Foa_Content_of_CDC-RFA-IP-23-0004.pdf

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

NATIONAL CENTER FOR IMMUNIZATION AND RESPIRATORY DISEASES

Advancing the capacity of immunization program managers through a national coordinating organization

CDC-RFA-IP-23-0004

04/28/2023

Table of Contents A. Funding Opportunity Description

B. Award Information

C. Eligibility Information

D. Application and Submission Information

E. Review and Selection Process

F. Award Administration Information

G. Agency Contacts

H. Other Information

I. Glossary

Part I. Overview

Applicants must go to the synopsis page of this announcement at www.grants.gov and click on the "Subscribe" button link to ensure they receive notifications of any changes to CDC-RFA-IP- 23-0004. Applicants also must provide an e-mail address to www.grants.gov to receive notifications of changes.

A. Federal Agency Name:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) / Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) B. Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Title:

Advancing the capacity of immunization program managers through a national coordinating organization C. Announcement Type: New - Type 1:

This announcement is only for non-research activities supported by CDC. If research is proposed, the application will not be considered. For this purpose, research is defined at https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2007-title42-vol1/pdf/CFR-2007-title42-vol1-sec52- 2.pdf. Guidance on how CDC interprets the definition of research in the context of public health can be found at https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/regulations-and-policy/regulations/45-cfr- 46/index.html (See section 45 CFR 46.102(d)).

D. Agency Notice of Funding Opportunity Number:

CDC-RFA-IP-23-0004

E. Assistance Listings Number:

https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2007-title42-vol1/pdf/CFR-2007-title42-vol1-sec52-2.pdf https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2007-title42-vol1/pdf/CFR-2007-title42-vol1-sec52-2.pdf https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/regulations-and-policy/regulations/45-cfr-46/index.html https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/regulations-and-policy/regulations/45-cfr-46/index.html

93.185 F. Dates:

1. Due Date for Letter of Intent (LOI):

The LOI date will generate once the Synopsis is published if Days or a Date are entered.

2. Due Date for Applications:

04/28/2023 11:59 p.m. U.S. Eastern Standard Time, at www.grants.gov.

3. Due Date for Informational Conference Call:

N/A

G. Executive Summary:

1. Summary Paragraph The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announces the availability of funds to support immunization program managers through CDC-RFA-IP-23-0004, Advancing the capacity of immunization program managers through a national coordinating organization. This five-year project, with approximately $6,000,000 available for each 12-month budget period, aids immunization program managers with achieving the goals of CDC-RFA-IP19-1901, Immunization and Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, and long-term goals of high immunization coverage rates and low incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases. There are five strategies associated with this funding that focus on the development and management of a national network that will emphasize training and resource development around select topics, education and dissemination of practices associated with program improvement, mentoring and leadership development activities, and support communication and information sharing among key partners through collaborative engagement. As a result of this award, it is expected that immunization program managers will have increases in knowledge, capacity, and access to tools/resources to improve program performance and strengthened ability to manage a federally funded immunization program.

a. Eligible Applicants:

Open Competition

b. Funding Instrument Type:

CA (Cooperative Agreement)

c. Approximate Number of Awards

d. Total Period of Performance Funding:

$30,000,000

e. Average One Year Award Amount:

$6,000,000

f. Total Period of Performance Length:

5 year(s)

g. Estimated Award Date:

August 31, 2023 https://www.grants.gov/

h. Cost Sharing and / or Matching Requirements:

No Cost sharing or matching funds are not required for this program. Although no statutory matching requirement for this NOFO exists, leveraging other resources and related ongoing efforts to promote sustainability is strongly encouraged.

Part II. Full Text

A. Funding Opportunity Description

1. Background

a. Overview Tremendous strides have been made towards reducing cases, hospitalizations, deaths, and health-care costs associated with vaccine-preventable diseases. However, continued efforts are necessary to assure high vaccination coverage rates, ensure communities are aware of and being vaccinated according to the routinely updated Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations, and respond to periodic outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.

This work is carried out by the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease (NCIRD), and the 64 state, territorial, and local immunization programs receiving funds under CDC-RFA-IP19-1901 with technical support from Immunization Services Division’s (ISD) Immunization Operations and Services Branch (IOSB).

Each immunization program is led by an immunization program manager who plays a vital role in overseeing the management and operations of the program, including developing and ensuring the achievement of program goals. IOSB recognizes the importance of providing support to program managers in effective execution of day-to-day activities, and circumstances that impact operations such as changes in vaccine policies or guidance, vaccine pricing, immunization information systems, and more. Moreover, there is additional program-wide benefit in providing a platform for immunization program managers to learn from each other to address challenges, share successes, and improve immunization practices.

