IEM International Inc..pdf

March 3, 2026 A Proposal for Nebraska State Purchasing Bureau

DISASTER MITIGATION, PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE,

AND RECOVERY PROGRAMS - Attachment A

ATTN:

Craig Palik, Procurement Contracts Officer Clinton Paul, Procurement Contracts Officer

RFP NO. 124469 O5 | REDACTED

POC:

Maria Badaracco, Contracts Administrator Contracts@iem.com (919) 990-8191 mailto:Contracts@iem.com

State of Nebraska Department of Administrative Services RE: RFP 124469 O5 – Proprietary Information

The redacted information contained herein constitutes confidential, proprietary commercial/financial information and trade secrets. This information is exempt from public record disclosure under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 84-712.05(3) and the Nebraska Uniform Trade Secrets Act (§§ 87-501 to 87-507). IEM hereby designates this information as proprietary. Its disclosure would provide an actual business advantage to competitors and serves no public purpose that outweighs the substantial prejudice of its release. Pursuant to State of Nebraska procurement requirements, this statement serves as a formal request for confidentiality.

Attachment A Bidder Questionnaire

RFP 124469 O5

Bidder Name: IEM International, Inc.

Bidder should provide a response to all questions in this attachment to meet the requirements of the

RFP.

CORPORATE OVERVIEW

1.1

BIDDER IDENTIFICATION AND INFORMATION

The bidder should provide the full company or corporate name, address of the company's headquarters, entity organization (corporation, partnership, proprietorship), state in which the bidder is incorporated or otherwise organized to do business, year in which the bidder first organized to do business and whether the name and form of organization has changed since first organized.

Response:

Company Information

Full Company Name IEM International, Inc.

Address of Company’s Headquarters 5420 Wade Park Blvd Ste 140 Raleigh, NC 27607-4188

Entity Organization Corporation

State in which bidder is incorporated Delaware

Year bidder first organized 1985

1.2

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The bidder should provide financial statements applicable to the firm. If publicly held, the bidder should provide a copy of the corporation's most recent audited financial reports and statements, and the name, address, and telephone number of the fiscally responsible representative of the bidder’s financial or banking organization.

If the bidder is not a publicly held corporation, either the reports and statements required of a publicly held corporation, or a description of the organization, including size, longevity, client base, areas of specialization and expertise, and any other pertinent information, should be submitted in such a manner that solicitation evaluators may reasonably formulate a determination about the stability and financial strength of the organization. Additionally, a non-publicly held firm should provide a banking reference.

The bidder must disclose any and all judgments, pending or expected litigation, or other real or potential financial reversals, which might materially affect the viability or stability of the organization, or state that no such condition is known to exist.

The State may elect to use a third party to conduct credit checks as part of the corporate overview evaluation.

Response:

CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION

IEM’s most recent available audited financial statement is provided in File 2 of 4 as evidence of the firm’s stability and financial strength.

There are no judgments, pending or expected litigation, or other real or potential financial reversals, which might materially affect the viability or stability of IEM.

1.3

CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP

If any change in ownership or control of the company is anticipated during the twelve (12) months following the solicitation response due date, the bidder should describe the circumstances of such change and indicate when the change will likely occur. Any change of ownership to an awarded bidder(s) will require notification to the State.

No change of ownership or control is anticipated.

1.4

OFFICE LOCATION

The bidder’s office location responsible for performance pursuant to an award of a contract with the State of Nebraska should be identified.

IEM is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina. IEM employees are located across the nation.

1.5

RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE STATE

The bidder should describe any dealings with the State over the previous ten (10) years. If the organization, its predecessor, or any Party named in the bidder’s solicitation response has contracted with the State, the bidder should identify the contract number(s) and/or any other information available to identify such contract(s). If no such contracts exist, so declare.

Response:

IEM has had the following State Contracts within the Last ten (10) years:

• 89712 O4 Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) and Hazard Mitigation Update (HMP)

• 90757 O4 PA, IA, HMGP Assistance

IEM’s Subcontractor ERS is a subcontractor on 90757 O4 PA, IA, HMGP Assistance.

IEM’s Subcontractor Consor has not had any contracts with the State of Nebraska.

1.6

BIDDER'S EMPLOYEE RELATIONS TO STATE

If any Party named in the bidder’s solicitation response is or was an employee of the State within the past twelve (12) months, identify the individual(s) by name, State agency with whom employed, job title or position held with the State, and separation date.

If no such relationship exists or has existed, so declare.

If any employee of any agency of the State of Nebraska is employed by the bidder or is a subcontractor to the bidder, as of the due date for solicitation response submission, identify all such persons by name, position held with the bidder, and position held with the State (including job title and agency). Describe the responsibilities of such persons within the proposing organization. If, after review of this information by the State, it is determined that a conflict of interest exists or may exist, the bidder may be disqualified from further consideration in this solicitation. If no such relationship exists, so declare.

