MCHB-HRSA-25-025-(T1C)-MCH-PH-Catalyst-Mod1.pdf

Maternal and Child Health Bureau

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Application due January 23, 2025

Maternal and Child Health Public Health Catalyst Program Opportunity number: HRSA-25-025

Modified on 12/20/2024

Updated Indirect costs rate section.

Contents Before you begin 3

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 4

Basic information 5

Eligibility 6

Program description 8

Award information 14

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 33

Application review 34

Award notices 39

Step 5: Submit Your Application 40

Application submission and deadlines 41

Application checklist 42

Step 6: Learn What Happens After Award 44

Post-award requirements and administration 45

Contacts and Support 49

Appendix: Standards for using MCHB grant funds to support trainees 52

Endnotes 58

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 January 23, 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 14

Basic information Health Resources and Services Administration

Maternal and Child Health Bureau

Division of Maternal and Child Health Workforce Development

Expand and strengthen maternal and child health curricula at schools and programs of public health.

Have questions?

Go to Contacts and Support.

Key facts Opportunity name:

Maternal and Child Health Public Health Catalyst Program

Opportunity number:

HRSA-25-025

Announcement version:

Modification #1

Federal assistance listing:

93.110

Statutory authority: 42 U.S.C. § 701(a)(2) (Title V, § 501(a)(2) of the Social Security Act)

Key dates NOFO issue date: October 25, 2024

Informational webinar:

November 19, 2024

Application deadline:

January 23, 2025

Expected award date is by: May 1, 2025

Expected start date: June 1, 2025

Summary The purpose of the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Public Health Catalyst Program is to:

• Recruit and train diverse graduate students in MCH public health.

• Expand MCH curriculum and degree offerings within schools and programs of public health where there is currently a lack of, or limited, MCH offerings.

• Build MCH faculty capacity within schools and programs of public health.

You must select only one of the two Catalyst Program tracks for your application:

• Track 1: MCH Curriculum Start-Up

• Track 2: MCH Curriculum Expansion

Funding details Application types: Competing Continuation, New

Expected total available funding in FY 2025: $1,350,000

Expected number and type of awards: 10 grants

Funding range per award: Up to $135,000 per year

We plan to fund awards in five 12-month budget periods for a total five-year period of performance from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 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.grants.gov/learn-grants/grant-terminology#g

Eligibility Who can apply Types of eligible organizations These types of domestic* organizations may apply:

• Public institutions of higher education.

• Non-profit private institutions of higher education.

• Native American tribal governments and organizations that are institutions of higher learning (education).

See 42 CFR § 51a.3(b).

*“Domestic” means the 50 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, and the Republic of Palau.

Individuals are not eligible applicants under this NOFO.

Other eligibility criteria Application related NOFO requirement

Related NOFOs HRSA has issued a related NOFO, Centers of Excellence in Maternal and Child Health Education, Science and Practice Program (HRSA-25-027). You may only apply for funding under either HRSA-25-025 or HRSA-25-027. If you are applying for the Centers of Excellence in MCH Program (HRSA-25-027), you are not eligible to apply for the MCH Public Health Catalyst Program (HRSA-25-025). Applicants that submit applications under both HRSA-25-025 and HRSA-25-027 will be required to select one application to move forward to merit review.

Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH) accreditation requirement You must be an institution of higher education with a school or program of Public Health accredited by the Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH) to apply for funding under this announcement. You must provide documentation of your school/ program’s CEPH accreditation status as Attachment 1. Recipients must maintain CEPH

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

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 6 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-42/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-51a#51a.3 accreditation status throughout the period of performance and notify us of any change in status.

Additional criteria for Track 1 You may only receive funding under Track 1 of the MCH Public Health Catalyst Program for one period of performance. In other words, if you were awarded funding under HRSA-15-133 or under Track 1 of HRSA-20-041, you are not eligible to apply for Track 1 under this announcement (HRSA-25-025).

In addition, institutions of higher education that have a CEPH-accredited school or program of Public Health who already have an existing “area of study” in Maternal and Child Health, as identified on the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health website, are not eligible to apply for Track 1 under this announcement.

