FY26 Nonprofit RBS NOFO (2026-06-05).pdf

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

Application due: 07/07/2026 11:59PM EDT

National Nonprofit Organization Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) Grant Program

Assistance Listing Number: 97.135

Funding Opportunity Number: DHS-USCG-NONPROFIT-2026

Contents

Before you begin 3

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 4

Basic Information 5

Eligibility 6

Program Description 7

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 11

Registration and Submission Requirements 12

Step 3: Write Your Application 13

Application Contents and Format 14

Step 4: Learn About Review and Award 16

Application Review Information 17

Intergovernmental Review 19

Step 5: Submit Your Application 20

Application Submission and Deadlines 21

Step 6: Learn What Happens After Award 22

Post-Award Requirements and Administration 23

Contacts, Support, and Appendices 30

Contacts 31

Appendices 31

Before you begin

To help you find what you need, this NOFO uses internal links. In Adobe Reader, you can go back to where you were before clicking an internal link by pressing Alt + Left

Arrow (Windows) or Command + Left Arrow (Mac) on your keyboard.

If you believe you are a good candidate for this funding opportunity, secure your SAM.gov and Grants.gov registrations now. If you are already registered, make sure your registration is active and up to date.

SAM.gov registration (this can take several weeks)

You must have an active account with SAM.gov. This includes having a

Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

See Step 2: Get Ready to Apply

Grants.gov registration (this can take several days)

You must have an active Grants.gov registration. Doing so requires a Login.gov registration as well.

See Step 2: Get Ready to Apply

Fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, and other criminal or noncriminal misconduct related to this program may be reported to the Office of Inspector

General (OIG) Hotline. The toll-free numbers to call are 1-(800)-323-8603 and

TTY 1-(844)-889-4357

https://sam.gov/ https://grants.gov/

Step 1: Review the Opportunity

Jump to a step

In this step

Basic Information 5

Eligibility 6

Program Description 7

1. Review 2. Get ready 3. Write 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Basic Information A. Award Facts

Agency Name:

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), United States Coast Guard

(Coast Guard), Office of Auxiliary & Boating Safety, Boating Safety Division

(BSX)

Assistance Listing Number:

97.135

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Title:

National Nonprofit Organization Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) Grant

Program

Funding Opportunity Number:

DHS-USCG-NONPROFIT-2026

Announcement Type:

Initial

Expected Award Range:

$50,000 to $600,000

Expected Total Funding:

$6,592,499

Anticipated Number of Awards:

Approximately 25–35 awards

B. Executive Summary

The mission of the National RBS Program is to ensure the public has a safe, secure, and enjoyable recreational boating experience by implementing programs designed to minimize the loss of life, personal injury, and property damage while cooperating with environmental and national security efforts via cooperative agreements with nonprofit organizations.

Key Dates

Application Start Date:

06/05/2026

Application End Date:

07/07/2026 at 11:59 PM EDT

Anticipated Funding Selection Date:

No later than 09/25/2026

Anticipated Award Date:

No later than 09/30/2026

Period of Performance Start

10/01/2026

Period of Performance End

09/30/2027

Budget Period:

10/1/2026 - 9/30/2027

Eligibility A. Eligible Entities

Applicant Eligibility

Nonprofit with Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 501(c)(3) Status (Other than an Institution of Higher

Education)

B. Project Type Eligibility

Allowable Project Types

Only projects determined to be national-in-scope are allowable. Applicants must meet one of three definitions:

1. the ability to provide RBS services in all regions per Appendix A: Grant Regional Map

2. currently providing recreational boating services in all regions

3. proposing a specific plan and timeline to partner and/or contract with other national, state, and/or local organizations across all regions to provide RBS services.

Unallowable Project Types

The Coast Guard will determine unallowable projects on a case-by-case basis.

C. Requirements for Personnel, Partners, and Other Parties

There are no additional requirements for personnel, partners, and other parties. If applicable, subapplicants/subrecipients must submit short bios and resumes.

D. Maximum Number of Applications

There are no limitations on the number of applications that can be submitted.

E. Additional Restrictions

1. Applicants must be a nongovernmental organization.

2. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to provide recreational boating safety services via one of the definitions of national-in-scope.

