FY26-CFPCGP-NOFO-P.pdf

Notice of Funding Opportunity Community Food Projects

Competitive Grants Program

FUNDING YEAR: Fiscal Year (FY) 2026

APPLICATION DEADLINE: July 16, 2026

ANTICIPATED PROGRAM FUNDING: $4,800,000

AVERAGE INDIVIDUAL AWARD

RANGE:

$25,000 - $400,000

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NUMBER: USDA-NIFA-CFP-011776

ASSISTANCE LISTING NUMBER: 10.225

ANNOUNCEMENT

National Institute of Food and Agriculture United States Department of Agriculture

Assistance Listing Number (ALN): The Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program (CFPCGP) is listed in the Assistance Listings under number 10.225.

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines

Task Description Deadline

Application: 5:00 P.M. Eastern Time, July 16, 2026, [Ref to Part I, C of this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)]

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.

Projects submitted under this NOFO should align with USDA Secretary’s Memorandum 1078- 020 Directive on Departmental Research and Development Priorities:

1. Increasing Profitability of Farmers and Ranchers

2. Expanding Markets and Creating New Uses of U.S. Agricultural Products

3. Protecting the Integrity of American Agriculture from Invasive Species

4. Promoting Soil Health to Regenerate Long-Term Productivity of Land

5. Improving Human Health through Precision Nutrition and Food Quality

Stakeholder Input. NIFA seeks comments on all Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) 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 NOFOs and uses comments to help meet the requirements of Section 103(c)(2) of the Agricultural Research, https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/sm-1078-020.pdf https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/sm-1078-020.pdf

Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (7 U.S.C. 7613(c)(2)). Applicants may submit written comments to Policy@usda.gov. Please use the following subject line: Response to the CFPCGP Program NOFO.

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

WHAT’S NEW FOR FY 2026

1. Includes revised program descriptions, clarified goals and program preference elements.

2. Clarifies expectations for domestic travel and attendance at the annual project directors’ meetings; for more information see Part VI,C (Expected Program Outputs and Reporting Requirements).

3. Emphasizes the required documents for applications to be accepted for review is included in Part IV,B (Content and Form of The Application).

4. Clarifies the review criteria in Part V (Evaluation Criteria) of this NOFO.

5. CFPCGP applicants are limited to competing for one Training and Technical Assistance

(T&TA) grant award.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The CFPCGP supports community-driven initiatives aimed at strengthening local food systems and reducing food insecurity. The program provides a one-time infusion of Federal funding to help communities develop self--reliance and long-term solutions to local food needs. Overall, the CFPCGP plays a vital role in empowering communities to reduce food insecurity, build resilient food systems, and foster strong local partnerships.

The amount available for CFPCGP in FY 2026 is approximately $4,800,000.

Funded projects must address both short-term food access challenges, such as improving access to nutritious foods, enhancing food distribution, and long-term goals, including building community self-reliance and strengthening local food system infrastructure.

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ANNOUNCEMENT

WHAT’S NEW FOR FY 2026

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. 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. 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: Training and Technical Assistance Key Information Table 3: Planning Project Key Information Table 4: Community Food Project Key Information Table 5. Steps to Obtain Application Materials Table 6: Help and Resources Table 7: Key Application Instructions

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority The CFPCGP (7 U.S.C. 2034) is authorized by Public Law 104-127, which amended the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2011) and added Section 25, Assistance for Community Food Projects.

B. Purpose and Priorities The CFPCGP projects are to be designed to require a one-time contribution of Federal assistance to become self-reliant and meet short- and long-term goals. Applicants are required to address at least one short-term and one long-term CFPCGP goals that best fit the plan or project being proposed to ensure a comprehensive and enduring approach to resolving food and nutrition security and hunger.

Short-term goals (Select at least one):

1. Meet the food needs of low-income individuals through food distribution, community outreach to assist in participation in Federally assisted nutrition programs or improving access to food as part of a comprehensive service.

2. Increase the self-reliance of communities in providing for the food needs of the communities.

3. Promote comprehensive responses to local food, food access, farm, and nutrition issues.

Long-term goals (Select at least one):

1. Meet specific state, local, Tribal, territory, or neighborhood food and agricultural needs, including needs relating to:

a. Equipment necessary for the efficient operation of a project.

b. Planning for long-term solutions.

c. The creation of innovative marketing activities that mutually benefit agricultural producers and low-income consumers.

