FY2023 AAU PDS_Afghan Alumni Engagement NOFO.pdf

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

U.S. Mission to Afghanistan (Doha)

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

Funding Opportunity Title: Afghan Alumni Engagement Funding Opportunity Number: SCAKAB-23-CA-002-SCA-04252023 Deadline for Applications: June 1, 2023 [11:59 p.m. U.S. Eastern time] Deadline for Questions: May 15, 2023 (11:59 p.m., U.S. Eastern time] Assistance Listing Number: 19.501 Public Diplomacy Programs for Afghanistan and Pakistan Total Amount Available: $500,000.00 Program Office: Public Diplomacy Section, U.S. Mission Afghanistan (Doha)

CONTACT INFORMATION

• For questions relating to https://www.grants.gov/ please call the Grants.gov Contact Center at 1-800-518-4726.

• To inquire about the process for obtaining a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) contact Donald Hunter at HunterDS@state.gov.

• For assistance with the requirements of this solicitation, contact KabulPDSProposals@state.gov.

In order to be eligible to receive an award under this NOFO, 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 begin the registration processes immediately to ensure the registrations are completed well in advance of the submission deadline. The process can require several weeks for the registrations to be validated and confirmed. See Section D:

Submission Requirements for further details.

Due to the volume of applicants and inquiries, the Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) does not accept letters of intent, concept papers, or requests for meetings or phone calls prior to application.

All application materials must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov. Application materials submitted via other means such as email will not be accepted.

It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application package is received in its entirety. Incomplete applications will be considered ineligible. Applicants are urged to begin the application process well before the submission deadline. No exceptions will be made for organizations that have not completed the necessary steps.

https://www.grants.gov/ mailto:HunterDS@state.gov mailto:KabulPDSProposals@state.gov http://www.sam.gov/

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of U.S. Mission Afghanistan, is pleased to announce an open competition for eligible organizations to submit applications to implement a project to facilitate greater connectivity and action among alumni of U.S. Embassy Kabul and U.S. Mission Afghanistan Public Diplomacy and other U.S. government exchange programs. Please carefully follow all instructions below.

Executive Summary The proposal should enhance coordination among U.S. Public Diplomacy program alumni, empowering them to unite their efforts and play an active role in the social, economic, and civic life of Afghans inside of Afghanistan and within Afghan diaspora and refugee communities. This may be accomplished through virtual and regional conferences, mentorship, networking, training and educational opportunities, alumni-led activities, small grants program for activities designed and implemented by Alumni in Afghanistan and within the diaspora communities. This should occur through the management of a strategic schedule of initiatives. PDS intends to issue an award for a period of at least 24 months.

Background Over the last 20 years more than 7,000 Afghans have participated in Public Diplomacy and other U.S. government exchange programs and are now part of a large network with the potential to influence the future of Afghanistan. These alumni come from programs such as (but not limited to) Fulbright, International Visitor Leadership Program, academic exchanges, university scholarships, English language programs, youth leadership programs and many more.

These alumni reside across Afghanistan as in diaspora and refugee communities around the world. Our program alumni represent a diverse array of former government officials, civil society, and private sector leaders and working professionals, as well as youth, students, and other emerging influencers. Women and girls represent a significant proportion of the alumni and many of them have participated in programs specifically designed to elevate the voices, visibility, and participation of women in Afghan society.

In recognition of the size and potential future influence of this group of alumni, the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan has initiated several programs over the past years to engage with the network of Afghan alumni to empower them with small grants to organize community-based projects, opportunities for enhanced engagement among the Alumni, and with mentorship and professional network development opportunities. This grant seeks to maintain engagement with and among alumni using previously successful programming. It also aims to address the needs of alumni both inside Afghanistan and in diaspora communities to maintain connections with their Afghan counterparts who have been dislocated by migration. The proposal should explain its plan for creating and maintaining an alumni database that serve as a platform to engage with the network of Afghan alumni, share opportunities, events and announcement. It aims to provide opportunities to enhance professional and personal skills as opportunities to practice those skills at work or in school continue to decline. It aims to provide outlets for free expression to the alumni community even as space for free expression in Afghan society continues to narrow.

