FY25-PBR-RFA-P.pdf

REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS

Special Research Grants Program

Potato Breeding Research

FUNDING YEAR: Fiscal Year (FY) 2025

APPLICATION DEADLINE: August 14, 2025

ANTICIPATED PROGRAM FUNDING: $3,703,050

AVERAGE INDIVIDUAL AWARD RANGE: $500,000 - $1,500,000

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NUMBER: USDA-NIFA-SRGP-011275

ASSISTANCE LISTING NUMBER: 10.200

ANNOUNCEMENT

National Institute of Food and Agriculture United States Department of Agriculture

Assistance Listing Number (ALN): The Special Research Grants Program Potato Breeding Research 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, August 14, 2025 [Ref to Part I, C of this RFA]

Applicants Comments: Within six months from the issuance of this notice (NIFA may not consider comments received after the sixth month)

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), to the extent permitted by law, will no longer make grants or otherwise fund programs or activities that improperly discriminate on the basis of race or sex, including discrimination in the name of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies. Instead, USDA will prioritize merit and efficiency. USDA recognizes programs and initiatives will have the greatest impact when these programs and initiatives put American farmers, ranchers, and foresters first by:

• solving the most pressing challenges they face;

• protecting America’s food, fuel, and fiber supply to enhance national security;

• supporting production of healthy and safe food for consumers;

• expanding and developing domestic markets;

• training the next generation of agriculturalists; and

• fueling innovation to keep American farmers at the forefront of productivity.

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is committed to advancing these principles and encourages applicants to actively engage farmers, ranchers, and foresters when applying for funding opportunities to ensure relevancy and adherence to them. NIFA also encourages agricultural leaders to engage in the peer review panel process to ensure American producers are better served through research, education, and extension activities.

Stakeholder Input. 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 uses 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 Potato Breeding Research RFA.

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

NIFA requests applications to the Potato Breeding Research Program for FY 2025 to support breeding research that leads to the development and commercial use of superior-performing potato varieties that address significant challenges to the U.S. potato industry. The amount available for grants in FY 2025 is approximately $3,703,050.

This notice identifies the objectives for Potato Breeding Research projects, deadlines, funding information, eligibility criteria for projects and applicants, and application forms and associated instructions. This is a region-based, integrated research and extension program that focuses on the development, testing, and release of superior commercial potato varieties.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF KEY INFORMATION

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. Scientific Peer Review E. Ethical Conduct of Funded Projects

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements B. Cost Sharing or Matching

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application B. Content and Form of the Application C. Submission Dates and Times 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 D. Language Access Services

APPENDIX I: AGENCY CONTACT

APPENDIX II: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

APPENDIX III: DEFINITIONS

TABLE OF KEY INFORMATION

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 The Special Research Grants Program—Potato Breeding Research is authorized under Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grants as amended (7 U.S.C. 3157(c)(1)).

B. Purpose and Priorities Per 7 U.S.C. 3157(c)(1)(A)), the purpose of the special grant program is to conduct research, extension, or education activities to facilitate or expand promising breakthroughs in areas of the food and agricultural sciences of importance to the United States. These programs promote excellence in research, extension, or education on a regional and national level; promote the development of regional research centers; promote the research partnership between the Department of Agriculture, colleges and universities, research foundations, and State agricultural experiment stations for regional research efforts; and facilitate coordination and cooperation of research, extension, or education among States through regional grants.

The Special Research Grants Program—Potato Breeding Research, under Assistance Listing 10.200, supports regional potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) research and extension that focuses on the development, testing, and release of superior commercial potato varieties using classical breeding and advanced molecular and biotechnological approaches. The development and utilization of high-throughput methods is highly encouraged that address significant or emergent issues of importance to the U.S. potato industry. Aspects of evaluation, screening, and testing must support commercial variety development and release of superior materials to commercial producers as soon as possible.