2. Develop long-term enduring projects that increase the self-reliance of communities in providing for the food needs of the community.

3. Develop long-term projects that promote comprehensive responses to local food, food access, farm, and nutrition issues.

In addition to meeting the Purpose and Priorities of the program, NIFA shall give preference to Planning Projects (PP) and Community Food Projects (CFP) designed to include these elements:

1. Develop linkages between two or more sectors of the food system.

2. Support the development of entrepreneurial projects.

3. Develop innovative linkages between the for-profit and nonprofit food sectors.

4. Encourage long-term planning activities, and multisystem, interagency approaches with multistakeholder collaborations, that build the long-term capacity of communities to address the food and agricultural problems of the communities, such as food policy councils and food planning associations.

5. Develop new resources and strategies to help reduce food and nutrition insecurity in the community and prevent food and nutrition insecurity in the future by either:

a. Developing creative food resources;

https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:2034%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section2034)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://www.congress.gov/104/plaws/publ127/PLAW-104publ127.pdf https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:2011%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section2011)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true

b. Coordinating food services with park and recreation programs and other community-based outlets to reduce barriers to access; or

c. Creating nutrition education materials for at-risk populations to enhance food-purchasing and food-preparation skills, and to heighten awareness of the connection between diet and health.

C. Program Area Description The CFPCGP is intended to bring together stakeholders from distinct parts of the food system and to foster understanding of national food security trends and how they might improve local food systems. Understanding that people experience access issues to healthy foods, projects should address food and nutrition security. CFPCGP projects are to include food insecure community members in the planning, designing, development, implementation and evaluation of activities, services, programs, and policies to combat food and nutrition insecurity; and to address underlying causes and factors related to hunger. NIFA is soliciting applications under the following program areas:

1. Training and Technical Assistance (T&TA)

2. Planning Projects (PP)

3. Community Food Projects (CFP).

Training and Technical Assistance:

In FY 2026, NIFA will competitively award one continuation multi-year T&TA project.

Applicants should request a budget commensurate with the proposed project. No single T&TA award shall exceed $250,000 in any single year or $1 million in four years.

Table 2: Training and Technical Assistance Key Information

Title Description Program Code: LN.A

Program Code Name: Training and Technical Assistance

ALN: 10.225

Project Type: Training and Technical Assistance Project Grant Type: Standard Grant

Application Deadline July 16, 2026; 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time Grant Duration: Not to exceed four (4) years

Anticipated # of Awards: 1 Anticipated Award Amounts: Award not to exceed $250,000 awarded annually on continuation basis; not to exceed $1 million over four years

Matching Requirement: No Match required

CFP Proposals: the roles and responsibilities of the T&TA are as follows:

1. Expertise for T&TA should encompass the broad array of community food activities, including a strong comprehensive evaluation, using a scientific, evidence-based evaluation method which leads to an objective assessment of CFP projects according to the primary goals of the CFPCGP which are: (I) to meet the food needs of low-income individuals through food distribution, community outreach, or improving access to food as part of a comprehensive service; (II) to increase the self-reliance of communities in providing for the food needs of the communities; and (III) to promote comprehensive responses to local food, food access, farm, and nutrition issues; or (IV) to meet specific state, local, or neighborhood food and agricultural needs, including needs relating to (i) equipment necessary for the efficient operation of a project; (ii) planning for long-term solutions; or (iii) the creation of innovative marketing activities that mutually benefit agricultural producers and low-income consumers. (see Part I,B.).

2. The T&TA provider should have broad expertise and have national relevance and scope and provide a one-stop service to CFPCGP applicants requesting technical assistance.

3. Organizations that can demonstrate an involvement in community food and nutrition security issues and programs along with strong training experience, and competence in outcome evaluation are strongly encouraged to apply.

4. T&TA projects must offer CFPCGP applicants and grantees grantsmanship writing and reporting resources to help them increase their skills in developing competitive applications that meet the CFPCGP primary goals. Training and resources should be accessible at various stages in the grant-making cycle. Additionally, use of innovative technologies, peer-to-peer interactions, webinars and/or videoconferencing, recordings etc., is critical.

