NOFO 23-FAA-AWD-AM.FINAL.pdf

FAA

NextGen Procurement Services and Grants Management Division

Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers Workforce Development Grant Program Notice of Funding Opportunity i

Summary Information

Federal awarding agency name: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

Funding opportunity title: Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers Workforce Development Grant Program

Announcement type: Initial

Funding opportunity number (required, if applicable): 23-FAA-AWD-AM

Assistance Listing number(s): 20.112

Key dates: August 16, 2023 iii

Table of Contents

A. Program Description

B. Federal Award Information

C. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

3. Other

D. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Package

2. Content and Form of Application Submission [Required]

3. Unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)

4. Submission Dates and Times

5. Intergovernmental Review

6. Funding Restrictions

7. Other Submission Requirements

E. Application Review Information

1. Criteria

2. Review and Selection Process

3. Federal share greater than the simplified acquisition threshold [Required, if applicable]

4. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates

F. Federal Award Administration Information

1. Federal Award Notices

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

3. Reporting

G. Federal Aviation Administration Contact(s)

H. Other Information

A. Program Description

Introduction

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is accepting applications for the fiscal year (FY23) FAA Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers Workforce Development Grant Program (hereinafter referred to as “the Program”). The purpose of the program is to expand the Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers workforce throughout the United States and U.S. Territories and support activities to facilitate the transition to careers in aviation maintenance.

Legislative Authority

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) was directed to establish the Program through fiscal year 2023 in Section 625 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Pub. L. No. 115-254) (hereinafter referred to as the Act). Section 625 of the Act directs support to programs for education, scholarships, apprenticeships, career outreach, and other efforts to enhance aviation maintenance training or the aviation maintenance industry workforce. This support in turn is to create opportunities benefiting and creating pathways to potential aviation maintenance technicians. This authority was supplemented by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Pub. L. No. 116-92, Section 1743) (hereinafter referred to as the “NDAA”), which added one additional category to eligible entities for the Program. Section 1743 of the NDAA and Section 625 of the Act shall be collectively referred to throughout this NOFO as the “Authorizing Legislation.”

Nondiscrimination Assurance

As a condition to receiving any Federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the applicant is subject to and will comply with the following; in addition to all other laws, regulations, executive orders, and/or policies that are applicable to the grants awarded under the Program:

• Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. § 2000d et seq., 78 stat. 252);

• 49 CFR part 21 (entitled “Nondiscrimination In Federally-Assisted Programs of The Department of Transportation—Effectuation of Title VI of The Civil Rights Act of 1964”);

• 49 U.S.C. § 47123 (Nondiscrimination Statute);

• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, (42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.);

• 28 CFR § 50.3 (U.S. Department of Justice Guidelines for Enforcement of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964);

• 49 CFR part 28 (entitled “Enforcement of Nondiscrimination On The Basis Of Handicap in Programs or Activities Conducted by the Department of Transportation”);

• 49 CFR part 37 (entitled “Transportation Services for Individuals with Disabilities (ADA)”;

• 28 CFR part 35 (entitled “Discrimination on the Basis of Disability in State and Local Government Services”); and

• Executive Order 13985 (entitled “Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities through the Federal Government”).

Background

Through the award of these grants, the USDOT and the FAA will assist in expanding the United States aviation maintenance technical workers workforce. The Program aims to provide meaningful educational experiences to stimulate interest and encourage students throughout the Nation to prepare to enter this career field. The Program also supports activities to facilitate the transition of individuals to careers in aviation maintenance, including members of the Armed Forces. By advancing equity across the Federal Government, we can create opportunities for the improvement of communities that have been historically underserved. Consistent with Federal policy and the Authorizing Legislation, the Program will further benefit the public by advancing equity.

Program Goals The goal of the Program is to provide grants to support the education and recruitment of aviation maintenance technical workers and the development of the aviation maintenance workforce.