Table 2: Program Key Information Title Description

Program Code: AN Program Code Name: Potato Breeding

ALN: 10.200

Project Type: Integrated, Research, and Extension Grant Type: Standard

Application Deadline August 14, 2025 Grant Duration: 24 Months

Anticipated # of Awards: 4 Minimum Award Amount: $500,000 Maximum Award Amount: $1,500,000 per year (continuation)

C. Program Area Description The Potato Breeding Research program (program code AN) will fund two-year projects that have great potential for developing and releasing new potato varieties with a high value to the commercial U.S. potato industry. The Potato Breeding Research program encourages applicants to establish and work through regional, multi-location, research breeding networks to address priority national or regional science needs of the potato industry. By bringing together expertise across multiple universities, federal agencies, industry organizations, and states, the Potato Breeding Research program seeks to enhance the effectiveness of limited state, federal, and https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:3157%20edition:prelim) https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:3157%20edition:prelim) industry resources and accelerate the development of superior varieties that produce benefits to the potato industry.

NIFA is soliciting applications for FY 2025 to the Special Research Grants Program Potato Breeding Research that addresses one or more of the following research areas that will produce outcomes important to the U.S. potato industry:

1. Develop superior performing varieties with resistance to established and emerging pests and diseases including but not limited to potato virus Y, potato mop top virus, damaging nematodes, the late and early blight pathogen, white mold, powdery scab, storage rot diseases, and Dickeya that limit sustained production, profitability, and market competitiveness;

2. Identify and incorporate traits into varieties for improved water and nutrient use efficiency that result in decreased demand for irrigation water and fertilizer applications, while maintaining desired yield and end market quality;

3. Identify and develop desirable yield, storability, consumer, and other value-added quality traits for use in new potato varieties; or

4. Develop high throughput methods for rapidly selecting traits, specifically for new superior-performing varieties targeted for specific markets.

The goals of this program imply that successful proposals will be associated with active/practicing, variety-releasing breeding programs. Fundamental science discovery projects that are not currently associated with a potato breeding program are not appropriate for this grant program.

Two-Year Work Plan: Applicants will submit a two-year work plan with a budget for each of the two years. The two-year work plan and budget will be reviewed, but only the first year of funding for the work plan will be awarded in FY 2025. Second-year funding is contingent upon the following: the timely submission of a continuation request; a progress report that demonstrates successful compliance with the requirements of the program; and sufficient annual appropriations from Congress in FY 2026. Progress reports must include a section about performance measures (discussed in 2. Field 8. Project Narrative (PN), section e) Expected Outcomes & Benefits, iv).

Applicants are encouraged to provide evidence of qualified staff, suitable equipment, and facilities; capacity to lead a multi-institutional, multi-state research and extension approach that involves potato growers and other industry partners; linkages among universities, federal agencies, and other researchers; and evidence of stakeholder participation in the development of research priorities and project objectives. Applicants are encouraged to provide specific workplan outcomes with measurable milestones and with activity dependencies clearly explained.

Industry Support Letter: At least one letter of support from industry partners is required. The intent of this letter is to verify industry relevance. This could include farmer organizations or other industry groups that understand the needs of the potato industry, such as a state, regional, or national association.

Data Management Plan: Applications must provide a budgeted plan for data management (DMP) that includes making data publicly available (see Management Plan Section IV.B 3.c7).; a DMP that adheres to FAIR data principles (https://www.go-fair.org/fair-principles/) is strongly encouraged.

Release or distribution of plant germplasm and other plant materials: Applicants are encouraged to apply for Plant Variety Protection Certificates when possible and include these releases both on reports and through iEdison. Researchers should also confer with the relevant crop curators and Crop Germplasm Committees in the application development process regarding the desirability of submitting the research materials generated by NIFA funding into NPGS gene banks and stock centers (see Part IV. B for further information on application requirements)

Examples of previously funded projects by the Potato Breeding Research program can be found by searching the NIFA Data Gateway.

https://www.go-fair.org/fair-principles/ https://portal.nifa.usda.gov/enterprise-search/ss/1791

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding The amount available for Potato Breeding Research grants in FY 2025 is approximately $3,703,050. There is no commitment by USDA to fund any particular application or to make a specific number of awards.

The Automated Standard Applications for Payment System (ASAP), operated by the Department of the Treasury’s Bureau of the Fiscal Service, is the designated payment system for awards resulting from this RFA. For more information, see Automated Standard Applications for Payment System.

B. Application Restrictions NIFA will evaluate applications using the criteria described in Part V of this RFA. Application for FY2025 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 responses 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 Only region-based, multi-state projects that integrate research and extension objectives that address potato breeding to improve potato varieties, their adoption, and use for commercial production will be considered.