5. T&TA projects must offer CFPCGP applicants and grantees relevant technical assistance related to grant application and submission in grants.gov and evaluation and reporting, ensuring high quality technical reports in NIFA reporting systems as well as a deepened understanding of the financial reporting requirements and post-award prior approval processes included in award terms and conditions.

6. T&TA projects will form regional networks to strengthen relationships and create opportunities for collaboration amongst grantees.

7. T&TA projects will also organize a CFPCGP Annual Meeting. The annual CFPCGP meeting will be a learning and outreach event with open attendance to the CFPCGP community including non-grantees interested in community food projects work.

8. T&TA projects will assess CFPCGP outreach gaps and conduct outreach to increase awareness and understanding of CFPCGP.

9. T&TA projects will use their expertise in community-based outcome-based reporting to compile project data from CFPCGP grantees to produce an annual report highlighting the impacts of the program in improving the access to nutritious foods and reducing food insecurity among limited resource communities. The report is to include the following headings: (i) CFPCGP’s outcomes (ii) CFPCGP impacts (iii) CFPCGP geographic reach and program outreach metrics, and (iv) T&TA impact data.

T&TA services offered may include assistance in project development, grantsmanship training, project evaluation, leadership development, and/or assistance on a particular type of project, for example, youth farm enterprises, direct marketing, and farm-to-institution methods, or other services. Activities might include, but are not limited to, telephone hotline, workshop training, peer-to-peer interaction, one-on-one training, curricula development, webinars, and/or videoconferencing.

Planning Projects:

PP provide early stage investment in new startup projects or invest in completing project plans toward the improvement of community food security in keeping with the primary goals of the

CFPCGP (see Part I ). PP are to focus on a defined community and describe in detail the activities and outcomes of the planning project. The PP is to prepare a plan for a successful Community Food Project in keeping with the purpose of program goals.

Applicants are to provide matching on a dollar-for-dollar basis for all Federal funds requested at the time the application is submitted. See Part III, B.

Table 3: Planning Project Key Information

Title Description Program Code: LN. B

Program Code Name: Planning Projects

ALN: 10.225

Project Type: Planning Project Grant Type: Standard Grant

Application Deadline July 16, 2026; 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Grant Duration: 12-36 Months; Up to three years Anticipated # of Awards: 5

Minimum Award Amount: $25,000 Maximum Award Amount: $50,000

Matching Requirement: 1:1 Match required

Community Food Projects: CFP seek solutions over the longer term rather than focusing on short-term food relief. Applicants will seek comprehensive solutions to problems across all levels of the food system from farmer to consumer. CFP should not be designed to merely support individual food pantries, farmers markets, or other established projects. Rather, the CFP should build on these experiences and encourage innovative long-term solutions to food and nutrition security. A successful project should be enduring beyond government and matching funding. CFP should be designed to become self-supporting (or have a funding source) and expand or prove to be a replicable model. Funding can support the development of such long-term projects or to accelerate or expand the work of a project. CFPs are designed to create community-based food projects with objectives, activities and outcomes that are in alignment with CFPCGP primary goals.

Table 4: Community Food Project Key Information

Title Description Program Code: LN. C

Program Code Name: Community Food Projects

ALN: 10.225

Project Type: Community Food Project Grant Type: Standard

Application Deadline July 16, 2026; 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Grant Duration: Not to exceed 48 months Anticipated # of Awards: 15

Minimum Award Amount: $125,000 Maximum Award Amount: $400,000

Matching Requirement: 1:1 Match required

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding The amount available for CFPCGP in FY 2026 is approximately $4,800,000. 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

NOFO.

B. Application Restrictions NIFA will evaluate applications using the criteria described in Part V of this NOFO. Application for FY2026 is limited to the following application types:

1. New application: New applications will be evaluated using the criteria described in Part V of this NOFO 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 that are eligible for funding:

1. Project Type. Applicants must propose Training and Technical Assistance, Planning Projects, or Community Food Projects.

2. Grant Type. Applicants must propose a Standard Grant.

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://fiscal.treasury.gov/payments-from-government/automated-standard-application-for-payments-asap 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 Applicants for the CFPCGP must meet all the requirements discussed in this NOFO. Failure to meet the eligibility criteria by the application deadline may result in exclusion from consideration or preclude NIFA from making an award. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s About Grants provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

Community Food Project and Planning Project Eligibility Individuals and for-profit entities are not eligible to apply for this program.

