HRSA-25-062 Final V2.pdf

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Application due March 18, 2025

HRSA HIV/AIDS Bureau Office of Program Support

Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP) Web-Based Platform for HIV Tools and Resources Opportunity number: HRSA-25-062

Modified on 1/24/25: Updated TA Webinar information

Contents Before you begin 3

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 4

Basic information 5

Eligibility 6

Program description 8

Award information 11

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 16

Get registered 17

Find the application package 17

Application writing help 17

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 19

Application contents and format 20

Step 4: Learn About Review and Award 26

Application review 27

Selection process 30

Award notices 30

Step 5: Submit Your Application 31

Application submission and deadlines 32

Application checklist 34

Step 6: Learn What Happens After Award 35

Post-award requirements and administration 36

Contacts and Support 40

Contents 2

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

SAM.gov registration (this can take several weeks)

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

See Step 2: Get Ready to Apply

Grants.gov registration (this can take several days)

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

See Step 2: Get Ready to Apply

Apply by the application due date

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on March 18, 2025.

To help you find what you need, this NOFO uses internal links. In Adobe Reader, you can go back to where you were by pressing Alt + Left Arrow (Windows) or Command + Left Arrow (Mac) on your keyboard.

Before you begin 3 https://sam.gov/ https://grants.gov/

Jump to a step

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1:

Review the Opportunity

In this step

Basic information 5

Eligibility 6

Program description 8

Award information 11

Basic information Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)

HRSA HIV/AIDS Bureau

Office of Program Support

Advancing HIV Care Through Centralized Access to Evidence-Based Resources and Tools

Have questions?

Go to Contacts and Support.

Key facts Opportunity name:

RWHAP Web-Based Platform for HIV Tools and Resources

Opportunity number:

HRSA-25-062

Announcement version:

Modification #1

Federal assistance listing:

93.145

Statutory authority:

Sections 2606 and 2654(b) of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 300ff-16 and 300ff-54(b))

Key dates NOFO issue date:

January 15, 2025

Informational webinar:

See Webinar Section

Application deadline:

March 18, 2025

Expected award date is by: July 1, 2025

Expected start date:

July 1, 2025

See other submissions for other time frames that may apply to this NOFO.

Summary Supported through funding from the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is accepting applications for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 to establish a user-friendly web-based platform. This platform will serve as a centralized repository for evidence-based interventions, best practices, tools, training and technical assistance (T/TA) products, and resources for improving HIV care, treatment, and support services across populations.

The successful applicant will be responsible for the entire project life cycle, from inception to launch, maintenance, and evaluation to include traditional user experience/user interface (UX/UI) processes. Given the volume of information to be housed on the site, it is imperative that the site has advanced search capabilities and a user-friendly design process to ensure ease of use and accessibility.

Funding details Application type: New, Competing continuation

Expected total available funding: Up to $900,000 per year for up to five years

Expected number and type of awards: One cooperative agreement award

Funding range per award: Up to $900,000 per year

We plan to fund awards in 12-month budget periods for a five-year period of performance of July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2030.

The program and awards depend on the appropriation of funds and are subject to change based on the availability and amount of appropriations.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 5 https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2018-title42/html/USCODE-2018-title42-chap21-subchapV.htm https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2018-title42/html/USCODE-2018-title42-chap21-subchapV.htm https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2018-title42/html/USCODE-2018-title42-chap21-subchapV.htm https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2018-title42/html/USCODE-2018-title42-chap21-subchapV.htm

Eligibility Who can apply?

Types of eligible organizations These types of domestic* organizations may apply:

• Public institutions of higher education.

• Private institutions of higher education.

• Small businesses.

• State governments, including the District of Columbia, domestic territories, and freely associated states.

• County governments.

• City or township governments.

• Special district governments.

• Independent school districts.

• Native American tribal governments.

• Native American tribal organizations.

*“Domestic” means the fifty States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, or the Republic of Palau.

Individuals are not eligible applicants under this NOFO.

Other eligibility criteria Completeness and responsiveness criteria We will review your application to make sure it meets these basic requirements to move forward in the competition.

We will not consider an application that:

• Is from an organization that does not meet all eligibility criteria.

• Requests funding above the award ceiling shown in the funding range.

• Is submitted after the deadline.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 6

Application limits You may not submit more than one application. If you submit more than one application, we will only accept the last on-time submission.

Cost sharing This program does not have a cost-sharing requirement. If you choose to share in the costs of the project, we will not consider it during merit review. We will hold you accountable for any funds you add, including through reporting.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 7

Program description Purpose This project will fund the creation and maintenance of a user-friendly web-based platform. The platform will serve as a comprehensive and centralized repository for evidence-based interventions, best practices, tools, training and technical assistance (T/TA) products, and resources developed by Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP) funded recipients, stakeholders, federal partners, and HRSA’s HIV/AIDS Bureau (HAB).

