U.S. Geological Survey

Notice of Funding Opportunity

The State Component of the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program (STATEMAP)

Funding Opportunity Number

G26AS00011

Table of Contents

BASIC INFORMATION

ELIGIBILITY

Cost Sharing Requirement

GET READY TO APPLY

Required System Registrations

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals

Program Description

Legislative Authority

Type of Award

PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION

Application Content and Format

Application Documents

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package

Submission Dates and Times

Submission Instructions

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

Eligibility Review

Merit Review

Review and Selection Process

Risk Review

AWARD NOTICES

POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION

Administration and National Policy Requirements

Reporting

BASIC INFORMATION

Announcement Type: Initial

Funding Opportunity Number: G26AS00011

Assistance Listing Number(s): 15.810

Estimated Total Program Funding: $18,000,000

Expected Number of Awards: 45

Award Ceiling: $800,000

Award Floor: $0

Funds for each award will be determined on the basis of an anonymous Panel that consists of four State Geologists and three U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Research Geologists. The member of the Panel will evaluate each proposal and score it on the basis of Evaluation Criteria provided. A proposal can be awarded $0 if it violates any of the requirements of this Notice of

Funding Opportunity.

Cost Sharing Required? Yes

Closing Date Explanation: Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 5:00 PM, ET, on the listed application due date.

OMB Control Number: 1028-0088; Expiration Date 04/28/2027

Have Questions?

USGS Office of Acquisitions and Grants Point of Contact:

Amber Brazil

Grants Specialist

U.S. Geological Survey

Phone: (541) 285-6810

Email: abrazil@usgs.gov

Technical Questions Related to this Announcement:

Kate Ritzel

Physical Scientist

National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program

U.S. Geological Survey

Phone: (571) 512-1641

Email: kritzel@usgs.gov; statemap@usgs.gov

Financial Questions Related to this Announcement:

Mike Marketti

Administrative Program Manager

National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program mailto:kritzel@usgs.gov mailto:statemap@usgs.gov

U.S. Geological Survey

Phone: (703) 648-6976

Email: mmarketti@usgs.gov; statemap@usgs.gov

Executive Summary

The primary objective of the STATEMAP component of the National Cooperative Geologic

Mapping Program (NCGMP) is to establish the geologic framework of areas determined to be vital to the economic, social, or scientific welfare of individual States and the Nation. The State

Geologist/Survey Director/Chief Scientist (or similar position) shall determine mapping priorities in consultation with a multidiscipline State Mapping Advisory Committee (SMAC).

These priorities shall be determined on the basis of: (1) State requirements for geologic map information in areas of multiple issue need or areas of compelling single-issue need, and (2)

State requirements for geologic map information in areas where mapping is required to solve critical earth science problems. Priorities are not dependent on past agreements with the U.S.

Geological Survey (USGS).

The STATEMAP Program fulfills the NCGMP mission and supports Department of the Interior

(DOI) Secretarial priorities (see https://www.doi.gov/performance/strategic-planning for the current DOI Strategic Plan) by developing a national geologic framework through the generation of new two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) geologic map databases. STATEMAP is directly supportive of EO 14154 ("Unleashing American Energy"), and Secretarial Orders

3417 ("Addressing the National Energy Emergency") and 3418 ("Unleashing American

Energy"), which call for the acceleration of detailed geologic mapping in support of energy and critical mineral resources supported by data preservation and availability. The geologic mapping supported by STATEMAP provides foundational, standardized information (i.e., data) necessary to manage land and water resources of the U.S., discover and assess energy and mineral resources (including critical and rare earth minerals), understand and mitigate natural hazards, and inform national security decisions. STATEMAP mapping efforts continue to support the development of modern infrastructure, including highways, bridges, and pipelines in almost every State, by providing information necessary for land-use planning, as well as information on aggregate resources and building materials.

ELIGIBILITY

Eligible Applicants –

☒Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)

Additional Information on Eligibility

• STATEMAP eligibility is limited to State Geological Surveys pursuant to the National

Geologic Mapping Act. For State Geological Surveys that are organized within a State university system, those universities may submit a proposal on behalf of the State

Geological Surveys.

• To qualify for STATEMAP funding, a State Geological Survey must have a State

Mapping Advisory Committee (or equivalent) that meets at least annually. This committee shall advise the State Geological Survey on geologic mapping priorities within the State.

mailto:mmarketti@usgs.gov mailto:statemap@usgs.gov https://www.doi.gov/performance/strategic-planning https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/DCPD-202500121/pdf/DCPD-202500121.pdf https://www.doi.gov/document-library/secretary-order/so-3417-addressing-national-energy-emergency https://www.doi.gov/document-library/secretary-order/so-3418-unleashing-american-energy https://www.doi.gov/document-library/secretary-order/so-3418-unleashing-american-energy

• State Geological Surveys must commit to match 1:1 of the total direct costs and may request no more than 18% of Federal indirect costs.