Goal The aim of this program is to organize and maintain strong ties among alumni of U.S.

government-funded exchange programs, positioning them to unite their efforts and reclaim an active role in the social, economic, cultural, and political development of Afghanistan in the future. The program aims to address the acute needs of women and girls by providing enhanced opportunities for their participation, in both all-women and mixed-gender environments.

Program Objectives:

The objectives of this project are to:

• Enhance communication and coordination among U.S. Mission Afghanistan exchange program alumni on priority topics of education, youth and women’s empowerment, climate actions, economic opportunity, professional and personal skills, career readiness, leadership, and English-language development.

• Empower individual PDS alumni to initiate security sensitive community-based projects by providing small grants to groups of alumni both inside Afghanistan and in third-country diaspora communities.

• Encourage mentorship and professional networking among alumni, especially between Afghans in Afghanistan and their Afghan counterparts in diaspora and refugee communities.

• Create opportunities to inform Department of State stakeholders about the attitudes, achievements, and efforts of individual alumni as they pertain to U.S. policy priorities in Afghanistan.

• Provide an outlet and safe space for various forms of self-expression and cultural appreciation.

Participants and Audiences:

The primary audience is Afghan alumni of U.S. Embassy Kabul and U.S. Mission Afghanistan exchange programs who are in Afghanistan or a part of diaspora and refugee communities in third countries. In addition, proposals should consider that programs will more effectively engage the needs of participants if they are categorized into two groups (Senior and Junior).

Senior:

• Level of Education: Completed College degree or equivalent.

• Work experience: 3+ years in professional environment.

• Sample Program Needs: Professional networking, advanced skills training, mentoring opportunities.

Junior:

• Level of Education: Current students (secondary or post-secondary)

• Work experience: Less than three years’ experience in a professional environment.

• Sample Program Needs: career readiness, additional skills building, educational advising, mentorship opportunities.

Project Details: The proposals should describe a comprehensive work plan on how the applicant will address Alumni engagement, capacity building, networking, and opportunities for dialogue.

1. Plan for incorporating Afghan alumni inside Afghanistan as well as in diaspora and refugee communities in third countries. This could include virtual and, where possible, limited in-person engagement programs.

2. Plan for a virtual Alumni conference to engage with all Afghan Alumni inside Afghanistan and outside of Afghanistan.

3. Plan for how to coordinate with other organizations who work with Afghan Alumni on programming and alumni initiatives.

• The plan should describe how the applicant will identify/select and include Alumni

Leaders on programming and activities.

• Plan on identifying key active alumni throughout the provinces, assist with disseminating communications such as newsletters, event invitations, and small grant opportunity announcements, attend and moderate events, suggest program topics and focuses based on their knowledge and experience working with alumni.

• Proposals are strongly encouraged to include a plan for working with Afghan-led organizations (particularly if the primary applicant is not Afghan-led).

4. Cultural and educational programs for PDS alumni offered to alumni inside Afghanistan and those in third countries:

• Specific programming calendar and budget of events for September 2023 –

September 2025, should include the following:

a. One cultural, education, or networking event per quarter in-person and/or virtual (example topics: U.S. culture and society, World Anti-Corruption Day, International Women’s Day, entrepreneurship, Iftar celebration, etc.)

b. One professional skills workshop per quarter in-person and/or virtual (example topics: grant writing, resume/CV writing, interviewing skills, leadership skills...etc.)

c. One community service/volunteer event per year.

d. One yearly assembly of all alumni (consider both in-person and virtual participation).

e. U.S. Mission staff will give final approval and guidance on event and workshop topics.

f. U.S. Mission-led and directed events will not be counted to fulfill these requirements.

• Programs where alumni share their experiences with students are not required but highly recommended.

5. Implementing a professional mentorship program across various fields (e.g. medical, journalism, education, social services).

