FY26-TCEP-CA-NOFO-P.pdf

Notice of Funding Opportunity Tribal Colleges Extension Program

Capacity Applications

FUNDING YEAR: Fiscal Year (FY) 2026

APPLICATION DEADLINE: August 14, 2026

ANTICIPATED PROGRAM FUNDING: $10,500,000

AVERAGE INDIVIDUAL AWARD: $300,000

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NUMBER: USDA-NIFA-SLBCD-012120

ASSISTANCE LISTING NUMBER: 10.517

ANNOUNCEMENT

National Institute of Food and Agriculture United States Department of Agriculture

Assistance Listing Number (ALN): The Tribal Colleges Extension Program-Capacity Applications (TCEP-CA) is listed in the Assistance Listings under number 10.517.

Table 1: Key Dates and Deadlines

Task Description Deadline

Application: 5:00 P.M. Eastern Time, August 14, 2026

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

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

• solving the most pressing challenges they face;

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

• supporting production of healthy and safe food for consumers;

• expanding and developing domestic markets;

• training the next generation of agriculturalists; and

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

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

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

1. Increasing Profitability of Farmers and Ranchers

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

3. Protecting the Integrity of American Agriculture from Invasive Species

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

5. Improving Human Health through Precision Nutrition and Food Quality

Stakeholder Input. NIFA seeks comments on all NOFO so it can deliver programs efficiently, effectively, with integrity, and with a focus on customer service. NIFA considers comments to the extent possible when developing NOFOs and uses comments to help meet the requirements https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/sm-1078-020.pdf https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/sm-1078-020.pdf of Section 103(c)(2) of the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (7 U.S.C. 7613(c)(2)). Applicants may submit written comments to Policy@usda.gov. Please use the following subject line: Response to the Tribal Colleges Extension Program-Capacity Applications NOFO.

https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:7613%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section7613)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true mailto:Policy@usda.gov

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

NIFA requests applications for TCEP-CA for FY 2026 to provide informal, community-focused education and outreach. The anticipated amount available for this program in FY 2026 is $10,500,000. This is a 4-year continuation grant.

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ANNOUNCEMENT

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF KEY INFORMATION

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority B. Purpose and Priorities

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

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

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements B. Cost Sharing or Matching

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

A. Method of Application B. Content and Form of the Application C. Funding Restrictions

PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

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

PART VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION

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

PART VII. OTHER INFORMATION

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

APPENDIX I: AGENCY CONTACT

APPENDIX II: GLOSSARY OF TERMS

APPENDIX III: DEFINITIONS

TABLE OF KEY INFORMATION

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

PART I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Legislative Authority This program is authorized under Section 534(b) of the Equity in Educational Land-grant Status Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 301 note), as amended by the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 (AREERA) (7 U.S.C. 7601). This section amends Section 3 of the Act of May 8, 1914 (Smith-Lever Act) (7 U.S.C. 341 et seq.). Under this authority, appropriated funds are to be awarded to the 1994 Land-grant Institutions (hereinafter referred to as 1994 Institutions) for extension work. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis to legislatively eligible institutions as authorized (7 U.S.C 343(b)(3)).

B. Purpose and Priorities The TCEP-CA under assistance listing 10.517, supports informal, community-based extension projects that address agriculture, youths, economic development, healthy lifestyles, natural resources, or other topics important to Tribal communities. This NOFO will begin a new 4-year continuation funding cycle.

The purpose of the TCEP-CA is to give Tribal communities opportunities for enhanced agricultural productivity, community resilience, economic growth, and youth development by extending the reach of innovations in research and technology and enhancing informal, local educational programs.

The TCEP-CA is designed to support Cooperative Extension offices that provide practical, science-based lifelong learning opportunities. Extension activities must be community driven and address local needs. Extension project topics of interest may include agricultural productivity, improving food systems, community vitality, workforce and economic development, environmental quality, public health and well-being, engaging Tribal youths, and preparing the next generation of Tribal agriculture leaders. NIFA encourages projects involving innovative agricultural technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), that equip Tribal communities with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to adapt to and thrive in an increasingly digital society and expose community members to educational and career pathways in AI for food and agricultural sciences.