• To qualify for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 STATEMAP funding, a State Geological Survey previously funded under STATEMAP must follow requirements specified in previous

STATEMAP Program Announcements and awards and must have no delinquent deliverables.

• Failure to meet previous award requirements will be grounds for ineligibility or penalty in the review process; see Attachment H, Section E.1, DOI Financial Assistance Award

General Terms and Conditions, A.3 (reference to 2 CFR 200.339 through 200.343

“Remedies for Noncompliance”).

Cost Sharing Requirement

Cost Sharing Required?

Yes

The STATEMAP Program is required by statute (Public Law 117-58, Sec. 40202: “National

Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program”) to be carried out on a 1:1 matching funds basis. Each recipient must match each Federal dollar with a non-Federal dollar (direct and indirect costs). At submission, applicants attest to the availability of the proposed matching funds provided in their application; however, the NCGMP may allow applicants to decrease their match amount during the revisions process to align with the revised federal award amount. Award modification is not allowed to reduce match amount. Proposing overmatch is permitted; however, a higher match does not increase chances of receiving an award. Federal regulations prohibit the matching of

Federal funds with other Federal funds.

The following is a summary of what is required regarding the 1:1 match requirement:

i. A 1:1 Federal/State match is required for TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES on the entire proposal budget (all projects combined)

ii. A 1:1 Federal/State match is required for the GRAND TOTAL (this includes direct costs and indirect cost – all projects combined)

Regardless of the State Geological Survey’s federally negotiated indirect cost rate, an applicant may request no more than 18% on the Federal indirect cost line. Applicants may use up to 18% of their total direct costs as match on the State’s indirect cost line. If a State chooses

(or is required) to show a higher than 18% rate on the State indirect cost line, then these excess funds can be listed under “uncollected indirect costs” on the State side. The result will be a greater State budget total than the Federal budget total; however, “uncollected indirect costs” cannot be claimed as part of the required 1:1 State match. If the State approved rate is less than 18%, then the approved rate must be used. The same rules apply regarding the 18% cap for indirect costs on the Federal side for all sub-awards.

https://www.congress.gov/117/plaws/publ58/PLAW-117publ58.pdf

The non-Federal share (i.e., applicant match) may be contributions of services or funds provided to contractors to perform services directly applicable to proposed work on the project. The specific source(s) of the State contribution, such as State legislative appropriation, must be stated in the proposal. The 1:1 ratio does not prevent States from securing additional funds from other tax-supported entities to increase the amount of work that is accomplished in a region. The Program encourages multiple partnerships because they enhance the production of geologic maps. A letter or item of evidence should be included with the proposal to support non-State Survey funds or any in-kind (i.e., volunteer) contributions. Federal regulations prohibit the matching of Federal funds with other Federal funds. Third-party funding arrangements, although encouraged, should be viewed as adding additional activities that are accounted for separately from the USGS-State matching funds agreement.

Non-State Survey “appropriate” State cost share requires the following three standard supporting documents:

• a letter or other official document from the proposed source of the non-State Survey cost share clearly committing to the cost share and, as specifically as possible, identifying the exact nature of the share (e.g., timing, dollars, equipment, services, personnel, etc.);

• specific information in the Strategy for Performing the Geologic Mapping section linking the non-State Survey cost share directly and convincingly to the proposed geologic mapping activities;

• specific information in the budget materials showing how the non-State Survey cost share will match Federal dollars, category-by-category, in sufficient detail to corroborate the descriptive material in the Strategy section.

Actual or apparent costs caused by the required indirect (overhead) rate (18% total costs) being less than the State Survey’s negotiated cost agreement are NOT a permissible cost share contribution.

Non-allowable match sources:

Equipment and nonexpendable property. Federal STATEMAP funds may not be used for the purchase of computer hardware, GPS, vehicles, or other nonexpendable property, nor can these expenses be used as matching costs for Federal funds.

University or College Tuition. Federal STATEMAP funds may not be used to pay university or college tuition, nor can student university or college tuition be used as a matching cost for

Federal funds. However, course fees are allowable expenses (e.g., ESRI GIS course, R Software training, etc.) so long as their purpose is justified in the context of the proposed work.

Computer maintenance. Routine computer maintenance contracts and charges for computer time may not be used as match.

Printing. Federal STATEMAP funds may not be used for State printing of multicolored or quality black-and-white versions of geologic maps produced in the program, nor can the cost to a State for such printing be used as a matching cost for Federal funds.

Vacant Positions. Unfilled (i.e., vacant at time of proposal submission) positions may not be used as match.

GET READY TO APPLY

Required System Registrations

Unique Entity Identifier and SAM.gov Registration

Before applying, all applicants except individuals applying as a natural person must be registered in SAM.gov. During the SAM.gov registration the entity will obtain their Unique

Entity Identifier (UEI).

The SAM.gov registration process can take several months. If your organization is not already registered in SAM.gov, begin the registration process as soon as possible.