Based on work to support immunization program managers in previous cooperative agreements, this NOFO (CDC-RFA-IP-23-0004) specifically supports immunization program managers by:

1) strengthening leadership development of program managers, 2) increasing local partnerships and communication that supports vaccination, 3) preparing immunization program managers for the future of immunization programs, 4) supporting immunization program managers to address emerging immunization issues, and 5) collaboratively engaging immunization program managers to strengthen immunization programs.

b. Statutory Authorities This program is authorized under section 317 of the Public Health Service Act, [42 U.S.C.

section 247b], as amended.

c. Healthy People 2030 Outcomes of CDC-RFA- IP-23-0004: Advancing the capacity of immunization program managers through a national coordinating organization cooperative agreement support the Healthy People 2030 goals for vaccination and infectious disease.

Additional information about the vaccination related goals and objectives within Healthy People 2030 can be found at: https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/vaccination.

d. Other National Public Health Priorities and Strategies This funding supports these national strategies, among others: Vaccines National Strategic Plan (https://www.hhs.gov/vaccines/vaccines-national-strategic-plan/index.html), ; National Stakeholder Strategy for Achieving Health Equity (phdmc.org); and the Guide to Community Preventive Services (The Community Guide).

e. Relevant Work CDC’s "Advancing the capacity of immunization program managers through a national coordinating organization”, CDC-RFA- IP-23-0004, builds upon previous NOFOs:

CDC-RFA-IP17-1703: “National Organization to Strengthen and Support a Network of Immunization Program Managers.”

CDC-RFA-IP14-1402: “Strengthening a network of immunization program managers to support the NCRID mission to prevent disease through immunization.”

CDC-RFA-IP09-905: “Coordination of Activities between the CDC, NCIRD, and State and Local Immunization Programs”

Work under CDC-RFA- IP-23-0004, also supports and is directly related to the focus areas of the "Immunization and Vaccines for Children", CDC-RFA-IP19-1901.

2. CDC Project Description

a. Approach

Bold indicates period of performance outcome.

Strategies and Activities

Short-term Outcomes

Intermediate Outcomes Long-Term Outcomes

Strengthen Leadership Development of Program Managers

Increase Local Partnerships and Communication That Supports Vaccination

Prepare for the Future of Immunization Programs

Address Emerging

Increased ability of program managers to identify strengths, weaknesses of their programs and needed training support

Increased program manager participation in leadership trainings, mentoring program, and peer-to-peer

Increased ability of program managers to direct staff and other resources to build on identified strengths and weaknesses

Increased vaccine uptake by developing and implementing effective health promotion, partnership, and confidence programs based on Increasing Vaccination Model

Increased effectiveness of empowered program managers who are able to effectively lead jurisdiction immunization programs

Sustained capacity to support vaccine confidence, data and informatics, equity, and partnerships

Sustained and improved vaccination coverage rates https://www.hhs.gov/vaccines/vaccines-national-strategic-plan/index.html https://www.phdmc.org/program-documents/healthy-lifestyles/dche/64-achieving-health-equity/file https://www.thecommunityguide.org/ https://www.thecommunityguide.org/

Issues

Collaborative Engagement of Immunization Program Managers support activities

Increased ”Vaccin ate with Confidence” messaging via social media and other communication methods

Increased understanding of evidence-based strategies for preventing, identifying, and responding to mis- /dis-information

Improved knowledge of vaccine confidence, communication, and infodemic management principles and best practices

Increased knowledge among immunization programs of practices to assist in return to steady-state operations

Enhanced flexibility to collect and provide timely information

Increased knowledge of

Improved performance and practices of immunization programs

Improved capacity to manage infodemics and reduce impact

Increased implementation of vaccine confidence and demand principles and strategies

Established support and ongoing coordination with NAICP or similar groups

Increased immunization programs with steady-state operations

Improved incorporation of COVID-19 lessons learned into program planning efforts

Improved understanding of how to sustain an adult immunization program

Improved coordination with national and state-level partners

Improved immunization program preparedness for future pandemic/outbreak responses

Improved support of immunization program managers during pandemic responses

Established adult immunization partnership networks across all programs

Knowledgeable program managers and other staff who are able to provide specific immunization age-based and/or functional expertise practices attributed to program improvement

Enhanced capacity to address issues in selected programmatic areas

Improved information sharing with immunization program managers

Increased opportunities for immunization programs to participate in communities of practice

i. Purpose The purpose of this NOFO is to support immunization program managers in improving performance of immunization programs, bridging knowledge gaps and preparing immunization program managers for the future of immunization programs. This program focuses on the development and management of a national network that will emphasize training and resource development around select topics, education and dissemination of practices associated with program improvement, mentoring and leadership development activities, and support communication and information sharing among key partners.

ii. Outcomes The complete list of outcomes associated with the strategies and activities of this cooperative agreement are identified in the logic model and includes short, intermediate, and long-term outcomes. During the five-year period of performance, the recipient is expected to achieve the short-term outcomes, and demonstrate progress toward the intermediate and long-term outcomes.