D. Scientific Peer Review 7 U.S.C. 3157 (c)(5) (also cited as the Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grant Act) requires applicants to conduct scientific peer review of their proposed research activities in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Secretary prior to the Secretary making a grant award under this authority. Regulations implementing this requirement are set forth in 7 CFR Part 3400.20. The regulations impose the following requirements:

1. Scientific peer review: Prior to the award of a standard grant, any proposed research project shall have undergone a review arranged by the grantee. Such review must be a scientific peer review conducted in accordance with 7 CFR 3400.21. Scientific peer review is an evaluation of a proposed project for technical quality and relevance to regional or national goals performed by experts with the scientific knowledge and technical skills to conduct the proposed research work. It must be credible, independent, and arranged by the applicant organization. Often, this review is conducted by faculty peers and includes an industry assessment for relevance to finding solutions to regional or national challenges. It may include USDA employees but should not be conducted solely by USDA employees. Although evidence of a scientific peer review is not required until an award is ready to be finalized, peer reviews can improve the quality of a proposal. We thus encourage applicants to have their proposals peer reviewed before submission.

https://www.fiscal.treasury.gov/fsservices/gov/pmt/asap/asap_home.htm https://www.fiscal.treasury.gov/fsservices/gov/pmt/asap/asap_home.htm https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:3157%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section3157)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-XXXIV/part-3400#3400.20 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-XXXIV/part-3400#3400.20 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-XXXIV/part-3400/subpart-C/section-3400.21

Notice of completion and retention of records: A notice of completion of the review shall be conveyed in writing to NIFA as part of the Other Attachments (Field 12. of the R&R Other Project Information Form). The written notice constitutes certification by the applicant that a review in compliance with these regulations has occurred. Applicants are not required to submit results of the review to NIFA. However, proper documentation of the review process and results should be retained by the applicant. The notice should state: “In accordance with 7 CFR 3400.21, this memo is to certify that this project [title] has undergone a scientific peer review.” If this notification is included within the application, a signature is not necessary. If, however, it is submitted to NIFA after the application is submitted through Grants.gov, the memo must be on the institution’s letterhead and signed by the Authorized Representative.

E. 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 the 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/current/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-XXXIV/part-3400/subpart-C/section-3400.21 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 Applications may only be submitted by State agricultural experiment stations, land-grant colleges and universities, research foundations established by land-grant colleges and universities, colleges, and universities receiving funds under the 1962 McIntire-Stennis Cooperative Forestry Research Act, Pub. L. 87-778, as amended (16 U.S.C. 582a et seq.), and accredited schools or colleges of veterinary medicine for the purpose of facilitating or expanding ongoing State-Federal food and agricultural research, extension, or education programs. Award recipients may subcontract to organizations not eligible to apply, provided such organizations are necessary for the conduct of the project. Failure to meet an eligibility criterion by the time of the application deadline may result in the application being excluded from consideration or, even though an application may be reviewed, will preclude NIFA from making an award.

Duplicate or Multiple Submissions – submission of duplicate or predominantly overlapping applications is not allowed. NIFA will disqualify both applications if an applicant submits multiple applications that are duplicative or substantially overlapping with NIFA programs within the same fiscal year. 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 No Match Required - The Potato Breeding Research Program has NO matching requirement.

NIFA will not factor matching resources into the review process as an evaluation criterion.

However, cost sharing is encouraged.

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

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application Applicants must apply to this RFA electronically; no other method or response is accepted. The electronic application for this RFA and additional resources are available on Grants.gov and Grants 101. Table 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-SRGP-011275 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

Grants.gov Support NIFA Support Grants.gov Online Support Telephone support: 800-518-4726 Toll-Free or 606-545-5035

Email support: support@grants.gov Self-service customer-based support: Grants.gov iPortal

Customer service business Hours 24/7, except Federal holidays.

Email:

grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov

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

B. Content and Form of the Application The NIFA Grants Application Guide is part of the corresponding application package for this RFA. The RFA overrides the NIFA Grants Application Guide if there is a discrepancy between the two documents. 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.

https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/learn-grants/grants-101/ https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-grantsgov-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/register https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://grants.gov/applicants/search-for-opportunity-package https://www.grants.gov/support https://www.grants.gov/support mailto:support@grants.gov https://grants-portal.psc.gov/Welcome.aspx?pt=Grants https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/ https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/ mailto:grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/federal-holidays/ https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide

Table 5: Key Application Instructions Instruction References

(All references are to the NIFA Grants 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 IV

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 receive correspondence from NIFA regarding an application within 30 days of the application deadline.