3. Applicants must demonstrate that one of their primary functions is to provide services to the public.

4. Applicants or recipients/subrecipients are required to certify their compliance with federal statues, DHS directives, polices, and procedures.

https://www.uscg.mil/Responsive/

F. References to Other Eligibility Factors

Please see the following references provided below:

1. “Threshold Review Criteria” subsection

2. “Financial Integrity Criteria” subsection

3. “Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review” subsection

4. Your awarding agency may request financial information such as the Employer Identification

Number (EIN) and bank information as part of the potential award selection.

G. Cost Share Requirement

There is no cost share requirement.

H. Cost Share Description, Type, and Restrictions

Not applicable.

I. Cost Share Example

Not applicable.

J. Required Information for Verifying Cost Share

Not applicable.

Program Description A. Program Purpose

The purpose of the National RBS Program is to reduce the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths on America’s waterways and to provide a safe, enjoyable experience for the boating public, and to encourage greater nonprofit organization participation and uniformity in boating safety efforts.

B. Goals and Objectives

1. The Strategic Plan of the National RBS Program has three initiatives designed to prevent deaths and injuries of recreational boaters:

a. Initiative 1: Positively Influence Recreational Boater Behavior

b. Initiative 2: Positively Influence Recreational Boat and Accessory Manufacturers

c. Initiative 3: Leverage Recreational Boating Data

2. Applicants are encouraged to apply for any project that fits one or more of the three initiatives.

https://uscgboating.org/library/strategic-plan/Strategic-Plan-of-the-National-Recreational-Boating-Safety-Program-2022-thru-2026.pdf

3. This year’s competition also includes a list of Areas of Interest found in Appendix E: Areas of

Interest. Applicants may focus on one of these topics as well.

C. Performance Measures and Targets

The Coast Guard uses the following performance measures for the Nonprofit RBS Grant Program:

1. the number of students and instructors produced from grant‑funded courses

2. the amount of media impressions generated by boating safety outreach grants

3. the number of boating safety awareness and education events conducted

Applicants should propose performance measures relevant to their proposed project if the prespecified performance measures are not applicable.

D. Federal Assistance Type

Cooperative Agreement

1. The Coast Guard will work closely with recipients throughout the duration of the award to ensure that approved activities are conducted in accordance with federal statutes and regulations, requested costs are allowable and allocable, and deliverables are developed or enhanced with direct input and review by Coast Guard staff.

2. The Coast Guard can halt an activity immediately if the detailed performance specifications or requirements are not met.

3. The Coast Guard may require the review and approval of proposed tasks, activities, and deliverables prior to the recipient’s implementation or dissemination.

4. Coast Guard staff also play a direct role in the post-award negotiation process.

E. Program-Specific Unallowable Costs

The Coast Guard will determine unallowable costs on a project‑based determination.

F. General Funding Requirements

Costs charged to federal awards (including federal and non-federal cost share funds) must comply with applicable statutes, rules and regulations, policies, this NOFO, and the terms and conditions of the federal award. This includes, among other requirements, that costs must be incurred, and products and services must be delivered within the budget period (see 2 C.F.R. § 200.403(h)).

General Spending Prohibitions

Recipients may not use federal funds or any cost share funds for the following activities:

1. Matching or cost sharing requirements for other federal grants and cooperative agreements

(see 2 C.F.R. § 200.306).

2. Lobbying or other prohibited activities under 18 U.S.C. § 1913 or 2 C.F.R. § 200.450.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRea20080eff2ea53/section-200.403 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/section-200.306 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:18%20section:1913%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title18-section1913)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72/section-200.450

3. Prosecuting claims against the federal government or any other government entity (see 2

C.F.R. § 200.435).

Prohibition on Covered Equipment or Services

Recipients, sub-recipients, and their contractors or subcontractors must comply with the prohibitions set forth in Section 889 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, which restricts the purchase of covered telecommunications and surveillance equipment and services. Please see 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.216, 200.327, 200.471, and Appendix II to 2 C.F.R. Part 200 for more information.

Beneficiary and Participant Eligibility

The beneficiary of this program is the general boating public. Participant eligibility should be defined by the recipient organization and their organizational policies.

This NOFO and any subsequent federal awards create no rights or causes of action for any beneficiary or participant. Please consult the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions and your awarding documents for more details.

Indirect Costs

Indirect costs (IDC) are expenses not readily assignable to specific cost objectives without disproportionate effort. Please see 2 C.F.R. Part 200 Subpart E Direct and Indirect Costs for more information.

Applicants who desire to exercise a current Federal negotiated IDC rate, should they receive an award that allows for IDC, must provide a copy of their IDC rate agreement with their application.