IEM is not aware of any such relationships within IEM or its subcontractors as described above.

1.7

CONTRACT PERFORMANCE

If the bidder or any proposed subcontractor has had a contract terminated for default during the past ten (10) years, all such instances must be described as required below. Termination for default is defined as a notice to stop performance delivery due to the bidder’s non-performance or poor performance, and the issue was either not litigated due to inaction on the part of the bidder or litigated and such litigation determined the bidder to be in default.

It is mandatory that the bidder submit full details of all termination for default experienced during the past ten (10) years, including the other Party's name, address, and telephone number. The response to this section must present the bidder’s position on the matter. The State will evaluate the facts and will score the bidder’s solicitation response accordingly. If no such termination for default has been experienced by the bidder in the past ten (10) years, so declare.

If at any time during the past five (5) years, the bidder has had a contract terminated for convenience, non-performance, non-allocation of funds, or any other reason, describe fully all circumstances surrounding such termination, including the name and address of the other contracting Party.

1.8

SUMMARY OF BIDDER’S CORPORATE EXPERIENCE

The bidder should provide a summary matrix listing the bidder’s previous projects similar to this Solicitation in size, scope, and complexity. The State will use no more than three (3) narrative project descriptions submitted by the bidder during its evaluation of the solicitation response.

The bidder should address the following:

i. Provide narrative descriptions to highlight the similarities between the bidder’s experience and this Solicitation. These descriptions should include:

a) The time period of the project,

b) The scheduled and actual completion dates,

c) The bidder’s responsibilities,

d) For reference purposes, a customer name (including the name of a contact person, a current telephone number, a facsimile number, and e-mail address); and

e) Each project description should identify whether the work was performed as the prime Vendor or as a subcontractor. If a bidder performed as the prime Vendor, the description should provide the originally scheduled completion date and budget, as well as the actual (or currently planned) completion date and actual (or currently planned) budget.

ii. Bidder and Subcontractor(s) experience should be listed separately. Narrative descriptions submitted for Subcontractors should be specifically identified as subcontractor projects.

iii. If the work was performed as a subcontractor, the narrative description should identify the same information as requested for the bidders above. In addition, subcontractors should identify what share of contract costs, project responsibilities, and time period were performed as a subcontractor.

Response:

IEM has extensive experience working directly with state and local agencies that offer services eligible for reimbursement under various grants. Focusing on our clients' recovery priorities, we continuously conduct research and monitor relevant federal and state funding opportunities and policy changes. This includes tracking Notices of Funding Availability (NOFAs), grant alerts, legislative updates, and agency guidance. In the rapidly evolving landscape of federal disaster recovery, this proactive approach is more critical than ever, as traditional assumptions about funding and resource management may no longer apply.

Our team has successfully collaborated with stakeholders at different levels, as illustrated in Figure 1 below.

Figure 1: IEM's Experience

Drawing on decades of nationwide disaster recovery experience, IEM leverages lessons learned from hundreds of large-scale recovery efforts to deliver approaches that work and avoid those that do not — to ensure NEMA will benefit from our proven strategies and best practices. Fueled by passion, grounded in science, and driven by innovation, IEM’s experts are dedicated to strengthening communities at every stage of a disaster or emergency. Our experienced and capable team is dedicated to maximizing federal reimbursement, delivering outcomes that prioritize the needs of survivors and communities. Through integrated program design, delivery, and management, we have supported more than a thousand grant management projects, helping jurisdictions expedite the flow of critical funding while reducing administrative burdens and improving program performance.

Table 1 below provides an overview of projects IEM has recently supported, demonstrating our active experience with Disaster Preparedness, Response, Mitigation, and Recovery Consulting.

Table 1: Experience Matrix

Client and Project Period of Performance

Entity Type D isa st er

Pr ep ar ed ne ss

Re sp on se

M iti ga tio n

Re co ve ry

Narrative Description of Similar Experience Our work spans the full lifecycle of emergency management from preparedness to mitigation and is grounded in a deep understanding of FEMA policy, regulatory compliance, and operational execution. We have supported over 250 federally declared disasters, consistently delivering timely, compliant, and community-centered recovery outcomes. Some examples of our relevant past performance projects can be found below:

2.3.1 Subcontractor Experience

Emergent Risk Solutions, LLC (“ERS”) Emergent Risk Solutions, LLC (ERS) is a leading provider of Program Management, Project Management, Grant Administration and Integrity Monitoring Services.

They have unique capabilities in Emergency Management, Disaster Recovery and Community Resiliency services for DHS/FEMA Public Assistance (PA), Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, and

Individual Assistance (IA) programs and HUD CDBG-DR programs.

ERS provides consulting and advisory services firm specializing in Emergency Management and Disaster Recovery. Their team provides leadership and expertise in Program Design; Grant Management; Program Management; Policies & Procedures;

Compliance & Monitoring; and Emergency Preparedness, Response, Recovery and Resiliency. Their team has led and participated in multiple large disaster recovery implementations, providing project set-up, program design, project management, grant administration, communication & outreach, case management, training and compliance & monitoring services.

