FY22-SAC-RFA-508.pdf

REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS

Supplemental and Alternative Crops

FUNDING YEAR: Fiscal Year 2022

APPLICATION DEADLINE: June 29, 2022

ANTICIPATED FUNDING: $938,000

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NUMBER: USDA-NIFA-OP-009141

ASSISTANCE LISTING NUMBER: 10.200

NOTICE OF INTENT DEADLINE: June 7, 2022

PROGRAM CODE: HW

INITIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

National Institute of Food and Agriculture United States Department of Agriculture

Assistance Listing: The Supplemental and Alternative Crops (SAC) is listed in the Assistance Listings under number 10.200.

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines Task Description Deadline

Application: 5:00 P.M. Eastern, June 29, 2022 [Ref to Part I § C of this RFA]

Notice of Intent: June 7, 2022 Applicants Comments: Within six months from the issuance of this notice

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

Advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility. NIFA recognizes research, education, and extension efforts will have the greatest impacts when equity is grounded in the programs. NIFA is committed to enhancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility of programs and encourages individuals, institutions, and organizations from underserved communities to apply to funding opportunities as lead, co-lead, or subaward recipient(s), and to engage as leaders in the peer panel review process to support the development of strong networks and collaborations. NIFA encourages applications that engage diverse communities and have broad impacts through research, education, extension, and integrated activities to address current and future challenges.

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

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

Please use the following subject line: Response to the Supplemental and Alternative Crops

(SAC) RFA.

https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/agricultural-research-extension-and-education-reform-act-1998 https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/agricultural-research-extension-and-education-reform-act-1998 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:7613%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section7613)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true mailto:Policy@usda.gov

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This notice identifies the objectives for SAC projects, deadlines, funding information, eligibility criteria for projects and applicants, and application forms and associated instructions.

The SAC supports projects that lead to expanded adaptation and increased acreage in the U.S. of canola grown for oil and industrial hemp grown for value-added products. This is an integrated research and extension program that will produce results to increase the cost effectiveness and competitiveness of these two crops grown as components of production systems across the country. The SAC supports the breeding, testing, and development of superior performing canola and industrial hemp varieties and production practices that result in improved cost efficiencies, reduced grower risks, and wider use in production systems. Research results and technology developed are expected to be rapidly transferred to producers and other users through effective extension outreach and other engagement efforts. The anticipated grant amount available is $938,000.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF TABLES

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

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

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

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

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements B. Cost Sharing or Matching

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Notice of Intent to Submit an Application B. Method of Application C. Content and Form of the Application D. Funding Restrictions

PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

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

PART VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION

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

PART VII. OTHER INFORMATION

A. Use of Funds and Changes in Budget B. Confidential Aspects of Applications and Awards C. Regulatory Information

APPENDIX I: AGENCY CONTACT

APPENDIX II: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

APPENDIX III: DEFINITIONS

TABLE OF TABLES

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines Table 2: Program Key Information Table 3. Steps to Obtain Application Materials Table 4: Help and Resources Table 5: Key Application Instructions

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority In accordance with 7 U.S.C. 3319d(c), the Secretary of Agriculture, (acting through the NIFA Director), is authorized to make competitive grants to colleges and universities, other Federal agencies, and private sector entities to conduct fundamental and applied research related to the development of new commercial products derived from natural plant material for industrial, medical, and agricultural applications.

The program under this statutory authority may include, but shall not be limited to: conducting comprehensive resource and infrastructure assessments; developing and introducing supplemental and alternative income-producing crops; develop and expand domestic and export markets for such crops; providing technical assistance to farm owners and operators, marketing cooperatives, and others; and conducting fundamental and applied research related to the development of new commercial products derived from natural plant material [including hemp (as defined in 7 U.S.C. 1639o)] for industrial, medical, and agricultural applications.

B. Purpose and Priorities The SAC grant program, Assistance Listing 10.200, supports projects that lead to expanded adaptation and increased acreage in the United States (U.S.) of canola grown for oil and industrial hemp grown for value added products. Such crops are important to U.S. agriculture in that these can provide new and profitable cropping options in response to low commodity prices and changes in consumer demand for new agricultural-based products. The U.S. does not produce enough canola oil to meet its annual domestic consumption needs. Modern canola has major uses in healthy human foods and animal feeds, as a natural pest control when used as a cover crop, and as a feedstock in industrial chemical manufacture and biofuel production.