Additional criteria for Track 2 You may only receive funding under Track 2 of the MCH Public Health Catalyst Program for a total of two five-year periods of performance.[1]

Trainee support You may only provide support under this program to trainees that are one of the following:

• A U.S. citizen or non-citizen national.

• An individual lawfully admitted for permanent residence to the United States.

• Any other “qualified alien” under section 431(b) of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104-193, as amended.

Please review other trainee support information in the Appendix.

Project Director HRSA recognizes only one Project Director. Your Project Director must be a faculty member employed by the applicant organization at the time you submit the application. The project director should dedicate at least 15% of their time to grant-related activities. The dedicated time can be supported through in-kind contributions or by grant funds. We do not allow co-project directors.

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

We will not consider an application that:

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

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

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 7 https://programfinder.aspph.org/ https://programfinder.aspph.org/

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

• Is submitted after the deadline.

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 has no 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.

Program description Purpose The purpose of the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Public Health Catalyst Program is to:

• Recruit and train diverse[2] graduate students in MCH public health.

• Expand MCH curriculum and degree offerings within schools and programs of public health where there is currently a lack of, or limited, MCH offerings.

• Build MCH faculty capacity within schools and programs of public health.

You must select one of the two Catalyst Program tracks for your application:

• Track 1: MCH Curriculum Start-Up

• Track 2: MCH Curriculum Expansion

Program goals and objectives The program goals are to:

• Expand the number of schools and programs of public health (SPPH) with MCH coursework and degree offerings, certificates, or concentrations in MCH.

• Increase the number and diversity[3] of public health graduate students trained in

MCH.

• Increase the number of faculty at SPPH with MCH-specific faculty development opportunities.

The program objectives to be accomplished by the end of the period of performance in 2030 include:

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 8

Objectives for Track 1: MCH Curriculum Start-Up only

• Develop and offer at least two graduate-level MCH courses including one course in the foundations of MCH.

Objectives for Track 2: MCH Curriculum Expansion only

• Establish or maintain a degree offering, certificate, or concentration in MCH for a masters-level public health degree.

Objectives for both Track 1 and Track 2

• Recruit and train diverse[4] students.

• Support graduate students to complete an MCH-related integrated learning experience (ILE).[5]

• Mentor MCH public health graduate students.

• Create and/or sustain a student-led MCH organization.

• Provide faculty development opportunities for early-career and mid-level MCH faculty.

• Develop and enhance partnerships with at least one state Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant recipient.

About MCHB and Strategic Plan The HRSA Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) administers programs with focus areas in maternal and women’s health, adolescent and young adult health, perinatal and infant health, child health, and children with special health care needs.

To learn more about MCHB and the Bureau’s Strategic Plan, visit the Mission, Vision, and Work page on the MCHB website.

Background The 2021 Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey (PH WINS) highlights that existing workforce shortages in governmental MCH Public Health are expected to worsen, with over 45% of state and local health department staff planning to leave or retire in the next five years.[6] An estimated 6,500 additional full-time equivalents (FTEs) will be needed to fill anticipated MCH staffing gaps at state and local health departments.[7] Schools and programs of public health (SPPH) with specialized training in MCH are uniquely qualified to train a diverse MCH workforce that is prepared to fill anticipated vacancies, reach communities that are underserved,[8] and carry out essential MCH services nationwide.[9]

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

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 9 https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/title-v-maternal-child-health-mch-services-block-grant https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/title-v-maternal-child-health-mch-services-block-grant https://mchb.hrsa.gov/about-us/mission-vision-work https://mchb.hrsa.gov/about-us/mission-vision-work

Recent data also highlight that the current and future governmental and academic public health workforce is not reflective of the groups that most often experience disparities in MCH outcomes.[10],[11] Students from backgrounds that are underrepresented in the public health workforce[12] (Asian, Black, Hispanic, and Native American) also remain underrepresented in their public health educational programs at SPPHs.[13],[14]

Since 2015, MCHB’s Catalyst Program has led to the establishment and growth of 11 MCH certificates, concentrations, or degree offerings in Schools of Public Health. Since 2020, Catalyst Programs trained over 2,600 students in MCH public health. 54% of Catalyst students identify with a racial group that is underrepresented in the MCH workforce and 12% identify as Hispanic or Latino.[15] Two years after completing the Catalyst Program, over 80% of graduates continue to work with MCH populations.