Leadership Skills Development. The development of leadership skills, knowledge, and qualities are necessary to prepare students for agricultural and related careers in the private sector, government, and academia. Specific activities may include:

1. Developing practical applications to increase understanding of leadership roles, including critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills; ethics and professionalism;

working in teams.

2. Connecting the extension experience with daily leadership roles and organizational activities.

3. Providing opportunities for mentoring and shadowing.

4. Organizing leadership academics, workshops, training, etc.

https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:301%20note%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section301%20note)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:7601%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section7601)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:7%20section:341%20edition:prelim)%20OR%20(granuleid:USC-prelim-title7-section341)&f=treesort&edition=prelim&num=0&jumpTo=true https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?hl=false&edition=prelim&req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title7-section343&f=treesort&num=0&saved=%7CKHRpdGxlOjcgc2VjdGlvbjozNDEgZWRpdGlvbjpwcmVsaW0pIE9SIChncmFudWxlaWQ6VVNDLXByZWxpbS10aXRsZTctc2VjdGlvbjM0MSk%3D%7CdHJlZXNvcnQ%3D%7C%7C0%7Cfalse%7Cprelim

Table 2: Program Key Information Title Description

Program Code: NK Program Code Name: TCEP

ALN: 10.517

Project Type: Extension Projects Grant Type: Standard

Application Deadline August 14, 2026 Grant Duration: 48 Months

Anticipated # of Awards: 35 Minimum Award Amount: $300,000 Maximum Award Amount: $300,000

PART II. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Available Funding The amount available for TCEP in FY 2026 is approximately $12 million. Of this amount, approximately $10.5 million will be available to fund the first year of new TCEP-CA projects as competitive awards. Similar funding levels may be awarded for up to an additional 3 years as continuation awards provided performance has been satisfactory, funding is available for this purpose, and continued support is in the best interests of the Federal Government and the public.

USDA is not committed to fund any particular application or to make a specific number of awards.

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

NOFO.

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

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

C. Project and Grant Types The following describes the types of project or grant that are eligible for funding:

1. Project Type.—Extension Projects.—Single-function Extension Projects conduct programs and activities that deliver science-based knowledge and informal educational programs to people, enabling them to make practical decisions. Delivery may range from community-based to national audiences and use communication methods from face-to-face to electronic or combinations thereof. Extension projects may also include related matters such as certification programs, in-service training, client recruitment and services, curriculum development, instructional materials and equipment, and innovative instructional methodologies appropriate to informal educational programs.

Extension Projects must address one or more of the following key strategic actions:

a. Support informal education to increase food and agricultural literacy of youths and adults

b. Promote science-based agricultural literacy by increasing understanding and use of food and agricultural science data, information, and programs

c. Build science-based capability in people to engage audiences and enable informed decision making

d. Develop new applications of instructional tools and curriculum structures that increase technical competency and ensure global competitiveness

e. Offer nonformal learning programs that increase accessibility to new audiences at the rate at which new ideas and technologies are tested and/or developed at the community-scale https://fiscal.treasury.gov/payments-from-government/automated-standard-application-for-payments-asap

f. Develop programs that increase public knowledge and citizen engagement leading to actions that protect or enhance the Nation’s food supply, agricultural productivity, environmental quality, community vitality, and/or public health and well-being

Extension Projects should lead to measurable, documented changes in learning, actions, or conditions in an identified audience or stakeholder group and should synthesize and incorporate a wide range of the latest relevant research results.

Neither formal Education nor Research Projects are supported under the TCEP-CA.

2. Grant Type.

Standard Grants. Standard grants support original Extension Projects. An eligible, individual institution, independent branch campus, or branch institution of a State system may submit a grant application for project activities to be undertaken principally on behalf of its own students or faculty, and to be managed primarily by its own personnel.

The applicant executes the project without the requirement of sharing grant funds with other project partners.