The purpose of this integrated research and extension program is to adapt these multiple-purpose crops to diverse growing regions in the U.S., so that domestic canola oil and industrial hemp production can be significantly increased and be profitable nationwide. Such efforts require strategically designed, region-based research approaches and effective communication of useful information and transfer of technologies to users as rapidly as possible. SAC supports research and Extension in conventional and organic production systems.

Handling of baseline data and data collection will be addressed in the Data Management Plan (DMP) in accordance with the Part IV(B) of this RFA.

The SAC is aligned with the following:

USDA Strategic Plan found at (https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda-fy- 2022-2026-strategic-plan.pdf )

1. Strategic Goal 2: Ensure America’s Agricultural System is Equitable, Resilient, and Prosperous

2. Strategic Goal 3: Foster an Equitable and Competitive Marketplace for All Agricultural Producers

3. Strategic Goal 4: Provide All Americans Safe, Nutritious Food

4. Strategic Goal 5: Expand Opportunities for Economic Development and Improve Quality of Life in Rural and Tribal Communities http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:3319d%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section3319d)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?path=/prelim@title7/chapter38/subchapter7&edition=prelim https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda-fy-2022-2026-strategic-plan.pdf https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda-fy-2022-2026-strategic-plan.pdf

NIFA welcomes (but does not require) applicants to work with the Extension Foundation for the development and delivery of content for the public and for Extension professionals nationwide through Connect Extension, or a National Cooperative Extension Project website.

Global Engagement. NIFA supports global engagement that advances U.S. agricultural goals.

NIFA recognizes that collaboration with international partners may be necessary to attain the agency's goals for U.S. agriculture, promote global competence of our nation’s future agricultural workforce, and promote safe and nutritious food security in a growing world.

Therefore, although application to this RFA is limited to eligible U.S. institutions, applicants may collaborate with international partners, to include subcontracts to international partners or other institutions. Applications must clearly demonstrate benefits to the U.S.

Table 2: Program Key Information Title Description

Program Code: HW Program Code Name: Supplemental and Alternative Crops

CFDA Number 10.200 Project Type: Research and Extension Grant Type: Standard

Application Deadline June 29, 2022 Grant Duration: 24-48 Months

Anticipated # of Awards: 5 Maximum Award Amount: $250,000 per year

C. Program Area Description SAC is an integrated research and extension program to improve the productivity and profitability of canola grown for oil and industrial hemp grown for value-added products through their expanded use as components in sustainable production systems across the United States.

The SAC program encourages applicants to establish and work through region-based, multi-state research networks to address priority national or regional science needs of the canola and industrial hemp industries. The SAC program seeks to accelerate the development and use of superior varieties and practices adapted to regional conditions that produce benefits to growers and allied industries. By bringing together expertise across multiple university, federal agency, and industry organizations and states, the SAC program seeks to enhance the effectiveness of limited state, federal, and industry resources to produce greater impacts. Research results, information, and technology developed are expected to be rapidly transferred to producers and other users through effective extension outreach and other engagement efforts. Virtual methods of outreach are encouraged to expand potential audience reach.

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fextension.org%2F&data=04%7C01%7C%7Ca20ab3b70b594250729308d9b8d16d39%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C0%7C0%7C637744031880128218%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=O1FPITwYnPL9bUoa6KlWT3HGCAodXoe4WabAWYMPwUs%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fconnect.extension.org%2F&data=04%7C01%7C%7Ca20ab3b70b594250729308d9b8d16d39%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C0%7C0%7C637744031880128218%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=BvJWf0GqWsEOZBxeTIFyE0pVGEuxR95tkXzOccIQKeA%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fextension.org%2Fnational-cooperative-extension-projects%2F&data=04%7C01%7C%7Ca20ab3b70b594250729308d9b8d16d39%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C0%7C0%7C637744031880128218%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=%2BNLyg2ocosC8NESorX3VwJSeDDNnw9IturIgC2JMlNk%3D&reserved=0

NIFA is soliciting applications for the FY 2022 SAC under the following two areas:

A. Canola:

1. Testing germplasm and breeding to develop superior performing canola varieties that increase productivity, profitability, and adaptation to an expanded range of U.S.

growing environments;

2. Conducting fundamental and applied research and extension activities to develop innovative planting, cultivating, harvesting methods for use in production systems that include superior performing canola varieties to improve input cost efficiencies and reduce producer and other supply chain participant risks;

3. Conducting fundamental and applied research and extension activities to develop canola production practices that enhance the use of canola as a pollinator friendly crop.