The site will be specifically aimed at enhancing HIV care and treatment outcomes. The audience for the website will include health care team members, recipients, subrecipients, key stakeholders, federal staff, and the general public. The content for the site will be curated by the recipient to include a variety of HIV tools, resources, and information gathered from a variety of sources such as HAB recipients, TA providers, government websites, and evidenced based research.

Background The HRSA Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program has five statutory funding parts that provide a comprehensive system of medical care, support, and medications for low-income people with HIV. The goal is better health results, and lower HIV transmission in priority groups.

The HIV care continuum is key to the program. It shows the journey of someone with HIV from diagnosis to effective treatment, leading to viral suppression. Reaching viral suppression boosts the patient’s quality of life and prevents HIV transmission.

This continuum also helps programs and planners measure progress and use resources effectively. We require you to assess your outcomes and work with your community and public health partners to improve outcomes across the HIV care continuum. To assess your program, review HRSA’s Performance Measure Portfolio.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 8 https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/about/parts-and-initiatives https://www.hiv.gov/federal-response/policies-issues/hiv-aids-care-continuum/ https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/grants/performance-measure-portfolio

Strategic frameworks and national objectives To address health challenges faced by low-income people with HIV, using national objectives and strategic frameworks is crucial. These frameworks include:

• Healthy People 2030

• National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) (2022–2025)

• Sexually Transmitted Infections National Strategic Plan for the United States (2021–2025)

• Viral Hepatitis National Strategic Plan for the United States: A Roadmap to Elimination (2021–2025)

These strategies offer guidance on the main principles, priorities, and steps for our national health response. They serve as a blueprint for collective action and impact.

Expanding the effort There have been significant accomplishments:

• From 2018 to 2022, HIV viral suppression among Ryan White program patients improved from 87.1 percent to 89.6 percent. For more, see the 2022 Ryan White Services Report (RSR).

• Racial, ethnic, age-based, and regional disparities in viral suppression rates have significantly reduced. For more, see the RWHAP Annual Data Report 2022.

• In 2020, the Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. (EHE) initiative launched to further expand federal efforts to reduce HIV transmission. For the RWHAP, the EHE initiative expands the program’s ability to meet the needs of clients, specifically focusing on linking people with HIV who are either newly diagnosed, diagnosed but currently not in care, or are diagnosed and in care but not yet virally suppressed, to the essential HIV care, treatment, and support services needed to help them reach viral suppression.

Using data effectively HRSA and CDC promote integrated data sharing and use for program planning, quality improvement, and public health action.

We encourage you to:

• Follow the Data Security and Confidentiality Guidelines for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Disease, and Tuberculosis Programs.

• Create data-sharing agreements between surveillance and HIV programs.

• Progress toward NHAS goals through integrated data sharing, analysis, and use of HIV data by health departments.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 9 https://health.gov/healthypeople https://www.hiv.gov/federal-response/national-hiv-aids-strategy/national-hiv-aids-strategy-2022-2025 https://www.hhs.gov/programs/topic-sites/sexually-transmitted-infections/plan-overview/index.html https://www.hhs.gov/programs/topic-sites/sexually-transmitted-infections/plan-overview/index.html https://www.hhs.gov/hepatitis/viral-hepatitis-national-strategic-plan/national-viral-hepatitis-action-plan-overview/index.html https://www.hhs.gov/hepatitis/viral-hepatitis-national-strategic-plan/national-viral-hepatitis-action-plan-overview/index.html https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/ryanwhite/data/rwhap-annual-client-level-data-report-2022.pdf https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/ryanwhite/data/rwhap-annual-client-level-data-report-2022.pdf https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/ryanwhite/data/rwhap-annual-client-level-data-report-2022.pdf https://www.hiv.gov/federal-response/ending-the-hiv-epidemic/overview/ending-epidemic-timeline/ https://www.cdc.gov/program-collaboration-service-integration/php/index.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/programintegration/docs/pcsidatasecurityguidelines.pdf https://www.cdc.gov/program-collaboration-service-integration/php/index.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/programintegration/docs/pcsidatasecurityguidelines.pdf

• Complete CD4, viral load, and HIV nucleotide sequence reporting to the state and territorial health departments’ HIV surveillance systems. CDC mandates the reporting of all such data to the National HIV Surveillance System (NHSS).