N/A

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

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

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

1. Field 7. Project Summary (PS)/Abstract. The PS must show how the project goals align with the program goals of the Potato Breeding Research Program. See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for instructions and suggested templates.

2. Field 8. Project Narrative (PN). The PN must not exceed a total of 18 pages of written text using 12-point font with single line spacing (i.e., no more than six lines per vertical inch), including all figures and tables. Do not use a condensed or narrow font (e.g., Arial Narrow), and include 1-inch margins on all sides.

The PN must include all the following:

a. Introduction. Identify which of the four research areas you are applying for and the percentage of the project in each area if multiple areas are addressed. Clearly state the high priority need of the potato industry, who will benefit, how they will benefit, and the research 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 are relevant to the project. Preliminary data or https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/support/ https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide information pertinent to the proposed research should be included in this section. If you have received previous funding from this program, be sure to outline that work and describe any relationship to this new work, especially if this new proposal builds off early work. Describe the qualifications of key personnel, adequacy of facilities, and the plant breeding and project management capability of the applicant institution.

b. Rationale 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 (section I.C.) you will be addressing. This section should address:

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

ii. The application of your research to the long-range enhancement of the potato industry and U.S. agriculture.

iii. Describe any coordination of your research in national or regional efforts, and how this research complements other work conducted by land-grant and other universities, Federal agencies, and industry. This may include the utilization of Hatch and Hatch Multistate support, industry funding, and other resources contributing to the project.

iv. Discuss the contributions and novel ideas that the proposed project offers.

c. Objectives. All applications must include a statement(s) of specific objectives of the proposed effort in clear, concise, complete, and logically arranged terms.

d. Approach. Describe how you will address each stated objective. Include in your approach:

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 your genetic materials, relevant information, and other technologies to specific, intended commercial users (Information Dissemination Plan).

iv. A brief description of the overall potato breeding program, its capabilities, and how the proposed activities relate to prior research and accomplishments, including a clear description of each team member’s role and responsibility in this 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.

e. Expected outcomes and benefit. Projects must include a clear description of expected accomplishments; the resulting potential benefits to the potato industry (specify which segments); and how the research’s progress and benefits (outputs and outcomes) will be tracked and measured. This section can include:

i. Anticipated specific uses and users of new genetic materials or other products.

ii. Specific changes in knowledge about potatoes and its performance that will directly result from your research.

iii. The status and expected advancement to the marketplace of new plant materials including plans for marketing and handling of intellectual property.

See NIFA’s Research Terms and Conditions that govern NIFA-funded projects in the areas of plant and animal breeding, genetics, and genomics.

The following sections are particularly relevant: (1) Genetic Resources from https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/regulations-and-guidelines/terms-conditions

Outside of the U.S, (2) Intellectual Property Derived from NIFA Funding, and

(3) Release or Distribution of Plant Germplasm.

iv. Performance measures for the Potato Breeding Research Program are aligned with key indicators of scientific, agricultural, and economic impact. Measures include:

1. the number of new potato varieties released with improved traits, such as disease resistance, stress tolerance, cold-sweetening, resistance, and processing quality,

2. the acreage and market share of these varieties nationally and regionally.

3. Intra-varietal performance measures will also be considered, such as improved yield, storability, specific gravity, and consumer quality.

4. Additional metrics include stakeholder adoption as indicated by certified seed, acreage and commercial production, and grower participation in field days and grower outreach events.

5. The number of students and professionals trained through breeding programs also serves as a performance indicator for workforce development.

Together, these measures ensure that the breeding efforts are producing high-impact, industry-relevant outcomes, and driving innovation in US potato production systems while promoting the highest national/regional priorities.

v. Estimated increases in profit or risk reductions when growing potatoes, or other quantitative measures, have an impact.

vi. Describe the potential long-term benefits of utilizing the new technology based on current knowledge and practice, and the estimated impact on the potato industry and American agriculture.