Consor is a prominent water resources engineering firm with a team of professionals including licensed engineers and specialized project managers proficient in hydraulic and geotechnical engineering, structural design, and environmental services. Notable projects include experience in hydrologic engineering and related water resources, incorporating engineering software and modeling, hydrographic survey, and water quality sampling, where Consor’s innovative approaches have significantly mitigated environmental impacts. Their dedication to excellence and continuous improvement ensures that each project is executed with a focus on long-term sustainability and resilience. People choose Consor because they know they will get a better experience and be better for the experience—whether they’re a client, a teammate, or a partner.

If awarded, IEM agrees to provide the information requested in 1.9 for each intended subcontractor.

x1.9

SUBCONTRACTORS

If the awarded bidder(s) intends to subcontract any part of its performance hereunder, the awarded bidder(s) should provide:

i. name, address, and telephone number of the subcontractor(s),

ii. specific tasks for each subcontractor(s),

iii. percentage of performance hours intended for each subcontract; and

iv. total percentage of subcontractor(s) performance hours.

No Response Required:

TECHNICAL RESPONSE

2.1

Describe bidder’s process for providing PA technical services.

i. Bidder’s process for reviewing projects for sub-recipients not yet obligated by FEMA

ii. Bidder’s process for reviewing projects for sub-recipient(s) after obligation to ensure eligible payments made to sub-recipient(s) and smooth closeout process

iii. Bidder’s process for working with sub-recipients to ensure needs of project are met (Please provide at least one narrative description of previous work with a sub-recipient) Response:

Following a disaster, it is critical to initiate immediate response and recovery support to ensure all eligible expenses incurred during response efforts are accurately captured and documented. The IEM Team brings extensive experience supporting state and local governments through complex recovery operations, including coordination with FEMA, HUD, and other federal partners.

Our team has successfully guided clients through short- and long-term recovery phases, helping them navigate funding programs, compliance requirements, and stakeholder engagement.

By implementing the services outlined in this section, the IEM Team will deliver strategic, scalable, and outcome-focused support tailored to the needs of affected areas and applicants. Our approach highlights early engagement, proactive coordination, and ongoing communication to streamline recovery efforts, maximize federal reimbursements, and build resilience. From initial damage assessments to long-term program closeout, IEM ensures that recovery initiatives are efficient, compliant, and aligned with Nebraska’s scope of work.

Process for Reviewing Projects for Sub-Recipients Not Yet Obligated by FEMA The IEM Team applies a rigorous, front-loaded review process to ensure that all sub-recipient projects are fully compliant, properly documented, and ready for FEMA obligation. Our methodology is designed to reduce RFIs, accelerate obligation timelines, and establish a strong foundation for downstream grants management. Leveraging decades of national PA experience including extensive work advancing complex portfolios through FEMA’s Consolidated Resource Centers (CRCs). IEM will support sub-recipients and State partners by undertaking the following key actions:

• Conducting Preliminary Eligibility and Compliance Assessments: The IEM Team will evaluate facility eligibility, incident period alignment, applicant eligibility, and statutory and regulatory requirements under the Stafford Act and PAPPG. This includes early review of potential insurance considerations, potential duplication of benefits, and identification of EHP triggers and permitting requirements.

• Supporting Comprehensive Documentation Collection and Validation: IEM will work with sub-recipients to gather damage descriptions, timelines, photos, cost estimates, labor documentation, procurement files, and any associated records necessary to support eligibility. Our Team will review all materials for accuracy, internal consistency, and compliance with FEMA policy, identifying deficiencies and preparing corrective recommendations.

• Collaboratively Developing Damage, Dimension and Descriptions (DDDs): IEM will collaborate with the State and sub-recipients to craft technically sound DDDs that provide sufficient detail for FEMA PDMGs and CRC staff to validate the scope of damages. This approach has consistently accelerated the formulation and obligation of high-complexity projects.

• Coordinating with FEMA PDMGs and the CRC: Using our long-standing experience with FEMA’s project formulation processes, IEM will engage with PDMGs early to resolve issues proactively, ensuring DDDs, scopes of work, and cost estimates meet the standards required for streamlined movement through the CRC.

This structured pre-obligation model mitigates the risk of delays, strengthens project defensibility, and supports the State and subrecipients in advancing compliant, obligation ready projects-obligation model mitigates the risk of delays, strengthens project defensibility, and supports the State and sub-recipients in advancing compliant, obligation-ready projects

Process for Reviewing Projects for Sub-recipients After Obligation Once FEMA obligates a project, the IEM Team transitions to a robust post-obligation monitoring, documentation, and compliance framework to ensure eligible reimbursements, maintain regulatory adherence, and prepare for timely closeout. Our process is built on audit-proof procedures, continuous coordination, and proactive risk mitigation:

• Initiating Post-Obligation Onboarding and Compliance Orientation: IEM will meet with each sub-recipient to review FEMA’s obligated scope of work, eligible costs, timelines, and documentation requirements. We will establish project files, reporting protocols, and cost-tracking procedures aligned to 2 CFR 200, PAPPG, and State expectations.