These outcomes include:

Short-Term Outcomes:

o Increased ability of program managers to identify strengths, weaknesses of their programs, and needed training support o Increased program manager participation in leadership trainings, mentoring program, and peer-to-peer support activities o Increased ”Vaccinate with Confidence” messaging via social media and other communication methods o Increased understanding of evidence-based strategies for preventing, identifying, and responding to mis-/dis-information o Improved knowledge of vaccine confidence, communication, and infodemic management principles and best practices o Increased knowledge among immunization programs of practices to assist in return to steady-state operations o Enhanced flexibility to collect and provide timely information o Enhanced capacity to address issues in selected programmatic areas o Improved information sharing with immunization program managers o Increased opportunities for immunization programs to participate in communities of practice

Intermediate Outcomes:

o Increased ability of program managers to direct staff and other resources to build on identified strengths and address weaknesses o Increased vaccine uptake by developing and implementing effective health promotion, partnership, and confidence programs based on Increasing Vaccination Model o Improved capacity to manage infodemics and reduce impact o Increased implementation of vaccine confidence and demand principles and strategies o Improved incorporation of COVID-19 lessons learned into program planning efforts

Long-term Outcomes o Improved support of immunization program managers during pandemic responses

iii. Strategies and Activities The following are the strategies and activities the award recipient is expected to implement during the five-year period of performance. The recipient may identify additional activities necessary to achieve the strategies and should detail them in the work plan.

Strengthen Leadership Development of Program Managers During the period of performance, the recipient will be expected to strengthen the leadership skills and support the professional development of immunization program managers. The recipient will facilitate training and knowledge exchange among experienced and new program managers to provide an opportunity for shared learning and a deeper dive into the complexities of an immunization program. The recipient will work closely with IOSB staff in developing program orientation resources and activities. IOSB will provide the recipient with resources related to immunization program requirements.

Activities associated with this strategy may include, but are not limited to:

Provide quarterly leadership and other types of development trainings for program managers.

Implement a mentoring program pairing experienced program managers with new program managers.

Facilitate peer-to-peer support and information sharing on vaccination topics, such as adult immunization program development. Topics will be developed in collaboration with IOSB/ISD and approved prior to implementation.

Increase Local Partnerships and Communication That Supports Vaccination The recipient will coordinate and collaborate with immunization program managers to increase capacity to address misinformation by collecting and sharing activities that enhance knowledge of vaccine confidence strategies, amplify local voices, grow grass roots communication and vaccine confidence efforts, and routinize the individual’s/family’s choice to vaccinate.

Activities associated with this strategy may include, but are not limited to:

Identify successful grass roots communication efforts and disseminate to immunization programs.

Identify successful ways to amplify local voices in support of vaccination, including through social media, traditional media, and other communication channels or mechanisms.

Partner with national and regional organizations to disseminate messages around vaccinate with confidence through a coordinated effort/event, such as preparing for back to school and as part of workplace wellness.

Evaluate existing Immunization Program Champions program to capture best practices/lessons learned to highlight and promote champions widely.

Work with immunization coalitions, including adult specific sectors, to amplify voices of lay vaccination advocates at the local community level to address vaccine confidence.

Support broad implementation of CDC’s “Success Framework for Adult Immunization Partner Networks” and any similar tools in other areas that may be developed by CDC to further enhance immunization program’s coordination and collaboration with partners to build, expand/enhance, and/or sustain effective adult immunization program efforts.

Collaborate with CDC’s “Vaccinate with Confidence” to develop webinars and other educational resources to increase implementation of evidence-based strategies for addressing mis-dis-/information (e.g., infodemic management, concepts of vaccine confidence and demand, etc.).

Prepare for the Future of Immunization Programs During the five-year period of performance, the recipient will work with ISD and immunization programs to support 1) steady state management of COVID-19 vaccination activities, 2) planning for the “fiscal cliff” when resources are no longer available, and 3) expansion of routine immunization activities across the lifespan. The recipient will facilitate peer to peer sharing to highlight how programs are transitioning into post-COVID immunization operations (e.g., adjustments to staffing and funding resources), integrating COVID-19 vaccination into routine program activities, establishing and/or maintaining adult immunization programs in their jurisdiction, and expanding partnership networks.

Activities associated with this strategy may include, but are not limited to:

Survey current VFC and Immunization Cooperative Agreement funding recipients to capture lessons learned and garner independent feedback that can be used to inform decisions and future program direction.