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

a. Collaborative Arrangements: If it will be necessary to enter into formal consulting or collaborative arrangements with others, such arrangements should be fully explained and justified. If the consultants or collaborators are known at the time of application, a vitae or resume should be provided. In addition, evidence (e.g., a signed letter of support) should be provided that the collaborators involved have agreed to render these services. Letters of collaboration must be signed by the respective ARs for both the applicant and the collaborator. The applicant will also be required to provide additional information on consultants and collaborators in the budget portion of the application, such as the rate of pay.

b. Scientific Peer Review Certification Documentation. Notice that the scientific peer review has been completed should be included in the application (see Part II, D. item 2.).

c. Industry Support Letter (see Part I, D).

d. Data Management Plan. A Data Management Plan (DMP) is required to clearly articulate how the project director (PD) and co-PDs plan to manage and disseminate the data generated by the project in a manner that promotes public access to research results consistent with Departmental Regulation (DR) 1020-006.

i. The DMP will be considered during the merit review process (see Part V, B of this RFA). The requirements for preparation and inclusion of a DMP in your application are available on the following web page: NIFA’s Data Management Plan. Also included on the web page are FAQs and information about accessing examples of DMPs.

ii. The DMP is limited to two pages.

iii. The DMP should include at a minimum: (1) expected data types; (2) data formats;

(3) data storage and preservation; (4) data sharing, protection, and public access;

(5) roles and responsibilities.

Mentoring Plan (MP). A Mentoring Plan is required for all grant types (except conference, equipment, and sabbatical grants) that involve student or participant training or mentoring. There is a 2-page limit. Mentoring plans should be included as a separate attachment and uploaded to field 12 of the grant application. All student/trainee types can be included in the same mentoring plan.

The Mentoring Plan should describe:

1. Past or proposed training of individuals who will serve as mentors, including equipping, mentoring, or monitoring activities they have received or will receive to help them effectively mentor students and trainees during the project;

2. The groups of students or individual trainees to be mentored on the project, including students in grades 9-12, undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, professionals, and any other individuals to be trained or mentored on the project;

3. Detailed mentoring activities to be delivered throughout the project to each distinct category or group of students and/or trainee participants, including those activities provided through research, education, Extension, or outreach efforts; and

4. Expected outcomes derived from the mentoring activities and prospective impact(s) on the food and agricultural sciences.

R&R Senior/Key Person Profile (Expanded). See Part V of the NIFA Grants 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 the award (see Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide).

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

1. Match – Not required.

2. Indirect Costs (IDC) – See Part IV, D of this RFA for funding restrictions regarding IDC, and Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for additional information.

3. Salary rates of pay exceeding an Executive Level IV salary range (see “Rates of Pay for the Executive Schedule” under the “Executive & Senior Level Employee Pay Tables” header at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/) require https://www.usda.gov/directives/dr-1020-006 https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/lifecycle/pre-award/data-management-plans https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/lifecycle/pre-award/data-management-plans https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.opm.gov%2Fpolicy-data-oversight%2Fpay-leave%2Fsalaries-wages%2F&data=05%7C02%7CLaura.Givens%40usda.gov%7Cdeb3e53caa114ee7d1a108dd60bd4858%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638773088259963200%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=XW1kkL%2FSWAS%2BkEsB9JFwdXkIoOoY%2Fvug8KTs1QJIi1o%3D&reserved=0 prior NIFA approval. This rate does not include any fringe benefits, general and administrative (G&A), overhead, or other expenses. Requests for approval must include the salary rate of pay and a justification for the rate and be sent to the ADO at awards@usda.gov.

4. No more than 50 percent of the total dollars of this award may be subcontracted to another party(ies) without prior written approval of the Authorized Departmental Officer (ADO), except subcontracts to Federal agencies.

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

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

Breeding Research/PBR) the program code (“AN”). Accurate entry is critical.

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

C. Submission Dates and Times We recommend that you conduct an administrative review of the application before submitting it via Grants.gov to ensure that it complies with all preparation instructions. An application checklist is included in Part VII of the NIFA Grants Application Guide to assist with this review.

Instructions for submitting an application are included in Part IV, Section 1.5 of the NIFA Grants Application Guide.

Applications must be received by Grants.gov by 5 p.m. Eastern Time, August 14, 2025.

Applications received after this deadline will normally not be considered for funding.

If you have trouble submitting an application to Grants.gov, you should FIRST contact Grants.gov Help Desk to resolve any problems. Keep a record of any such correspondence. See Part IV. A for Grants.gov contact information.