Catalyst Program graduates are now employed in governmental public health settings, including local, state, and federal agencies, and in MCH-related community-based organizations.

Program requirements and expectations Funding under this program is expected to contribute to recruiting and training graduate students with diverse backgrounds in MCH public health; expanding MCH curriculum and degree offerings within schools and programs of public health; and building MCH faculty capacity.

To achieve the objectives stated in the purpose section, propose strategies to:

Track 1: MCH Curriculum Start-Up

• Develop at least two graduate-level, credit-bearing courses in MCH by the end of the five-year period of performance.

◦ One course must be focused on foundational MCH content and should be developed and approved by your institution by June 1, 2026. The foundational course must cover:

▪ Life course approach. [16]

▪ The interaction of physical, social, and environmental influences on health outcomes for MCH populations.

▪ The history of MCH and public health systems in the United States, including the Title V MCH Services Block Grant.

◦ A second MCH course should be developed based on MCH topic(s) identified through a review of current gaps in SPPH curriculum and student interests at your institution. You are encouraged to consider workforce development and

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

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 10 https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/title-v-maternal-child-health-mch-services-block-grant training needs identified by Title V programs[17] in your state or region as you design MCH coursework.

• Offer MCH coursework at least two semesters per academic year. Courses should be offered in a sequence that will allow students to build on and apply foundational MCH knowledge in subsequent MCH courses.

• Identify and engage MCH partners, including Title V and MCH community-based organizations, that can contribute to your MCH program. For example, partners might contribute as course guest lecturers or as preceptors for students’ ILE.

◦ You are expected to establish a partnership with at least one Title V program by the end of the first budget period and provide evidence of this partnership (for example, a letter of support) to HRSA after award.

Track 2: MCH Curriculum Expansion

• Expand and enhance the MCH curriculum at your institution, building on current

MCH coursework. This may include developing new MCH courses to fill identified gaps, enhancing existing MCH coursework, or working across the SPPH to infuse MCH content and competencies into existing coursework that did not previously have a focus on MCH topics or populations.

• Develop or maintain a masters-level public health degree, certificate, or concentration in MCH by the end of the five-year period of performance. A degree, certificate, or concentration in MCH should include:

◦ At least one course that focuses on foundational MCH content (see Track 1 foundational course expectations).

◦ Additional MCH coursework that has been (or will be) developed based on an assessment of curriculum gaps, MCH training needs, and the needs of the MCH workforce in your state or region.

◦ Opportunities for students to complete an ILE[18] with an MCH organization or related to an MCH topic.

◦ Mentorship between MCH students and faculty. Culturally congruent mentorship for students from underrepresented populations[19] is encouraged.

• Recruit and train at least 25 graduate-level public health students in MCH annually. You may count participants in MCH coursework and/or the MCH degree offering, certificate, or concentration, once it is available.

• Strengthen academic-practice partnerships (APP) with MCH organizations, including at least one Title V program in your state or region. APPs should be beneficial to both partners.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 11

◦ You should provide consultation and subject matter expertise to MCH partners to strengthen APPs.

◦ Community-based MCH organizations may provide opportunities for student field placements, practice-based research, and participation in advisory committees.

Both Track 1 and Track 2

• Identify the competencies expected of students when they complete the MCH coursework or curriculum. Competencies should align to the MCH Leadership Competencies.[20]

• Recruit and retain MCH students from backgrounds that are underrepresented in the MCH workforce, including but not limited to students from economically disadvantaged and racially or ethnically underrepresented backgrounds.

• Create or sustain a student-led organization in MCH to form a peer network of public health students with a shared interest in MCH careers. Your student organization should:

◦ Meet at least quarterly.