B. Federal Award Information

Type of Award and Funding The Program is a competitive discretionary grant program. The FAA estimates it will make approximately $9,000,000, using FY22 and FY23 funds, available to fund an estimated 18 recipients through this NOFO. A funded project may have a period of performance of up to two (2) years, with a maximum of $500,000 per year (inclusive of direct and indirect costs).

Funding beyond the first year is subject to the availability of appropriated funds for the Aviation Workforce Development (AWD) Program in subsequent fiscal years, satisfactory recipient performance and progress, and a decision that continued funding is in the best interest of the Federal Government.

Number of Awards

The FAA will determine the number of awards depending on the quality and quantity of proposals, but the FAA estimates it will make approximately 18 awards under this announcement. However, the FAA reserves the right to make more, fewer, or no awards. Submission of an application to Grants.gov is not a guarantee of award. The FAA may, at its discretion, award a grant based on an application in its entirety, award only portions of a grant based on its application, or not award a grant at all.

Maximum Amount

The FAA will consider any application that exceeds the maximum amount of $500,000 per year ineligible for funding under this notice.

Degree of Federal Involvement

In addition to all other customary and required FAA oversight activities for grant programs of this type, the FAA may conduct site visits of applicant institutions and facilities to observe curriculum delivery and review materials including, without limitation, books, records, activity plans, relevant documents, accounting procedures, processes, and related activities and resources. The FAA will require quarterly progress reports and final reports.

http://www.grants.gov/

C. Eligibility Information

Proof of Eligibility

Applicants must identify how they qualify under Section C.1 by uploading proof of eligible entity as follows:

• A holder of a certificate under title 14 part 21, 121, 135, or 145 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations must provide a copy of their relevant FAA-issued certificate.

• A labor organization representing aviation maintenance workers must provide a copy of an IRS-issued organization exemption letter confirming its labor organization status.

• An institution of higher education must provide a copy of its accreditation document (e.g.;

SACSCOC Accreditation Letter).

• A high school or other secondary school must provide a copy of either its accreditation document or another valid form of State recognition as an educational institution (e.g., State Board of Education Letter).

• In addition to the above proof of eligibility, all applicants, including state and local governments, must include in the required abstract a brief statement as to which eligibility category the applicant is applying under and how the applicant qualifies. The FAA reserves the right to validate proof of eligibility. If proof of eligibility is not provided in the application, the applicant will be considered ineligible and will not be considered for funding.

• The Government does not have the authority to award grants beyond the stated goal of the Program or to entities other than those identified above as eligible entities, nor does the Government have the authority to provide scholarships or any form of financial assistance directly to individual applicants. However, the selected entities may offer scholarship opportunities as a funded activity, consistent with the requirements of the Act. Applicants must ensure (and be prepared to document) that all individuals supporting the proposed project possess the legal ability to work within the United States throughout the period of performance.

The government may award a grant to an applicant who already has an active award with FAA’s Aircraft Pilots Workforce Development Grant Program or Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers Workforce Development Grant Program with a period of performance that will not overlap with the award being granted under this NOFO.

Requirement to use E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility

Unless an exemption applies throughout the period of performance for the award, with respect to the hiring of any individual for employment in the United States under the “program or activity” that is funded in whole or in part under the award or sub-award, the recipient or sub-recipient must enroll (if not already enrolled) in E-Verify, use E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility of all new hires, and take such steps as may be necessary to ensure award and sub-award recipient compliance with this award term and condition.

1. Eligible Applicants

The following types of entities are eligible to submit an application for this funding opportunity:

a. A holder of a certificate issued under part 21, 121, 135, or 145 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations or a labor organization representing aviation maintenance workers;

b. An accredited institution of higher education (as defined in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. § 1001)) or a high school or secondary school (as defined in section 7801 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. § 7801); or

c. A State or local governmental entity

d. Individuals are not eligible to apply under this NOFO.

