR 200.403, factors affecting allowability of costs, costs must be consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs but may not be double-charged or inconsistently charged as both.

If chosen, this methodology once elected must be used consistently for all Federal awards the non-Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the non-Federal entity may apply to do at any time.

[END OF SECTION V]

TAB A: PROPOSAL GUIDELINES

Proposals should include the following components:

• Introduction and Problem Statement

• Planned Activities

• Indicators

Problem Statement and Rationale: Describe the problem and how the project will achieve or contribute to achieving a sustainable solution and a measurable outcome. The applicant should explain the extent of existing assistance within the particular geographic area, and how the proposed intervention may complement (or differ from) other similar interventions. The applicant should also explain, as necessary, the experience and qualifications it brings to the project. The rationale should also reflect an understanding of the priorities and policies of the U.S. Embassy Belmopan or program with which this proposal is associated.

Planned Activities and Indicators: Describe the planned activities and relevant stakeholders for implementation. The applicant should highlight key stakeholders and their expected role in the project, along with any contingencies. The applicant should list assumptions/risks that the ultimate success of the project depends on. Examples could include geographic location, coordination efforts with other international organizations, or political will from host governments, private sector, and NGOs. As appropriate, limited contingency possibilities should be included in the proposal, in case the initial planning assumptions are not met.

Example of a planned activity and contingency:

Planned Activity Contingency

Energy efficiency workshops in collaboration with the government of Mexico and other representatives from the Latin America region, focused on raising awareness of energy efficiency standards.

If government of Mexico doesn’t engage at the expected level, project team will look to other regional stakeholders, to assist in convening key stakeholders.

In the proposal, there should be a clearly defined link between each of the following elements as delineated:

Problem Statement à Planned Activities/Inputs à Process Indicators à Output Indicators à Outcome Indicators à Impact

Process Indicators measure the activity that has been completed. Please delineate the specific activities to be conducted, such as workshops, roundtables, trainings, forums, exchanges, policy dialogues, etc. All indicators must include targets. Example of a process indicator:

Process Indicator 50 women trained in energy efficiency standards

Output Indicators, otherwise known as deliverables, associated with the agreement, should be included. Unlike process indicators, outputs are what is produced, and are often tangible. At this level, it is the measurement of ability, knowledge, skills, or access. All indicators must include targets. Example of an output indicator involving the same participants:

Output Indicator 80 percent of participants demonstrate at least 75 percent cognizance of efficiency standards

Outcome Indicators measure the change in system or behavior or practice. Expected outcomes are the results that come from a series of activities that are necessary to achieve impact. All indicators must include targets. Example of an outcome indicator:

Outcome Indicator 30 percent of efficiency standards being implemented in a participant’s country as a result of participant’s participation.

All indicators must include measurable, numerical targets that should serve as the foundation for monitoring and evaluation efforts. Ultimately, proposed activities and achievement of indicator targets will lead to impact.

TAB B: PROJECT MONITORING PLAN

Incorporating a well-designed monitoring component into a project is one of the most efficient methods of documenting the progress and potential success of a project. Proposals should include a methodology to survey beneficiaries before and after activities occur to measure quantitative and qualitative progress. Successful monitoring depends on the following:

• Setting objectives that are specific, measurable, attainable, results-focused, and placed in a reasonable time frame (SMART);

• Linking project activities to stated objectives;

• Defining the baseline data; and

• Developing key performance indicators that measure realistic progress towards the objectives.

Complete applications will include a detailed M&E Narrative and M&E Plan, which detail how the project’s progress will be monitored and evaluated. Incorporating well-designed monitoring and evaluation processes into a project is an efficient method for documenting the change (intended and unintended) that a project seeks. Applications should demonstrate the capacity to provide objectives with measurable outputs and outcomes.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan expects implementing organizations to track participants or partners as appropriate and respond to key assessment questions, including satisfaction with the project/training, information learned as a result of the project/training, changes in attitude and behavior as a result of the project, and effects of the project on institutions in which participants work or with whom participants partner. Applicants should include the monitoring and evaluation process in their timeline.

The grantee will be required to provide reports with an analysis and summary of their findings, both quantitative and qualitative, in regular progress reports to U.S. Embassy Belmopan. The quality of the M&E sections will be judged on the narrative explaining how both monitoring and evaluation will be carried out and who will be responsible for those related activities. The M&E Narrative should explain how an external evaluation will be incorporated into the project implementation plan or how the project will be systematically assessed in the absence of one.

The monitoring plan should include, at a minimum, the following elements:

• A results “Logic Model” planning document (see sample on page 20).

• Indicators, as described in Tab A, as well as details on…