• Monitoring Work Progress, Cost and Compliance: The IEM Team will review procurement documentation, contracts, purchase orders, change orders, labor and equipment logs, and vendor invoices to ensure expenditure remains eligible and aligned with the obligated scope. Our financial analysts and cost estimators will conduct ongoing reasonableness and consistency evaluations to mitigate de-obligation risk

• Providing Technical Assistance for Versioning, Amendments and Change Management: When deviations arise, IEM will support scope changes, cost adjustments, time extension requests, and version development, ensuring documentation is complete and advanced to FEMA at the proper juncture.

• Processing Reimbursement using Audit Ready Procedures: The IEM Team will assist with preparing, reviewing, and submitting Requests for Reimbursement (RFRs). We will validate expenditures, identify and resolve discrepancies, and ensure that all required support is maintained to withstand FEMA, State, or federal audit review.

• Preparing Projects for Closeout and Final Review: Prior to closeout, IEM will conduct a comprehensive reconciliation of expenditures, documentation, insurance proceeds, EHP conditions, and compliance requirements. Our Team will prepare sub-recipients for final inspections, assist in responding to FEMA or State inquiries, and ensure all materials are properly archived for audit readiness.

Through these targeted actions, IEM ensures that sub-recipients receive timely reimbursements, maintain eligibility throughout the performance period, and achieve an efficient, compliant closeout, as shown in Figure 2 below.

Figure 2: Closeout Process

Process for Working with Sub-Recipients The IEM Team works collaboratively with sub-recipients from project conception through closeout to ensure that operational, financial, and compliance needs are met at every stage of the PA lifecycle. Our support model emphasizes transparency, technical guidance, responsiveness, and capacity building, reflecting the same high-touch approach we have successfully implemented nationwide.

• Providing Dedicated Project Management and Technical Expertise: IEM assigns experienced PA professionals including Program Managers, PDMG experienced staff, Cost Estimators, Engineers, Financial Analysts, and EHP specialists to guide sub-recipients through FEMA’s processes. Our Team ensures that sub-recipients understand requirements, meet deadlines, and maintain compliance from formulation through closeout.

• Offering Hands On Grants Portal and Documentation Support: IEM assists sub-recipients with uploading documentation, developing scopes of work, preparing cost summaries, responding to RFIs, and navigating project workflows within FEMA Grants Portal. Our team will also help refine internal documentation practices, improving readiness for reimbursement and audit activities.

• Ensuring Continuous Coordination and Issue Resolution: IEM maintains regular communication with sub-recipients, the State, and FEMA. We identify risks early, develop mitigation strategies, and engage directly with FEMA PDMGs and CRC analysts to resolve questions and move projects forward efficiently

2.2 Describe bidder’s process for providing IA technical services.

The IEM Team brings decades of national and state Individual Assistance (IA) expertise to the State of Nebraska. As a collaborator, IEM will work alongside NEMA to help execute the state functions in the event of a Presidentially declared individual assistance disaster. We recognize that articulating the case for federal IA major disaster declarations is complex and nuanced as compared to PA. Our team of subject matter experts are well versed in the IA declaration process, appeals, and add-ons, operations, unmet needs, and closeout.

IA Declaration Support & Program Launch: IEM supports the State of Nebraska throughout the IA declaration process by conducting IA Preliminary Damage Assessments (IAPDAs), analyzing the six IA declaration factors, and preparing complete justification packages, including the IHP Cost-to-Capacity Ratio. Once a declaration is approved, IEM assists with program initiation, including IHP setup, Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs), and coordination with Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) Teams, Voluntary Agency Liaisons (VALs), and local recovery partners.

IA Programmatic Requests & Federal Grant Support: IEM evaluates survivor needs and prepares targeted IA program requests such as Clean and Sanitize Assistance, Registration Extensions, Rental Assistance Rate Increases, Non-Congregate Sheltering, and Direct Temporary Housing options (TTHUs, Direct Lease, MFLR). We also support the development and management of IA-related grant programs, including the Crisis Counseling Program (CCP) and Disaster Case Management Program (DCMP).

Disaster Specific Solutions & Policy Waivers: Each disaster requires customized strategies. IEM collaborates with the State of Nebraska to identify survivor needs, coordinate with FEMA IA leadership, and design targeted programmatic solutions. With team members who contributed to FEMA’s IA Program and Policy Guide, IEM is uniquely positioned to craft policy waiver requests that better serve survivors and address State-specific needs.

