MGD FY21 NOFO Q and A - Week of 24 May 2021.pdf

McGovern-Dole FY2021 Notice of Funding Opportunity

Questions and Answers

Week of May 24th, 2021

1. Q: The Project-Level Results Framework section of the proposal has a 6 page limit, and within that USDA suggests 2-3 pages for the graphic and 2-3 pages for the narrative. Can applicants use the full 6 pages as necessary (ie. 2 pages for the graphic and 4 pages for narrative). Are the suggested limits for the sub-sections strict requirements?

A: Yes, an Applicant may use the full six pages for the project level results framework and the narrative. An Applicant may use two pages for the graphic and four pages for the narrative.

2. Q: Will non-priority countries be given the same priority as the listed “priority” countries?

A: No. FAS will accept applications for non-priority countries, however FAS will give priority consideration to fund proposals for the identified priority countries.

3. Q: If an applicant submits a four-country proposal, can the applicant apply for more than $25 million?

A: The estimated funding per award is $10 - $25 million. Applicants should submit proposals worth between $10 and $25 million.

4. Q: Can newly registered 501c3 organizations that have no prior experience with USDA and have not had audit reports yet or past performance track record due to their newness apply and be considered/rated objectively?

A: All Applicants that meet the requirements found in Part C Eligibility Information and submit a complete application will be considered for funding. Please note, for an application to be considered complete, the Applicant must submit all required content and forms, as specified in Part D Content and Form of Application Submission, including at least one Past

Performance Review. Any incomplete applications after 5:00:00 PM EDT June 4, 2021 will be considered incomplete and will be rejected and will not be considered for funding.

5. Q: Can an applicant submit a proposal that exclusively relies on local food products and does not include any shipment of products from the USA?

A: No. Applicants must include U.S. donated commodities in the project proposal, which are an integral part of the McGovern-Dole program.

6. Q: In the past the online application portal has been quite daunting for newcomers. Have any changes been made and are there opportunities for USDA to conduct an orientation for new applicants?

A: On the FAIS homepage, Applicants may review the resources listed under Forms and

Guidance, FAIS Support, and Training Material and User Manual. FAS will not conduct an FAIS orientation for FY 21 Applicants.

7. Q: Who should applicants contact for technical support if/when they run into technical difficulties while uploading their applications?

A: If an Applicant is experiencing technical difficulties, call: (202) 720-1008 or email: ppded@usda.gov for assistance. FAS advises Applicants to begin the application process early to allow time to address any information technology difficulties that may arise. FAS will run a report from the FAIS system showing all submissions prior to 5:00:00 P.M. EDT on June 4, 2021. Applications received after this date and time will not be considered. All applications must be submitted via FAIS.