◦ Support activities such as, but not limited to, journal clubs, community service activities, and seminars or symposia with MCH guest speakers.

• Establish an advisory committee to guide MCH curriculum development and expansion. Your advisory committee should include students, faculty, community partners, and individuals with lived experience.

• Identify faculty with interest and expertise in MCH education, research, or practice who will contribute to developing and maintaining MCH curriculum, supporting ILEs, and mentoring students.

• Provide faculty development opportunities for early- or mid-career MCH faculty to strengthen capacity in MCH public health education, research, or practice within your institution. Faculty development opportunities may include, but are not limited to:

◦ Assessing current MCH public health educational content and curricula available to students within the faculty member’s institution.

◦ Advancing MCH research.

◦ Enhancing collaboration with MCH practice partners, including Title V and community-based organizations.

◦ Disseminating findings from MCH research or practice at national MCH conferences and to community partners.

• Collaborate with other Track 1 and Track 2 recipients funded under this announcement (HRSA-25-025) and Centers of Excellence in MCH Education, Step 1: Review the Opportunity 12

Science and Practice Programs funded under HRSA-25-027. Collaborative activities may include:

◦ Participating in all-recipient calls, which will take place at least quarterly.

◦ Attending the annual Catalyst/Centers of Excellence in MCH Education, Science, and Practice recipient meeting.

◦ Establishing mentoring relationships between recipients funded under this announcement. We also encourage mentorship between recipients funded under this announcement and those funded under HRSA-25-027.

• Identify a Project Director (PD) who will have direct, day-to-day responsibility for grant activities. The PD should:

◦ Be a faculty member at the applicant organization.

◦ Have relevant experience with curriculum development, teaching, and mentoring students.

◦ Have expertise in one or more MCH topic areas.

◦ Commit a minimum of 15% of their time to the Catalyst Program grant, which may be a combination of grant and in-kind support. The 15% effort cannot be shared by two faculty members.

Performance measurement, evaluation, and continuous quality improvement

(CQI)

We expect you to measure your performance and conduct continuous quality improvement (CQI) activities. This includes:

• Measuring performance on key activities and program objectives.

• Collecting data and reporting annually on Discretionary Grants Information System (DGIS) measures noted in the reporting section, such as:

◦ Number of students trained by your MCH Catalyst Program, disaggregated by race, ethnicity, gender, and other applicable categories.

◦ Number of partnerships developed with Title V and MCH-related organizations.

◦ Former trainee outcomes. You are expected to track trainees for 5 years post-completion of the MCH Public Health Catalyst Program and report on trainee outcomes outlined in the DGIS former long-term trainee survey.

• Collecting and reporting annually in the non-competing continuation progress report on added measures that align with program goals and objectives:

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

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 13 https://mchb.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/mchb/data-research/dgis-0915-0298-additional-data-elements.pdf

◦ Track 1

▪ Number and topic of MCH courses developed and offered to students.

◦ Track 2

▪ Number and topic of MCH courses developed, expanded, and offered to students.

▪ Number of MCH degree offerings, certificates, or concentrations developed or sustained.

◦ Track 1 and Track 2

▪ Number and type of student interest group activities and number of participants in these activities.

▪ Number of early-career and mid-level MCH faculty who receive faculty development support and type of faculty development opportunities.

▪ Number of MCH-related student ILEs (for example, placements at Title V agencies or MCH organizations, or projects with a focus on an MCH-related topic).

• Conducting CQI activities that will contribute to ongoing improvement of MCH coursework and other MCH-related student activities at your SPPH. We encourage you to use ongoing feedback from students, faculty, and partners as part of your CQI activities.

Award information Funding policies and limitations Policies

• We will only make awards if this program receives funding. 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.

◦ Your satisfactory progress in meeting the project’s objectives.

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

• If we receive more funding for this program, we may:

◦ Fund more applicants from the rank order list.

◦ Extend the period of performance.

◦ Award supplemental funding.