To register in SAM.gov, go to the SAM.gov website and use the available resources to complete registration.

• Financial assistance registrants must review and certify compliance with the SAM.gov

“Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications”.

• Already registered? You already have a Unique Entity ID. Before applying, check that your “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications” on SAM.gov is complete. Remember to renew your registration every year to keep it active while you have an award or application in progress. You can update your registration whenever you need, including during renewal.

• Need help? For additional information and contact information on the SAM.gov Help page.

GRANTS.GOV

This program accepts applications through Grants.gov so once you receive your UEI return to

Grants.gov to register with Grants.gov. Please allow 30 days to register and set up a Workspace in Grants.gov. See Submission Instructions section below for additional details.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals

To establish a coordinated program that prioritizes the geologic mapping requirements of the

Nation and to increase production of geologic maps, the 102nd Congress passed the National

Geologic Mapping Act (Public Law 102-285), hereafter referred to as “the Act.” Signed into law in 1992, the Act created the USGS NCGMP. The Act recognizes that geologic maps are the primary base for virtually all applied and basic earth-science investigations.

https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://sam.gov/content/help https://sam.gov/content/help https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration https://www.usgs.gov/programs/national-cooperative-geologic-mapping-program/national-geologic-mapping-act-1992 https://www.usgs.gov/programs/national-cooperative-geologic-mapping-program/national-geologic-mapping-act-1992

The objectives of NCGMP, as outlined in the Act, are to:

1. Determine the Nation’s geologic framework through the systematic development of geologic maps.

2. Submit aforementioned maps to the National Geologic Map Database

(NGMDB).

3. Develop complementary national databases that provide value-added information to the NGMDB.

4. Apply cost-effective mapping techniques that assemble and disseminate geologic map information, and that render such information of greater application and benefit to the public.

5. Develop public awareness of the role and application of geologic map information to the resolution of national issues of land use management.

In 2021, NCGMP published a new Strategic Plan, renewing its vision and mission (see https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2021/1013/ofr20211013.pdf). As described in this Strategic Plan, in addition to geologic mapping at traditional scales such as 1:24,000, the renewed vision of the

USGS NCGMP is to create national and continental-resolution 2D and 3D digital geologic maps of the U.S. and its territories to address the changing needs of the Nation. This mission of the NCGMP is to characterize, interpret, and disseminate a national geologic framework model of the Nation through geologic mapping and associated research. These data are also intended to support the responsible use of land, water, energy, and minerals, and to mitigate;

the impact of geologic hazards on society, thereby facilitating economic growth and enhanced national security through informed earth resource management.

Program Description

STATEMAP is a partnership between the USGS, the Association of American State Geologists

(AASG), and State Geological Surveys. This partnership is essential because no single entity has the capacity to meet all of the current and future needs for detailed geologic maps. STATEMAP provides State Geological Surveys with funds (matched 1:1 by the receiving State Survey) to enable new geologic mapping projects in their State for the public good. STATEMAP cooperative agreements support the ability of State Geological Surveys to meet their geologic mapping goals, and to work collaboratively with neighboring States and the USGS to address issues of regional-to-national concern. STATEMAP funding also helps to maintain strong geologic mapping programs and a steady workforce at geological surveys across the Nation.

Many STATEMAP projects include lands of American Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Tribes, and Alaska Native Corporations (hereafter referred to as Tribal Nations). NCGMP supports the fulfillment of the federal trust responsibility to Tribal Nations by recognizing their sovereignty and responding to the science needs expressed by Tribal communities. The

NCGMP works closely with State partners to ensure that Tribal Nations are appropriately notified of NCGMP supported geologic mapping activities inclusive of Tribal Nation land.

https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2021/1013/ofr20211013.pdf

Legislative Authority

Public Law 102-285, the National Geologic Mapping Act, and its most recent reauthorization

Public Law 117-58, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Type of Award

Projects will be funded through CA (Cooperative Agreement).

Recipient should expect the Federal agency to have substantial involvement in their funded project. NCGMP will monitor progress towards fulfilling deliverables at the end of the period of performance. NCGMP will review and approve any award modifications, has the authority to direct or redirect recipient work at any stage in the process, and may immediately halt work if the recipient fails to meet agreement objectives. NCGMP will review and approve all submitted deliverables to ensure compliance with CA terms and conditions.

PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION

Application Content and Format

Pre-Application Requirements

A State Geological Survey may submit one STATEMAP proposal each FY. Proposals may contain any number of projects.

Each proposed project should be:

• clearly defined and justified

• organized around a credible issue or area to be mapped

• responsive to the FY2026 STATEMAP Guidance Criteria listed below.

Please refrain from naming projects citing specific number or names of deliverables (for example, “Three maps in Brevard County” or “Mapping the Naples, Fort Myers, and Orlando quadrangles”), because project names cannot be modified in GrantSolutions with revisions.