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

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

PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligibility Requirements Applicants for the TCEP-CA must meet all the requirements discussed in this NOFO. Failure to meet the eligibility criteria by the application deadline may result in exclusion from consideration or preclude NIFA from making an award. For those new to Federal financial assistance, NIFA’s About Grants provides highly recommended information about grants and other resources to help understand the Federal awards process.

Applications may only be submitted by colleges and universities designated as 1994 Institutions by legislation.

The following schools are eligible for this program: Aaniiih Nakoda College, Bay Mills Community College, Blackfeet Community College, Cankdeska Cikana Community College, Chief Dull Knife College, College of the Menominee Nation, College of the Muscogee Nation, Diné College, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, Fort Peck Community College, Haskell Indian Nations University, Iḷisaġvik College, Institute of American Indian Arts, Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College, Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwa University, Leech Lake Tribal College, Little Big Horn College, Little Priest Tribal College, Navajo Technical University, Nebraska Indian Community College, Northwest Indian College, Nueta Hidatsa Sahnish College, Oglala Lakota College, Red Lake Nation College, Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College, Salish Kootenai College, Sinte Gleska University, Sisseton Wahpeton College, Sitting Bull College, Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute, Stone Child College, Tohono O’odham Community College, Turtle Mountain Community College, United Tribes Technical College, and White Earth Tribal and Community College.

USDA will not accept competitive applications for grants and cooperative agreements for dangerous gain-of-function research, as defined in Section 8 of E.O. 14292.

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

B. Cost Sharing or Matching No Match Required. The TCEP-CA has no matching requirement. NIFA will not factor matching resources into the review process as an evaluation criterion. While not required, cost share is encouraged.

https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/05/08/2025-08266/improving-the-safety-and-security-of-biological-research

PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

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

The electronic application for this NOFO and additional resources are available on Grants.gov and Grants 101. Table 3 provides instructions on how to obtain an electronic application. Part III of the NIFA Grants Application Guide contains detailed information regarding the Grants.gov registration process. The NIFA Grants Application Guide is contained in the specific funding opportunity package or a sample of the guide can be found here. When applying for a NIFA award, it is important to reference the version of the guide that is included in the specific funding opportunity application package.

Table 3. Steps to Obtain Application Materials Steps Action

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

Step Two:

Download Adobe

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

Step Three: Find Application

Using this funding opportunity number USDA-NIFA-SLBCD-012120 search for application here: Opportunity Package.

Step Four: Assess Readiness

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

Table 4: Help and Resources

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

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

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

Email:

grantapplicationquestions@usda.gov

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

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

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

Table 5: Key Application Instructions Instruction References

(All references are to the NIFA Grants Application Guide)

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

Part IV

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

Part IV

Conduct an administrative review of the application before submission.

Part IV

Follow the submission instructions. Part IV

Provide an accurate email address, where designated, on the

SF-424 R&R.

Part V

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

N/A

Contact NIFA if applicant does not receive correspondence from NIFA regarding an application within 90 days of the application deadline.

N/A

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

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

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

1. Field 7: Project Summary (PS)/Abstract. The PS must show how the project goals align with the program goals of the Tribal Colleges Extension Program-Capacity Applications (TCEP-CA). See Part V of the NIFA Grants Application Guide for instructions and suggested templates.

The Project Summary must include:

a. The title of the project (must be descriptive of the project)

b. A concise description of the project (not to exceed 250 words)

c. A statement of project objectives and the methods used to achieve those objectives

d. A statement regarding the potential impact of the project within the Tribal community

2. Field 8: Project Narrative (PN).The PN must not exceed 15 pages (1.5-spaced) of written text and up to 3 additional pages (1.5-spaced) for figures and tables. The PN must be formatted using 1-inch margins and 12-point, Times New Roman font. The font size for tables should be no smaller than 11 points, Times New Roman. The page limits outlined here ensure fair competition. Appendices to the PN are allowed if they are directly germane to the proposed project. Do not add appendices to circumvent the page limit. Applicants are strongly encouraged to organize the PN using the sections below https://www.grants.gov/support and include the section titles as prompts for each section. The PN must include all the following:

a. Introduction. Provide a brief introduction to the 1994 Institution and Tribal community. Describe the current problem, situation, or opportunity to be addressed and explain why it is important. Discuss the commitment of the applicant’s institution and key personnel to execute the project and increase extension outreach capacity.