Training and Technical Assistance Project Eligibility Eligibility to apply for the CFPCGP T&TA is limited to nongovernmental organizations, state Cooperative Extension Services, regional food systems centers, Federal, state or Tribal agencies, and institutions of higher education. T&TA applications are not invited every year.

To be eligible for a grant CFPCGP, applicants must be a public food program service provider, a tribal organization, or a private nonprofit entity, including gleaners, and:

1. Have experience in the area of:

a. Community food work, particularly concerning small and medium-sized farms, including the provision of food and the development of new markets in communities for agricultural producers;

b. Job training and business development activities for food-related activities in communities; or

c. Efforts to reduce food and nutrition insecurity in the community, including food distribution, improving access to services, or coordinating services and programs;

2. Demonstrate competency to implement a project, provide fiscal accountability, collect data, and prepare reports and other necessary documentation; and

3. Demonstrate a willingness to share information with researchers, practitioners, and other interested parties.

Private Nonprofit: “Private Nonprofit entities” are defined as any nongovernmental corporation, trust, association, cooperative or other organization which:

1. Is operated primarily for scientific, educational, service, charitable, or similar purposes in the public interest.

2. Is not organized primarily for profit.

3. Uses its net proceeds to maintain, improve, and/or expand its operations.

Acceptable Evidence: The following documents can be used as proof of Private Nonprofit eligibility.

1. A copy of a currently valid Internal Revenue Service tax exemption certificate.

2. A statement from a state taxing body, State Attorney General, or other appropriate state official certifying that the applicant organization has a nonprofit status.

3. A certified copy of the organization’s certificate of incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes private nonprofit status.

https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants

4. Any of the above proof for a state or national parent organization and a statement signed by the parent organization that the applicant organization is a local nonprofit affiliate. See the NIFA Policy Guide for additional information.

Fiscal Agents: A Fiscal Agent is an organization managing financial responsibilities on behalf of the applicant. If an eligible applicant’s institution/organization cannot accept Federal funds directly, the applicant must have an assigned Fiscal Agent. The fiscal agent is not required to meet CFPCGP eligibility.

The applicant must provide a letter in the application stating that in the event the application results in an award, the award funds must be administered through a Fiscal Agent on their behalf.

This agent must be identified in the letter from the applicant, and the letter must be countersigned by an authorized representative of the Fiscal Agent organization.

The letter should include the Fiscal Agent’s point of contact, address, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address. This letter is to be included as an attachment to Field 12, Other Attachments (see Part IV, B of this NOFO). In the event an application is recommended for funding, NIFA will request that both the applicant or institution/organization and the fiscal agent organization submit complete management information (see Part V, C of this NOFO).

Partners and Collaborators: Applicants are encouraged to seek and create partnerships with public or private, nonprofit, or for-profit entities, including links with academic institutions , and/or other appropriate professionals, community-based organizations, and local government entities. When planning collaborations, see Part III. A of this NOFO.

Only the applicant must meet the eligibility requirements. Project partners and collaborators do not need to meet the eligibility requirements. Award recipients may subaward to organizations not eligible to apply provided such organizations are necessary for the successful completion of the project. See Part IV. C of this NOFO.

Key Contacts Required: Applicants must ensure that the Project Director (PD) and Authorized Representative (AR) listed are two separate individuals. In addition, accurate contact information must be included for both PD and AR: email, address, and phone number. This is the information used to contact applicants regarding the award status.

USDA will not accept competitive applications for grant proposals for dangerous gain-of-function research, as defined in Section 8 of E.O. 14292.

Duplicate or Multiple Submissions – duplicate or multiple submissions are not allowed. NIFA will disqualify both applications if an applicant submits duplicate or multiple submissions.

B. Cost Sharing or Matching Match Required – Applicants submitting CFP and PP applications MUST provide matching contributions on a dollar-for-dollar basis for all Federal funds awarded under CFPCGP. Matching funds may include cash and/or in-kind contributions, including third-party in-kind contributions, fairly evaluated, including facilities, equipment, or services. The matching funds may come from https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-federal-assistance-policy-guide https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/05/08/2025-08266/improving-the-safety-and-security-of-biological-research state government, local government, or private sources. Federal money cannot be used to match unless it is expressly authorized to be used for this purpose.