• Use our interactive RWHAP Compass Dashboard to visualize reach, impact, and outcomes of the Ryan White program and to inform planning and decision making. The dashboard gives you a look at national, state, and metro area data and displays client demographics, services, outcomes, and viral suppression. It also includes data about clients in the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP).

• Develop data-sharing strategies with other RWHAP recipients and relevant entities to reduce administrative burden.

• Use electronic data sources to verify client eligibility when you can. See Policy Clarification Notice 21-02, Determining Client Eligibility and Payor of Last Resort in the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.

Program resources and innovative models We offer multiple projects and resources to help you. A full list of resources is available on TargetHIV. We urge you to learn about them and use them in your project. For some examples, see Helpful Websites.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 10 https://data.hrsa.gov/topics/hiv-aids/compass-dashboard https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/ryanwhite/grants/pcn-21-02-determining-eligibility-polr.pdf https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/ryanwhite/grants/pcn-21-02-determining-eligibility-polr.pdf https://targethiv.org/help/ta-directory

Award information Cooperative agreement terms Our responsibilities Aside from monitoring and technical assistance, we also get involved in these ways:

• Collaborative Planning and Coordination: We work closely with you to plan, coordinate, and implement project activities. This includes participating in meetings, helping design and evaluate activities, and ensuring that project efforts are aligned with HAB’s goals and initiatives.

• Facilitating Partnerships: We help establish and maintain partnerships with relevant stakeholders, including other federal agencies, state and local health departments, community-based organizations, and RWHAP recipients and subrecipients to enhance the impact and reach of the project.

• Reviewing Content and Submitting for Publication: We will participate in the review of documents and communications submitted, and for publication on the website on an as-needed basis to ensure the proper tagging of documents. We will submit new content to you weekly for publication. We will review significant changes to the web-based platform to ensure they are consistent with HAB’s goals and guidelines.

• Coordinating with you: We will work closely with you to develop and manage a streamlined workflow for content tagging, publishing, and archiving.

Your responsibilities You must follow all relevant laws and policies. Your other responsibilities will include the following.

Project Planning and Management

• Develop and manage a detailed project plan outlining all stages development and production from conception to launch, including maintenance and evaluation.

The project plan should incorporate a phased approach to launching the fully developed website using a timeline that aligns with industry standards.

Website Development and Launch

• Thoroughly gather requirements according to industry standards to build a platform that incorporates a design and functionality that can meet the needs of the target audience effectively.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 11

• Establish and maintain a dedicated URL for the web-based platform. This URL would preferably be memorable and align with the mission of the project. The URL will be hosted and maintained by the recipient of this cooperative agreement.

• Create a user-friendly, easily searchable, and responsive web-based, mobile friendly platform. The web-based platform should be usable by individuals with disabilities, following federal accessibility standards.

• Ensure that the audiences, such as health care team members, recipients, subrecipients, key stakeholders, federal staff, and the general public, can easily find and access the information that is accurate and manageable while providing content that is most relevant and appropriate for them.

• Remain abreast of emerging technologies and capabilities for users of the web-based platform.

• Obtain copyright permissions, as appropriate, and ensure that HAB retains a royalty-free, nonexclusive and irrevocable right to reproduce, publish, or otherwise use the website and its content for Federal purposes, and to authorize others to do so.

Website subscribers

• Create and manage a comprehensive database of individuals who subscribe to the website to proactively reach users who may benefit from routine contact and updates.

• Regularly update the database to ensure accurate subscriber information and facilitate ongoing interaction, including sending updates, newsletters, and other relevant communications.

Staffing

• Ensure you have a full complement of staff so that experts manage each activity and area of responsibility of the project—for example, web developers, UX/UI designers, content managers, and evaluators.

◦ In your staffing plan, consider separating security and privacy operations and compliance.

Data Collection and Analysis

• Continually collect, analyze, and use data to guide project activities, monitor performance, and inform future planning and decision-making.

• Implement advanced analytics to track user demographic and engagement, click-through rates, content downloads, and overall site performance.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 12

User Experience

• The recipient should develop a plan to conduct regular user experience assessments using independent evaluators in keeping with industry standards to continuously improve the platform’s functionality and user satisfaction.

Maintenance and support

• Provide ongoing operation, maintenance, monitoring, assessment, and technical support to ensure the platform remains up-to-date and privacy-and security-compliant.

• Develop and follow a timeline for regularly reviewing time-bound content, such as webinars and events. Ensure expired materials are archived or removed from the website to maintain accuracy and relevance.

• Develop a plan to continue the project when federal funding ends.

Website Metrics and Analytics

• Submit quarterly reports to HAB detailing website analytics, including subscriber engagement, to track performance and outcomes.