Step 1: Review the Opportunity 14

General limitations

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

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

• You cannot earn profit from the federal award. See 45 CFR 75.400(g).

• Congress’s current appropriations act includes a salary limitation, which applies to this program. As of January 2024, the salary rate limitation is $221,900. This limitation may be updated.

Program-specific limitations Please refer to Appendix to review additional information on trainee support costs.

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 and that cannot be easily separated by project. For example, this could include utilities for a building that supports multiple projects.

Per 45 CFR 75.414, indirect costs for training awards cannot exceed 8% of modified total direct costs (MTDC). To calculate the MTDC, we exclude from the direct cost base:

• Direct cost amounts for, equipment, tuition, fees and participant support costs

• Subawards and subcontracts exceeding $50,000.

For modified total direct costs, we use the definition at 2 CFR 200.1.

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.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/research-related-application-guide.pdf#page=15 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/part-75/subject-group-ECFR5d90ba314caea08 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/part-75/subject-group-ECFR5d90ba314caea08 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/part-75#p-75.216(b) https://www.hrsa.gov/grants/manage-your-grant 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. 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 select Get Started. From the same page, you can also select the Entity Registration Checklist to find out what you’ll 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-25-025.

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.

Join the webinar For more information about this opportunity, join the webinar on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 3 p.m. ET. You can join at this Zoom link.

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://www.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 https://hrsa-gov.zoomgov.com/j/1618541621

If you are not able to join through your computer, you can call in:

• Phone number: 833 568 8864

• Meeting ID: 161 854 1621

We will record the webinar. If you are not able to join live, you can replay it at Find Grant Funding | HRSA.

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.hrsa.gov/grants/find-funding

Step 3:

Prepare Your Application

In this step

Application contents and format 20

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

There is a 40-page limit for the overall application. The 40-page limit applies to both Track 1 and Track 2 applicants.

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

Make sure you include each of these:

Components Submission format

Project abstract Use the Project Abstract Summary form.

Project narrative Use the Research & Related Other Project Information form.

Budget narrative Use the Research & Related Budget form.

Attachments Insert each in the Attachments Form.

Other required forms Upload using each required form.

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

Project narrative Use the Research & Related Other Project Information form to attach the project narrative. In this section, you will describe all aspects of your project. Project activities must comply with the nondiscrimination 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/research-related-application-guide.pdf#page=25 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/research-related-application-guide.pdf#page=25 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/research-related-application-guide.pdf#page=14

Introduction See merit review criterion 1: Need

Briefly describe the purpose of your project. You must state the MCH Public Health Catalyst Program track to which you are applying:

• Track 1: MCH Curriculum Start-Up; OR

• Track 2: MCH Curriculum Expansion.

Need See merit review criterion 1: Need

For both Track 1 and Track 2, include the following in this section:

• Describe the need for MCH-specific public health training in your state and region.

Use and cite data wherever possible.

• Describe the students in the SPPH and their unmet MCH training needs that this program will address.

• Discuss any relevant barriers to students’ access to education and success in your MCH program. These barriers might include physical health, psychological health, physical environment, social environment, and economic stability.

• In Attachment 2, include a letter signed by the dean of your SPPH that certifies your selection of Track 1 or Track 2 for your application.

Approach See merit review criterion 2: Response

In this section, tell us how you’ll address your stated needs and meet the program requirements and expectations described in this NOFO. The following sections include directions that apply to both Track 1 and Track 2, as well as instructions specific to each of the two tracks.

Both Track 1 and Track 2 Tell us how you’ll address your stated needs and meet the program requirements and expectations described in this NOFO.

Goals and objectives

• List your project goals and the specific objectives that respond to the stated need and purpose of the project.

• Provide objectives that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, time-bound, inclusive, and equitable (SMARTIE) for each proposed project goal.

MCH student organization

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 21

• Describe your plan to create or sustain a student-led organization in MCH. Your proposal should include plans that outline:

◦ At least quarterly meetings.

◦ How you will recruit and support MCH students to lead and oversee the organization.

◦ The types of activities you anticipate supporting under the organization.