Specify the qualifications of the personnel who will be directly engaged with the project, including their expertise in working on reservations with Tribal communities.

Provide a mission statement that captures the essence of extension outreach activities and describe how the extension project supports the institution’s strategic plan.

b. Rationale and significance. Describe the potential benefit of the proposed project to the participants, community, and Indian Country. Explain how the project addresses stakeholder/community needs and concerns, enhances participants’ lives, and empowers participants to teach others. Describe the significance of the extension project to U.S. agriculture, noting any critical impact on human health and well-being and rural communities.

c. Community and audience analysis. Provide evidence that the applicant has gathered input from the Tribe, community organizations, individual stakeholders, advisory groups, etc. to understand and align with the needs and concerns of the community. Describe the process used to identify, gather, and analyze input and feedback from stakeholders.

d. Objectives and anticipated outcomes. Provide a clear, concise, and logically numbered list of project objectives. Objectives must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timebound. Describe the anticipated outcomes associated with each of the project objectives. Outcomes must describe specific changes or results that may occur because of the project and that will constitute “success” for the initiative. Outcomes may include benefits realized through project activities such as changes in participants’ skills, behavior, or quality of life, and positive changes in conditions in the community served or reductions in negative conditions.

e. Approach. Clearly and concisely state the activities the project team will implement to accomplish each of the stated objectives. Describe how resources and personnel will be utilized to conduct the project. Describe the strategy to enhance communication, data sharing, and reporting of project outcomes and impacts to stakeholders and partners. Explain how the approach will contribute to the success of the project. Outline the process for review by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) if activities involving human subjects are planned at any time during the proposed project. If the project involves Extension activities using vertebrate animals under the jurisdiction or control of the institution, outline the process for review by an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC).

f. Collaborative relationships. Detail any collaborative work or plans for cooperation with a Federally Recognized Tribes Extension Program (FRTEP) office, 1862 or 1890 Cooperative Extension Service office, Tribal outreach office, or other entities.

g. Project timeline. Illustrate the progress and successful implementation of the project over the 4-year award period by providing an integrated timeline of project activities, major milestones, assessment, and reporting. Plan for a tentative project start in October 2026 and develop the project timeline accordingly. If key or other personnel must be hired to advance the project, address the timeline for hiring and how the project will progress in the event of delayed hiring. Address the timeline for IRB and/or IACUC review, if applicable. The use of a table or logic model is acceptable for this section.

h. Project evaluation. Explain how project activities and outcomes will be measured to determine the extent to which the stated objectives have been achieved and Extension outreach capacity has been increased. Describe how quantitative metrics, feedback from project stakeholders, and participant success stories will be utilized to demonstrate the project’s impact on the audience, convey value to stakeholders and the institution, inform project planning, and indicate the potential for project persistence beyond the period of USDA support. Indicate who on the project team will provide the project assessment oversight.

i. Summary of previous extension work. Provide a summary of previous extension work. How does this project build upon the successes of the previous project? How is stakeholder feedback from the prior extension project(s) incorporated into this project? What did the key personnel learn from the previous project? How will this project address any realized or perceived pitfalls seen in the previous project?

Describe the extent to which the project efficiently used the allocated budget to meet project objectives. Discuss any lapse in service and describe any actions taken to address continuity of service to the Tribe/Tribal community.

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

a. Data management plan (DMP). A DMP is required for this program. Applicants should clearly articulate how the project director (PD) and co-PDs plan to manage and disseminate the data generated by the project. The DMP must clearly describe the expected data type and format, plans for storing and preserving the data during and after the project, and the procedures for data access, sharing, and protection. The DMP must not exceed 2 pages (1.5-spaced). Save the DMP as “DMP” in PDF format. The DMP will be considered during the merit review process (see Part V, B of this NOFO, NIFA’s Data Management Plan).

b. Letters of commitment (LOC). Letters from collaborators or community partners whose participation is important to the success of the project, committing those collaborators and partners to specific roles, are encouraged. Do not include general letters of support (i.e., from those who are not committing to a specific role in the project). Save the letter(s) as “LOC_Organization Name” in PDF format.