• Applicant is not expected to pay the alumni for participation in the mentorship program, but rather to use its network of alumni and contacts to pair young alumni with individuals who are further along in their career paths.

• Applicant should not pay alumni mentors or employers for providing mentorship.

6. Plan for managing and increasing alumni connectivity via social media and online platforms, including:

• Management of online/digital monthly newsletters.

• Management of online platform for groups for alumni where alumni stories, professional opportunities, scholarships, and other announcements can be discussed.

• Details on types of digital platforms to be used, objectives to accomplish, and “reach” goals.

• Thematic content development of interest to the alumni community.

• A repository of on-line resources available

7. Plan for managing a small grants program to include selection, issuance, and oversight as a means of supporting community-based initiatives of Alumni and establish an interactive data mapping of all Alumni activities.

• This should include an annual debrief and gathering to welcome all of the new alumni.

• Applicant should disburse grants to support projects that further alumni engagement and community service.

• PDS Afghanistan will provide a list of priority topics and themes to be disseminated to alumni for project proposal purposes.

a. Applicant will establish a documented process with criteria for vetting grant applications from alumni and will only support/forward proposals that meet or exceed stated requirements.

b. Small grants awards ranging between $1,000 up-to $10,000 each.

c. PDS Afghanistan will approve selected winners for each quarter.

d. Applicant will provide constructive feedback to applicants on the substance and feasibility of their proposals.

• Applicant should inform PDS staff of project progress, provide project descriptions for all grants, and submit reports and pictures that will be used within PDS and on social media.

a. Safety and privacy of alumni and event participants is a priority. Applicant should create a “consent” form for all alumni to sign as part of the small grant final report package so they can clearly indicate which photos are only for internal use, and which they give consent for external use.

8. Monitoring and Evaluation plan, to include:

• A plan to track quarterly and yearly alumni involvement and projects.

• Reporting on alumni driven initiatives.

• Manage an updated list of notable and most active alumni.

9. A plan to support a comprehensive refresh of the alumni database, including collecting contact information for alumni whose information is no longer valid due to dislocation and migration, and updated information on the status of members of the alumni corps.

10. Long-term sustainability plan.

11. A security and risk mitigation plan to support safe decision-making by alumni in

Afghanistan and in vulnerable communities in third countries.

12. Applicant will manage travel logistics for alumni events as needed when engaging in program activities

13. Other events or program elements, in consultation with PDS.

Proposal narratives should include a brief commitment to implement the program for the base period of 24 months, plus additional option period. The narrative should focus on details specific to the implementation of the base period program, with the understanding that the program design, duration, and number of beneficiaries would be similar when/if subsequent option periods are exercised. PDS will conduct a performance evaluation/review to determine if an option period will be exercised. Satisfactory performance and the availability of funds is a condition of continued administration of the program and execution of all option periods.

The safety and security of all participants and activities under this project are the sole responsibility of the award recipient. Due to the changing nature of security in Afghanistan, PDS requires all applicants to include in their proposal a security plan to accompany appropriate programmatic elements within their proposal. Reasonable costs for necessary security are allowable expenses and may be included in the proposed budget. Additionally, applicants should submit their organizational policy for working within high-risk environments, which should include security operational procedures. The U.S. Mission Afghanistan cannot stress enough that the security and safety of implementing partners and program participants is paramount. All program proposals must describe any safety precautions and measures that will be undertaken to minimize risks to implementors as well as participants. The U.S. Mission Afghanistan also reserves the right to suspend or adjust program elements as necessary to ensure the protection of implementing partners and participants.

This project will be funded by Economic Support Funds, authorized by the Foreign Assistance Act, and is subject to the statutory limitations of such funding.

B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

Length of performance period: 24 months Number of awards anticipated: One award Total available funding: $500,000.00 Award Ceiling: $500,000.00 Award Floor: $250,000.00

Type of Funding: FY23 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds Anticipated programs start date: September 2023

This notice is subject to availability of funding.

Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement

Program Performance Period: Proposed programs should be completed in 24 Months; option for additional time to be determined.