MCH faculty

• Discuss how you’ll identify faculty across the SPPH with interest and expertise in MCH education, research, or practice. Outline the activities that MCH faculty will lead or participate in as part of your program (for example, teaching, mentoring, or serving as a preceptor).

• Describe how you’ll identify and provide MCH-related faculty development opportunities for early- or mid-career faculty. Outline the opportunities that you will provide (for example, MCH curriculum assessment, MCH-related research, and MCH partnership building) and explain how you will support faculty to complete them.

Recruitment and retention

• Describe your plan to recruit and retain students from backgrounds that are underrepresented in the MCH workforce, including but not limited to students from economically disadvantaged and racially or ethnically underrepresented backgrounds.

Advisory committee

• Describe your plan for identifying advisory committee members to guide program activities. List invited or confirmed members of the advisory committee and include their organizational or other affiliation (for example, student, faculty member, or community partner).

Collaboration across programs

• Describe how you’ll collaborate with other Track 1 and Track 2 recipients funded under this announcement, including a plan to participate in recipient calls, attend the annual recipient meeting, and participate in mentoring between Catalyst and/ or CoE Programs.

Track 1: MCH Curriculum Start-Up only MCH courses

• Describe your plan to develop and offer at least two graduate-level, credit-bearing courses. Detail the timeline for developing the foundational course in MCH and how you will ensure the course is developed and approved by June 1, 2026.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 22

• Describe how you’ll determine the topic for a second MCH course and a timeline for developing the course. The second course must be developed and implemented by the end of the five-year period of performance.

• Describe how you’ll sequence MCH courses to allow students to build on foundational knowledge and how you will work with your SPPH to ensure MCH coursework is offered at least two semesters per academic year in years two through five of the period of performance.

Partnership

• Describe how you’ll identify and reach out to MCH partners in your state or region, including at least one Title V program by the end of the first budget period.

• Describe your plan to engage partners in your MCH program on an ongoing basis.

For example, as guest lecturers, advisory committee members, or preceptors.

Track 2: MCH Curriculum Expansion only MCH courses and degree offerings

• Describe your plan to expand or enhance MCH courses. Provide a timeline for developing and implementing these courses.

• Provide a detailed plan for developing or sustaining a masters-level MCH public health degree, certificate, or concentration.

• In Attachment 3, outline current or anticipated curriculum and other requirements that students must complete to obtain the MCH degree, certificate, or concentration. The attachment should include a list of MCH courses, ILEs, mentorship, and any other requirements you identify.

Recruitment

• Outline your plan for recruiting and training at least 25 graduate-level public health students in MCH annually.

Partnership

• Describe how you’ll strengthen academic-practice partnerships with MCH organizations in your state or region, including at least one Title V Program.

• Outline how you’ll identify opportunities to provide subject matter expertise or consultation to MCH partners.

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

• Describe how you’ll achieve each of the objectives during the period of performance.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 23

• In Attachment 4, provide a work plan with a timeline that describes the activities that you will use to achieve each proposed objective included in the Approach section. The work plan and timeline should cover the entire five-year period of performance and should align with and be supported by the needs assessment, proposed budget, and organizational capacity.

Resolving challenges See merit review criterion 2: Response

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

Performance reporting, evaluation, and technical support capacity See merit review criteria 3: Performance reporting and evaluation and 5: Resources and capabilities

• Monitoring. Describe how you’ll track progress on project activities over the period of performance. Provide an initial list of measures (such as indicators and metrics) you will use to monitor progress on project activities.

• Performance measurement. Provide your plan for measuring and tracking program goals and objectives outlined in the Purpose section. The plan should include required and proposed measures outlined in the Program requirements and expectations section, and plans for the timely collection and reporting of all measures.

• See Reporting for more information.

• Propose a plan for tracking MCH Catalyst Program graduates for five years post-training, including strategies you will use to maintain contact with program graduates and methods you will use to survey graduates and limit loss to follow-up.

◦ Continuous quality improvement. Describe your plans for using and incorporating information from students, faculty, or other partners to improve your MCH courses and activities.