We send email correspondence to the AR regarding the status of submitted applications. We strongly encourage you to provide accurate email addresses, where designated, on the SF-424 R&R Application for Federal Assistance.

D. Funding Restrictions

No Indirect Cost (IDC). IDC is not authorized for this RFA.

Per Section 1473 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (NARETPA), Indirect Costs are not allowed for the Special Research Grants Program Potato Breeding Research. Per 7 USC 3157(c)(2) grant funds awarded under this authority may not be used for the renovation or refurbishment of research, education, or extension space; the purchase or installation of fixed equipment in such space; or the planning, repair, rehabilitation, acquisition, or construction of buildings or facilities.

All costs being charged to this award must be incurred within the project period. If a project is selected for funding, additional information may be requested from the applicant.

mailto:awards@usda.gov https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide

PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

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

Scientific Peer Review Process:

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

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., agricultural producers, range or forest managers/operators, researchers, educators, evaluators, and consumers) 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 the reviewer's area of expertise, geographic area, and entity type, as appropriate.

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 grant 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 Peer review of proposals will be carried out as described in 7 USC 7613. A complete description of NIFA’s peer review process can be found at the NIFA website: NIFA Peer Review Process for Competitive Grant Applications .

https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-peer-review-process-competitive-grant-applications https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-peer-review-process-competitive-grant-applications https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-peer-review-process-competitive-grant-applications https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-peer-review-process-competitive-grant-applications https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-peer-review-process-competitive-grant-applications

NIFA will use the evaluation criteria below to review applications submitted in response to this

RFA:

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

2. Design (60 points). Each of the following components will be considered:

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. Performance measures are aligned with those listed in the RFA, are appropriate for the project, and the proposed project has a high likelihood of success within the identified performance measures. (25 pts)

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. (5 pts)

c. Data Management Plan (DMP) is appropriate, clearly described, and feasible (5 pts).

d. The project is well planned and potentially attainable within the project time, scope, and budget. A clear distinction between past work and future work should be described. (The Crop Research TRL (see I.C.) can be used to explain the differences in the past and proposed future research.) (10 pts)

e. Awareness of previous or alternative approaches is 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 pts)

f. Project feasibility, or likelihood it will help maintain potato as a crop grown in the U.S. and advance the science. (10 pts)

3. Appropriateness of budget (5 points). 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.

4. A region-based, multi-state, and industry-engaged approach (10 points). 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 and engagement with industry are clearly demonstrated. How these experts collaborate to reach project goals, increasing the sustainability, productivity, and profitability of the potato industry, should be well described.

5. Outreach plan (20 points). The application includes a detailed extension engagement and outreach plan and schedule for how 1) the team interacts with interested communities (e.g., farmers) to understand need and 2) new genetic materials, information, knowledge, and 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.

C. Organizational Management Information Applicants must submit specific management information prior to an award and update the information as needed. Applicants may only need to provide an update if there was a change in previously provided information under this or another NIFA program. NIFA provides the requisite forms during the pre-award process. Although an applicant may be eligible for an 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 statute or award-specific requirements, NIFA Federal Assistance Policy Guide applies to all NIFA awards.

C. Expected Program Outputs and Reporting Requirements The output and reporting requirements are included in the award terms and conditions (see NIFA Terms and Conditions for information about NIFA award terms). If there are any program or award-specific award terms, those, if any, will be identified in the award.

It is expected that the program outputs will conform to the purpose of the Special Research Grants Program - Potato Breeding Research.

The principal outputs will consist of new, superior performing potato varieties developed using classical, molecular, and biotechnology methods that are brought to the marketplace as fast as possible.

Information documenting the optimal use and benefits of utilizing these materials by production and supply chain users and consumers.

Ancillary or supplemental outputs may include, but are not limited to improved classical, molecular, or biotechnology methods for increasing the efficiency of variety development; or other improvements in bringing new superior performing varieties to growers and the marketplace.

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=1a74011311d649ff6313ca273791b131&mc=true&node=pt7.15.3430&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=1a74011311d649ff6313ca273791b131&mc=true&node=pt7.15.3430&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/retrieveECFR?gp=&SID=c44a1f8f16917d78ba5ba676eac5fdc3&mc=true&r=SECTION&n=se2.1.200_1211 https://nifa.usda.gov/terms-and-conditions https://nifa.usda.gov/federal-regulations https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-federal-assistance-policy-guide

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 required).

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…