B. Industrial Hemp:

1. Fundamental and applied research to develop production systems for hemp grown for grain or fiber with a THC content of 0.3% or less, including cultivar evaluation and development, plant spacing and harvesting techniques.

2. Economic research and extension that lead to expanded development of markets for industrial hemp grown for grain or fiber, including the current size of the markets, the potential for market increases, prices that can be expected by growers, and potential bottlenecks in the supply chain.

Proposals must include stakeholder input in priority setting, project development, and implementation, and pursue regional coordination of canola- or industrial hemp-related research and extension activities. Applicants are required to provide evidence as appropriate of interdisciplinary, multi-regional cooperation, and use the expertise and resources of land grant and other colleges and universities, Federal agencies, and private industry. Traditional ecological knowledge is an acceptable topic to pursue the objectives of this RFA.

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding The anticipated amount available for SAC in FY2022 is $938,000. USDA is not committed to fund any particular application or to make a specific number of awards.

The Automated Standard Application for Payments, operated by the Department of Treasury, Bureau of Fiscal Service, is the designated payment system for awards resulting from this RFA.

B. Application Restrictions NIFA will evaluate applications using the criteria described in Part V of this RFA. Application for FY2022 is limited to the following application types:

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

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

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

C. Project and Grant Types

The following describes the types of projects or grants that are eligible for funding

1. Project Types

Only projects that integrate research and extension will be considered. (7 USC 3318(c)), project periods may be extended but may not exceed five years total. Applicants are required to provide evidence of multi-regional cooperation and, where appropriate, use other relevant and complementary expertise and resources of land grant and other colleges and universities, other Federal agencies, and private industry.

For Canola, NIFA will recognize two types of projects:

Regional Integrated Research and Extension Projects (RIREP):

Established canola industry associations are found in the following three geographic regions, and therefore projects applying for these regions should lead to results that can increase acres planted and improve profitability for canola oil growers. Program preference is to fund at least one regional canola project (regions detailed below) in order to maximize impacts for canola growers in those regions when application(s) are deemed meritorious, and funding allows. Meritorious applications are determined by a peer-review panel of experts.

North Central: Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Eastern Montana

Great Plains: Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Wyoming

Pacific Northwest: Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Western Montana https://www.fiscal.treasury.gov/fsservices/gov/pmt/asap/asap_home.htm

Other information:

1.Each regional project should have at least two states participating from within the same region and

2. Up to 25% of the funding can go to states outside of a designated region

We encourage applicants to form partnerships throughout your region since resources are limited and only one project per region might be funded. Applicants are encouraged to engage local, state, and national canola grower organizations. These organizations can assist potential applicants in connecting with other scientists and industry representatives with similar interests.

Projects in Other States (POS):

There is strong potential for canola production to expand into states other than those where canola has traditionally been grown. Projects in these states should lead to results that will help expand the range of profitable canola production.

For Industrial Hemp, the regional information does not apply

2. Grant Types: Standard.

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

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=3f96ab05cf1fc2d2713e5e46755e7696&mc=true&node=pt2.1.422&rgn=div5#se2.1.422_12 https://nifa.usda.gov/responsible-and-ethical-conduct-research https://nifa.usda.gov/responsible-and-ethical-conduct-research

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements Only colleges and universities (as defined in section 1404 of NARETPA, 7 U.S.C. 3103), other Federal agencies, and private sector entities are eligible to submit applications. Award recipients may subcontract to organizations not eligible to apply provided such organizations are necessary for the conduct of the project. Applicants for SAC must meet one of the requirements listed above. Failure to meet the eligibility criteria by the application deadline may result in exclusion from review or, if reviewed, preclude NIFA from making an award. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s Grants Overview provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