Instead, select a name such as “Mapping in Brevard County.” Projects may contain one or multiple quadrangles and/or specific areas of interest outside of a traditional quadrangle (i.e., mapping areas can be irregular polygons). Proposed projects may include any combination of the following Guidance Criteria. “Categories” and funding restrictions associated with them have been removed for FY2026.

Guidance Criterion 1

Create and submit new geologic maps at detailed to regional scale (1:24,000 to 1:500,000).

Draft geologic maps must be submitted as Portable Document Format (PDF) files, along with supporting GIS data submitted in compliance with the Geologic Map Schema (GeMS) standard Level 3 format. Draft geologic maps must be re-submitted as published products no later than 12 months after the end of the project period of performance. Completion and/or publication of unfinished, non-STATEMAP funded maps (e.g., previous unpublished EDMAP projects) may be conducted under this guidance criterion so long as the explicit activities required to complete this work are outlined in your proposal (e.g., map digitization, field work, peer review).

https://www.usgs.gov/programs/national-cooperative-geologic-mapping-program/national-geologic-mapping-act-1992

Guidance Criterion 2

Create and submit new, detailed to regional scale (1:24,000 to 1:500,000) derivative maps that augment any new mapping proposed or augment a previously produced, not superseded, yet still relevant, geologic map product from any source. This work may be done only if the derivative map provides additional value to a significant geologic problem. In all cases, the purpose of the derivative product should be adequately explained and the geologic map(s) on which it is based should be clearly identified. Draft derivative maps must be submitted as published products no later than 12 months after the end of the project period of performance.

Examples of derivative maps include: energy and mineral resource, land-use planning, geologic hazard, and aggregate resource maps.

Guidance Criterion 3

Create and submit new and (or) improved geologic map compilations at 1:24,000 to

1:500,000 scale. Compilations of surficial geology, Quaternary geology, bedrock geology, “basement” geology, or any combination thereof are acceptable. Compilations must be

GeMS-compliant, be internally reconciled, and be accompanied by a description of how the compilation was constructed. Compilations must include either a map graphic (suitable for

GeMS requirements) or a full cartographic product. Funds for necessary field-checking to reconcile conflicts in geologic mapping may be requested (if justified) to support the compilation process. Draft compilation maps must be submitted as published products no later than 12 months after the end of the project period of performance.

Guidance Criterion 4

Create and submit new subsurface geologic data based on previously published non-digital subsurface maps (e.g., the digitization of structure contour and isopach data) and (or) based on new subsurface mapping or 3D modeling. Acceptable subsurface geologic maps or models should focus on elevation/depth and (or) thickness of one or more units of regional significance.

Subsurface maps or models should be at scales ranging from 1:24,000 to 1:500,000. Funds may be requested for training related to this Guidance Criterion.

Submittal requirements for subsurface data packages can be found on the NGMDB standards page (see https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/).

NCGMP is evaluating a guideline for the repositing and exchange of subsurface data; this guideline can be accessed on the USGS GitLab page (see https://code.usgs.gov/ngmdb/data-standards/s3ds). Please note, there is no current requirement for NCGMP-funded 3D deliverables to adhere to this format.

Guidance Criterion 5

Convert relevant, previously published paper or digital maps to citable GeMS-compliant databases (see https://doi.org/10.3133/tm11B10 and https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/docs/GeMS-Submittal-Requirements.pdf) and/or bring previously submitted non-GeMS-compliant databases (e.g., NCGMP09 databases or https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/ https://code.usgs.gov/ngmdb/data-standards/s3ds https://code.usgs.gov/ngmdb/data-standards/s3ds https://doi.org/10.3133/tm11B10 https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/Info/standards/GeMS/docs/GeMS-Submittal-Requirements.pdf databases that require revisions after the GeMS Quality Control process) to GeMS-compliance.

Maps should be at scales ranging from 1:24,000 to 1:500,000. To be eligible, source maps must have a Product Description Page (PDP) in the NGMDB and the PDP URL must be provided in the proposal. Funds may also be requested for training related to this Guidance Criterion.

Guidance Criterion 6

Provide update(s) to the USGS Cooperative National Geologic Map for your State, delivered as a

GeMS-compliant database(s). An update can be at any scale or map style, provided that it covers the whole state. Content can range from a brand-new State geologic map to simple updates to the

GeMS database for your state (e.g., updating unit descriptions, ages, fault types, etc.). NCGMP can provide the current CNGM-formatted source data for your state upon request. Funds for necessary field-checking to provide updates may be requested if justified.

Guidance Criterion 7

Update the stratigraphic chart for an entire State or for regions of significance within a State, and/or develop a Statewide or regional digital stratigraphic lexicon. The resulting deliverable should be an updated scientific chart and submitted as an update to the U.S. Geologic Names

Lexicon (Geolex) in accordance with NGMDB Geolex guidelines.

Guidance Criterion 8

Develop coordinated, parallel projects in collaboration with neighboring States to address any of the above Guidance Criteria. Funds may be used to coordinate and attend working group meetings/workshops related to proposed collaborative work. The intention to propose this work must be stated in the proposals for each State involved.