Award recipients without a current Federal negotiated IDC (including a provisional rate) may charge up to the de minimis rate, unless your award has statutory or regulatory restrictions to indirect cost.

Please check with your awarding agency for more information.

As it relates to the IDC for subrecipients, a recipient must follow the requirements of 2 C.F.R. §§

200.332 and 200.414 in approving the IDC rate for subawards.

Budget Period

This funding opportunity has one budget period from 10/01/2026 to 09/30/2027.

Pre-Award Costs

The Coast Guard provides written approval of pre-award costs in its terms and conditions.

Management and Administration Costs

Not applicable.

G. Authorizing Authority

46 U.S.C. §§ 13101–13109.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72/section-200.435 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72/section-200.435 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-C/section-200.216 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR45ddd4419ad436d/section-200.327 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72/section-200.471 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/appendix-Appendix%20II%20to%20Part%20200 https://www.dhs.gov/publication/dhs-standard-terms-and-conditions https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/subject-group-ECFRd93f2a98b1f6455

H. Appropriation Authority

Dingell‑Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act, Chp. 658, § 4, 64 Stat. 432, as amended (16 U.S.C. § 777c);

Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982, Pub. L. No. 97‑424, § 531(a), 96 Stat. 2187‑2191, as amended (26 U.S.C. § 9503).

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply

Submission Requirements and Application Deadlines 12

Submission Requirements and Application

Deadlines A. Registration

You must have an active account with SAM.gov. This includes having a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

SAM.gov registration can take several weeks. Begin that process today.

To register, go to SAM.gov Entity Registration and click “Get Started.” From the same page, you can also click on the Entity Registration Checklist for the information you will need to register.

You must also have an active account with Grants.gov. You can see step-by step instructions at the

Grants.gov Quick Start Guide for Applicants.

B. Requesting the Application Package

Application materials and related documents are available via Grants.gov.

C. Submission Instructions

All applications must be submitted via Grants.gov.

D. Application Deadline

07/07/2026 at 11:50 PM EDT.

E. Other Deadlines

Not applicable.

F. Effects of Missing Deadlines

Applications received by Grants.gov after the deadline will be considered late and disqualified from the review.

https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration http://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants

Step 3: Write Your Application

Application Contents and Format 14

Application Contents and Format A. Pre-Application Requirements

Not applicable

B. Application Requirements

All applicants must have an up-to-date SAM.gov registration and a designated Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) appointed to sign and submit the application.

For a list of required documents, see “Required Documents, Content, and Formatting.”

C. Required Documents, Content, and Formatting

Formatting All applications must be written in 12 pt. Times New Roman with one-inch margins.

List of Required Documents and Page Limits Applications that do not include these sections will not be reviewed. Any content that exceeds the specified page limit will not be provided to the reviewers.

1. Executive Summary (Half Page)

a. Applicants must include a succinct overview of the proposed project and activities.

b. It should include what the applicant plans to accomplish, a summary of the proposed activities and deliverables, and a brief description of the potential, broader impact of the project’s successful completion.

2. Organization Description (One Page)

a. Applicants must provide a clear and concise description of the organization.

b. Explain your organization’s knowledge, background, capacity, and technical experience to complete the proposed activities.

3. Program Timeline (Two Pages)

a. Applicants must submit a timeline that clearly defines the entire period of performance using Appendix D. Timeline Template.

b. The timeline should provide a clear, chronological description of the project’s key tasks and milestones that support and coincide with the program narrative.

4. Program Narrative (15 pages)

a. Applicants should write their program narrative to address each of the Application Criteria.

b. The narrative should demonstrate how the proposed activities address an Area of Interest or one or more of the initiatives of the National RBS Strategic Plan, and how the successful completion of the projects serves the greater public.

c. Applicants should clearly articulate their goals, objectives, and proposed deliverables, and how each of these will be achieved using as much specificity as possible.

d. Any citations within the narrative may not be hyperlinked to outside resources and are subject to the 15-page limit.

e. Applicants should not include their organization’s name or the year in their project title.

f. Applicants should avoid using technical jargon, short-hand, or unexplained abbreviations.

5. Budget & Budget Narrative (No Page Limits)

a. Applicants must submit a separate, detailed, Excel-based budget using Appendix C.

Budget Template and follow the instructions in Appendix B. Budget & Budget Narrative

Instructions.

b. The budget template should only include basic descriptions and numerical amounts.

c. The budget narrative should describe, explain, and fully justify the requested amounts for the proposed items and/or activities identified in the budget template.