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

Support for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA): All programs should consider strategies for expanding the pool of individuals/organizations/beneficiaries to afford opportunities for as diverse and inclusive population as is feasible to bring diverse perspectives based on religion, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sex characteristics, national origin, and age to implementation of the program.

C. ELIGILIBITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants:

Eligibility is open to non-profit organizations. Organizations may sub-award/contract with other entities, but only one non-profit entity may be the prime recipient of the award. For-profit entities are not eligible to be the prime recipient of an award under this NOFO. When sub-awarding/contracting with other entities, the responsibilities of each entity must be clearly defined in the proposal. Individuals are not eligible for an award under this NOFO. Please refer to Section D for funding restrictions.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching:

Cost sharing or matching is not required for this funding opportunity.

3. Other Eligibility Requirements:

• In order to be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov. Please see Section D.3 for more information. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.

• Applications that fail to furnish all documents and information outlined in Section D of this notice or comply with the stated requirements will not be considered for an award.

• Any applicant listed on the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS) in SAM is not eligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the Office of Management and Budget guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p.

189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.” Additionally, no entity listed on the EPLS can participate in any activities under an award. All applicants are strongly encouraged to review the EPLS in SAM to ensure that no ineligible entity is included.

• There is no limit on the number of applications an entity may submit for this NOFO.

• Previous federal award recipients that are not/were not in compliance with the terms of the award, including the financial and program reporting requirements, are not eligible for an award under this NOFO. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure it is in compliance with all applicable terms, conditions, and Office of Management and Budget guidance and requirements.

• Applicants may be asked to submit information required by DS Form 4184 Risk Analysis Information about their organization and its principal personnel. Vetting information is also required for all sub-award and contractor performance on assistance awards identified by the Department as presenting a risk of terrorist financing. If an application is selected to move forward in the review process and when vetting information is requested by the Grants Officer, information may be submitted on the secure web portal at https://ramportal.state.gov or via email to RAM@state.gov . Questions about the form may be emailed to RAM@state.gov . Failure to submit information when requested or failure to pass Dept of State vetting may be grounds for rejecting your proposal.

• Applicants are advised that individuals proposed to participate in an award resulting from this NOFO (recipient employees, contractors, beneficiaries, etc.) are subject to vetting for involvement in corrupt practices, illicit narcotics production or trafficking, and violation of human rights. Successful passing of this vetting is a precondition to any award under this NOFO.

4. This opportunity will not support:

• Projects relating to partisan political activity;

• Charitable or development activities;

• Construction projects;

• Projects that support specific religious activities;

• Fund-raising campaigns;

• Lobbying for specific legislation or programs

• Scientific research or surveys;

• Commercial projects;

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

https://ramportal.state.gov/ mailto:RAM@state.gov mailto:RAM@state.gov

• Projects that duplicate existing projects; or

• Illegal activities

D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

Address to Request Application Package

This NOFO document and any amendments can be found at www.grants.gov and Grant

Opportunities - U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan (usembassy.gov). If you require special accommodation to access any information contained in this announcement, please contact KabulPDSProposals@state.gov (preferred method of communication).

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

Content of Application Applicants must 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

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

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

• All materials are submitted in one of the following formats: .xls, .xlsx. .doc, .docx, .pdf, or.jpeg. Other file types will likely not be reviewed.

• Grants.gov does not accept all UTF-8 special characters in file attachment names.

Applicants are able to enter all special characters from the UTF-8 character set when submitting applications and information to Grants.gov. However, if the grantor's system is not yet compatible with these special characters, the grantor system may produce garbled or missing text in the application. As a result, the application may be rejected.

The following documents are required:

1. Mandatory application forms

• SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance – organizations)

• SF-424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs)

• SF-424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs)

All submissions must include the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance and the SF-424A Budget Information—Non-Construction. These forms and the instructions for completing them http://www.grants.gov/ https://af.usembassy.gov/embassy/grant-opportunities/ https://af.usembassy.gov/embassy/grant-opportunities/ are available at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html under the heading “SF-424 Family.”