Eligible Projects

Only projects that fall into one or more of the below categories will be eligible for award:

a. Projects that establish new educational programs that teach technical skills used in aviation maintenance, including purchasing equipment, or to improve existing programs;

b. Projects that establish scholarships or apprenticeships for individuals pursuing employment in the aviation maintenance industry;

c. Projects that support outreach about careers in the aviation maintenance industry to: Primary, secondary, and post-secondary school students; or Communities underrepresented in the industry;

d. Projects that support educational opportunities related to aviation maintenance in economically disadvantaged geographic areas;

e. Projects that support transition to careers in aviation maintenance, including for members of the Armed Forces; or

f. Projects that otherwise enhance aviation maintenance technical education or the aviation maintenance industry workforce.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

The Authorizing Legislation does not require cost share or matching contributions for this Program.

3. Other

All applicants must be registered in www.sam.gov. Per 2 CFR § 200.206(a)(2), the FAA will check the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity System (FAPIIS) www.fapiis.gov. Entities found to be debarred or suspended will automatically be ineligible from participating in the Program.

Partnerships

The FAA encourages applicants to partner with others, such as trainers, consultants and/or other contractors, as appropriate to satisfy program goals and to otherwise meet the requirements of the merit criteria and to help the applicant provide additional opportunities, assistance, and resources to ensure success and sustainability of the proposed project.

http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.fapiis.gov/

Sub-awards are prohibited under this NOFO.

Each partner must submit a letter of commitment, up to two (2) pages per partner, to the project and a signed formal agreement outlining the responsibilities of each partner. If an applicant submits a proposal without a letter of commitment and agreement from each partner, the proposal will be non-responsive. An authorized official from the lead eligible entity must submit the proposal on behalf of the team, and officially represent the members for administrative purposes. The Fiscal Officer identified by the Lead entity will be responsible for signing or co-signing the proposal submission, negotiating the final terms of the award with the FAA Grants Officer, accepting the grant on behalf of the team, and providing official reports, invoices, and related materials as requested.

Multiple Applications

The FAA will accept only one application from an eligible entity serving as a single applicant or as a Lead for a partnership. The eligible entity may also participate as a non-Lead partner on the application(s) of other eligible entities.

An applicant entity must have its own Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) to be eligible.

The FAA will only accept an applicant’s last validated electronic submission, under the correct funding opportunity number, prior to the Grants.gov application due date as the final and only acceptable application.

USDOT Priorities

The Department seeks to award projects under the Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers Workforce Development Program that proactively evaluate whether a project will create proportional impacts to all populations in a project area and increase equitable access to project benefits, consistent with Executive Order 13985, Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities through the Federal Government (86 FR 7009).

D. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Package

This announcement contains instructions in APPENDIX I – Grants.gov Application Submission Instructions.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission [Required]

The applicant must complete and submit all required application package forms, see APPENDIX II – Application Document Checklist, and submit them directly online at Grants.gov under the NOFO cited herein. Applicants should refer to https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html to access instructions for the current (SF-424) and other forms used to create grant application packages in Grants.gov. See APPENDIX II – Application Document Checklist, for a complete list of documentation required to be submitted with narrative.

Sharing of Application Information – The Department may share application information within the Department or with other Federal agencies if the Department determines that sharing is relevant to the respective program’s objectives.

http://www.grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html

File Type

Each attachment must be submitted as a PDF file.

Format

Narratives must be written in English, with U.S. Dollars. In addition, text must be presented in 12-point font, Times New Roman, 1-inch margins, double-spaced, and page numbers must be placed in the lower right corner. The proposal must include the headings presented in the following order, while addressing the Merit Criteria stated in Section E. Ensure that each header and/or sub-header are clearly labeled so that sections can be easily segregated and reviewers can look at the merit of the application before reviewing the cost proposals. Applications not adhering to format requirements may be deemed non-responsive.

In addition, there is a 6-page limit for all charts and tables included in the application.

Mandatory Forms

Failure to complete and submit any of the below forms may render the application non-responsive and thus ineligible for an award.