Duplicate or Multiple Submissions – In the case of duplicate submissions, the application with the most recent time stamp will be considered for acceptance. If the application is recommended for funding, NIFA will require all other submissions for funding of the proposed project be withdrawn as Federal funding may be provided for each objective only once. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s Grants Overview provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

B. Cost Sharing or Matching

1. No Match Required - SAC has NO matching requirement. NIFA will not factor matching resources into the review process as an evaluation criterion.

https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:3103%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section3103)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/grants-overview https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fnifa.usda.gov%2Fresource%2Fgrants-overview&data=04%7C01%7C%7Cc50998433f184953952008da126f5943%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C0%7C0%7C637842566685720346%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=77pQai1JnLj57TmoeM7rQjUD%2BQdOtmSLEzTzcztTf50%3D&reserved=0

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Notice of Intent to Submit an Application Prospective applicants are asked to email a Notice of Intent to Submit an Application by June 7, 2022, to “sm.nifa.scri@usda.gov”. This notification is not required and does not enter into the review of a subsequent application. The information it contains will be used by program staff to plan the review process. It will not be used for screening for project appropriateness or applicant eligibility, nor will feedback be offered.

This email should include the following information:

1. Descriptive (draft) title of proposed research

2. Name of the Project Director and Applicant Institution name

3. Names of other potential co-Project Directors and their affiliations, if applicable

4. Priority area(s) addressed

5. Subject line of email should read: SAC – Intent to Submit

6. E-mail should be sent to SM.NIFA.SCRI@USDA.GOV Notification of intent message should be succinct. Please do not include abstract, bios, or information other than what is requested.

B. Method of Application Applicants must apply to this RFA electronically; no other method or response is accepted. The electronic application for this RFA and additional resources are available on Grants.gov and Grants 101. Table 3 provides instructions on how to obtain an electronic application. Part III of the NIFA Grants Application Guide contains detailed information regarding the Grants.gov registration process. The NIFA Grants Application Guide is contained in the specific funding opportunity package or a sample of the guide can be found here. When applying for a NIFA award, it is important to reference the version of the guide that is included in the specific funding opportunity application package.

Table 3. Steps to Obtain Application Materials

Steps Action

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

Step Two:

Download Adobe

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

Step Three: Find Application

Using this funding opportunity number USDA-NIFA-OP-009141, search for application here: Opportunity Package.

Step Four: Assess Readiness

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

Table 4: Help and Resources mailto:SM.NIFA.SCRI@USDA.GOV https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/learn-grants/grants-101/pre-award-phase.html/ https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-grantsgov-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/ https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-grantsgov-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/register.html https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/search-opportunity-package.html

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

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

Email: grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov

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

C. Content and Form of the Application The application guide is part of the corresponding application package for this RFA. The RFA overrides the application guide if there is a discrepancy between the two documents. NIFA will accept subsequent submissions to an application until the application deadline. However, applicants that do not meet the application requirements, to include partial applications, risk being excluded from NIFA’s review. NIFA will assign a proposal number to all applications that meet the requirements of this RFA. Applicants must refer to the proposal number when corresponding with NIFA. Table 5 outlines other key instructions for applicants.

Table 5: Key Application Instructions

Instruction References (All references are to the Application

Guide)

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

Part IV

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

Part IV

Conduct an administrative review of the application before submission.

Part IV

Follow the submission instructions. Part V

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

Part V

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

N/A

Contact NIFA if applicant does not received correspondence from NIFA regarding an application within 10 business days of the application deadline.