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

3. Proposal (15 pages maximum): The proposal should contain sufficient information that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do. You may use your own proposal format, but it must include all the items below.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Key Personnel: At a minimum the Program Manager position will be designated key personnel for this project. The proposal narrative should include names, titles, roles, and experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program and communicate what proportion of their time will be devoted to this program. As a required attachment, applicants must include a 1-page CV or resume for each key personnel proposed for the program. If an individual for these positions have not been identified, the applicant may submit a 1-page position description identifying the qualifications and skills required for the position in lieu of a resume.

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

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

• Support of Equity and Underserved Communities: A description of how the applicant plans on incorporating principles of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) and engaging underserved communities in their program’s administration, design, and implementation. For more information, please reference Section F. Federal Award Administration Information.

• Program Monitoring & 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 http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html 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? Proposals must include a draft Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP). The M&E PMP should show how applicants intend to measure and demonstrate progress towards the project’s objectives and goals. Annex 2 of this funding opportunity contains a template that may be used to fulfill this requirement. While the applicant is free to create their own template, completing Annex 2 will ensure a thorough PMP. If an applicant chooses to use its own template, it must include all the information outlined in the template in Annex 2.

The required components to the PMP are as follows:

a. Monitoring and Evaluation Narrative: In narrative form, applicants should describe how they intend to monitor and evaluate the activities of their award and collect data that tracks award performance. In addition, the applicant should describe any M&E processes, including key personnel, management structure (where M&E fits into the overall program’s staff structure), technology, and as well provide a brief budget narrative explaining any line-item expenditures for M&E listed in the program’s budget.

Submission should demonstrate an ability to adjust project activities based on new information. If the applicant has conducted similar programs in the past, the plan should describe how the applicant has adapted, improved or otherwise modified their approach based on learning from previous experience/past performance. If the applicant has not conducted similar programs, the plan should describe how the applicant used desk research, prior experience, or other evidence to directly inform program design. This narrative is limited to two pages.

b. Theory of Change Diagram: Applicants will be expected to submit either a Theory of Change diagram or an If-Then Statement that illustrates how project activities will lead to intended outcomes. Annex 2 includes a suggested format for these requirements.

c. Monitoring and Evaluation Datasheet: The applicant must include their proposed activities and their expected outputs and outcomes as well as the goals and objectives as written in the NOFO. The datasheet’s purpose is to explicitly illustrate how a project’s activities lead to tangible results (such as increased beneficiary skills, knowledge, or attitudes) that ultimately address a PDS objective. For more information, please see Annex 2.1: Instructions.

The Monitoring and Evaluation Datasheet must include the following components (depending on the proposal’s focus), which demonstrate progress toward the program objectives set out in the NOFO:

• A before and after survey of participants in any capacity-building, training/workshop, or mentorship program

The selected applicant’s M&E PMP is subject to review and approval before any award will be issued under this NOFO. The selected applicant will be required to work with PDS Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist to ensure the applicant’s M&E PMP achieves an expected level of expertise and meets PDS objectives.

Expenses directly associated with monitoring and evaluation are considered allowable. The suggested template includes a space to list the portion of the total budget amount directly associated with monitoring and evaluation activities.

4. Detailed Line-Item Budget: Applications will not be considered complete and eligible for consideration unless they include budgets that respond to the NOFO guidelines. Complete budgets must include detailed line items outlining specific cost requirements for proposed activities. Applicants must adhere to the regulations found in 2 CFR 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Costs Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. The allowability of costs incurred by commercial organizations is determined in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) at 48 CFR Part 30 and Part 31.

Applicants must include in their submission a detailed line-item budget for the base period and a budget category summary budget for each option period. Upon request, the recipient will be expected to present a detailed line-item budget for the option period(s).

Applications must include a detailed line-item budget (in Microsoft Excel or similar spreadsheet format) that delineates funds requested from the Embassy and cost-share (see below for more information on budget format). Costs must be in U.S. dollars. The budget must identify the total amount of funding requested, with a breakdown of amounts to be spent in the following budget categories: personnel; fringe benefits; travel; equipment; supplies;

consultants/contracts; other direct costs; and indirect costs. See Annex 1 for a description of the types of costs that should be included in each category.