Guidance Criterion 9

Organize and submit, via NCGMP-provided templates, complimentary geologic data that provide value-added information to the NGMDB. Such data may include geophysical, geochemical, and/or geochronologic data. A State that previously received funds for this purpose may only receive FY2026 funds to submit new data.

A total proposal request may not exceed $800,000. Proposed projects may include any combination of the Guidance Criteria listed above.

Application Documents

Applicants must submit the following forms with their application as specified below.

Instructions for accessing and submitting application forms are provided in the Submission

Instructions section of this document below. For instructions on completing form fields, see the form instructions on the Grants.gov Forms Repository.

Forms/Assurances/Certifications Submission

Requirement

SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance

Note: For applicants requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funds, the Authorized Representative’s signature (or electronic equivalent) on

Required from all applicants https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository.html

Forms/Assurances/Certifications Submission

Requirement the Application for Federal Assistance form also represents their certification of the statements in Appendix A to 43 CFR 18-

Certification Regarding Lobbying

SF-424A, Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs

Required for non-construction projects

Project Abstract Summary (OMB 4040-0019). Must include, in plain language:

• Award purpose,

• Activities to be performed,

• Expected deliverables or outcomes,

• Intended beneficiaries,

• Subrecipient activities (if known or specified at time of award).

Required from all applicants

DOI Research and Development (R&D) – Current and Pending (Other)

Support

Note: This form is available on the DOI website. Applicants must download the form and include the completed form as an application attachment.

Required for research projects

DOI Research and Development (R&D) – Biographical Sketch

Note: This form is available on the DOI website. Applicants must download the form and include the completed form as an application attachment.

Required for research projects

Proposal Narrative

Proposals must be arranged according to the section/document order provided below and submitted as one PDF file. In FY2026, many of the required elements of the proposal are

“optional” if submitting a proposal with a request less than $150,000. Additionally, there are imposed word and/or page limits for some proposal sections and required items. Word/page-limited sections/items are labeled below with: **.

Standard Form 424. Application for Federal Assistance (mandatory form provided in grants.gov). The person who electronically submits the SF-424 must have the authority to bind the State to the terms of the assistance award.

Standard Form 424A. Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs (mandatory form provided in grants.gov).

Standard Form 424B. Assurances—Non-construction Programs (mandatory form provided in grants.gov).

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-43/subtitle-A/part-18#Appendix-A-to-Part-18 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-43/subtitle-A/part-18#Appendix-A-to-Part-18 https://www.doi.gov/grants/policies-and-guidance https://www.doi.gov/grants/policies-and-guidance

Negotiated Rate Agreement/Indirect Cost Rate Agreement. Most States and Universities have a rate agreement, which is usually titled “State and Local Rate Agreement” or “Colleges and

Universities Rate Agreement.” A copy of the State- or University-negotiated indirect cost rate agreement is required if requesting Federal funding for indirect costs. Per the program authority for STATEMAP, indirect costs are capped 18%. Please note that in the absence of a negotiated indirect cost rate agreement, the maximum indirect rate that may be charged is the de minimus rate (see 2 CFR 200.414(f)).

Project Abstract Summary. See above for basic instructions on OMB 4040-0019. Each Project

Abstract Summary must also include the proposed project(s) title(s) and proposed period of performance dates (e.g., 6/1/2026 to 5/31/2027).

DOI Research and Development (R&D) – Current and Pending (Other) Support. See table on preceding page for details.

DOI R&D – Biographical Sketch. See table on preceding page for details.

**Letter from the Chair of State Mapping Advisory Committee (SMAC). The letter must discuss the State’s mapping priorities, long-term mapping plan, the process used by the

SMAC to prioritize proposed geologic mapping projects, and how the proposed mapping fits into the long-term mapping plans for the State. The date of the committee meeting and a list of committee members who attended the meeting (including their affiliations, expertise, and voting status for the meeting) are also required. Virtual attendance is encouraged to increase representation. This letter should NOT be a summary of proposed projects. SMAC letters should be limited to no more than four pages (not including the list of members). Voting

SMAC members must not be listed on any projects as personnel.

STATEMAP Proposal Summary Sheet (Attachment A). Using the provided or similar format, submit a proposal summary sheet that includes information listed on Attachment A.

Please list the individual funding amount requested and matched for each project. See

Attachment D for more information on STATEMAP work with Tribal Nation Implications, including the Tribal Nation Notification Process.

**Statement of Outcome Letter. This letter should be a one-page letter from an external organization or person that used a recently published STATEMAP product generated by the requesting State for a specific project. The letter must explain why the geologic map or product was critical to the success of their mission and include the bibliographic citation for the recently published STATEMAP product used (Note: this is optional for all proposals requesting less than $150,000).

Table of Contents.