State Level Support & Survivor Sensitivity: Beyond FEMA programs, IEM assists the State of Nebraska with state-run sheltering, housing, and repair programs, providing scalable solutions for both federally supported and state-managed disasters. A core element of IEM’s IA approach is survivor sensitivity ensuring cultural awareness, trauma informed engagement throughout the recovery process.

Program Transitions and Closeout: As FEMA periods of performance end, IEM supports the State of Nebraska in transitioning survivors to long-term recovery resources, including DCMP and local unmet needs committees. IEM then manages program closeout with meticulous attention to documentation, compliance, and financial accuracy.

Technology Enabled Support: To organize survivor support and unmet needs tracking, the IEM Team will utilize Visionlink technology to enhance coordination and situational awareness across the IA lifecycle. IEM is partnering with Visionlink to provide a software platform for disaster recovery program services, specific to IA that offers communication tools such as text and email integrations, status reports to clients, digital signatures for informed consent, and dynamic reports and analytics proven across more than 300 declared disasters. The platform also offers multi-agency coordinated care, and directories of community services to which clients and households may be referred for additional services. The Figure 3 below depicts a survivor’s making their way through the disaster housing and recovery process.

2.3

Describe bidder’s process for providing HMGP technical services.

i. Bidder’s process to review applications for eligibility and completeness to FEMA approval

ii. Bidder’s process for reviewing projects for sub-recipient(s) after obligation to ensure eligible payments made to sub-recipient(s) and smooth closeout process

iii. Bidder’s process for working with sub-recipients to ensure needs of project are met (Please provide at least one narrative description of previous work with a sub-recipient) Response:

IEM has a proven track record of over 23 years in successfully delivering Hazard Mitigation Planning consulting services, including developing plans in accordance with the new FEMA mitigation planning guidance. Additionally, we are well-versed in grant development and have managed over $10.5 billion in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds. Our teams have served as long‑term mitigation partners to states such as Florida, Louisiana, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Georgia, New York, and Alabama, as well as Puerto Rico, providing sub‑application development, project lifecycle management, technical review, post‑award support, closeout, and compliance oversight. IEM’s broad experience demonstrates our ability to meet Nebraska’s requirements at scale, sustain surge operations after major disasters, and apply proven best practices that accelerate project delivery and improve program performance. We prioritize local stakeholder engagement in our assessments, ensuring that the solutions we develop reflect the community’s needs and values. Figure 4 below illustrates the geographic scope of IEM’s mitigation and disaster management experience nationwide.

Figure 4: Mitigation and Disaster Management Experience

IEM provides technical expertise across all phases of hazard mitigation project development, review, and lifecycle support. Our team of technical experts can assist NEMA with HMGP, offering coordinated financial, programmatic, technical, and compliance support. This includes direct support for developing, shaping, and strengthening mitigation projects from initial concept through final application.

How IEM Performs General Tasks Related to Technical Assistance Support the review and development of project applications for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP): IEM coordinates with internal and external partners to ensure that mitigation strategies are aligned with the specific impacts of the disaster event. The team assists with identifying, scoping, and developing mitigation projects that address those impacts. IEM reviews all documentation for eligibility, completeness, technical feasibility, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, the team provides recommendations and refines written components to strengthen project packages before they are submitted.

Provide project lifecycle financial and programmatic consultation: IEM reviews financial documentation, budgets, and cost reasonableness to ensure compliance with federal requirements. The team supports the tracking of programmatic and financial performance throughout all stages of the project lifecycle. IEM also assists with administrative and documentation needs to ensure ongoing compliance.

Support post‑incident mitigation activities for declared disasters: IEM assists in the rapid identification, early scoping, and development of mitigation opportunities following a disaster event. The team coordinates with internal and external partners to align mitigation strategies with event impacts and to ensure projects are positioned for eligibility and competitiveness.

Coordinate hazard mitigation funding initiatives: IEM supports the integration of all available funding streams and initiatives that may be activated because of disaster impacts. The team provides planning, scoping, and readiness support through pre‑application technical assistance, including mitigation planning support, concept‑level project scoping, eligibility screening, and capacity‑building activities needed for timely application development.

Assist in responding to audit findings, monitoring, or inquiries: IEM conducts research, reviews documentation, and reconciles records to address audit findings or monitoring inquiries. The team provides draft responses, supporting materials, and corrective action recommendations to resolve identified issues.

Provide application development and support for declared disasters: IEM assists with preparing scopes of work, budgets, narratives, and supporting documentation needed to submit complete and competitive project applications. The team coordinates with sub‑applicants and internal teams to strengthen each application package.

Address data consistency needs for project categories: IEM reviews and reconciles data across systems, applications, and documentation sets to ensure consistency. The team identifies and resolves data discrepancies to support timely review and approval of project materials.