• Provide monthly website analytics and metrics of views and downloads of technical assistance resources. You and HRSA will agree on the format for these reports.

• Develop and maintain performance metrics to assess the effectiveness and impact of the website.

• Recipient is expected to attend and exhibit at the biennial National Ryan White Conference on HIV Care and Treatment.

Conference Attendance

• Recipient is expected to attend and exhibit at the biennial National Ryan White

Conference on HIV Care and Treatment.

Funding policies and limitations Policies

• We will only make awards if Congress appropriates funds for this purpose, we will move forward with the review and award process.

• Support beyond the first budget year will depend on:

◦ Appropriation of funds.

◦ Satisfactory progress in meeting the project’s objectives.

◦ A decision that continued funding is in the government’s best interest.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 13

General limitations

• For guidance on some types of costs we do not allow or restrict, see Project

Budget in section 3.1.4 of the Application Guide. You can also see 45 CFR part 75, or any superseding regulation, General Provisions for Selected Items of Cost.

• Congress’s current appropriations act includes a salary limitation, which applies to this program. As of January 2025, the salary rate limitation is $225,700. This limitation may be updated.

Program-specific limitations

• You cannot use funds under this notice for the following:

◦ International HIV/AIDS training activities.

◦ Payment for any item or service to the extent that payment has been made (or reasonably can be expected to be made), with respect to that item or service, under any state compensation program, insurance policy, federal or state benefits program, or any entity that provides health services on a prepaid basis (except for a program administered by or providing the services of the Indian Health Service).

◦ Cash payment to intended recipients of RWHAP services.

◦ Clinical quality management.

◦ International travel.

◦ Construction (minor alterations and renovations to an existing facility to make it more suitable for the purposes of the award program are allowable with prior HRSA approval).

◦ HIV test kits.

◦ Syringe Services Programs (SSPs). Some aspects of SSPs are allowable with HRSA’s prior approval and in compliance with HHS and HRSA policy.

◦ Development of materials designed to directly promote or encourage intravenous drug use or sexual activity.

See Manage Your Grant for other information on costs and financial management.

Indirect costs Indirect costs are costs you charge across more than one project that cannot be easily separated by project.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 14 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/application-guide.pdf#page=14 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/part-75/subject-group-ECFR5d90ba314caea08 https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/manage-your-grant

To charge indirect costs you can select one of two methods:

Method 1 – Approved rate. You currently have an indirect cost rate approved by your cognizant federal agency.

Method 2 – De minimis rate. Per 2 CFR 200.414(f), if you have never received a negotiated indirect cost rate, you may elect to charge a de minimis rate. If you choose this method, costs included in the indirect cost pool must not be charged as direct costs.

This rate is 15% of modified total direct costs (MTDC). See 2 CFR 200.1 for the definition of MTDC. You can use this rate indefinitely.

Program income Program income is money earned as a result of your award-supported project activities. You must use any program income you generate from awarded funds for approved project-related activities. Find more about program income at 45 CFR 75.307.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 15 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.414 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200#p-200.1(Modified%20Total%20Direct%20Cost%20(MTDC)) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-A/part-75/subpart-D/subject-group-ECFR911e5e1a30bfbcb/section-75.307

Step 2:

Get Ready to Apply

In this step

Get registered 17

Find the application package 17

Application writing help 17

Get registered SAM.gov You must have an active account with SAM.gov to apply. This includes having a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). SAM.gov registration can take several weeks. Begin that process today.

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

When you register or update your SAM.gov registration, you must agree to the financial assistance general certifications and representations. You must agree to those for grants specifically, as opposed to contracts, because the two sets of agreements are different. You will have to maintain your registration throughout the life of any award.

Grants.gov You must also have an active account with Grants.gov. You can see step-by step instructions at the Grants.gov Quick Start Guide for Applicants.

Find the application package The application package has all the forms you need to apply. You can find it online. Go to Grants Search at Grants.gov and search for opportunity number HRSA-25-062.

After you select the opportunity, we recommend that you click the Subscribe button to get updates.

Application writing help Visit HHS Tips for Preparing Grant Proposals.

Visit HRSA’s How to Prepare Your Application page for more guidance.

See Apply for a Grant for other help and resources.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 17 https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/apply-for-a-grant/prepare-your-application/assurances-non-construction-programs https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/apply-for-a-grant/prepare-your-application/assurances-non-construction-programs https://grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration http://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants https://grants.gov/search-grants https://www.hhs.gov/grants-contracts/grants/get-ready-for-grants-management/tips-for-preparing-grant-proposals/index.html https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/apply-for-a-grant/prepare-your-application https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/apply-for-a-grant

Join the webinar More information on HRSA-25-062’s webinar will be posted at a later date to the related documents tab here:

We recommend you “Subscribe” to the NOFO on Grants.gov to receive updates when documents are posted.