N/A https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/support.html mailto:support@grants.gov https://grants-portal.psc.gov/Welcome.aspx?pt=Grants https://grants-portal.psc.gov/Welcome.aspx?pt=Grants mailto:grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/ https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/ mailto:grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/snow-dismissal-procedures/federal-holidays/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/support.html

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

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

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

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

2. Field 8. Project Narrative (PN). The PN must not exceed 22 1.5 spaced pages of written text and up to 4 1.5 spaced additional pages for figures and tables (the font size for tables should be no smaller than 11 points, Times New Roman). The page limits outlined here ensure fair and equitable competition. Appendices to the PN are allowed if they are directly germane to the proposed project. Do not add appendices to circumvent the page limit. The PN must include all the following:

a. Introduction. Identify the program area to which you are applying. Define the states working on the project. Clearly state the high priority need of the canola or industrial hemp industry, who will benefit and how they will benefit, and the specific goals of the proposed research. Summarize the body of knowledge or other past activities related to your proposed research, citing the work of key project personnel or others that is relevant to the project. Preliminary data or information pertinent to the proposed research should be included in this section. Describe the qualifications of key personnel, adequacy of facilities, and the project management capability of the applicant institution.

b. Rational and significance. Concisely present the rationale behind the proposed research as it relates to the goals of this RFA as well as the specific research area to be addressed.

This section should:

i. Address the priority-setting process and the method of engaging stakeholder involvement in problem identification, planning, implementation of research, evaluation, and utilization of results.

ii. Describe any coordination of the research in national or regional efforts, and how this research complements other work conducted by land grant and other universities, Federal agencies, and industry.

iii. Discuss novel ideas or contributions that the proposed project offers.

c. Objectives. State the project objectives to meet the RFA goals.

d. Approach. Describe how each stated objective will be addressed. Include:

i. Methods to be used in carrying out the research and extension components.

ii. Means by which results will be analyzed, assessed, and interpreted.

iii. A detailed description of how you will communicate your findings and transfer technologies to intended users (Information Dissemination Plan).

iv. A clear description of each team members’ role and responsibility to the project.

v. For the entire project, a timeline that outlines all-important phases as a year-by-year function of time, including periods beyond the grant funding period.

https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-grantsgov-application-guide

vi. Expected outcomes and benefits. Projects must include a clear description of the expected accomplishments and how research’s progress and benefits (outputs and outcomes) will be tracked and measured. This section can include:

1. Anticipated specific uses for your results or products.

2. Specific changes in knowledge about canola or industrial hemp crops and their performance that will directly result from your research.

3. Performance measures such as number of new canola acres planted, increased seed sales, relative changes in land use, enhanced sustainability of production systems, or change in market share.

4. Estimated increases in profit or risk reductions from growing canola or industrial hemp, or other quantitative measures of impact.

5. The potential long-term benefits of utilizing the new technology based on current knowledge and practice, and the estimated impact on the canola or industrial hemp industry and American agriculture.

vii. Global engagement.

viii. Project timeline.

ix. Cooperation and institutional involvement.

e. Data management plan (DMP);

f. Logic model;

g. Summary of previous work.

h. Response to previous review: The response to previous review must not exceed 10

1.5 spaced pages. This does not count towards the page limit for the PN.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Data Management Plan. A DMP is required for this program. Applicants should clearly articulate how the project director (PD) and co-PDs plan to manage and disseminate the data generated by the project. The DMP will be considered during the merit review process (see Part V § B of this RFA, NIFA’s Data Management Plan). If you need help in preparing a data management plan or have questions about what constitutes a data management plan for this role (including questions about data privacy, etc.), please contact the NIFA program contacts listed at the end of this RFA.

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Supplemental Information Form. See Part V of the Application Guide.

1. Field 2. Program to which the applicant is applying. Enter the program name

"Supplemental and Alternative Crops” and the program code “HW”. Accurate entry is critical.

2. Field 8. Conflict of Interest List. See Part V of the Application Guide.

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

D. Funding Restrictions Indirect Cost (IDC) not to exceed 30 percent of Total Federal Funds Awarded (TFFA) of the recipient. Section 1462(a) and (c) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (NARETPA) limits IDC for the overall award to 30 percent of Total Federal Funds Awarded (TFFA) under a research, education, or extension grant. The maximum IDC rate allowed under the award is determined by calculating the amount of IDC using:

1. the sum of an institution’s negotiated indirect cost rate and the indirect cost rate charged by sub-awardees, if any; or

2. 30 percent of TFFA.

The maximum allowable IDC rate under the award, including the IDC charged by the sub-awardee(s), if any, is the lesser of the two rates.