Additional Budget Considerations

• Please note the audit requirements for Department of State awards in the Standard Terms and Conditions https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm and 2 CFR 200, Subpart F – Audit Requirements. The cost of the required audits may be charged either as an allowable direct cost to the award OR included in the organization’s established indirect costs in the award’s detailed budget.

• Organizations claiming indirect costs should have an established Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA). A copy of the NICRA should be provided with the proposal package. If sub-grantees are claiming indirect costs, they should have an established NICRA, and it should also be submitted with the proposal package. Information on how to obtain a NICRA rate is listed in Section G. If a non-profit organization does not have a NICRA and the proposal budget has a line item for http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=faafd0fce318cf3701c4ba848b603624&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5#se2.1.200_1101 indirect cost charges, those indirect charges may not exceed 10% of Modified Total Direct Costs. The 10% maximum does not apply to for-profit entities. For-profit entities that do not have a NICRA but do have a formally established General and Administrative (G&A) rate may apply the G&A rate. For-profit entities that do not have a formally established G&A rate should allocate indirect costs to the appropriate direct cost category.

• Grant funds cannot be used for alcoholic beverages.

5. Budget Justification Narrative: The purpose of the budget justification narrative is to supplement the information provided in the budget spreadsheet by justifying how the budget cost elements are necessary to implement project objectives and accomplish the project goals. The budget justification narrative is a tool to help PDS staff fully understand the budgetary needs of the applicant and is an opportunity to provide descriptive information about the requested costs beyond the constraints of the budget template. Together, the detailed budget spreadsheet, the budget justification narrative, and the SF-424A should provide a complete financial and qualitative description that supports the proposed project plan and should be directly relatable to the specific project components described in the applicant’s proposal.

6. Required Attachments:

a. Key Personnel Resumes: A résumé, not to exceed one page in length, must be included for the proposed key staff persons, such as the Project Manager and Finance Officer, as well as any speakers or trainers (if applicable). If an individual for this type of position has not been identified, the applicant may submit a 1-page position description, identifying the qualifications and skills required for that position, in lieu of a résumé.

b. Letters of support from program partners: Letters of support should be included for sub-recipients or other partners. The letters must identify the type of relationship to be entered into (formal or informal), the roles and responsibilities of each partner in relation to the proposed project activities, and the expected result of the partnership. The individual letters cannot exceed 1 page in length.

c. If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included in the application submission.

d. Proof of Non-profit Status –Documentation to demonstrate the applicant’s non-profit status (e.g., U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their 501(c)(3) Internal Revenue Service determination letter, and non-U.S. organizations should provide evidence of non-profit status issued by a government entity).

e. Proof of Registration: A copy of the organization’s registration (non-profit or otherwise) should be provided with the proposal application. U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their IRS determination letter. Afghanistan-based organizations should submit a copy of their certificate of registration from the appropriate government organization.

f. Security plan: All proposals must include a security plan. We require award recipients to notify the Public Diplomacy Section in advance of any travel by staff, program participants, or other individuals to Afghanistan in connection with the program.

g. Organizational policy for working in high-risk environments.

Other items NOT required/requested with the application submission, but which may be requested if your application is approved to move forward in the review process include:

a) Copies of an organization or program audit within the last two (2) years

b) Copies of relevant human resources, financial, or procurement policies

c) Copies of other relevant organizational policies or documentation that would help the Department determine your organization’s capacity to manage a federal grant award overseas.

d) Information to determine what financial controls and standard operating procedures an organization uses to procure goods and services, hire staff and track time and attendance, pay for grant-related travel, and identify other financial transactions that may be necessary to undertake the project activities

e) The Embassy reserves the right to request any additional programmatic and/or financial information regarding the proposal.

Applications are accepted in English only, and final grant agreements will be concluded in English. Budgets should be submitted in U.S. dollars, and final grant agreements will be conducted in U.S. dollars.