We will record the webinar. Visit the HRSA’s open opportunities website to learn more about the resources available for this funding opportunity.

Have questions? Go to Contacts and Support.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 2: Get Ready to Apply 18 https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/find-funding https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/354791

Step 3:

Prepare Your Application

In this step

Application contents and format 20

Application contents and format Applications include 5 main components. This section includes guidance on each.

There is a 35-page limit for the overall application.

Submit your information in English and express budget figures using U.S. dollars.

Make sure you include each of these:

Components Submission Format Included in the page limit?

Project abstract Use the Project Abstract Summary form. No

Project narrative Use the Project Narrative Attachment form. Yes

Budget narrative Use the Budget Narrative Attachment form. Yes

Attachments Insert each in the Other Attachments form. Yes, unless otherwise marked below.

Other required forms Upload using each required form. No

Required format You must format your narratives and attachments using our required formats for fonts, size, margins, etc. See the formatting guidelines in section 3.2 of the Application Guide.

Project abstract Complete the information in the Project Abstract Summary form. Include a short description of your proposed project. Include the needs you plan to address, the proposed services, and the population groups you plan to serve. For more information, see section 3.1.2 of the Application Guide.

Project narrative In this section, you will describe all aspects of your project. Project activities must comply with the non-discrimination requirements.

Use the section headers and the order listed.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 20 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/application-guide.pdf#page=25 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/application-guide.pdf#page=13

Introduction See merit review criterion 1: Need

• Briefly describe the purpose of describe your understanding of the need and purpose of the RWHAP Web-Based Platform for HIV Tools and Resources, that is consistent with the program “Purpose” as described in Section I of the NOFO.

Need See merit review criterion 1: Need

• Describe the need for a central, web-based platform for T/TA products, latest news and updates, and resources that address HIV care, treatment, and support services.

• Outline the needs of the target population.

• Highlight the gaps in access to current resources that the platform will fill.

• Discuss any relevant barriers that you hope to overcome through this project.

Approach See merit review criterion 2: Response

Tell us how you will address the stated needs and meet the program requirements and expectations described in this NOFO:

• Develop and manage a detailed project plan, outlining all stages from inception to launch, including maintenance and evaluation.

• Develop and launch the website.

◦ Ensure that the website enhances user experience, engagement, and accessibility through a robust search functionality that delivers accurate and relevant results.

◦ Incorporate modern web design standards.

◦ Ensure the site has an intuitive interface that simplifies navigation and makes information easily accessible.

◦ How the search feature will prioritize the most relevant and recent content, ensuring users can easily find the information they need.

◦ Ensure website is able to obtain and manage website subscribers.

• Implement UX processes as you develop and maintain the website.

• Maintain and support the platform to make sure it remains up-to-date.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 21

◦ Maintain accurate and up-to-date content on the web-based platform, ensuring regular updates, quality checks, and the timely removal of outdated information.

• Collect and analyze data. Implement advanced analytics to track user demographic and engagement, click-through rates, content downloads, and overall site performance.

• Collaborate with and receive information from HAB, including managing and implementing new webpage requests from HAB staff.

• Continue the project when federal funding ends.

High-level work plan See merit review criteria 2: Response and 4: Impact

• Describe your project management plan. Provide a timeline with milestones. As needed, identify how key stakeholders will help plan, design, and carry out all activities. Provide a timeline that includes each activity and identifies who is responsible for them.

• You will also include a more detailed work plan in your Attachments.

Resolving challenges See merit review criterion 2: Response

Discuss challenges that you are likely to encounter in designing and carrying out the activities in the work plan. Explain approaches that you will use to resolve them.

Performance reporting and evaluation See merit review criteria 3: Performance reporting and evaluation and 5: Resources & Capabilities

• Describe the expected outcomes of the project.

• Performance Measurement and Reporting. Describe the systems and processes that you will use to track performance and the user experience.

• Describe how you will collect and manage data in a way that allows for accurate and timely reporting.

• Describe your plan for conducting independent user experience evaluations.

• Discuss staffing that will support evaluation.

• Describe any additional evaluation methodologies you plan to use. Your response should outline strategies to gather user feedback, identify areas for improvement, Step 3: Prepare Your Application 22 and enhance overall user satisfaction. Please refer to the evaluation methodologies in the User Experience section.

• Describe evaluation barriers and your plan to address them.

Organizational information See merit review criterion 5: Resources and capabilities

• Describe the experience your organization has in developing, managing, and enhancing web-based platforms hat provide access to a high volume of materials.