1) Descriptions may include job titles, roles and responsibilities, proposed travel, contracts, supplies, shipping costs, etc.

2) It should not be used as an “extension” of the project narrative.

3) Applicants proposing to conduct interviews, research, or surveys must budget the cost of an Institutional Review Board (IRB).

Additional Documents

1. IRS letter confirming nonprofit status

2. Verification of a federally approved accounting system

3. Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) required if requesting more than the de minimis rate

4. List of individuals on the Board of Directors

5. Resumes of principle participants

6. Travel Policy

7. Procurement Policy

D. Post-Application Requirements

Not applicable.

Step 4: Learn about the Award Review

Process

Application Review Information 17

Intergovernmental Review 19

Application Review Information A. Threshold Criteria

The Coast Guard will automatically disqualify any application that:

1. does not meet the requirements listed in the “Eligible Entities,” “Project Type Eligibility,” or

“Additional Restrictions” subsections.

2. does not include an Executive Summary, Organization Description, Timeline, Program

Narrative, Budget, Budget Narrative, and letter from the IRS confirming the applicant’s nonprofit 501(c)(3) status.

B. Application Criteria (Maximum of 130 Points)

1. Does the applicant propose a project that addresses an Area of Interest or one of the three initiatives in the strategic plan? (20 points)

a. If yes: Does the applicant effectively demonstrate how its proposed project will address an Area of Interest or initiative?

b. If no: Does the applicant propose a topic of concern for the RBS community and effectively demonstrate an ability to complete the proposed project?

2. Does the applicant describe how the proposed project is, or will be, national-in-scope per the program’s eligibility requirements? (15 points).

a. Does the applicant explicitly identify the definition of national-in-scope with which it complies?

b. If the application is a pilot program, does the applicant explain the long-term vision and implementation?

3. Does the applicant substantiate with data and evidence how their proposed project will fill a gap in recreational boating safety? (10 points)

4. Does the applicant provide a well-defined timeline with realistic goals and milestones for the duration of the proposed period of performance? (10 points)

5. Does the applicant have a mitigation plan in place should the project experience any delays or unexpected challenges? (10 points)

6. Does the applicant provide a way to measure the success of their project with impactful performance measures, clear outcomes, and outputs? (10 points)

7. Does the applicant have the organizational capacity and technical experience to complete the proposed project? (20 points)

a. If yes: Explain the roles, responsibilities, and qualifications of the personnel who will be doing the work

b. If no: If the applicant plans to secure technical expertise via outside resources, explain the process and procedures to acquire the necessary talent (e.g., determining qualifications, vetting potential vendors, procurements, etc.).

8. Does the applicant propose an effective marketing strategy to disseminate its deliverables to the boating public? (10 points)

9. Are the itemized costs and descriptions in the budget and budget narrative clearly defined, justifiable, and reasonable? (15 points)

10. What is the long-term plan for the project’s sustainability? (10 points)

C. Financial Integrity Criteria

Before making an award, the awarding agency is required to review OMB-designated databases for applicants’ eligibility and financial integrity information. This is required by the Payment Integrity

Information Act of 2019 (Pub. L. No. 116-117, § 2 (2020)), 41 U.S.C. § 2313, and the “Do Not Pay

Initiative” (31 U.S.C. 3354). For more details, please see 2 C.F.R. § 200.206.

Thus, the Financial Integrity Criteria may include the following risk-based considerations of the applicant:

1. Financial stability.

2. Quality of management systems and ability to meet management standards.

3. History of performance in managing federal award.

4. Reports and findings from audits.

5. Ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements.

D. Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Risk Review

Before making an award expected to exceed the simplified acquisition threshold (currently a total federal share of $250,000) over the period of performance:

1. The awarding agency is required by 41 U.S.C. § 2313 to review or consider certain information found in SAM.gov. For details, please see 2 C.F.R. § 200.206(a)(2).

2. An applicant may review and comment on any information in the responsibility/qualification records available in SAM.gov.

3. Before making decisions in the risk review required by 2 C.F.R. § 200.206, the awarding agency will consider any comments by the applicant.