Required Registrations:

Unique Entity Identifier and registration in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) NOTE: This section is required and not optional for consideration under this NOFO.

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 www.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.

Any applicant with an exclusion in the System for Award Management (SAM) is not eligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp.,

p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.”

The Unique Entity Identifier (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. SAM.gov is the Federal government's primary database for complying with FFATA reporting requirements. OMB designated SAM.gov as the central repository to facilitate applicant and recipient use of a single public website that consolidates data on all federal financial assistance. Under the law, it is mandatory to register in SAM.gov.

Starting April 2022, the UEI will be assigned when an organization registers or renews it’s registration in SAM.gov at www.SAM.gov. To access SAM.gov an organization is required to have a Login.gov account. Organization can create an account at https://login.gov/. As a reminder, organizations need to renew its sam.gov registration annually.

www.sam.gov requires all entities to renew their registration once a year in order to maintain an active registration status in SAM.gov. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure it has an active registration in SAM.gov.

If an organization plans to issue a sub-contract or sub-award, those sub-awardees must also have a unique entity identifier (UEI number). Those entities can register for a UEI only at SAM.gov.

If an organization does not have an active registration in SAM.gov prior to submitting an application, the application could be deemed ineligible. All organizations applying for grants (except individuals) must obtain these registrations, the latter are free of charge.

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

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

Note: The process of obtaining or renewing a SAM.gov registration may take anywhere from

4-8 weeks. Please begin your registration as early as possible.

• Organizations based in the United States or that pay employees within the United States will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and a UEI number prior to registering in SAM.gov.

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sam.gov%2F&data=04%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C8a179f425ec644553b0a08da0c446ace%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C637835785239027166%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=1O%2BquRWkk5TWZ9R%2FzeWA%2BjVqSPwgts5FKs5lUXBCVGU%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flogin.gov%2F&data=04%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C8a179f425ec644553b0a08da0c446ace%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C637835785239027166%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=tZgLWndOJE4QfgsenOHTZxlAyGwD1%2FcsHk9zT0XqO9g%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sam.gov%2F&data=04%7C01%7Cfjeldkk%40state.gov%7C8a179f425ec644553b0a08da0c446ace%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C637835785239027166%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=1O%2BquRWkk5TWZ9R%2FzeWA%2BjVqSPwgts5FKs5lUXBCVGU%3D&reserved=0#_blank

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

• Please note that as of November 2022 and February 2022 respectively, organizations based outside of the United States that do not intend to apply for U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) awards are no longer required to have a NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code or CAGE code to apply for non- DoD foreign assistance funding opportunities. If an applicant organization is mid-registration and wishes to remove a CAGE or NCAGE code from their SAM.gov registration, the applicant should submit a help desk ticket (“incident”) with the Federal Service Desk (FSD) online at www.fsd.gov using the following language: “I do not intend to seek financial assistance from the Department of Defense. I do not wish to obtain a CAGE or NCAGE code. I understand that I will need to submit my registration after this incident is resolved in order to have my registration activated.”

Submission Dates and Times

Application Deadline: All applications must be received by June 01, 2023 [11:59 p.m. U.S.

Eastern time]. For the purposes of determining if an award is submitted on time, officials will utilize the time stamp provided by Grants.gov. This deadline is firm and is not a rolling deadline. If organizations fail to meet the deadline noted above, their applications will be considered ineligible and will not be considered for funding.

Question Deadline: For questions on this solicitation, please contact KabulPDSProposals@state.gov Questions must be received on or before May 15, 2023(11:59 p.m., U.S. Eastern time]. Applicants should not expect an email response to questions, as questions received before the deadline will be answered in a question and answer document and posted at http://www.grants.gov and Grant Opportunities - U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan (usembassy.gov).

Funding Restrictions:

• Construction: Any award made as a result of this NOFO will not allow for construction activities or costs.