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

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

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

1. Indirect Costs (IDC).—Not permitted.

2. Prepare a budget for each of the four years of the project ($300,000 per year) plus a cumulative 4-year budget of $1,200,000.

https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/data-management-plan-nifa-funded-research-projects

3. Budget Justification.—A detailed budget narrative should be provided for each project year. There should be a direct correlation between the items in the budget, the activities described in the PN, and the budget justification. Each item in the budget must be justified in the proposal. Costs (e.g., salary and wages, materials, equipment, travel, etc.)

must be broken down and itemized rather than shown as lump sums. While budgets should account for necessary travel, virtual or hybrid meetings may be considered.

4. All subawards must include a budget and budget narrative for each year they are part of the grant.

5. Project Directors’ Meeting. Reasonable travel expenses for the PD to attend one PD meeting during each project year must be included as part of the project’s budget.

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

1. Field 2: Program to which the applicant is applying.—Enter the program name “Tribal Colleges Extension Program-Capacity Applications (TCEP-CA)” and the program code “NK”. Accurate entry is critical.

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

C. Funding Restrictions

1. No Indirect Costs (IDC). IDC is not authorized for this NOFO.

The use of grant funds to plan, acquire, or construct a building or facility, or to acquire land, is not allowed under this program. With prior approval, in accordance with the cost principles set forth in Subpart E of 2 CFR 200, grant funds may be used to purchase equipment, or for improvements, alterations, renovations, or repairs to land, buildings, or equipment, deemed necessary to retrofit existing spaces and resources in order to carry out a funded project under this grant. However, requests to use grant funds for such purposes must be aligned with the goals and objectives of the project. Any equipment purchased with Federal funds is the property of the grantee or the sub-grantee, as appropriate.

In addition, the following costs, although not all-inclusive, are not permitted:

1. Entertainment including tickets to shows or sporting events;

2. Meals (except when provided to maintain the continuity of a meeting);

3. Alcoholic beverages;

4. Costs associated with banquets and award ceremonies;

5. Expenses not directly related to the program – (e.g., childcare services, kitchen help, etc.);

6. Incentives.

2. NIFA awards may not be used to support the procurement of unmanned aircraft systems to process, store, or transmit Federal information (as defined in OMB Circular A-130) unless the grant is specifically available for procurement of such equipment and grantees describe in their application how they will comply with the information security requirements outlined in Appendix B of M-26-02 Ensuring Government Use of Secure Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Supporting United States Producers and develop a risk-based approach to applying those requirements to procurement solicitations to potential vendors under the resulting Federal award. This information, if provided, will be https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbidenwhitehouse.archives.gov%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Flegacy_drupal_files%2Fomb%2Fcirculars%2FA130%2Fa130revised.pdf&data=05%7C02%7CCatherine.Bohnert%40usda.gov%7C2fd05fdc31df40138ca308dec7f6e548%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C639168060378926979%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=giSm%2FTj%2F0w1rl51x%2FMM0h9S8YTzJwckuJe6JHpuAKMs%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F11%2FM-26-02-Ensuring-Government-Use-of-Secure-Unmanned-Aircraft-Systems-and-Supporting-United-States-Producers.pdf&data=05%7C02%7CCatherine.Bohnert%40usda.gov%7C2fd05fdc31df40138ca308dec7f6e548%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C639168060378962107%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=b3NcKXmqe8WcEGp30beat5rlrVHx2R0RMX7%2Fz2A3IK4%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F11%2FM-26-02-Ensuring-Government-Use-of-Secure-Unmanned-Aircraft-Systems-and-Supporting-United-States-Producers.pdf&data=05%7C02%7CCatherine.Bohnert%40usda.gov%7C2fd05fdc31df40138ca308dec7f6e548%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C639168060378962107%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=b3NcKXmqe8WcEGp30beat5rlrVHx2R0RMX7%2Fz2A3IK4%3D&reserved=0 evaluated by NIFA as part of its evaluation process. If such procurement is approved, specific information security requirements may be included in the terms and conditions of the grant to ensure that the grantees will incorporate those requirements in procurement solicitations of unmanned aircraft systems under the Federal award.

PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTS

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

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

Scientific Peer Review Process:

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

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

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

3. The need to include other experts (e.g., agricultural producers, range or forest managers/operators, researchers, educators, evaluators, and consumers) who can assess relevance of the applications to audiences and to program needs.

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

5. The need to maintain a balanced composition with regard to the reviewer's area of expertise, geographic area, and entity type, as appropriate.

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

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

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

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

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

B. Evaluation Criteria Applications are evaluated primarily for overall merit with emphasis placed on the proposed approach to advance Tribal Extension initiatives and U.S. agriculture using sound program https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-peer-review-process-competitive-grant-applications https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-peer-review-process-competitive-grant-applications https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-peer-review-process-competitive-grant-applications https://nifa.usda.gov/resource/nifa-peer-review-process-competitive-grant-applications management practices and strong cooperative linkages. The criteria below are not equal in merit but are listed in descending order of importance. NIFA will use the following criteria to evaluate applications to this program:

1. Potential for advancing the quality of Tribal Extension initiatives. This criterion assesses the likelihood that the project will have an impact upon and advance the quality of food, agriculture, natural resources, workforce development, and youth development by strengthening institutional capacity to meet clearly delineated needs in Tribal communities. The extent to which the proposed project enhances participants’ lives and benefits Tribal stakeholders, rural communities, Indian Country, and U.S agriculture is included. Stakeholder involvement in project development, implementation, and evaluation is demonstrated and clearly aligns with stakeholder/community needs and concerns.

2. Proposed approach and project management. This criterion evaluates the soundness of the proposed approach including objectives, methodology, timetable, expected outcomes, and identification and dissemination of project impacts. Project objectives, activities, and outcomes are clearly described, appropriate, and aligned. Anticipated outcomes and impacts are relevant to the participants, Tribal community, and Indian Country. A clear plan is articulated for project management, including time allocated for attainment of objectives and delivery of products, maintenance of partnerships, project evaluation, and strategies to communicate outcomes and impacts to stakeholders and the public. A plan for IRB and/or IACUC approval is included, if applicable.

3. Key personnel, institutional support, and capacity building. This criterion assesses the adequacy of personnel and institutional support required to advance and sustain Extension outreach capacity. Key personnel have sufficient expertise and time to implement project objectives, establish and maintain partnerships, and assess and disseminate project outcomes and impacts. The number of other personnel involved in the project is adequate to support the project. The extent to which the institution is committed to the project, has adequate institutional resources (e.g., support personnel, facilities, equipment, etc.) available to execute the project, and plans for project continuation or expansion beyond the period of USDA support is included. If a partner organization or community collaborators will be included in the project, their involvement, including roles and responsibilities, is clear and defined. Letters of commitment from collaborators or community partners are provided, if applicable.

4. Budget and cost-effectiveness. This criterion gauges the extent to which the budget clearly allocates sufficient resources to carry out Extension activities that will lead to desired outcomes. Budget line items are sufficiently justified to determine the necessity and reasonableness of the costs to carry out project activities and achieve project objectives. The extent to which the project maximizes the use of limited resources and optimizes educational value for the dollar is included. Budget allocations between the applicant and any collaborating organization(s) are appropriate for the amount of time committed to the project by the subawardee(s), if applicable.

5. Project evaluation. This criterion assesses the proposed project evaluation and performance monitoring plans. The project evaluation methods used to identify, gather, and analyze feedback from project stakeholders and participants are reasonable and appropriate for Extension activities. The process to measure project objectives and assess impact is consistent with the project timeline. The extent to which assessment results and feedback from participants are communicated to the institution and stakeholders and is utilized to inform project planning is included. The project identifies the key person(s) who will monitor and report project performance.