E. Reviewer Selection

The Coast Guard Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety (BSX) uses Coast Guard boating safety subject matter experts to review and assess its applications. Reviewers are not restricted to BSX staff. All review participants are required to review and sign a DHS Conflict of Interest Form.

https://www.congress.gov/116/statute/STATUTE-134/STATUTE-134-Pg113.pdf https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title41-section2313&num=0&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title31-chapter33&edition=prelim https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-C/section-200.206 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title41-section2313&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-C/section-200.206 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-C/section-200.206

F. Merit Review Process

1. Reviewers assess the applications for technical merit, personnel qualifications, and the degree to which a proposal offers potential value and measurements to program goals as stated in this NOFO.

2. BSX staff logs the scores and prepares a ranking list, along with the recommended funding levels from the reviewers, for discussion and consideration.

3. All recommendations are presented to the Boating Safety Division Chief, the Office Chief of

Auxiliary and Boating Safety, and then to the Director of Inspections and Compliance for their review. The Coast Guard designated senior appointee will be the final approval of awards.

G. Final Selection

Final selection of the awards will be determined by the Coast Guard designated senior appointee.

Intergovernmental Review A. Requirement Description and State Single Point of Contact

An intergovernmental review may be required. Applicants must contact their state’s Single Point of

Contact (SPOC) to comply with the state’s process under Executive Order 12372. If you do not find a contact for your state in the latest version of the SPOC list, no further action is needed. This requirement does not apply to tribal governments.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Application Submission and Deadlines 21

Application Submission and Deadlines See Step 2 by clicking for application requirements, registration, and deadlines.

See Step 3 by clicking for required components, formatting, and naming of your application.

here here

Step 6: Learn What Happens After Award

Award Notices 23

Post-Award Requirements and Administration 23

Other 28

Award Notices A. Notice of Award

1. The Authorized Organization Representative should carefully read the federal award package before accepting the federal award. The federal award package includes instructions on administering the federal award as well as terms and conditions.

2. By submitting an application, applicants agree to comply with the prerequisites stated in this

NOFO and the material terms and conditions of the federal award, should they receive an award.

3. All applicants will be notified of their funding status. Successful applicants will receive a letter indicating the funded proposal(s), award amount(s), and the assigned Grant Technical Managers

(GTMs). The letter will also include important information regarding grant award negotiations and participation in the annual, mandatory webinar.

B. Note Regarding Pre-Award Costs

Even if pre-award costs are allowed, beginning performance is at the applicant’s own risk.

C. Obligation of Funds

Funds are obligated in the Coast Guard’s financial system upon the final selection of awards.

D. Notification to Unsuccessful Applicants

Unsuccessful applicants are notified at the same time as successful applicants.

Post-Award Requirements and

Administration A. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

Presidential Executive Orders

Recipients must comply with the requirements of Presidential Executive Orders related to grants

(also known as federal assistance and financial assistance), the full text of which are incorporated by reference.

However, this requirement does not apply to any federal award under this funding opportunity to the extent their application is limited by the injunction in County of Santa Clara v. Noem, No. 25-cv-8330

(N.D. Cal.), City of Chicago v. Noem, No. 25-cv-12765 (N.D. Ill.), or any other litigation, so long as that injunction is in force. If the relevant injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the requirement to comply with Presidential Executive Orders will immediately become effective.

In accordance with Executive Order 14305, Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty (June 6, 2025), and to the extent allowed by law, eligible state, local, tribal, and territorial grant recipients under this

NOFO are permitted to purchase unmanned aircraft systems, otherwise known as drones, or equipment or services for the detection, tracking, or identification of drones and drone signals, consistent with the legal authorities of state, local, tribal, and territorial agencies. Recipients must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and adhere to any statutory requirements on the use of federal funds for such unmanned aircraft systems, equipment, or services.

Subrecipient Monitoring and Management

Pass-through entities must comply with the requirements for subrecipient monitoring and management as set forth in 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.331-333.

Termination of a Federal Award per 2 C.F.R. § 200.340

1. By DHS. DHS may terminate a federal award, in whole or in part, for the following reasons:

a. If the recipient fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the federal award;

b. With the consent of the recipient, in which case the parties must agree upon the termination conditions, including the effective date, and in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated; or

c. Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the federal award.

d. For convenience, pursuant to Executive Order 14332, Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking, including when the award no longer advances agency priorities or the national interest, but subject to appropriate exceptions, including agreements entered into in furtherance of international trade agreements or those awarded by the Department of Commerce under title XCIX of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense

Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-283), the CHIPS and Science Act of

2022 (Public Law 117-167), or Division F of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58).