Given the comprehensive nature of the web-based platform, it is crucial that you demonstrate your organization’s ability to use its existing expertise and resources to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in this NOFO.

• Briefly describe your mission, organizational structure, and the scope of your current activities as they relate to website design and maintenance. Explain how they show your ability to carry out the program requirements. Include a project organization chart.

• Describe your organizational profile, budget, partners, and key staff members’ experience and skills.

Budget and budget narrative See merit review criterion 6: Support requested

Your budget should follow the instructions in Section 3.1.4 Project Budget Information

– Non-Construction Programs (SF-424A) of the Application Guide and the instructions listed in this section. Your budget should show a well-organized plan.

HHS now uses the definitions for equipment and supply in 2 CFR 200.1. The new definitions change the threshold for equipment to the lesser of the recipient’s capitalization level or $10,000 and the threshold for supplies to below that amount.

The total project or program costs are all allowable (direct and indirect) costs used for the HRSA award activity or project. This includes costs charged to the award and non-federal funds used to satisfy a matching or cost-sharing requirement (which may include maintenance of effort, if applicable).

The budget narrative supports the information you provide in Standard Form 424-A.

See other required forms. It includes an itemized breakdown and a clear justification of the costs you request. The merit review committee reviews both.

As you develop your budget, consider:

• If the costs are reasonable and consistent with your project’s purpose and activities.

• The restrictions on spending funds. See funding policies and limitations.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 23 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/application-guide.pdf#page=14 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200#p-200.1(Equipment) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200#p-200.1(Supply)

To create your budget narrative, see detailed instructions in Section 3.1.5 of the Application Guide.

Attachments Place your attachments in order in the Other Attachments form. See application checklist to determine if they count toward the page limit.

Attachment 1: Work plan Attach the project’s work plan. Make sure it includes everything required in the project narrative section.

Attachment 2: Staffing plan and job descriptions See Section 4.1.vi of the Application Guide.

Include a staffing plan hat shows the staff positions that will support the project and key information about each. Justify your staffing choices, including education and experience qualifications and your reasons for the amount of time you request for each staff position.

For key personnel, attach a one-page job description that includes the role, responsibilities, and qualifications.

Attachment 3: Biographical sketches Include biographical sketches for people who will hold the key positions you describe in Attachment 2. These sketches should be no more than two pages. Do not include personally identifiable information. If you include someone you have not hired yet, include a letter of commitment from that person with the biographical sketch.

Attachment 4: Agreements with other entities Provide any documents that describe working relationships between your organization and others you refer to in the proposal. Documents that confirm actual or pending contracts or agreements should clearly describe the roles of the contractors and any deliverables. Make sure you sign and date any letters of agreement. If letters of support are required for eligibility, include them in this attachment.

Attachment 5: Program Specific Line Item Budget Include the program specific line item budget for each year of the project period.

Submit as a PDF document, not as an excel spreadsheet.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 24 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/application-guide.pdf#page=18 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/application-guide.pdf#page=21

Attachment 6: For multiyear budgets—fifth-year budget After using columns (1) through (4) of the SF-424A, Section B for a five-year period of performance, you need to submit the budget for the fifth year as an attachment.

SF-424A Section B does not count in the page limit; however, any related budget narrative does count. See Section 3.1.4of the Application Guide.

Attachment 7: Project organizational chart Provide a one-page diagram that shows the project’s organizational structure.

Attachment 8: Tables and charts Provide tables or charts that give more details about the proposal. These might be Gantt, PERT, or flow charts.

Attachment 9-15: other relevant documents You may use attachments 9 through 15 to add other relevant documents.

Other required forms You will need to complete some other forms. Upload the following forms at Grants.gov.

You can find them in the NOFO application package or review them and any available instructions at Grants.gov Forms.

Forms Submission requirement

Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424) With application.

Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs (SF-424A)

With application.

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL) If applicable, with the application or before award.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 25 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/application-guide.pdf#page=14 https://www.grants.gov/forms

Step 4:

Learn About Review and Award

In this step

Application review 27

Selection process 30

Award notices 30

Application review Initial review We will review your application to make sure that it meets eligibility criteria, including the completeness and responsiveness criteria. If your application does not meet these criteria, it will not be funded.

We will not review any pages that exceed the page limit.

Merit review A panel reviews all applications that pass the initial review. The members use these criteria.

Criterion Total number of points = 100

1. Need 5 points

2. Response 30 points

3. Performance reporting and evaluation 25 points

4. Impact 10 points

5. Resources and capabilities 25 points

6. Support requested 5 points

Criterion 1: Need (5 points) See the project narrative Introduction and Need sections.