6. Data management plan. This criterion evaluates the soundness of the institution’s DMP.

The DMP is appropriate, clearly described, and feasible. The extent to which the DMP describes the expected data type and format, plans for storing and preserving the data during and after the project, and the procedures for data access, sharing, and protection is included.

C. Organizational Management Information Applicants must submit specific management information prior to an award and update the information as needed. Applicants may only need to provide an update if there was a change in previously provided information under this or another NIFA program. NIFA provides the requisite forms during the pre-award process. Although an applicant may be eligible for award under this program, there are factors that may exclude an applicant from receiving Federal financial and nonfinancial assistance and benefits under this program (e.g., debarment or suspension of an individual, or a determination that an applicant is not responsible).

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

PART VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION

A. General Within the limit of funds authorized, the NIFA awarding official will make grants to responsible and eligible applicants whose applications are judged most meritorious under the procedures set forth in this NOFO. The date specified by the NIFA awarding official as the effective date of the grant must be no later than September 30 of the Federal fiscal year in which the project is approved for support and funds are appropriated for such purpose, unless otherwise permitted by law. The project need not be initiated on the grant effective date, but as soon thereafter as practical so that project goals may be attained within the funded project period.

All funds granted by NIFA under this NOFO may be used only for the purpose for which they are granted in accordance with the program-specific laws and regulations, NIFA General Awards Administrative Provisions (7 CFR part 3430, subparts A through E), USDA Regulations for Grants and Agreements (2 CFR Chapter IV), Office of Management and Budget Uniform Guidance (2 CFR part 200), NIFA-specific terms and conditions, USDA General Terms and Conditions for Federal Awards, and approved budget and project plans.

The Notice of Award document will provide pertinent instructions and information as described in 2 CFR 200.211.

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

C. Expected Program Outputs and Reporting Requirements Output and reporting requirements are included in the award terms and conditions. If there are any program or award-specific award terms, they will be identified in the Award Notice.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-XXXIV/part-3430 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-IV https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200?toc=1 https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/regulations-and-guidelines/terms-conditions https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/general-information/staff-offices/office-chief-financial-officer/federal-financial-assistance-policy/usda-general-terms-and-conditions https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/general-information/staff-offices/office-chief-financial-officer/federal-financial-assistance-policy/usda-general-terms-and-conditions https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/retrieveECFR?gp=&SID=c44a1f8f16917d78ba5ba676eac5fdc3&mc=true&r=SECTION&n=se2.1.200_1211 https://nifa.usda.gov/federal-regulations https://www.nifa.usda.gov/nifa-federal-assistance-policy-guide https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/regulations-and-guidelines/terms-conditions

PART VII. OTHER INFORMATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Cost Principles), or 2 CFR Part 300 Appendix IX, (Principles for Determining Costs Applicable to Research and Development under Awards and Contracts with Hospitals), or 48 CFR, unless waived by the Federal awarding agency, 48 CFR Part 31, Contract Cost Principles and Procedures;

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

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

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

8. The need for additional Federal funds to complete the project;

9. Salary rates of pay exceeding an Executive Level IV salary range (see “Rates of Pay for the Executive Schedule” under the “Executive & Senior Level Employee Pay Tables” header at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/) require prior NIFA approval. This rate does not include any fringe benefits, general and administrative (G&A), overhead, or other expenses. Requests for approval must include the salary rate of pay and a justification for the rate and be sent to the Authorized Departmental Officer (ADO) to awards@usda.gov;

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

11. Transferring funds between the construction and non-construction work under a Federal award; and

12. A no-cost extension (meaning, an extension of time that does not require the obligation of additional Federal funds) of the period of performance, other than any one-time extension authorized by the Federal agency in accordance with paragraph 2 CFR 200.308(g)(2). All requests for no-cost extensions should be submitted at least 10 calendar days before the conclusion of the period of performance. The Federal agency may approve multiple no-cost extensions under a Federal award if not prohibited by Federal statute or regulation.

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B.…