2. By the Recipient. The recipient may terminate the federal award, in whole or in part, by sending written notification to DHS stating the reasons for such termination, the effective date, and in the case of partial termination, the portion to be terminated. However, if DHS determines that the remaining portion of the federal award will not accomplish the purposes for which the federal award was made, DHS may terminate the federal award in its entirety.

3. Notice. Either party will provide written notice of intent to terminate for any reason to the other party no less than 30 calendar days prior to the effective date of the termination.

4. Compliance with Closeout Requirements for Terminated Awards. The recipient must continue to comply with closeout requirements in 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.344 and 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.345 after an award is terminated.

B. DHS Standard Terms and Conditions

A recipient under this funding opportunity must comply with the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions in effect as of the federal award, , except as limited by the injunction in Illinois, et al., v. FEMA, 25-cv-

00206 (D.RI September 24, 2025). The DHS Standard Terms and Conditions are available online and https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR682eb6fbfabcde2/section-200.344 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFRbceb211a19344ce/section-200.345 can be found: DHS Standard Terms and Conditions | Homeland Security. For continuation awards, the terms and conditions for the initial federal award will apply unless otherwise specified in the terms and conditions of the continuation award. The specific version of the DHS Standard Terms and

Conditions applicable to the federal award will be in the federal award package.

However, the provisions relating to DEI and DEIA do not apply to any federal award under this funding opportunity to the extent their application is limited by the injunction in County of Santa Clara v.

Noem, No. 25-cv-8330 (N.D. Cal.), City of Chicago v. Noem, No. 25-cv-12765 (N.D. Ill.), City of Seattle v.

Trump, No. 2:25-cv-1435 (W.D. Wa.), or any other litigation, so long as that injunction is in force. If the relevant injunction is stayed, vacated, or extinguished, the requirement to comply with the DEI and

DEIA terms will immediately become effective.

NOTE: While not a requirement in the DHS Standard Terms and Conditions, as a best practice:

“Entities receiving funds through this program should ensure that cybersecurity is integrated into the design, development, operation, and maintenance of investments that impact information technology (IT) and/ or operational technology (OT) systems.”

C. Financial Reporting Requirements

1. Recipients must report obligations and expenditures through a federal financial report. The

Federal Financial Report (FFR) form, also known as Standard Form 425 (SF-425), is available online at SF-425 OMB #4040-0014.

2. Recipients must submit the FFR, and any supporting documentation, semi-annually throughout the period of performance:

a. October 1st – December 31st due January 30th

b. January 1st – June 30th due July 30th

The final FFR is due within 120 calendar days after the end of the period of performance.

The Coast Guard may withhold future federal awards and cash payments if FFRs are not timely, complete, detailed, and accurate. FFRs showing inadequate progress may also cause future federal awards and cash payments to be withheld

D. Closeout Reporting Requirements

Within 120 days after the end of the period of performance, or after an amendment has been issued to close out a federal award, recipients must submit the following:

1. The final request for payment, if applicable.

2. The final FFR.

3. The final progress report detailing all accomplishments. Not applicable (construction projects are not allowable).

4. A qualitative narrative summary of the impact of those accomplishments throughout the period of performance.

5. Other documents required by this NOFO, terms and conditions of the federal award, or other

Coast Guard guidance.

https://www.dhs.gov/publication/dhs-standard-terms-and-conditions https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/sample/SF425a_2_0-V2.0.pdf

After the Coast Guard approves these reports, it will issue a closeout notice. The notice will indicate the period of performance as closed, list any remaining funds to be de-obligated, and address the record maintenance requirement. Unless a longer period applies, such as due to an audit or litigation, for equipment or real property used beyond the period of performance, or due to other circumstances outlined in 2 C.F.R. § 200.334, this maintenance requirement is three years from the date of the final FFR.

Also, pass-through entities are responsible for closing out those subawards as described in 2 C.F.R. §

200.344; subrecipients are still required to submit closeout materials within 90 calendar days of the subaward period of performance end date. When a subrecipient completes all closeout requirements, pass-through entities must promptly complete all closeout actions in time for the recipient to submit all necessary documentation and information to the awarding agency during the closeout of their prime award.

The recipient is responsible for returning any balances of unobligated or unliquidated funds that have been drawn down that are not authorized to be retained per 2 C.F.R. § 200.344(e).