Provide expertise in SOW development, Benefit Cost Analysis (BCA), and environmental and historic preservation (EHP) compliance: IEM assists in developing scopes of work, refining project approaches, and ensuring project eligibility. The team supports the creation and validation of BCA documentation, as well as environmental and historic preservation considerations and feasibility requirements. When necessary, IEM performs detailed loss‑avoidance studies by collecting required data, conducting analyses, and preparing supporting documentation aligned with FEMA‑approved methodologies, assumptions, and best practices. The team also assists with reviewing and developing BCA reports and technical documentation and provides research, data development, and refinement support as needed.

Provide regulatory compliance and quality control support: IEM conducts compliance‑focused reviews and quality control checks for Requests for Information (RFIs), scope of work amendments, and revised application materials. The team ensures all materials align with FEMA and State guidance and maintains consistency across application components. IEM helps reduce the risk of clarification requests or delays during agency review. The team supports timely responses, resubmissions, and the continued progression of applications. IEM also ensures adherence to all submission deadlines, formatting standards, and reporting obligations set by FEMA and provides all draft and final deliverables to the State for review and approval before submission.

Support other mitigation disaster activities as assigned: IEM assists with developing, reviewing, and processing contracts and payment packages. The team helps ensure that all materials are accurate, complete, and compliant with programmatic and fiscal requirements. IEM performs tasks as requested by Unit leadership and provides technical expertise or surge support during periods of high workload.

Our team is committed to enhancing the resilience of Nebraska. We will listen to the needs of the State and its local communities and analyze those needs within the context of risk, return on investment, and the State’s priorities. IEM will provide the technical support necessary to develop HMGP project applications and, once funded, we will ensure successful project implementation and timely project and grant closeout. Our goal is to provide comprehensive support throughout the lifecycle of the grant, shown in Figure 5 below.

Process to Review Applications for Eligibility and Completeness

IEM brings a proven, scalable process for managing high‑volume Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) sub‑applications, shaped by our experience supporting state‑level mitigation programs such as Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP). In Louisiana, IEM processed and reviewed hundreds of HMGP, Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC), and Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) sub‑applications across 16 open disasters, conducting completeness checks, coordinating RFIs, organizing documentation packages, and tracking each application through final submission to FEMA. This experience directly informs us of the efficient, structured methods we will apply in Nebraska, including:

Process sub‑applications for completeness and ensure submission requirements are met: IEM will use standardized completeness checklists to verify that all required forms, signatures, and attachments are included in each sub‑application. The team will confirm alignment with program eligibility requirements and all supporting documentation expectations before advancing any application to review. IEM will also identify deficiencies early in the process to prevent downstream rework and ensure that applications move efficiently into technical review.

Prepare folders and files for project documentation and review: IEM will create organized electronic folders using Unit‑approved naming conventions and will maintain all documents in a centralized and secure repository. This approach ensures consistent access to information, supports efficient coordination, and maintains audit‑ready documentation throughout each application’s lifecycle.

Conduct Requests for Information (RFIs): IEM will draft clear and detailed RFIs that specify any missing or insufficient information within an application package. The team will track all outstanding RFIs, follow up with sub‑applicants as needed, and document all communications within required systems. IEM will ensure that all RFIs are fully resolved before advancing any application to technical review.

Coordinate with sub‑applicants and NEMA State Mitigation Unit: IEM will facilitate the exchange of documentation between sub‑applicants and the NEMA State Mitigation Unit and will verify that all required materials are submitted. These materials may include:

• Original signed application

• All relative SF-424 forms

• Review the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)

• Scope of Work/Project‑type

• Budget workbook and supporting budget narrative and cost estimates with supporting documentation

• Subrecipient Management Cost (SRMC) documentation

• Pre‑award request documentation, as applicable.

• Conceptual Design, Design documents, plans, maps, and other required attachments, including the Benefit-Cost Analysis

(BCA) using the latest FEMA Toolkit BCA document

• Deliver well‑organized documentation packages to technical reviewers to support efficient and accurate review.

Track sub‑applications and review progress: IEM will maintain real‑time tracking logs capturing intake, completeness checks, RFIs, review milestones, and submittal status. The team will provide regular updates to the Bureau and ensure leadership visibility through structured reporting tools or dashboards. IEM will also monitor all related timelines and proactively resolve issues to ensure applications continue progressing toward submission without delay.

Process for Reviewing Projects for Sub-Recipients After Obligation

IEM applies a structured and disciplined post-award project management process that supports subrecipients from grant execution through closeout. Our methods emphasize compliance, accurate documentation, and the timely movement of projects through each programmatic and financial milestone. This approach has been successfully implemented in support of other state programs, such as Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), where IEM has managed post-award activities across multiple HMGP and FMA cycles. Our work improved Quarterly Progress Report (QPR) timeliness, reduced reimbursement backlogs, strengthened procurement compliance and ensured audit-ready closeout packages.

In Virginia, IEM’s consistent, repeatable processes improved reporting timeliness, reduced reimbursement backlogs, and strengthened subrecipient compliance.