If an applicant voluntarily pledges cost sharing above the program’s required amount, the total becomes a binding requirement of the award. NIFA will not factor matching resources more than the required amount into the review process as an evaluation criterion.

Examples of qualifying matching contributions may include direct costs such as rent for office space used exclusively for the funded project, duplication or postage costs, and staff time.

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application Applicants must apply to this NOFO electronically; no other method or response is accepted.

The electronic application for this NOFO and additional resources are available on Grants.gov and Grants 101. Table 5 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 5. 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.

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-CFP-011776 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 6: 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.

CFPCGP Training and Technical Assistance Provider

1. The T&TA provider is available to provide free one-on-one technical support and resources to all applicants. The CFPCGP T&TA provider may be reached at this website or by filling out this online form.

2. When preparing to apply to this program, consult the T&TA provider for free support.

Grantees awarded under this program will be required to cooperate with the T&TA provider for the following services: (i) attend PD meetings, (ii) sharing information including the completion of surveys and other T&TA inquiries, and (iii) providing information on NIFA progress reports and final reports with T&TA provider annually for the life of the grant, for preparation of CFPCGP program annual report.

3. Applicants and grantees are strongly encouraged to participate in these additional activities provided by the T&TA provider including: (i) technical assistance related to application https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/learn-grants/grants-101/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-22-001-nifa-grants-application-guide https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/ https://get.adobe.com/reader/ https://www.grants.gov/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://isedsolutions.net/ https://isedsolutions.net/connect/ preparation and, project development, etc.; (ii) grant writing training; (iii) project evaluation training, and (iv) leadership/capacity development training. These activities may be provided through a variety of methods. Carefully review this NOFO and the NIFA Grants Application Guide for instructions and suggested templates.

B. Content and Form of the Application The NIFA Grants Application Guide is part of the corresponding application package for this NOFO. The NOFO 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 NOFO. Applicants must refer to the proposal number when corresponding with NIFA. Table 7 outlines other key instructions for applicants.

Table 7: 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 project goals of the Community Food Projects Competitive Grants 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

Program (CFPCGP). 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 10 (ten) 1.5 spaced pages of written text and up to 15 (fifteen) 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 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.

Project Narrative Headings: The Project Narrative (PN) should include the headings in the order provided below. Refer to the evaluation criteria for content expected under each heading.

a. Introduction

b. Proposal Goals and Objectives and Alignment with Purpose and Priorities of

CFPCGP

c. Proposal Significance and Relevance

d. Inclusion of Community Food Security Issues and Programs

e. Project Timeline

f. Evaluation

g. Organization's Capacity and Experience (summary of previous work), and Partners and Collaborators

h. Response to previous review: This requirement only applies to “Resubmitted

Applications” Part II, B identifies the type of application(s) that may be submitted in response to this NOFO. PDs must respond to the previous review summary on no more than one page titled "RESPONSE TO PREVIOUS REVIEW" which does not count against the 10-page limit of the PN.

For Training and Technical Assistance (T&TA) AND Community Food Projects (CFP) proposals, the PN MUST also include the following, in addition to the list above.

i. Logic Model (Optional): A logic model is not required for this program; however, applicants may include one to strengthen the clarity of project design and evaluation planning. If submitted, the attachment must be titled “Logic Model” in the document header and saved as “LogicModel.” Applicants are encouraged to seek assistance from the T&TA provider or other qualified evaluation experts.

Additional information is available in the Logic Model Planning Process guidance.

j. Qualifications of Project Director (PD) and Key Personnel: Provide descriptions of the relevant expertise, roles, and responsibilities of the PD and key personnel to demonstrate the capacity to effectively implement the proposed project.

k. Long-Term Viability Plan: Describe how the project’s outcomes will be sustained beyond the period of federal funding, including plans, partnerships, and resources that support long-term viability.

3. Field 12. Add Other Attachments. See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide. Attach where applicable relevant information below under this field.

a. Appendices to Project Narrative: Title the attachment as ‘Appendices’ in the document header and save file as ‘Appendices’. Appendices to the Project Narrative are allowed if they are directly germane to the proposed project.