**Proposal Technical Section. The technical section of the proposal is limited to 25 single space pages, with font size no smaller than 11-point, and 1-inch margins. If submitting a https://omb.report/omb/4040-0019 proposal requesting less than $150,000, then the technical section is limited to 10 pages.

Please note that the word count limits given below apply per proposed project, not for the overall proposal. Proposals shorter than these limits are encouraged if they contain sufficient content. Use tables and charts for increased clarity and conciseness. Figures must be labeled, of high quality, and easy to read. References ARE NOT included in this 25-page limit.

• **Introduction. The introduction should include the relevance of the proposed projects to the State’s long-range geologic mapping plan while providing a clear and concise overview of project objectives that includes relevant societal and science outcomes.

New in FY2026, all proposals must include a Project Summary Table delineating the proposed work by project indicating deliverables, alignment with State/Federal priorities, societal relevance, and scientific problems to be addressed (see Attachment

F for format). Text is limited to 400 words.

• **Location and Geologic Setting. A clear, readable map (with scale) showing the location of each project area should accompany the text. A separate generalized geologic map of the State may also be helpful. If the spatial footprint of the proposed project area includes or is within five miles of Tribal Nation land (including ceded territory), then the respective Tribal Land Designator or boundary (e.g., Reservation

Name, Pueblo, Treaty Boundary, etc.) must be depicted on the aforementioned map(s).

The NCGMP encourages applicants to use primarily figures for this section. Text is limited to 300 words.

• **Purpose and Justification. This section should answer the following questions: (1)

Why is this work being proposed, (2) Who are the customers, (3) What are the fundamental scientific contributions, and (4) What benefits will society receive from the mapping? If geologic maps already produced nearby have been used by local or

State agencies in making decisions, then reporting on these outcomes is encouraged.

Text is limited to 500 words.

• Strategy for Performing the Geologic Mapping. This section should emphasize how the geologic mapping or other activities will be accomplished, who will be mapping where and for how long, and details about how the geologic mapping will be accomplished. For example, if drilling, sample collection, and/or other analyses are proposed, then include a justification as to why these activities are part of the mapping strategy and how they will inform the proposed mapping. Include a justification for higher-cost activities, such as drilling or helicopter support. If a project is part of a multiyear effort, then explain what will be completed for each year. This section should be consistent with the budget justification and budget itemization sections.

NCGMP strongly encourages that geologic mapping projects utilize a team approach

(i.e. avoiding solo mapping in isolated field areas) to promote safe field practices.

• **Preliminary Results and Prior Work. Please include a summary of findings or outcomes of any prior work that has been done in the proposed study area, including work not funded by STATEMAP. This summary should not be a list of prior

STATEMAP work, but rather a summary of the current state of science and mapping in the proposed study area (Note: this section is optional for proposals requesting less than $150,000). Text is limited to 200 words.

• Deliverable Geologic Maps and/or Products. Provide an explicit list of geologic maps, GeMS-compliant databases, and/or products that will be delivered at the end of the one- to two-year Cooperative Agreement period. Note that in FY2026, proposed deliverables should include a Transmittal Letter, Final Report, and STATEMAP State

Fact Sheet. If a deliverable is a partial quad, then please indicate exactly which section of the quad will be mapped and delivered. When PDF map graphics are submitted at the end of the period of performance, it is recognized that they may be in review, and not in final form; however, it is expected that a final, published version of the produced map be submitted to the NCGMP no later than one year after the project period of performance ends. Note: it is expected that all deliverables will reflect what was proposed. For example, if the proposal requested funding for the collection of new geochemical or geochronological data, then the deliverables must include these data (either on the cartographic product or as a supplemental table/document).

• Project Personnel. Provide a table that includes information about all staff on the proposed projects. Briefly discuss the role of each person on the project, linking roles to the budget and mapping strategy section. For each person, provide a brief statement of their background or vita, and indicate whether the person works for the State

Geological Survey or elsewhere (contractor or volunteer). Job titles (e.g., Geologist) may be used in lieu of employee names for unhired positions. This section should be presented as a table with the above information included, ideally, with a column listing applicable projects for each individual.

• Budget Narrative. The budget narrative must identify and justify the following cost items: (1) total estimated costs, (2) non-Federal cost share, (3) third-party contributions, and (3) any requested pre-award costs (*pre-approval required and not guaranteed). Total project cost is the sum of all allowable costs, including required and voluntary cost share and third-party contributions. In this section, it is important to itemize supplies, laboratory, drilling, and travel expenses, and any unusual costs across the entire proposed performance period. If travel to a conference is included, then provide justification for this trip, along with the proposed attendees role.

Budget items must be:

− Reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary.

− Compliant with 2 CFR §200 Subpart E cost principles.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/subpart-E

Indirect Costs: Applicants must indicate in their budget narrative how they will charge indirect costs, including the rate to be applied:

− De Minimis Rate: If eligible, then please state if the organization is opting to use the de minimis rate of up to 15% of total modified direct costs. Entities that do not have a current Federal negotiated indirect cost rate (including provisional rate) may propose to use the de minimis rate. For more information, refer to 2 CFR

200.414(f).