IEM will bring this experience to Nebraska and complete the tasks related to Reviewing Projects for Sub-Recipients After Obligation.

Ensure timely processing of sub-grant agreement execution: IEM will verify the completeness of all agreement packages to ensure that each submission contains the required elements for proper execution. IEM will coordinate signature routing with subrecipients by facilitating the movement of documents through the appropriate review and approval channels. IEM will track execution status throughout the process and will address any delays as needed to maintain compliance with program timelines.

Ensure QPR timelines are met; complete Programmatic Review and submit QPRs: IEM will maintain a QPR schedule for all open projects to ensure timely and orderly reporting. IEM will review all QPR submissions for accuracy, documentation quality, and eligibility in accordance with program requirements. IEM will submit finalized QPRs through the required system to ensure federal and state reporting obligations are met.

Verify percentage of project completion: IEM will validate progress against the approved scope of work, expenditures, and documented deliverables to confirm accurate project advancement. IEM will coordinate with technical reviewers to validate physical progress and ensure alignment between reported and observed project status.

Ensure timely processing of Time Extension requests: IEM will review the justification and eligibility of each Time Extension request to confirm compliance with established criteria. IEM will ensure that each request meets FEMA and State requirements before advancement. IEM will track and document the approval process to maintain a complete record of decision-making activities.

Ensure timely review and validation of Requests for Reimbursement (RFRs): IEM will review all invoices and supporting documentation associated with each RFR to confirm submission completeness. IEM will ensure that all costs are allowable, reasonable, and allocable in accordance with 2 CFR 200.403–405. IEM will validate alignment between expenditures and project progress to ensure the accuracy and integrity of reimbursement requests.

Advance RFRs and ensure timely processing of payments: IEM will forward validated RFRs for fiscal processing once all documentation and cost eligibility checks are complete. IEM will track payment status and will coordinate any necessary follow‑up with the Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office to ensure timely disbursement of funds.

Ensure timely review and processing of project deliverables: IEM will review all deliverables for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with the approved scope to confirm they meet programmatic requirements. IEM will track deliverables through completion and will coordinate resolution of any identified deficiencies to maintain compliance.

Ensure timely submission of Project Closeouts: IEM will prepare and validate all closeout documentation to support accurate and compliant project closure. IEM will verify that all performance, financial, and compliance requirements have been satisfied before submission. IEM will submit complete closeout packages to NEMA and FEMA as required.

Evaluate claimed expenses for eligibility (Allowable, Reasonable, Allocable): IEM will review all financial documentation for compliance with 2 CFR 200 standards to determine cost eligibility. IEM will document any findings and will work with subrecipients to resolve issues and ensure proper financial stewardship.

Verify subrecipient compliance with laws and regulations: IEM will review procurement records—including methods, solicitations, bid tabs, and cost analyses—to verify compliance with federal and state procurement rules. IEM will validate that project activities align with the approved scope and all mandatory contract provisions. IEM will confirm that permit documentation and regulatory requirements have been met to ensure full compliance.

Provide support to subrecipients as needed: IEM will answer procedural, financial, and technical questions to assist subrecipients in meeting program requirements. IEM will provide corrective guidance to help subrecipients avoid future compliance issues and strengthen ongoing project performance.

Track and monitor project progress: IEM will maintain detailed project logs and track milestones to ensure accurate monitoring of project status. IEM will identify delays early in the project lifecycle and will coordinate corrective actions to maintain timely progress.

Respond to inquiries from State Mitigation Unit and Agency leadership: IEM will provide timely data, status updates, and analysis to support oversight and informed decision-making by State Mitigation Unit and Agency leadership. IEM will prepare summaries, briefings, or rapid‑turn responses as needed to address emerging issues or information requests.

Ensure timely processing of sub-grant agreement execution: IEM will verify the completeness of all agreement packages to ensure each submission includes the required elements for execution. IEM will coordinate signature routing with subrecipients by managing the movement of documents through the appropriate approval channels. IEM will track execution status throughout the process and will address delays as needed to maintain efficient and compliant workflow.

Ensure QPR timelines are met; complete Programmatic Review and submit QPRs: IEM will maintain a QPR schedule for all open projects to support timely reporting and program transparency. IEM will review each QPR submission for accuracy, documentation completeness, and eligibility in alignment with program requirements. IEM will submit finalized QPRs through the required system to meet federal and state reporting expectations.

Verify percentage of project completion: IEM will validate project progress against the approved scope of work, expenditures, and documented deliverables to ensure accurate performance tracking. IEM will coordinate with technical reviewers to verify physical progress and confirm that reported milestones align with actual project conditions.

Ensure timely processing of Time Extension requests: IEM will review the justification and eligibility of each Time Extension request to confirm compliance with FEMA and State requirements. IEM will verify that all requests meet the necessary criteria and will track and document the full approval process to support transparency and accountability.