If the result of number one is the lesser of the two rates, the grant recipient is allowed to charge the negotiated IDC rate on the prime award and the sub-award(s), if any. Any sub-awards would be subject to the sub-awardee’s negotiated IDC rate. The sub-awardee may charge its negotiated IDC rate on its portion of the award, provided the sum of the IDC rate charged under the award by the prime awardee and the sub-awardee(s) does not exceed 30 percent of the TFFA.

If the result of number two is the lesser of the two rates, then the maximum IDC rate allowed for the overall award, including any sub-award(s), is limited to 30 percent of the TFFA. That is, the IDC of the prime awardee plus the sum of the IDC charged by the sub-awardee(s), if any, may not exceed 30 percent of the TFFA.

In the event of an award, the prime awardee is responsible for ensuring the maximum indirect cost allowed for the award is not exceeded when combining IDC for the Federal portion (i.e., prime and sub-awardee(s)) and any applicable cost-sharing (see 7 CFR 3430.52(b)). Amounts exceeding the maximum allowable IDC are considered unallowable. See sections 408 and 410 of

2 CFR 200.

Successful applicants must not use grant funds awarded under the authority of this RFA to renovate or refurbish research, education, or extension space; purchase or install fixed equipment in such space; or to plan, repair, rehabilitate, acquire, or construct buildings or facilities.

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PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

A. NIFA’s Evaluation Process NIFA evaluates each application in a two-part process. First, we screen each application to ensure that it meets the administrative requirements set forth in this RFA. All administrative requirements must be met in order for the application to proceed to the next level of review.

Second, a scientific peer-review process will be used to technically evaluate applications that have met the administrative requirements using a review panel (see NIFA Peer Review Process).

Scientific Peer Review Process:

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

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

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

3. the need to include other experts (e.g., producers, range or forest managers/operators, researchers, public health practitioners, educators, consumers, and commercial reviews) who can assess relevance of the applications to targeted audiences and to program needs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

B. Evaluation Criteria NIFA will use the following criteria to evaluate this RFA:

1. Design (60%). Each of the following components will be considered:

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a. The application’s methodologies and analytical approaches are appropriate to project objectives, have high scientific merit, and effectively integrate the research and extension activities. (25%)

b. The application demonstrates a “whole systems approach”; that is a compelling understanding of the problem(s) it will address, the regional production system as a whole, and how the proposed solution(s) will contribute to both. (10%)

c. Project is well planned and potentially attainable within project time, scope, and budget. (10%)

d. Awareness of previous or alternative approaches are identified and explained when necessary. Even if a single component is the focus of the project, the proposal must provide a thorough analysis of the broader systems context for why that component is critical. (5%)

e. Project feasibility or likelihood it will help maintain and expand the use of canola grown in the U.S. and advance the science. (10%)

2. Outreach plan (20%). Application includes a detailed extension engagement and outreach plan and schedule for how: 1) team interacts with interested communities (e.g., farmers) to understand need, and 2) new genetic materials, information, knowledge, or other technology will be delivered to those served by the project. A description of how extension outreach impacts will be measured and reported is also included.

3. A regional, interdisciplinary, and industry-engaged approach (5%). The application documents the necessary collective expertise in biological sciences, physical sciences, engineering, socio-economic sciences, extension, and program evaluation, as well as participation from principal stakeholders and partners. Qualifications of project personnel are clearly demonstrated. How these experts collaborate to reach project goals, increasing the sustainability, productivity, and profitability of the canola industry, are well described.

4. RFA alignment (5%). Application clearly states which RFA research area(s) will be addressed, and the specified objectives are relevant to RFA purpose and priorities.

5. Appropriateness of budget (5%). Budget allocations reflect the personnel and tasks associated with the activities needed to accomplish the objectives. The budget plan describes how this program’s funding complements other funding sources including Federal capacity and competitive funds, and state, industry, and other kinds of support.

6. Suitability and feasibility of Data Management Plan (5%)

C. Organizational Management Information Applicants must submit specific management information relating to an applicant prior to an award and update the information as needed. Applicants may only have to update their information if they had previously provided the information under this or another NIFA program.

NIFA provides the requisite forms during the pre-award process. Although an applicant may be eligible for award under this program, there are factors that may exclude an applicant from receiving federal financial and nonfinancial assistance and benefits under this program (e.g., debarment or suspension of an individual, or a determination that an applicant is not responsible).