− Negotiated Rate: State if you will negotiate with your cognizant agency. If your organization has previously negotiated a rate, attach a copy of the most recently negotiated rate agreement (active or expired).

USGS Data Management Plan. Proposals submitted to USGS must include a supplementary document of no more than two pages labeled “Data Management Plan” (DMP). This supplementary document should describe how the proposal will conform to USGS policy on the dissemination and sharing of research results and associated data. A valid DMP may include only the statement that no detailed plan is needed (e.g., “No data are expected to be produced from this project.”), if the statement is accompanied by a clear justification.

An example template for data management plans is provided in Attachment E. Additional guidance on data management plans is available from the USGS Data Management website:

https://www.usgs.gov/data-management/data-management-plans. Note: The DMP does not count towards the 25-page technical section limit.

Budget Sheets. Each proposal must include one budget sheet for the entire proposal (see

Attachment B), and one budget sheet for each project (see Attachment C). If only one project is proposed, then only Attachment B (entire proposal budget sheet) is required. These attachments are only a formatting guide. Applicants may create their own budget sheet with the same information. If proposing multiple projects, then the entire budget sheet needs to be broken down by rate in addition to the individual project budget sheets (i.e., do not write, “see

Project 1 for rate” or “Project 1 supplies” on entire budget sheet). The financial contribution from a State Geological Survey must be equal to or greater than the amount requested from the

USGS and must be derived from non-Federal sources. All budget costs must be itemized and consistent with the strategy and budget justification sections. If something being requested/matched is an expensive item, or a significant proportion of your proposal request, then the Proposal Evaluation Panel will want to know its details. NOTE: STATEMAP proposal budgets must not exceed a Federal request of $800,000.

Please read each category description below and provide the detailed breakdown required for each. This breakdown will help to avoid possible delays in processing a funded proposal. Awards will not be issued until all required information is provided.

The budgets shall contain the following:

a. Personnel/Salaries. List names and/or positions and the rate-of-compensation for each person. Salaries or wages for student assistants (both undergraduates and graduate students) are an acceptable cost. This list should only include personnel actively https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRd93f2a98b1f6455/section-200.414 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRd93f2a98b1f6455/section-200.414 involved in the proposed projects. The portion of staff time involved in, for example, digitizing, reviewing, and producing maps can be charged here. If senior management personnel conduct some of this work, then include an explanation of their role. Non-

State Survey staff working on the project should also be included if they are supported by other state funding (see below under cost share). The budget sheet should include the total time worked on the project(s) (in units of months, weeks, days, or hours), rate-of-compensation (dollars/hour for hourly employees, salary/year, or salary/month), and job title or role for each person. Unfilled positions should not be listed as a funding match.

b. Fringe Benefits. Propose your rates/amounts. If rates are audit approved, then include a copy of the audit agreement and/or the name of the audit agency. If the proposal requests fringe benefits and not indirect costs, then please provide an indirect cost rate agreement or show how the fringe benefit rate(s) is calculated.

c. Travel. Itemize the estimated travel costs (i.e., number of people, number of travel days, per diem rate, mileage rate, airfare or other transportation, and any other travel costs).

Conference/Workshop Travel - Travel expenses not to exceed $6,000 are allowable for staff to attend scientific conferences/workshops or relevant training pertaining to the project. Staff member(s) should be identified by name, along with a detailed breakdown for all costs related to the conference/workshop travel. Conference travel fund requests for contractors are prohibited.

Note: Travel expenses for SMAC meetings are not acceptable expenses.

d. Equipment. List expendable equipment costs. Federal STATEMAP funds may not be used for the purchase of computer hardware, GPS, vehicles, or other nonexpendable property. STATEMAP funds may, if necessary, be used for the purchase of software site licenses (e.g., software required for 3D modeling) that are used specifically for the completion of STATEMAP products, unless these costs are already covered in fringe benefits. Requests for software must be accompanied by a copy of an up-to-date cost quote (i.e., from within the last year) from the software company and prorated for

STATEMAP use only.

e. Supplies. List costs for office, field, and laboratory supplies, including base maps, aerial photographs, petrographic thin sections, and other office and laboratory supplies. Itemize by including the number and cost for each item. Do not list a lump sum for each category;

a breakdown needs to be provided to show how the costs were determined.

Note: field tablets are an allowable supply expense if the price per unit does not exceed

$5,000. Please include a quote for tablet expenses.

f. Contractual. Identify proposed contractors (individual or corporate) and provide the criteria by which contractors will be or have been selected. Provide breakdown of all costs. Please note that student contractors are acceptable. Sub-awards should be listed as a single line item in the Contractual category. A separate budget sheet providing the same level of detail for each category as described in this section is required for each sub-award and should be attached with the main recipient’s proposal.

g. Other Direct Costs. List any other direct costs such as drilling, geophysics, and analytical laboratory expenses (e.g., geochemistry, geochronology). Itemize the different types of costs not included elsewhere and explain each cost’s applicability to the project.