Ensure timely review and validation of Requests for Reimbursement (RFRs): IEM will review invoices and all supporting documentation to confirm completeness and accuracy. IEM will ensure that all claimed costs are allowable, reasonable, and allocable under 2 CFR 200.403–405. IEM will validate that expenditures align with actual project progress to ensure financial integrity.

Advance RFRs and ensure timely processing of payments: IEM will forward validated RFRs for fiscal processing once all documentation and eligibility checks are complete. IEM will track payment status and will coordinate follow‑up with the Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office to support timely disbursement of funds to subrecipients.

Ensure timely review and processing of project deliverables: IEM will review project deliverables for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with the approved scope of work. IEM will track deliverables throughout the project lifecycle and will coordinate the resolution of any identified deficiencies to ensure timely completion.

Ensure timely submission of Project Closeouts: IEM will prepare and validate closeout documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance with program requirements. IEM will verify that all performance, financial, and regulatory obligations have been fully met. IEM will submit complete closeout packages to NEMA and FEMA in accordance with required procedures.

Evaluate claimed expenses for eligibility (Allowable, Reasonable, Allocable): IEM will review all financial documentation to confirm compliance with 2 CFR 200 standards governing allowable, reasonable, and allocable costs. IEM will document any findings and will work collaboratively with subrecipients to resolve issues and ensure accurate financial reporting.

Verify subrecipient compliance with laws and regulations: IEM will review procurement records—including procurement methods, solicitations, bid tabulations, and cost analyses—to verify compliance with federal and state regulatory requirements.

IEM will validate that all project activities align with the approved scope and mandatory contract provisions. IEM will confirm that permit documentation and other regulatory requirements are satisfied.

Provide support to subrecipients as needed: IEM will respond to procedural, financial, and technical questions from subrecipients to support program compliance and successful project execution. IEM will provide corrective guidance when needed to help prevent future compliance issues and strengthen overall program performance.

Track and monitor project progress: IEM will maintain detailed project logs and milestone tracking to monitor ongoing project status. IEM will identify delays early and will coordinate corrective actions to ensure that projects continue progressing in a timely and compliant manner.

Respond to inquiries from State Mitigation Unit and Agency leadership: IEM will provide timely data, status updates, and analytical insights to support oversight and informed decision‑making by State Mitigation Unit and Agency leadership. IEM will prepare summaries, briefings, or rapid‑turn responses as needed to address emerging questions or reporting needs.

Review of the Applicant Sub-Grant Agreement Packet IEM uses a precise process to review sub‑grant agreement packets and ensure they are complete, accurate, and compliant before execution. Our approach is grounded in extensive experience supporting state hazard mitigation programs, including our work with Puerto Rico’s Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resiliency (COR3), where IEM conducted detailed grant documentation reviews for FEMA PA and HMGP projects. In Puerto Rico, IEM validated contract packages, procurement documentation, certifications, and supporting materials, applying rigorous checklists to ensure compliance with both federal requirements and local policy. This experience informs our ability to efficiently review, validate, and advance sub‑grant agreement packets for NEMA in the following tasks:

Review sub‑grant agreement packets for completeness and accuracy:

IEM will use standardized checklists to verify that all required forms, signatures, and supporting documentation are included.

IEM will ensure that all materials align with the approved project scope, budget, and eligibility requirements, confirming that every required element is present as defined in the RFQ.

Confirm all required elements as defined in the RFQ: IEM will confirm all required elements described in Figure 6 below.

Coordinate with subrecipients to resolve deficiencies:

IEM will issue clear RFIs that identify any missing or incorrect elements within the sub‑grant agreement packet. IEM will track outstanding items and will provide continuous guidance to subrecipients until the packet is fully complete. IEM will document all communication to maintain audit readiness and ensure the transparency of the resolution process.

Maintain organized documentation:

IEM will store all sub‑grant agreement packets in Unit‑approved systems using standardized naming conventions to ensure consistency and traceability. IEM will track the status, deficiencies, completion, and execution dates for each packet in structured project logs. IEM will ensure that all documentation supports transparent review processes and enables easy retrieval throughout the lifecycle of the agreement.

Review and Approve Request for Reimbursements (RFR) and Payments IEM uses a standardized workflow to review, validate, and advance Requests for Reimbursement (RFRs) and payment packages.

Our approach emphasizes accuracy, compliance, and timely processing, reducing reimbursement backlogs and improving subrecipient cash flow. IEM demonstrated our ability to implement this process by supporting the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS), during which IEM reviewed, validated, and advanced hundreds of HMGP and PA reimbursement requests following multiple disaster declarations. In Georgia, IEM developed reimbursement tools, provided subrecipient guidance, ensured compliance with State and federal requirements, and improved processing timelines through structured review and coordinated communication with fiscal units. This experience directly informs our ability to execute RFR and payment tasks for NEMA.

Develop the RFR Workbook: IEM will create a clear, user‑friendly…