◦ Data systems and capacity.

• Describe the systems and processes you will use to collect and manage data in a way that allows for accurate and timely monitoring, performance measurement, and continuous quality improvement. For example, describe the data management software you’ll use.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 24

• Describe staff skills, knowledge, and capacity to collect, manage and report data in a timely manner.

◦ Outcomes.

• Describe the expected outcomes of funded activities, aligning with your project goals and objectives.

• Describe a plan for measuring the outcomes and impact of participating in your program on trainees and faculty, including but not limited to:

• Post-graduation outcomes of trainees, including those collected through the DGIS former long-term trainee survey.

• Impact on students’ career choices and pathways.

• Impact on career development and advancement of MCH faculty.

Sustainability See merit review criterion 4: Impact

We expect you to sustain MCH coursework, the student interest group, and partnerships after the period of federal funding ends. Propose a plan for project sustainability and describe the actions you’ll take to:

• Explore and obtain future funding, including in-kind support from the SPPH.

• Determine the timing to become self-sufficient.

• Identify challenges that you’ll likely encounter in sustaining the program. Include how you will resolve these challenges.

Organizational information See merit review criterion 5: Resources and capabilities

Briefly describe your SPPH’s mission and structure. Explain how they support your ability to develop or expand MCH coursework.

• In Attachment 5, include a one-page project organizational chart that shows where MCH coursework will be housed within the SPPH. In the attachment, highlight paths of oversight or approval across your organization that will be needed to develop, expand, and/or implement MCH courses. For example, you might highlight a curriculum committee or department or SPPH leadership.

• Discuss how you’ll follow the approved work plan, account for federal funds, and record all costs to avoid audit findings.

• Describe the organizations you’ll partner with to fulfill the program goals and meet the training objectives. Include key agreements and letters of support in Attachment 6.

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

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 25 https://mchb.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/mchb/data-research/dgis-0915-0298-additional-data-elements.pdf

◦ If you are applying for Track 2, you must also include a letter of support from at least one Title V program in Attachment 6.

• Describe the Project Director’s current faculty position, experience with curriculum development, experience teaching and mentoring students, and expertise in one or more MCH topic areas.

• State how much time the Project Director will commit to the MCH Public Health Catalyst Program. Describe how the Project Director will manage leadership and oversight of the MCH Public Health Catalyst Program in addition to other responsibilities (for example, teaching, research, and other grant-funded projects).

• Include a staffing plan and job descriptions for key faculty and staff in Attachment 7.

• You will also include biographical sketches for key staff using the Research & Related Senior/Key Person Profile form. See other required forms.

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

Complete the information in the Research & Related Budget form.

Your budget should follow the instructions in Section 3.1.4 of the R&R Application Guide and any specific 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 activity or project. This includes costs charged to the award and non-federal funds used to satisfy any matching or cost-sharing requirement (which may include maintenance of effort, if applicable).

The budget narrative supports the information you provide in the Research and Related Budget Form. 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.

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

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

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 26 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/research-related-application-guide.pdf#page=15 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/research-related-application-guide.pdf#page=15 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.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/research-related-application-guide.pdf#page=18

The following sections include some additional instructions specific to this NOFO.

Participant and trainee support costs

• Identify the number of participants and trainees.

• Include tuition, fees, health insurance, stipends, travel, subsistence, and other proposed costs that will be provided to trainees from this award.

• Separate these costs from others so we can identify them easily.

• Include a sub-total entitled “Total Participant and Trainee Support Costs” with the summary of these costs.

• Please refer to Appendix A to review additional information on trainee support costs.

Preceptor costs Preceptors can be either your employee, contractor, or consultant. Preceptor costs are unique and different than trainee costs, which are for your students. Allowable preceptor costs may include:

• Stipends (paid as salary for employees or allowance).

• Continuing education, other trainings, and fees.

• Travel.

Note: You cannot require students to pay for preceptor costs.

• If the preceptor is an employee, specify those costs under Section B (Other Personnel), Section D (Travel), and Section F (Other Direct Costs).