Identify and share best practices, including age-based immunizations and/or functional areas, with programs as they rebalance and prepare for the end of COVID-19 supplemental funding and expand routine adult immunization work.

Identify successful efforts aimed at immunization program sustainability post-pandemic (how are programs planning for this, what activities are being continued, how and why are they being continued, is this something that can/should be replicated in other locations).

Support dedicated capacity-building activities that assist programs as they expand population reach beyond children and continue to have increased focus on vaccine equity and routine adult immunizations.

Support work around expanded adult vaccination efforts, including the proposed Vaccines for Adults program (if passed in legislation) and the Congressionally approved expansion of Medicare and Medicaid services guaranteeing access to all ACIP-recommended adult immunizations across all state Medicaid beneficiaries and Medicare part D beneficiaries through the development of an adult vaccination workgroup(s).

o Leverage National Adult Immunization Coordinators Program (NAICP) or similar group(s) to ensure alignment with existing efforts and reduce duplicative activities.

Identify best practices related to managing robust adult immunization programs and partnerships that can be leveraged during emergency responses and for routine adult immunization delivery, given recent CMS policy changes as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.

o This should also incorporate any lessons learned into routine vaccination and pandemic preparedness, including how best to partner with preparedness programs in advance.

Expand technical assistance and learning support to the 64 jurisdictions’ immunization programs in support of strategies to increase community engagement, increase routine adult vaccine confidence and uptake among disproportionately affected adult populations, and establish formal adult immunization programs.

Support capacity building of Program Managers to develop, sustain and work collaboratively with Immunization coalitions by providing standards and best practices.

Create strategic partnership opportunities between immunization program recipients and other CDC-funded partners, including Partnering for Vaccine Equity (P4VE), Disproportionately Affected Adult Populations (DAAP), and Vaccinate with Confidence programs.

o Facilitate opportunities to support communities of practice that leverage population or subject-matter-expert specific insights from other CDC-funded partners to inform routine immunization program planning and capacity building efforts.

Address Emerging Issues

The recipient will support immunization programs to effectively address emerging issues by developing and facilitating strategic and rapid coordination and data collection among national partners.

Activities associated with this strategy may include, but are not limited to:

Develop tools for and/or support external efforts to collect information for decision making.

Promote collaboration among key partners and stakeholders.

Develop informational resources to address emerging issues.

Collaborative Engagement of Immunization Program Managers The recipient will support peer-to-peer learning opportunities for the program managers to learn about successful practices and provide support to a national network of immunization program managers.

Activities associated with this strategy may include, but are not limited to:

Convene at least 4 topical discussions with program managers per year.

o Topics to be determined with input from CDC/ISD and program managers.

o Recipient should consider including trainings that address immunization across the lifespan.

Convene semiannual regional discussions.

Collaborate with the American Immunization Registry Association (AIRA) to assist with translation of Immunization Information Systems (IIS) resources to ensure easy implementation by program managers.

Convene all jurisdictions for an in-person annual meeting.

Solicit feedback from program managers through listening sessions/focus groups, surveys and assessments.

Facilitate translation of scientific/technical/data resources for program implementation.

Develop improvement collaboratives to share best practices in a measurable way.

o Leverage the Partnering for Vaccine Equity Learning Community to improve engagement with other CDC-funded partners.

Identify ways to incorporate immunization quality or performance improvement projects within jurisdictions to leverage healthcare organization accreditation and healthcare provider maintenance of board certification requirements.

1. Collaborations

a. With other CDC projects and CDC-funded organizations:

Two primary collaborations are necessary for the execution of this award, collaboration with CDC and with federally funded immunization programs.

The recipient is required to collaborate with federally funded immunization programs. The recipient will provide trainings, resources, communication, or assistance to immunization program managers as a result of this award. Immunization program managers support of, and partnership with, the award recipient is necessary to carry out all aspects of this award.

Secondary collaborations among other CDC and CDC-funded organizations and the recipient are encouraged when appropriate. This may include other CDC-funded non-profit organizations and other CDC programs with overlapping topics or target audiences.

b. With organizations not funded by CDC:

When appropriate, the recipient is recommended to work in collaboration with non-CDC funded organizations to leverage resources and support the strategies and activities of this award to achieve the intended outcomes. This may include, but is not limited to public health organizations, immunization coalitions, professional associations, academic institutions, health departments, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, etc.