D. Application Disposition Applicants may withdraw at any time before NIFA makes a final funding decision. NIFA will retain all applications, including withdrawn applications and unfunded applications.

PART VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION

A. General Within the limit of funds authorized, the NIFA awarding official will make grants to responsible and eligible applicants whose applications are judged most meritorious under the procedures set forth in this RFA. The date specified by the NIFA awarding official as the effective date of the grant must be no later than September 30 of the federal fiscal year in which the project is approved for support and funds are appropriated for such purpose, unless otherwise permitted by law. The project need not be initiated on the grant effective date, but as soon thereafter as practical so that project goals may be attained within the funded project period. All funds granted by NIFA under this RFA may be used only for the purpose for which they are granted in accordance with the approved application and budget, regulations, terms and conditions of the award, applicable federal cost principles, USDA assistance regulations, and NIFA General Awards Administration Provisions, 7 CFR Part 3430, subparts A through E.

Award Notice. The award document will provide pertinent instructions and information as described in 2 CFR 200.211 (see NIFA’s Terms and Conditions).

B. Administrative and National Policy Requirements Several federal statutes and regulations apply to grant applications and the projects outlined in this RFA (some are listed here: Federal Regulations). Unless specifically noted by statue or award-specific requirements, NIFA Policy Guide applies to all NIFA awards.

C. Expected Program Outputs and Reporting Requirements Include this subpart if the program has specific award terms. Highlight any special reporting requirements that differ from the norm (e.g., by report type, frequency, form/format, or circumstances for use). The NIFA Director of Information Policy, Planning, and Training must approve all special requirements. When forwarding applications for award, Program must alert NIFA’s Award Management Division (AMD) via the “Competitive or non-competitive proposal recommendation sheet” that the special reporting requirements need to be included as part of the provisions of award.

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PART VII. OTHER INFORMATION

A. Use of Funds and Changes in Budget Delegation of fiscal responsibility. Unless the terms and conditions of the award state otherwise, awardees may not in whole or in part delegate or transfer to another person, institution, or organization the responsibility for use or expenditure of award funds.

Changes in Budget or Project Plans. In accordance with 2 CFR 200.308, awardees must request prior approval from NIFA for the following program or budget-related reasons (the awardee is subject to the terms and conditions identified in the award):

1. Change in the scope or the objective of the project or program without prior written approval (even if there is no associated budget revision requiring).

2. Change in a key person specified in the application or the federal award.

3. Disengagement from the project for more than three months, or a 25 percent reduction in time devoted to the project.

4. Inclusion of costs that require prior approval in accordance with 2 CFR 200 Subpart E

(Cost Principles), or 45 CFR Part 75 Appendix IX, (Principles for Determining Costs Applicable to Research and Development under Awards and Contracts with Hospitals), or 48 CFR, unless waived by the federal awarding agency, 48 CFR Part 31, Contract Cost Principles and Procedures;

5. Transfer of funds budgeted for participant support costs to other categories of expense (2 CFR 200.456 Participant support costs);

6. Sub-awarding, transferring or contracting out of any work under a federal award, including fixed amount sub-awards (see 2 CFR 200.333, Fixed Amount Sub-awards), unless described in the application and funded in the approved federal awards. This provision does not apply to the acquisition of supplies, material, equipment, or general support services.

7. Changes in the approved cost-sharing or matching provided by the non-federal entity; and

8. The need for additional federal funds to complete the project.

B. Confidential Aspects of Applications and Awards When an application results in an award, it becomes a part of NIFA transaction records, which are available to the public. Information that the Secretary of Agriculture determines to be confidential, privileged, or proprietary in nature will be held in confidence to the extent permitted by law. Therefore, applicants should clearly mark any information within the application they wish to have considered as confidential, privileged, or proprietary. NIFA will retain a copy of an application that does not result in an award for three years. Such an application will be released only with the consent of the applicant or to the extent required by law. An applicant may withdraw at any time prior to the final action thereon.

C. Regulatory Information This program is not subject to the provisions of Executive Order 12372, which requires intergovernmental consultation with state and local officials. Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the collection of information requirements contained in this notice have been approved under OMB Document No. 0524- 0039.

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