E. Disclosing Information per 2 C.F.R. § 180.335

Before entering into a federal award, the applicant must notify the Coast Guard if it knows that the applicant or any of the principals (as defined by 2 C.F.R. § 180.995) for the federal award:

1. Are presently excluded or disqualified;

2. Have been convicted within the preceding three years of any of the offenses listed in §

180.800(a) or had a civil judgment rendered against you for one of those offenses within that time period;

3. Are presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity

(Federal, State, or local) with the commission of any of the offenses listed in § 180.800(a); or

4. Have had one or more public transactions (Federal, State, or local) terminated within the preceding three years for cause or default.

This is requirement is fully described in 2 C.F.R. 180.335.

Additionally, 2 C.F.R. § 180.350 requires recipients to provide immediate notice to the awarding agency at any time after entering a federal award if:

1. The recipient learns that either it failed to earlier disclose information as required by 2 C.F.R.

180.335;

2. Due to changed circumstances, the applicant or any of the principals for the federal award now meet the criteria at 2 C.F.R. 180.335 listed above.

Administrative Closeout

Administrative closeout is a mechanism to unilaterally execute closeout of an award. The Coast

Guard may use available award information in lieu of final recipient reports, per 2 C.F.R. § 200.344(h)-

(i). It is an activity of last resort, and if the Coast Guard administratively closes an award, this may negatively impact a recipient’s ability to obtain future funding.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR4acc10e7e3b676f/section-200.334 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR682eb6fbfabcde2/section-200.344 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR682eb6fbfabcde2/section-200.344 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-180/subpart-I/section-180.995 https://www.govinfo.gov/link/uscode/41/2313 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-180/subpart-C/subject-group-ECFRe1a8b70dfdc38be/section-180.335 https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/M-21-27.pdf https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-180/subpart-C/subject-group-ECFRe1a8b70dfdc38be/section-180.335 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-180/subpart-C/subject-group-ECFRe1a8b70dfdc38be/section-180.335 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-180/subpart-C/subject-group-ECFRe1a8b70dfdc38be/section-180.335 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR682eb6fbfabcde2/section-200.344

F. Reporting of Matters Related to Recipient Integrity and Performance

Appendix XII to 2 C.F.R. Part 200 states the terms and conditions for recipient integrity and performance matters used for this funding opportunity.

If the total value of all active federal grants, cooperative agreements, and procurement contracts for a recipient exceeds $10,000,000 at any time during the period of performance:

1. The recipient must maintain the currency of information reported in SAM.gov about civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings described in paragraph 2 of Appendix XII;

2. The required reporting frequency is described in paragraph 4 of Appendix XII.

G. Single Audit Reports

A recipient expending $1,000,000 or more in federal awards (as defined by 2 C.F.R. § 200.1) during its fiscal year must undergo an audit. This may be either a single audit complying with 2 C.F.R. § 200.514 or a program-specific audit complying with 2 C.F.R. §§ 200.501 and 200.507. Audits must follow 2

C.F.R. Part 200, Subpart F, 2 C.F.R. § 200.501, and the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO)

Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards.

H. Monitoring and Oversight

Per 2 C.F.R. § 200.337, DHS and its authorized representatives have the right of access to any records of the recipient or subrecipient pertinent to a Federal award to perform audits, site visits, and any other official use. The right also includes timely and reasonable access to the recipient’s or subrecipient’s personnel for the purpose of interview and discussion related to such documents or the Federal award in general.

Pursuant to this right and per 2 C.F.R. § 200.329, DHS may conduct desk reviews and make site visits to review and evaluate project accomplishments and management control systems as well as provide any required technical assistance. Recipients and subrecipients must respond in a timely and accurate manner to DHS requests for information relating to a federal award.

I. Program Evaluation

Title I of the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 (Evidence Act), Pub. L. No.

115-435 (2019), urges federal agencies to use program evaluation as a critical tool to learn, improve delivery, and elevate program service and delivery across the program lifecycle. Evaluation means

“an assessment using systematic data collection and analysis of one or more programs, policies, and organizations intended to assess their effectiveness and efficiency.” Evidence Act, § 101 (codified at 5 U.S.C. § 311). OMB A-11, Section 290 (Evaluation and Evidence-Building Activities) further outlines the standards and practices for evaluation activities. Federal agencies are required to specify any requirements for recipient participation in program evaluation activities (2 C.F.R. § 200.301).

Program evaluation activities incorporated from the outset in the NOFO and program design and implementation allow recipients and agencies to meaningfully document and measure progress and achievement towards program goals and objectives, and identify program outcomes and lessons learned, as part of demonstrating recipient performance (2 C.F.R. § 200.301).