2. Target Populations The target populations for this project are immunization program managers from state, territorial, and local health departments that are recipients of the funding opportunity CDC-RFA-IP19-1901, “Immunization and Vaccines for Children”.

a. Health Disparities The award recipient is encouraged to incorporate efforts to reduce health disparities and improve social determinants of health in the execution of the cooperative agreement activities, when appropriate.

iv. Funding Strategy Multiple funding streams will be available for different strategies and activities and will be supported based on availability of funds. Strategies 1, 2, 4 and 5 will be funded from CDC annual immunization appropriation. Strategy 3 (Increase local partnership and communication that supports vaccination) activities will be funded through a mix of CDC annual immunization appropriation and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Funds with an estimated ceiling of $5 Million.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Funds: A recipient of a grant or cooperative agreement awarded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) with funds made available under the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020 (P.L. 116-123); the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, 2020 (the “CARES Act”) (P.L. 116-136); the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act (P.L. 116-139); the Consolidated Appropriations Act and the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplement Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116-260) and/or the American Rescue Plan of 2021 [P.L. 117-2] agrees, as applicable to the award, to: 1) comply with existing and/or future directives and guidance from the Secretary regarding control of the spread of COVID-19; 2) in consultation and coordination with HHS, provide, commensurate with the condition of the individual, COVID-19 patient care regardless of the individual’s home jurisdiction and/or appropriate public health measures (e.g., social distancing, home isolation); and 3) assist the United States Government in the implementation and enforcement of federal orders related to quarantine and isolation.

In addition, to the extent applicable, Recipient will comply with Section 18115 of the CARES Act, with respect to the reporting to the HHS Secretary of results of tests intended to detect SARS–CoV–2 or to diagnose a possible case of COVID–19. Such reporting shall be in accordance with guidance and direction from HHS and/or CDC. HHS laboratory reporting guidance is posted at: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/covid-19-laboratory-data-reporting-guidance.pdf.

Further, consistent with the full scope of applicable grant regulations (45 C.F.R. 75.322), the purpose of this award, and the underlying funding, the recipient is expected to provide to CDC copies of and/or access to COVID-19 data collected with these funds, including but not limited to data related to COVID-19 testing. CDC will specify in further guidance and directives what is encompassed by this requirement.

This award is contingent upon agreement by the recipient to comply with existing and future guidance from the HHS Secretary regarding control of the spread of COVID-19. In addition, recipient is expected to flow down these terms to any subaward, to the extent applicable to activities set out in such subaward.

b. Evaluation and Performance Measurement

i. CDC Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategy

CDC and the recipient will evaluate and measure NOFO efforts over the entire five-year period of performance. Within six-month post-award, CDC and the recipient will collaboratively finalize process and outcome measures related to program short-term outcomes to ensure they are concrete and achievable.

As part of the application, the applicant should define measures that will be used to:

track implementation of recipient strategies and activities (process evaluation) and determine progress on achieving the period of performance outcomes (outcome evaluation).

Potential measures for the process evaluation:

Strategy 1: Strengthen Leadership Development of Program Managers

Process measures: How many leadership development trainings and presentations have occurred? What types and how many resources have been developed? How many program managers are participating in mentoring or peer-to-peer support activities?

Strategy 2: Increase Local Partnerships and Communication That Supports Vaccination

Process measures: How many communication practices have been identified? What types of efforts have been identified? How many practice summaries have been developed?

What types of promotion of practices have occurred? How many practices have been adopted by immunization programs? How many partners have been engaged? How many events have occurred? How many webinars have been developed?

Strategy 3: Prepare for the Future of Immunization Programs

Process Measures: What types of issues are arising among program managers, and what are the resources or support needed to address the issue? What assessments have been conducted? How much and what type of input has been provided to ISD/IOSB, when requested, on policy, guidance, or operational changes?

https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/covid-19-laboratory-data-reporting-guidance.pdf https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/covid-19-laboratory-data-reporting-guidance.pdf

Strategy 4: Address Emerging Issues

Process Measures: How many and which tools have been developed? How many collaborations have been developed? What types and how many informational resources have been developed?

Strategy 5: Collaborative Engagement of Immunization Program Managers

Process measures: How many trainings and resources have been developed? How many presentations/trainings were conducted? What topics have been covered by trainings or peer to peer learning opportunities? What analyses or evaluation have occurred? How many reports have been developed?

Potential measures for outcome evaluation:

Short-Term Outcomes (SO):

SO 1: Increased ability of program managers to identify strengths, weaknesses of their programs, and needed training support o Outcome measures: % program managers who report being able to identify strengths and weaknesses; % program managers who report knowing how to access training support.

SO 2: Increased program manager participation in leadership trainings, mentoring program, and peer-to-peer support activities o Outcome measures: % program managers who report leadership training needs met; % immunization program managers satisfied with trainings; % program managers who report increased confidence in serving as program manager/carrying out tasks as program manager.

SO 3: Increased ”Vaccinate with Confidence” messaging via social media and other communication methods o Outcome measures: % increased messaging via social media and other social media communication, # of hits, clicks, likes, reposts or additional sharing of messaging.