• Application for Financial Assistance Form, SF-424

The SF-424 Form, Application for Financial Assistance Form, is used in all Federal grant applications. This form collects information, including type of applicant, applicant contact information, type of submission, the award request amount, and proposed project dates.

• Project Abstract Summary Form (Use the Standard OMB-approved Project Abstract Summary Form 2.0 in the Grants.gov application package)

The Abstract must include:

o A statement of which Eligible Applicant category (see Section C) the applicant belongs to.

o A statement of which Eligible Project category(s) (see Section C) the application’s project proposal should be considered under.

o A brief overview of the project as a whole, including:

Specific, measurable objectives that the project will accomplish;

How the project objectives will be accomplished (i.e., the “who, what, when, where, why and how” of the project).

• Project Narrative (Project Narrative Attachment Form/Separate Sheet of Paper)

This section provides a comprehensive framework and description of all aspects of the proposed project. It should be succinct, self-explanatory, consistent with forms and attachments, and well-organized so that evaluators can understand the proposed project.

In accordance with the below instructions, applicants must attach a project narrative file (the “Narrative”) to their Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424) during the submission to Grants.gov to successfully complete the proposal process. As a header, the narrative must include a project title. See APPENDIX III - Project Narrative Sample Outline, for a sample outline.

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants o Cover Letter: The one (1) page project narrative cover letter is not included in the project narrative 10-page limit. The cover letter must be on entity letterhead and signed by an authorized official representing the applicant or team of applicants.

o Page Length: The maximum page length of the Narrative is up to ten (10) pages.

Applications exceeding the 10-page limit will be considered non-responsive.

o Description: Address evaluation criteria 1 through 4 set forth in Section E. Ensure all acronyms are spelled out in the description. This description should be clearly organized by evaluation criterion to aid the evaluation team in assigning a rating to each criterion.

o Applicant information and coordination with other entities: Clearly identify the name(s) of the primary applicant, any other organization(s) supporting the proposed project, any volunteers supporting the proposed project, and include any organizations to be funded by the Lead Entity. Describe activities to be conducted in cooperation with all entities involved.

o Conflict of Interest (COI): If the participation of the primary applicant, a member of a proposed team, or an organization supporting the proposed project results in a real or perceived COI, the applicant must provide a detailed explanation of how the risk will be mitigated or eliminated. The FAA reserves the right to disqualify any applicant whose approach does not sufficiently mitigate the real or perceived COI. If no COI exists, a statement to that effect should be included.

Pursuant to USDOT workforce development discretionary grant priorities, applicants must address how their project will create good-paying jobs with free and fair choice to join a union;

promote investments in high-quality workforce development programs with supportive services to help train, place, and retain people in good-paying jobs or registered apprenticeship, with a focus on women, people of color, and others that are underrepresented in infrastructure jobs (people with disabilities, people with convictions, etc.); and change hiring policies and workplace cultures to promote the entry and retention of underrepresented populations. Applicants should address how the project promotes local inclusive economic development and entrepreneurship, such as the utilization of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises, Minority-owned Businesses, Women-owned Businesses, or 8(a) firms.

• Budget (Non-Construction Programs Form SF-424A)

Complete the detailed budget form Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs Form, SF-424A that describes both the direct and indirect costs associated with a particular project.

Grant Funds, Sources and Uses of Project Funds – Project budgets should show how different funding sources will share in each activity and present those data in dollars and percentages.

The budget should identify other Federal funds, if any, that the applicant intends to use. Funding sources should be grouped into three categories: non-Federal, Aviation Maintenance Technical Workers Workforce Development Grant Program, and other Federal with specific amounts from each funding source, if applicable.