• Pre-award Costs: Any costs incurred prior to the award start date in the Federal Notice of Award are incurred at the recipient’s own risk. Approval of these costs requires authorization of the Grants Officer to be considered allowable, will only be considered on a case-by-case basis, and will only be authorized in extraordinary circumstances. Applicants should assume that any costs incurred before the start date on the Federal Notice of Award will not be authorized.

Submission Requirements This section provides the application submission and receipt instructions for program applications. Please read the following instructions carefully and completely.

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 mailto:KabulPDSProposals@state.gov http://www.grants.gov/

Electronic delivery via https://www.grants.gov/ :

PDS is participating in the Grants.gov initiative to provide the grant community a single site to find and apply for grant funding opportunities. PDS requires applicants to submit their applications electronically through https://www.grants.gov/ Applications submitted via any other means such as email will not be accepted.

To submit an application via https://www.grants.gov/ all organizations applying for grants (except individuals) must obtain both a www.sam.gov (as explained in the “required registrations” section above) account and a grant.gov account, all free of charge.

1. www.SAM.gov registration (which will generate a UEI). An active SAM registration (www.SAM.gov) with current information at all times during which they have an active federal award or an application under consideration by a federal awarding agency. Applicants must be fully registered in SAM before submitting an application;

applicants that do not have an active SAM registration will be deemed ineligible and will not be considered for an award. For information on how to register with SAM, see https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-2-register-with-sam.html and https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/scage/CageList.aspx#show-video-popup. Note that when SAM registration is complete the organization will be issued a SAM.gov-generated UEI. SAM registration must be renewed annually. The Department may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive an award and use this determination as a basis for making an award to another applicant.

2. A Grants.gov account. Instructions on how to register for a Grants.gov account can be found here: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration.html.

Grants.gov has a full set of instructions on how to apply for opportunities on its website at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/apply-for-grants.html.

Visit the Adobe Software Compatibility page on Grants.gov to download the appropriate version of the software at https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html.

Grants.gov does not accept all UTF-8 special characters in file attachment names. Please note the file name restrictions at https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/submitting-utf-8-special-characters.html.

Grants.gov recommends submitting your application package 24-48 hours prior to the submission deadline to provide you with time to correct any potential technical issues that disrupt the initial application submission. Grants.gov provides customer support via the toll-free number 1-800-518-4726 and via email at support@grants.gov. For questions related to the specific grant opportunity, contact KabulPDSProposals@state.gov . Please note, PDS cannot assist with questions on or technical issues with www.grants.gov. Applicants experiencing issues with Grants.gov should contact the Grants.gov Help Desk.

https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-2-register-with-sam.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-2-register-with-sam.html https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/scage/CageList.aspx#show-video-popup https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/scage/CageList.aspx#show-video-popup https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration.html http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/apply-for-grants.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/submitting-utf-8-special-characters.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/submitting-utf-8-special-characters.html mailto:support@grants.gov http://www.grants.gov/

Timely receipt requirements and proof of timely submission All applications must be received by the deadline communicated in this NOFO. Proof of timely submission is automatically recorded by Grants.gov. An electronic time stamp is generated within the system when the application is successfully received by Grants.gov. Applicants will receive an acknowledgement of receipt and a tracking number from Grants.gov with the successful transmission of their application. Applicants should print this receipt and save it as proof of timely submission.

When PDS successfully retrieves the application from Grants.gov and acknowledges the download of submissions, Grants.gov will provide an electronic acknowledgment of receipt to the email address of the Authorized Organization Representative. Proof of timely submission shall be the date and time that Grants.gov receives your application. Applications received by Grants.gov after the established due date for the program will be considered late and will not be considered for funding.

Applicants using dial-up connections should be aware that transmission should take some time before Grants.gov receives it. Grants.gov will provide either an error or a successfully received transmission message. The Grants.gov Contact Center reports that some applicants abort the transmission because they think that nothing is occurring during the transmission process. Please be patient and give the system time to process the application. Uploading and transmitting many files, particularly electronic forms with associated XML schemas, will take some time to be processed.

E. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

1. Criteria: Each application submitted under this announcement will…