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/appendix-Appendix%20XII%20to%20Part%20200 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRed1f39f9b3d4e72/section-200.435 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR4acc10e7e3b676f/section-200.337 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-F/subject-group-ECFRfd0932e473d10ba/section-200.501 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/section-200.306 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-F/subject-group-ECFRfd0932e473d10ba/section-200.507 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-F/subject-group-ECFRfd0932e473d10ba/section-200.507 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-F/subject-group-ECFRfd0932e473d10ba/section-200.501 https://www.gao.gov/yellowbook https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-C/section-200.206 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR36520e4111dce32/section-200.329 https://www.congress.gov/115/statute/STATUTE-132/STATUTE-132-Pg5529.pdf https://www.congress.gov/115/statute/STATUTE-132/STATUTE-132-Pg5529.pdf https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title5-section311&num=0&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title5-section311&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/section-200.301 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-D/section-200.301

As such, recipients and subrecipients are required to participate in a Program Office (PO) or a DHS

Component-led evaluation, if selected. This may be carried out by a third-party on behalf of the PO or the DHS Component. Such an evaluation may involve information collections including but not limited to, records of the recipients; surveys, interviews, or discussions with individuals who benefit from the federal award, program operating personnel, and award recipients; and site visits or other observation of recipient activities, as specified in a DHS Component or PO-approved evaluation plan.

More details about evaluation requirements may be provided in the federal award, if available at that time, or following the award as evaluation requirements are finalized. Evaluation costs incurred during the period of performance are allowable costs (either as direct or indirect) in accordance with

2 C.F.R. § 200.413.

Recipients and subrecipients are also encouraged, but not required, to participate in any additional evaluations after the period of performance ends, although any costs incurred to participate in such evaluations are not allowable and may not be charged to the federal award.

J. Programmatic Reporting Requirements

1. Recipients must submit a programmatic performance report quarterly throughout the period of performance:

a. October 1st – December 31st due January 30th

b. January 1st – March 31st due April 30th

c. April 1st – June 30th due July 30th

d. July 1st – September 30th due October 30th

2. The report should be a one- to two-page narrative summarizing key tasks, notable accomplishments, challenges, and/or adjustments made during the previous quarter.

3. Performance reports should not include future work plans or anticipated activities, activities that did not happen during the reporting period, or activities that were not funded by the grant.

K. Additional Reporting Requirements

Recipients must comply with 2 C.F.R. § 180.335 disclosure requirements and Appendix XII to 2 C.F.R.

Part 200 on integrity and performance, and undergo a Single Audit if expending $1,000,000 or more in federal awards during their fiscal year.

Anytime there is a change in personnel for any of the awardees and/or subrecipients, their information needs to be submitted for approval (all the previous personal information identified).

Other Information A. Period of Performance Extension

1. Extensions to the period of performance for this funding opportunity are allowed.

2. Recipients must request an extension in writing 10 days prior to the end of the period of https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRd93f2a98b1f6455/section-200.413 performance.

3. BSX staff will review the request, as well as the award’s agreed-upon deliverables, milestones, and timeline, to determine if the request is both appropriate and feasible. The Coast Guard will notify the recipient via email.

B. Program Income

1. Recipients are encouraged to earn income to defray program costs where appropriate. The Coast

Guard authorizes program income per the addition method as defined by 2 C.F.R. § 200.307(b)(2).

2. Program income must be used for allowable and approved grant activities, and it must be expended prior to the end of the project period.

3. Recipients are encouraged to spend program income first before requesting additional grant funds.

Contacts, Support, and Appendices

Contacts 31

Appendices 31

Contacts

Program Office Email: cynthia.m.dudzinski@uscg.mil

Technical Assistance Email: cynthia.m.dudzinski@uscg.mil or vonda.l.mathews@uscg.mil .

Grants.gov Grants.gov provides 24/7 support. You can call 1-800-518-4726 or email support@grants.gov. Hold on to your ticket number.

SAM.gov If you need help, you can call 866-606-8220 or live chat with the Federal Service Desk.

Appendices Appendix A: Grant Regional Map

Appendix B: Budget & Budget Narrative Instructions

Appendix C: Budget Template

Appendix D: Timeline Template

Appendix E: Areas of Interest mailto:cynthia.m.dudzinski@uscg.mil mailto:cynthia.m.dudzinski@uscg.mil mailto:vonda.l.mathews@uscg.mil mailto:support@grants.gov https://www.fsd.gov/gsafsd_sp