Appendices germane to the project may include market analysis, business plans, etc. The addition of appendices must not exceed seven (7) pages and should not be used to circumvent the text and/or figures and tables page limitations.

b. Results from Prior CFPCGP Support: This requirement only applies to applicants who have received prior grant award(s) under this program. If the PD or a co-PD has received CFPCGP, including support in the past five years, information on results from that prior funding is required. This information will be used in the review of the application. PDs must summarize prior results from funding and limit the response to one page per award. For each award, list the NIFA award number, the amount and period of support, the title of the project and a summary of the results of the completed work. Save file as “Prior CFPCGP Support”.

c. Letters of commitment: These are important and strongly encouraged in supporting an application; but are optional. Attach a maximum of five signed letters of commitment from key organizations or individuals involved in the project acknowledging their support, contributions, and commitment: title the attachment ‘Letters of Commitment’. Provide evidence of broad community involvement in both planning and decision-making. This section is limited to two-page letters of commitment for each key organization. (See subsection 1. or 2., as appropriate, of Part IV, B for additional information).

d. Fiscal Agent Letter: See Part III, A. If it is necessary to include a Fiscal Agent letter, then title the attachment as ‘Fiscal Agent’ in the document header and save file as ‘FiscalAgent’. R&R Senior/Key Person Profile). See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for profile requirements, details about the biographical sketch, and suggested support templates.

e. Data Management Plan: A DMP is required for this program. Applicants should clearly articulate how the 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 NOFO, NIFA’s Data Management Plan).

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 award (see Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide).

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

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

III, B of this NOFO 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 NOFO 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 https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/lifecycle/pre-award/data-management-plans 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.”

Matching funds must be accurately documented for all project years at the time of the application in the R&R Budget. A complete list of matching sources must be secured and maintained at applicant’s organization location. Do not submit this list to NIFA or provide match commitment letters unless requested.

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

3. Domestic Travel – During the tenure of a grant, PD meetings are required as a condition of the award during the period of performance. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss their projects, opportunities for collaborative efforts, and to enhance dissemination of exemplary end products/results. NIFA in collaboration with the T&TA provider reserves the right to make necessary changes to PD meeting dates, and mode, in-person or virtual. These PD meetings may alternate between in-person and virtual meetings. In either case, attendance is required as follows.

a. The T&TA and CFP PDs are to budget for in-person travel for all years that Federal funding is requested and award remains active. If travel funds are not spent due to attendance of a virtual PD meeting, budget adjustments may be made as necessary.

b. PP PDs must budget travel expenses needed to attend only one PD meeting during their period of performance due to award size and shorter period of performance.

c. Travel budgets must be reasonable to cover expenses including meeting registration, airfare, ground transportation, meals, and accommodation costs to attend in-person PD meetings. In-person PD meetings typically last two to three days, not including travel days. Estimates depend on applicants’ location and PD meeting venue and location. PD meeting dates are typically announced three to five months in advance.

The venue for a PD meeting is typically announced at two to three months in advance for planning. Here is an example to guide travel estimates: In 2025, the in-person PD meeting was held in Portland, Oregon. Meeting registration cost was $250, which included six meals (two dinners, three breakfasts and one lunch); hotel was discounted to $162/night and PDs travelled from all over the country to attend for approximately 2.5 days, excluding travel days.

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 “Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program”, and

a. for Community Food Projects applications, enter the program code “LN.C”

b. for Planning Projects, enter the program code “LN.B”.

Accurate entry is critical.

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

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=39448527cdd5ebd0a063b91b8b44f0f5&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&rgn=div5 https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=39448527cdd5ebd0a063b91b8b44f0f5&mc=true&node=pt2.1.200&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/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

C. Funding Restrictions

1. Fully Negotiated Rate. Applicants must use the current negotiated Indirect Cost (IDC) rate established by its cognizant Federal agency (the agency that provides the most funds). If awarded, the applicant will be required to produce a negotiated IDC rate agreement from the cognizant agency to recover IDC.

If the applicant does not have a negotiated rate and NIFA is the cognizant agency, the applicant may request an IDC rate. Applicants are not required to complete the IDC package during the application process and need only to calculate a rate to serve as a basis for requesting IDC. If awarded, the applicant will be required to submit a complete IDC proposal package to obtain a negotiated rate.

Organizations that do not have a current negotiated (including provisional) rate, may elect the de minimis rate (2 CFR 200.414(f)). The Uniform Guidance offers the option of electing to charge a de minimis rate of 15 percent of modified total direct costs (MTDC), which may be used indefinitely. As described above and in 2 CFR 200.403, costs must be charged consistently as either indirect or direct costs but may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. If elected, this methodology must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a non-Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which it may do at any time.