SO 4: Increased understanding of evidence-based strategies for preventing, identifying, and responding to mis-/dis-information o Outcome measures: % change in reported knowledge obtained as a result of trainings/resources; % change in reported skill among participants to address the selected topic areas.

SO 5: Improved knowledge of vaccine confidence, communication, and infodemic management principles and best practices o Outcome measures: % of programs incorporating best practices into communications.

SO 6: Increased knowledge among immunization programs of practices to assist in return to steady-state operations o Outcome measures: % program managers reporting confidence in ability to plan transition to steady state operations.

SO 7: Enhanced flexibility to collect and provide timely information o Outcome measures: % of programs responding to calls for information; % of analysis completed and presented within 2 weeks of closing calls for information.

% change in reported capacity to develop new trainings, resources and tools within 1 month of identified emerging issue; % program managers satisfied with developed materials, training and support.

SO 8: Enhanced capacity to address issues in selected programmatic areas o Outcome measures: % change in reported knowledge obtained as a result of trainings/resources; % change in reported skill among program managers to address the selected topic areas; % change in reported capacity to address the selected topic areas among program managers

SO 9: Improved information sharing with immunization program managers o Outcome measures: % reported satisfaction with communication and information sharing between key stakeholders

SO 10: Increased opportunities for immunization programs to participate in communities of practice o Outcome measures: Increased # of immunization staff participating in communities of practice; % of staff reported increased knowledge, skills and capacity in select topic areas

Intermediate Outcomes (IO):

IO 1: Increased ability of program managers to direct staff and other resources to build on identified strengths and address weaknesses o Outcome measures: Is there evidence that the program managers are equipped to serve in the role?

IO 2: Increased vaccine uptake by developing and implementing effective health promotion, partnership, and confidence programs based on Increasing Vaccination Model o Outcome measures: Is there evidence of increased adoptions of practices; Is there evidence of increased vaccine uptake?

IO 3: Improved capacity to manage infodemics and reduce impact o Outcome measures: Is there evidence of infodemic management?

IO 4: Increased implementation of vaccine confidence and demand principles and strategies o Outcome measures: Is there evidence of increased application of principles and strategies?

IO 5: Improved incorporation of COVID-19 lessons learned into program planning efforts o Outcome measures: Is there evidence of lessons learned being incorporated into in planning efforts, policies, procedures and operations?

Long-term Outcomes

LO 1: Improved support of immunization program managers during pandemic responses o Outcome measures: Are there structures in place to support immunization program managers during pandemic responses? Is there evidence that structures are utilized and improved routinely to be prepared for future pandemics?

ii. Applicant Evaluation and Performance Measurement Plan Applicants must provide an evaluation and performance measurement plan that demonstrates how the recipient will fulfill the requirements described in the CDC Evaluation and Performance Measurement and Project Description sections of this NOFO. At a minimum, the plan must describe:

How the applicant will collect the performance measures, respond to the evaluation questions, and use evaluation findings for continuous program quality improvement.

How key program partners will participate in the evaluation and performance measurement planning processes.

Available data sources, feasibility of collecting appropriate evaluation and performance data, and other relevant data information (e.g., performance measures proposed by the applicant)

Plans for updating the Data Management Plan (DMP) as new pertinent information becomes available. If applicable, throughout the lifecycle of the project. Updates to DMP should be provided in annual progress reports. The DMP should provide a description of the data that will be produced using these NOFO funds; access to data;

data standards ensuring released data have documentation describing methods of collection, what the data represent, and data limitations; and archival and long-term data preservation plans. For more information about CDC’s policy on the DMP, see https://www.cdc.gov/grants/additional-requirements/ar-25.html.

Where the applicant chooses to, or is expected to, take on specific evaluation studies, the applicant should be directed to:

Describe the type of evaluations (i.e., process, outcome, or both).

Describe key evaluation questions to be addressed by these evaluations.

Describe other information (e.g., measures, data sources).

Recipients will be required to submit a more detailed Evaluation and Performance Measurement plan, including a DMP, if applicable, within the first 6 months of award, as described in the Reporting Section of this NOFO.

c. Organizational Capacity of Recipients to Implement the Approach https://www.cdc.gov/grants/additional-requirements/ar-25.html

Applicants must provide information on their organizational capacity which clearly demonstrates an ability to execute the CDC program requirements in a timely and efficient manner. In addition, applicants for this award must demonstrate:

A national perspective and organizational focus dedicated to supporting the work of immunization program managers.

o applicants must upload their membership list and any other documentation demonstrating their membership and organizational mission in Grants.gov under Other Attachment Forms, and label the document “Documentation of Membership”

Staff, or access to staff, with knowledge and experience in providing mentoring and leadership development opportunities.