The panel will review your application for how well it:

• Describes the need for a central, web-based platform for T/TA products, latest news and updates, and resources that address HIV care, treatment, and support services.

• Outlines the needs of the target population.

• Highlights the gaps in current services and resources that the platform will fill.

• Discusses any relevant barriers you hope to overcome through this project.

Step 4: Learn About Review and Award 27

Criterion 2: Response (30 points) See the project narrative Approach, High-level work plan, and Resolving challenges sections.

The panel will review your application for how well it describes:

• How you will design and maintain a web-based platform that meets user needs, incorporates modern web design standards, and has an intuitive interface that simplifies navigation and makes information easily accessible.

• How the search feature will prioritize the most relevant and recent content, ensuring users can easily find the information they need.

• How you will use advanced analytics to track user demographics and engagement, click-through rates, and overall site performance.

• The project management plan with a timeline of deliverables and milestones, including, as applicable, how key stakeholders will help plan, design, and carry out all activities.

• Challenges that you are likely to encounter in designing and carrying out the activities in the work plan, and approaches that you will use to resolve them.

• A plan for continuing the project when federal funding ends.

Criterion 3: Performance reporting and evaluation (25 points) See the project narrative Performance reporting and evaluation section.

The panel will review your application for how well it:

• Describes the expected outcomes of the project.

• Describes the systems and processes that you will use to track performance and the user experience.

• Describes how they will collect and manage data in a way that allows for accurate and timely reporting.

• Describes their plan for conducting independent user experience evaluations.

• Describes any additional evaluation methodologies they plan to use. Their response should outline strategies to gather user feedback, identify areas for improvement, and enhance overall user satisfaction. Examples of additional evaluation methodologies are in the User Experience section.

• Describes evaluation barriers and their plan to address them.

Step 4: Learn About Review and Award 28

Criterion 4: Impact (10 points) See the project narrative High-level work plan section.

The panel will review your application for how well it describes:

• The project management plan.

• Provides a timeline of deliverables and milestones. As needed, identifies how key stakeholders will help plan, design, and carry out all activities. Provide a timeline that includes each activity and identifies who is responsible for them.

• How likely the program is to continue beyond the federal funding.

Criterion 5: Resources and capabilities (25 points) See the project narrative Organizational information and Performance reporting and evaluation sections.

The panel will review your application to determine the extent to which:

• Project staff have the training and experience necessary to carry out the project.

• The number of project staff is reasonable and sufficient to carry out the project.

• Your organization has the experience and capacity to implement a rigorous evaluation of user experience and engagement.

Criterion 6: Support requested (5 points) See Budget narrative section.

The panel will examine your application to determine the extent to which:

• The proposed budget is reasonable for each year of the period of performance.

• Costs, as outlined in the budget section, are reasonable and align with the scope of work.

• Key staff have adequate time devoted to the project to achieve project objectives.

Risk review Before making an award, we review the risk that you will not manage federal funds in prudent ways. We need to make sure you’ve handled any past federal awards well and demonstrated sound business practices. We:

• Review any applicable past performance.

• Review audit reports and findings.

• Analyze the cost of the budget.

• Assess your management systems.

Step 4: Learn About Review and Award 29

• Ensure you continue to be eligible.

• Make sure you comply with any public policies.

We may ask you to submit additional information.

As part of this review, we use SAM.gov Entity Information ResponsibilitY/Qualification to check your history for all awards likely to be over $250,000. You can comment on your organization’s information in SAM.gov. We’ll consider your comments before making a decision about your level of risk.

If we find a significant risk, we may choose not to fund your application or to place specific conditions on the award.

For more details, see 45 CFR 75.205.

Selection process When making funding decisions, we consider:

• The amount of available funds.

• Assessed risk.

• Merit review results. These are key in making decisions but are not the only factor.

• The larger portfolio of HRSA-funded projects, including the diversity of project types and geographic distribution.

• The funding priorities listed.

We may:

• Fund out of rank order.

• Fund applications in whole or in part.

• Fund applications at a lower amount than requested.

• Decide not to allow a prime recipient to subaward if they may not be able to monitor and manage subrecipients properly.

• Choose to fund no applications under this NOFO.

Award notices We issue Notices of Award (NOA) on or around the start date listed in the NOFO. See Section 4 of the Application Guide for more information.

By drawing down funds, you accept the terms and conditions of the award.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 4: Learn About Review and Award 30 https://sam.gov/content/entity-information https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/section-75.205 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/application-guide.pdf#page=32

Step 5:

Submit Your Application

In this step

Application submission and deadlines 32

Application checklist 34

Application submission and deadlines See the section on finding the application package to make sure you have everything you need.