See NIFA Indirect Costs for information including additional resources and NIFA Indirect Cost Guidance Chart.

2. NIFA awards may not be used to support the procurement of unmanned aircraft systems to process, store, or transmit Federal information (as defined in OMB Circular A-130) unless the grant is specifically available for procurement of such equipment and grantees describe in their application how they will comply with the information security requirements outlined in Appendix B of M-26-02 Ensuring Government Use of Secure Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Supporting United States Producers and develop a risk-based approach to applying those requirements to procurement solicitations to potential vendors under the resulting Federal award. This information, if provided, will be evaluated by NIFA as part of its evaluation process. If such procurement is approved, specific information security requirements may be included in the terms and conditions of the grant to ensure that the grantees will incorporate those requirements in procurement solicitations of unmanned aircraft systems under the Federal award.

3. Subaward Restriction. The applicant must perform a substantive portion of the project, and no more than 50 percent (Federal and Matching funds) as determined by budget expenditures, may be subawarded. Projects may divide their budget allocations between partners as it fits their work plan. (For additional knowledge or expertise that is not available within the applicant organization, funds for expert consultation may be included in the “All Other Direct Costs” section of the proposed budget.)

4. Infrastructure Improvement and Development: Successful applicants must not use grant funds awarded under the authority of this NOFO for the purpose of infrastructure https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecfr.gov%2Fcurrent%2Ftitle-2%2Fsubtitle-A%2Fchapter-II%2Fpart-200%2Fsubpart-E%2Fsubject-group-ECFRd93f2a98b1f6455%2Fsection-200.414%23p-200.414(f)&data=05%7C02%7Cjoseph.perez2%40usda.gov%7C4f531cc06d7f48f95a8a08dccd0e89c9%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638610709532095655%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=vu%2F%2FohVj6S7x%2FdBdkkEwUrTcaLw%2FQICuOPF4zAWEHZY%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecfr.gov%2Fcurrent%2Ftitle-2%2Fsubtitle-A%2Fchapter-II%2Fpart-200%2Fsubpart-E%2Fsubject-group-ECFRea20080eff2ea53%2Fsection-200.403&data=05%7C02%7Cjoseph.perez2%40usda.gov%7C4f531cc06d7f48f95a8a08dccd0e89c9%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638610709532106512%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nOEhOJNeD%2FmcJDd3qZDCHUWeUAqnnWfjatzM8MSop2o%3D&reserved=0 https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/regulations-and-guidelines/indirect-costs https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/regulations-and-guidelines/indirect-costs/indirect-cost-additional-resources https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/regulations-and-guidelines/indirect-costs/nifa-19-009-indirect-cost-chart https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/regulations-and-guidelines/indirect-costs/nifa-19-009-indirect-cost-chart https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbidenwhitehouse.archives.gov%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Flegacy_drupal_files%2Fomb%2Fcirculars%2FA130%2Fa130revised.pdf&data=05%7C02%7Cjoseph.perez2%40usda.gov%7C2fd05fdc31df40138ca308dec7f6e548%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C639168060383127728%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=g4K1IW83Ceb%2BekljWWsYOH3DEtu0VIZqjLgw0u4TDXA%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F11%2FM-26-02-Ensuring-Government-Use-of-Secure-Unmanned-Aircraft-Systems-and-Supporting-United-States-Producers.pdf&data=05%7C02%7Cjoseph.perez2%40usda.gov%7C2fd05fdc31df40138ca308dec7f6e548%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C639168060383151603%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=rYV8tDrTd6thPn3qNUCmkJF8yotJ8eumoDLVZy8jccY%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F11%2FM-26-02-Ensuring-Government-Use-of-Secure-Unmanned-Aircraft-Systems-and-Supporting-United-States-Producers.pdf&data=05%7C02%7Cjoseph.perez2%40usda.gov%7C2fd05fdc31df40138ca308dec7f6e548%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C639168060383151603%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=rYV8tDrTd6thPn3qNUCmkJF8yotJ8eumoDLVZy8jccY%3D&reserved=0 improvement and development. Equipment necessary for the efficient operation of a CFPCGP project is an allowable cost in this program.

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 NOFO. 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…