o applicants must upload CVs/resumes demonstrating staff knowledge and experience in Grants.gov under Other Attachment Forms, and label the document “CV/resume”

Experience working with federally funded immunization programs on topics such as:

program management, vaccine management, vaccine storage and handling, information technology and immunization information systems, immunization policy, vaccine funding, health education, and vaccine-preventable disease surveillance.

o applicants must upload at least one letter of support from and any other documentation describing their experience working with federally funded immunization programs and knowledge of immunization technical areas in Grants.gov under Other Attachment Forms, and label the document “Documentation of experience with federally funded immunization programs”

In addition, applicants for this award must describe:

Capacity, staffing plan and project management structure to conduct all of the strategies and activities and meet the outcomes outlined in the NOFO.

Methods of communicating with immunization program managers via, at minimum, a website and email distribution list (e.g., listserv).

An existing ability to manage the award, e.g.,:

o Program, staffing, and performance management o Performance monitoring and evaluation o Fiscal management and reporting o Technological tools or resources to execute proposed strategies o Administrative management of the required procurement efforts including the ability to write and award contracts.

d. Work Plan Applicants must develop a work plan that outlines how the proposed strategies and supporting activities will achieve the outcomes during the five-year period of performance. The work plan will provide both a high-level overview of the five-year period of performance and a detailed description of the first year of the award. The work plan should incorporate all NOFO-related program strategies and activities, and applicants should describe how they plan to monitor each activity. CDC will provide feedback and technical assistance to the award recipient to finalize the work plan within 6 months post award. The work plan must include:

Year 1 Detailed Work Plan:

o Activities and timelines to support achievement of NOFO outcomes. These activities must be aligned with the NOFO logic model and should have appropriate performance measures or milestones for accompanying tasks.

o Staff, contractors, or consultants to support implementation of the award. Specify staff responsibility for NOFO-related activities and qualifications for these roles.

o Budget and budget narrative.

Five-Year Overview of Project Plan:

o Intended activities and outcomes over the course of the project; providing high-level details for years 2-5.

Applicants may develop their own workplan but a sample format is presented below to show how a traditional work plan aligns with the logic model and narrative.

In this format, the table would be completed for each period of performance outcome. If a particular activity leads to multiple outcomes, it should be described under each outcome measure.

Period of Performance Outcome:

[from Outcomes section and/or logic model]

Outcome Measure:

[from Evaluation and Performance Measurement section]

Strategies and Activities Process Measure

[from Evaluation and Performance Measurement section]

Responsible Position / Party

Completion Date

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

e. CDC Monitoring and Accountability Approach Monitoring activities include routine and ongoing communication between CDC and recipients, site visits, and recipient reporting (including work plans, performance, and financial reporting).

Consistent with applicable grants regulations and policies, CDC expects the following to be included in post-award monitoring for grants and cooperative agreements:

Tracking recipient progress in achieving the desired outcomes.

Ensuring the adequacy of recipient systems that underlie and generate data reports.

Creating an environment that fosters integrity in program performance and results.

Monitoring may also include the following activities deemed necessary to monitor the award:

Ensuring that work plans are feasible based on the budget and consistent with the intent of the award.

Ensuring that recipients are performing at a sufficient level to achieve outcomes within stated timeframes.

Working with recipients on adjusting the work plan based on achievement of outcomes, evaluation results and changing budgets.

Monitoring performance measures (both programmatic and financial) to assure satisfactory performance levels.

Monitoring and reporting activities that assist grants management staff (e.g., grants management officers and specialists, and project officers) in the identification, notification, and management of high-risk recipients.

CDC will provide ongoing monitoring of the work plan, and status of meeting milestones and performance measures including expected outputs and outcomes through regularly occurring conference calls which will provide a forum for discussing challenges, barriers, and progress toward achieving goals.

In addition, IOSB will provide consultation to the award recipient on trainings, resources, communication, or assistance provided to immunization program managers as a result of this award.

f. CDC Program Support to Recipients

In a cooperative agreement, CDC staff are substantially involved in the program activities, above and beyond routine grant monitoring. CDC activities will include:

Provide ongoing assistance required to achieve strategies and supporting activities.

Review, as needed, data collection methodology and instruments developed by the recipient to complete activities and required evaluation.

Collaborate with recipient to identify subject matter experts and required resources to achieve strategies and execute activities.

Hosting periodic opportunities for face-to-face meetings to coordinate and enhance activities.

B. Award Information

1. Funding Instrument Type:

CA (Cooperative Agreement)

CDC's substantial involvement in this program appears in the CDC Program Support to Recipients Section.

2. Award Mechanism:

H23

3. Fiscal Year:

4. Approximate Total Fiscal Year Funding:

$6,000,000

5. Total Period of Performance Funding:

$30,000,000 This amount is subject to the availability of funds.