If utilizing datasets like Lidar or geophysics, then please show how this information will be used to enhance the proposed mapping or map product. If these datasets are used as match, then verify that no Federal funds were used to collect the data. Also, please pro-rate the data cost for the area covered by the proposed map.

h. Total Direct Charges. Total for items a – g. Total direct charges MUST have a 1:1

Federal/Proposed State match. Failure to comply will result in automatic ineligibility and the proposal will not be considered for further evaluation. The state match side may be greater, but it must meet the 1:1 match requirement.

i. Indirect Charges. Show proposed rate and amount. Proposals must include a copy of the negotiated indirect cost rate agreement. Be sure that indirect charges apply only to those direct cost items allowable under the negotiated cost rate agreement. Usually, sub-contract direct costs are either excluded from indirect charges, or there is a cap on the amount of subcontract costs eligible for indirect charges.

NOTE: Public Law 117-58 requires that the USGS and recipients of STATEMAP cooperative agreements shall not use more than 15.25% of the Federal funds to pay indirect, servicing, or program management charges (which is equivalent to 18% of total direct costs).

Bibliography for the NGMDB. For all published maps and reports for which STATEMAP funding was received since the end of the last Period of Performance, provide the specified bibliographic information for all items submitted to the NGMDB. In the proposal, indicate whether publications have or have not been uploaded to the NGMDB, state the number of publication citations submitted to the NGMDB in the past year, and provide the links to the

NGMDB PDPs for these products.

Conflict of Interest and Unresolved Matters Disclosures:

If any actual or potential conflict of interest exists related to this project at the time of application, then the applicant must provide sufficient information to support a program determination of significance per 2 CFR 1402.112. Refer to 2 CFR 200.112 Conflict of Interest and 2 CFR 200.113.

Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement:

Applicants must state in their application if the activities, costs, or time commitment of key personnel proposed in this application overlap with those in any other Federal proposal or award or not. If no overlap exists, include a statement to that effect. If any overlap exists, provide:

• Activities: Description of any overlapping activities.

• Costs: Description of any overlapping costs.

• Time: Description of any overlapping key personnel time.

• A copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential funding entity.

• Details on when any overlapping proposal was submitted, to whom, and the expected date of the funding decision.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package

Applicants are held responsible for the proposal to be electronically submitted to

GRANTS.GOV (www.grants.gov) by Wednesday, May 27, 2026 @ 5:00 PM, EST. Be advised that it is virtually impossible to begin the process of electronic submission for the first time if you start just a few days before the proposal submission due date. If you are affiliated with a university, then contact the university’s Office of Sponsored Programs, which may already have completed the registration process and should work with you to submit the application. A proposal received after the closing date and time will not be considered for award. If it is determined that a proposal will not be considered due to late submission, then the applicant will be notified immediately.

Submission Dates and Times

Closing Date for Applications: Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Closing Date Explanation

*Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 5:00 PM, ET, on the listed application due date.

Submission Instructions

Apply Through Grants.gov

To apply through Grants.gov, please follow the instructions in the Quick Start Guide for

Applicants. Before applying, ensure that at least one person at your organization is registered and has the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Only the AOR can submit the application. If you need more users, they must create their own Grants.gov account. Follow these steps below to apply:

• Create a Workspace: Creating a workspace allows you to complete it online and route it through your organization for review before submitting.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-XIV/part-1402#1402.112 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-B/section-200.112 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-B/section-200.113 http://www.grants.gov/ https://grants.gov/register https://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants http://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants

• Complete a Workspace: Invite participants to the workspace so you can collaborate on the application. Required applications forms are included in the Grants.gov Funding

Opportunity Package and can be completed in the Workspace, unless noted otherwise in the Required Forms table above. Check for errors before submission.

• Submit a Workspace: An application may be submitted through workspace by clicking the Sign and Submit button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab

• Track a Workspace Submission: After successfully submitting a workspace application, a

Grants.gov Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) is automatically assigned to the application.

The system generates a date and time stamp and sends it to the applicant’s AOR via email as proof of submission. Make sure your application passes the Grants.gov validation checks. Do not encrypt, zip, or password-protect any files. Only registered individuals in SAM as both a user and an AOR can submit applications. Please allow 30 days to register in Grants.gov.

Application System Technical Support: For Grants.gov technical registration and submission, downloading forms, and application packages, contact Grants.gov Customer Support at 1-800-

518-4726 or by email at Support@grants.gov.

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

Eligibility Review

During the eligibility review, the application is checked for timely submission, completed packages (see Application Documents above) and alignment with the requirements of this announcement. The Federal agency may remove an application if it does not pass the eligibility review.

If an applicant selected for funding hasn't finished their SAM.gov registration (see 2 CFR 25.200 and 2 CFR 25.110) when the federal agency is ready to make an award, we may decide that the…