Make sure you are current with SAM.gov and UEI requirements. When you register or update your SAM.gov registration, you must agree to the financial assistance general certifications and representations, and specifically with regard to grants.

Make sure that your SAM.gov registration is accurate for both contracts and grants, as these registrations differ. See information on getting registered. You will have to maintain your registration throughout the life of any award.

Deadlines Application You must submit your application by March 18th 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Grants.gov creates a date and time record when it receives applications.

Submission method Grants.gov You must submit your application through Grants.gov. You may do so using Grants.gov Workspace. This is the preferred method. For alternative online methods, see Applicant System-to-System.

For instructions on how to submit in Grants.gov, see the Quick Start Guide for Applicants. Make sure that your application passes the Grants.gov validation checks, or we may not get it. Do not encrypt, zip, or password protect any files.

Have questions? Go to Contacts and Support.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 5: Submit Your Application 32 https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/apply-for-a-grant/prepare-your-application/assurances-non-construction-programs https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/apply-for-a-grant/prepare-your-application/assurances-non-construction-programs https://www.grants.gov/system-to-system/applicant-system-to-system/ https://www.grants.gov/system-to-system/applicant-system-to-system/ http://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants http://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants

Other submissions Intergovernmental review This NOFO is subject to Executive Order 12372, Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.

If your state has a process, you will need to submit application information for intergovernmental review under Executive Order 12372. Under this order, states may design their own processes for obtaining, reviewing, and commenting on some applications. Some states have this process and others do not.

To find out your state’s approach, see the list of state single points of contact.

If you find a contact on the list for your state, contact them as soon as you can to learn their process. If you do not find a contact for your state, you do not need to do anything further.

This requirement never applies to American Indian and Alaska Native tribes or tribal organizations.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 5: Submit Your Application 33 https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html

Application checklist Make sure that you have everything you need to apply:

Component How to Upload Included in page limit?

Project abstract Use the Project Abstract Summary form. No

Project narrative Use the Project Narrative Attachment form. Yes

Budget narrative Use the Budget Narrative Attachment form. Yes

Attachments Insert each in a single Other Attachments form.

1. Work plan Yes

2. Staffing plan and job descriptions Yes

3. Biographical sketches Yes

4. Agreements with other entities Yes

5. Program Specific Line Item Budget Yes

6. For multiyear budgets—fifth-year budget

Yes

7. Project organizational chart Yes

8. Tables and charts Yes

Other required forms Upload using each required form.

Application for Federal Assistance

(SF-424)

No

Budget Information for Non- Construction Programs (SF-424A)

No

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-

LLL)

No

Step 5: Submit Your Application 34

Step 6:

Learn What Happens After Award

In this step

Post-award requirements and administration 36

Post-award requirements and administration Administrative and national policy requirements There are important rules you need to know if you get an award. You must follow:

• All terms and conditions in the Notice of Award (NOA). We incorporate this NOFO by reference.

• The regulations at 45 CFR part 75, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for HHS Awards, and any superseding regulations. Effective October 1, 2024, HHS adopted the following superseding provisions:

◦ 2 CFR 200.1, Definitions, Modified Total Direct Cost.

◦ 2 CFR 200.1, Definitions, Equipment.

◦ 2 CFR 200.1, Definitions, Supply.

◦ 2 CFR 200.313(e), Equipment, Disposition.

◦ 2 CFR 200.314(a), Supplies.

◦ 2 CFR 200.320, Methods of procurement to be followed.

◦ 2 CFR 200.333, Fixed amount subawards.

◦ 2 CFR 200.344, Closeout.

◦ 2 CFR 200.414(f), Indirect (F&A) costs.

◦ 2 CFR 200.501, Audit requirements.

• The HHS Grants Policy Statement (GPS). Your NOA will reference this document. If there are any exceptions to the GPS, they’ll be listed in your NOA.

• All federal statutes and regulations relevant to federal financial assistance, including those highlighted in HHS Administrative and National Policy Requirements.

• The requirements for performance management in 2 CFR 200.301.

• Upon closeout of the award, the recipient must obtain disposition instructions from HHS for any intangible property acquired under the award, including any website domains. HHS may require the recipient to transfer ownership of the website domain name to HHS or a third party.

1. Review 2. Get Ready 3. Prepare 4. Learn 5. Submit 6. Award Contacts

Step 6: Learn What Happens After Award 36 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/part-75 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200#p-200.1(Modified%20Total%20Direct%20Cost%20(MTDC)) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200#p-200.1(Equipment) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200#p-200.1(Supply) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200#p-200.313(e) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200#p-200.314(a) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.320 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.333 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.344…