Estimated Total Funding:

$30,000,000

6. Total Period of Performance Length:

5 year(s) year(s)

7. Expected Number of Awards:

8. Approximate Average Award:

$6,000,000 Per Budget Period

9. Award Ceiling:

$6,000,000 Per Budget Period

This amount is subject to the availability of funds.

10. Award Floor:

$1,000,000 Per Budget Period

11. Estimated Award Date:

August 31, 2023

12. Budget Period Length:

12 month(s)

Throughout the project period, CDC will continue the award based on the availability of funds, the evidence of satisfactory progress by the recipient (as documented in required reports), and the determination that continued funding is in the best interest of the federal government. The total number of years for which federal support has been approved (project period) will be shown in the “Notice of Award.” This information does not constitute a commitment by the federal government to fund the entire period. The total period of performance comprises the initial competitive segment and any subsequent non-competitive continuation award(s).

13. Direct Assistance Direct Assistance (DA) is not available through this NOFO.

If you are successful and receive a Notice of Award, in accepting the award, you agree that the award and any activities thereunder are subject to all provisions of 45 CFR part 75, currently in effect or implemented during the period of the award, other Department regulations and policies in effect at the time of the award, and applicable statutory provisions.

C. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

Eligibility Category:

00 (State governments)

01 (County governments)

02 (City or township governments)

04 (Special district governments)

05 (Independent school districts)

06 (Public and State controlled institutions of higher education)

07 (Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized))

08 (Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities)

11 (Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments))

12 (Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education)

Additional Eligibility Category:

Government Organizations:

State governments or their bona fide agents (includes the District of Columbia)

Local governments or their bona fide agents

Territorial governments or their bona fide agents in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianna Islands, American Samoa, Guam, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau

State controlled institutions of higher education

American Indian or Alaska Native tribal governments (federally recognized or state-recognized)

Non-government Organizations

American Indian or Alaska native tribally designated organizations

2. Additional Information on Eligibility

Eligible applicants are those national 501(c)(3) tax exempt organizations that have an active membership of at least one member in each of the 50 states and whose primary constituency is state immunization program managers.

Applicants that do not provide documentation of membership as described, will be considered nonresponsive and will not be passed forward for further review.

3. Justification for Less than Maximum Competition

4. Cost Sharing or Matching

Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement:

No Cost sharing or matching funds are not required for this program. Although no statutory matching requirement for this NOFO exists, leveraging other resources and related ongoing efforts to promote sustainability is strongly encouraged.

5. Maintenance of Effort

Maintenance of effort is not required for this program

D. Application and Submission Information

1. Required Registrations

An organization must be registered at the three following locations before it can submit an application for funding at www.grants.gov.

PLEASE NOTE: Effective April 4, 2022, applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) at the time of application submission (SF-424, field 8c). The UEI is generated as part of SAM.gov registration. Current SAM.gov registrants have already been assigned their UEI and can view it in SAM.gov and Grants.gov. Additional information is available on the GSA website, SAM.gov, and Grants.gov- Finding the UEI.

a. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI):

All applicant organizations must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number by registering in SAM.gov prior to submitting an application. A UEI number is a unique twelve-digit identification number assigned to the registering organization.

If funds are awarded to an applicant organization that includes sub-recipients, those sub-recipients must provide their UEI numbers before accepting any funds.

https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.gsa.gov/about-us/organization/federal-acquisition-service/office-of-systems-management/integrated-award-environment-iae/iae-systems-information-kit/unique-entity-identifier-update https://sam.gov/content/home https://grantsgovprod.wordpress.com/2021/09/14/how-to-find-an-applicants-uei-within-grants-gov/ https://grantsgovprod.wordpress.com/2021/09/14/how-to-find-an-applicants-uei-within-grants-gov/

b. System for Award Management (SAM):

The SAM is the primary registrant database for the federal government and the repository into which an entity must submit information required to conduct business as a recipient. All applicant organizations must register with SAM, and will be assigned a SAM number and a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). All information relevant to the SAM number must be current at all times during which the applicant has an application under consideration for funding by CDC.

If an award is made, the SAM information must be maintained until a final financial report is submitted or the final payment is received, whichever is later. The SAM registration process can require 10 or more business days, and registration must be renewed annually. Additional information about registration procedures may be found at SAM.gov and the SAM.gov Knowledge Base.

c. Grants.gov:

The first step in submitting an application online is registering your organization at www.grants.gov, the official HHS E-grant Web site. Registration information is located at the "Applicant Registration" option at www.grants.gov.

All applicant organizations must register at www.grants.gov. The one-time registration process usually takes not more than five days to complete.