• If the preceptor is a consultant or contractor, lists those costs under Section F (Other Direct Costs).

• Include the number of preceptors in your budget narrative.

Consultant services Identify each consultant, the services they will perform, the total number of days they will work, their travel costs, and the total estimated costs.

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

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 27

Attachment 1: Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH) accreditation status Provide documentation of your CEPH accreditation status as a School or Program of Public Health. Please do not provide the web link to the accreditation body’s website.

Attachment 2: Letter certifying selection of Track 1 or Track 2 Track 1: Attach a letter signed by the dean of your SPPH that says a course in foundational MCH is not offered as part of current course offerings at the SPPH. Refer to other application criteria to review information about ASPPH Program finder.

Track 2: Attach a letter signed by the dean of your SPPH that states the need to expand MCH curriculum at the SPPH and says:

• The SPPH has foundational MCH coursework but does not currently have a degree program, certificate, or concentration in MCH; OR

• The SPPH has received MCH Public Health Catalyst Program Track 2 funding for less than two five-year periods of performance.

Attachment 3: MCH curriculum (Track 2 Only) Outline current or anticipated curriculum and other requirements that students must complete to obtain the MCH degree, certificate, or concentration. Include a list of MCH courses, ILEs, mentorship, and any other requirements you identify.

Attachment 4: Work plan Attach the project’s work plan. Make sure it includes everything required in the project narrative section. Your work plan should be presented in a table format and must:

• Include the timeline for each activity.

• Identify faculty, staff, and/or other personnel who are responsible for each activity.

• Identify the key partners that will help you achieve each activity (as applicable).

Attachment 5: Project organizational chart Provide a one-page diagram that shows the project’s organizational structure, including where MCH coursework is housed within the SPPH. Highlight paths of oversight or approval across your organization that will be needed to develop, expand, and/or implement MCH courses and other activities outlined in your work plan.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 28

Attachment 6: 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 subrecipients and contractors and any deliverable. Make sure you sign and date any letters of agreement.

Track 2 applicants must include a letter from a Title V program. Documents that confirm actual or pending contracts or agreements should clearly describe the roles of subrecipients and contractors and any deliverable. Make sure you sign and date any letters of agreement.

Attachment 7: Staffing plan and job descriptions See Section 3.1.7 of the R&R Application Guide.

Include a staffing plan that 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 brief job description. It must include the role, responsibilities, and qualifications.

Attachments 8 through 15: Other relevant documents (optional) Include any other documents that are relevant to your application.

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

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 29 https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/research-related-application-guide.pdf#page=22

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

Research & Related Other Project Information With application.

SF-424 (R&R) With application.

R & R Subaward Budget Attachment(s) Form With application.

Research & Related Senior/Key Person Profile (Expanded)

With application.

Project/Performance Site Location(s) With application.

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

Form instructions In addition to the requirements for the project abstract, budget narrative, project narrative, and attachments, following are instructions for each of the other forms required by this NOFO. See the application checklist for a full list of all application requirements.

Research & Related Other Project Information In addition to the requirements in the project narrative section, you will provide some additional information in this form.

• Complete sections 1 through 6.

• Upload a blank document in item 7: Project Summary/Abstract to avoid a cross-form error with your Project Abstract Summary Form.

• Upload your project narrative in item 8.

• Leave items 9, 10, and 11 blank.

SF 424 (R&R)

This is your application for federal assistance. Follow the instructions in Section 3.1.1 of the R&R Application Guide.

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

Step 3: Prepare Your Application 30 https://www.grants.gov/forms https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/grants/research-related-application-guide.pdf#page=8

R&R Subaward Budget Attachment(s) Form You will also complete the R&R Subaward Budget Attachment Form for each subaward you propose. These include subcontracts. You will do this using the R&R Subaward Budget Attachment(s) Form.

To complete the budget forms, follow the instructions.

• Once you open this form, you can select “Click here to extract the R&R Subaward Budget Attachment.”

• Save the file and then open it to complete it.

• Once you save the file you can…