Indirect Costs – The FAA accepts all Federal negotiated indirect cost rates contingent upon the applicant attaching proof of agreement with the relevant Cognizant Agency to the grant application. When an indirect cost rate is negotiated, those costs included in the indirect cost pool should not also be charged as direct costs to the award. If the applicant is requesting a rate that is less than what is allowed under the program, the authorized representative of the applicant organization must submit a signed acknowledgment that the applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed. Any non-Federal entity that has never received a negotiated indirect cost rate, (except a governmental department or agency unit that receives more than $35 million in direct Federal funding) may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent of modified total direct costs (MTDC), which may be used indefinitely. If chosen, this methodology, once elected, must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a non-Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the non-Federal entity may apply to do at any time.

• Budget Narrative (Budget Narrative Attachment Form/Separate Sheet of Paper)

The budget narrative must describe by line-item all proposed expenditures, including identification of any other existing or anticipated financial resources, or unmet funding needs, beyond this request to the FAA. Proposed expenditures required to be itemized include costs related to contracts/sub-awards. Costs must be justified with a clear narrative description.

If the applicant includes any non-Federal funds in support of the project, these costs must be clearly identified and separate from Federal funds.

Two-page limit. The maximum page length of the Budget Narrative is up to two (2) pages.

Applications exceeding the 2-page limit will be considered non-responsive.

3. Unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)

All applicants for Federal financial assistance must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) to successfully register in Grants.gov. The SAM database is the repository for standard information about Federal financial assistance applicants, recipients, and sub-recipients. Applicants must update or renew their SAM registration at least once per year to maintain an active status;

therefore, it is critical to check registration status well in advance of relevant application deadlines.

Information about SAM registration procedures can be accessed at:

https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/

Each applicant (unless the applicant is an individual that is excepted from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110(b) or (c), or has an exception approved by the FAA under 2 CFR 25.110(d)) is required to:

i. Be registered in SAM before submitting its application

ii. Provide a valid unique entity identifier in its application

iii. Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active Federal award or an application or plan under consideration by the FAA. It also must state that the FAA may not make a Federal award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable unique entity identifier and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements by the time the FAA is ready to make a Federal award, the FAA may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a Federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a Federal award to another applicant.

http://www.grants.gov/ https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-25.110#p-25.110(b) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-25.110#p-25.110(b) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-25.110#p-25.110(c) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-25.110#p-25.110(d)

4. Submission Dates and Times

August 16, 2023, 11:59 pm Eastern Time

It is the responsibility of the applicant to allow for sufficient time to meet the Grants.gov application requirements stated at the time of this posting and to adhere to submission deadlines. Grants.gov will not accept applications after the due date and time. No other means of submission will be accepted.

5. Intergovernmental Review

An application under this NOFO is not subject to State review under Executive Order 12372.

6. Funding Restrictions

• Pre-award costs: The FAA will not reimburse any pre-award costs or application preparation costs.

• Construction and Research Activities: The FAA will not reimburse for facility construction in 2 CFR § 200.439 or research activities.

• Field Trips: Field Trips are permissible, but costs should be kept to a minimum. Field Trip related expenses must be reflected in the Budget and Budget Narrative using standard government rates, which can be located at https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates

• Flight Hours: Grant funds may not be used for flight hours.

• Equipment: Grant funds may not be used to purchase and/or lease heavy equipment such as manned aircraft.

• Lobbying and Litigation: Funds may not be used for lobbying or litigation.

• Disallowed Funds: The FAA will not reimburse any costs disallowed or defined as unallowable in 2 CFR Part 200.

7. Other Submission Requirements

Applications must be submitted to Grants.gov. Please see Appendix I of this announcement for detailed instructions on how to submit applications to Grants.gov.

E. Application Review Information

1. Criteria

Applications will be evaluated on the following merit criteria, therefore applicants must address each criterion in the order presented below and respond to each in the Project Narrative (APPENDIX III - Project Narrative Sample Outline, 10-page limit).

• Criterion 1 – Project Plan (up to 30 points)

The extent to which the applicant has demonstrated a clear and achievable plan to carry out the proposed project by including, without limitation, a clear and well-organized description of the planned activities, objective(s), performance goals and measures as shown below:

o A comprehensive and clear work plan that demonstrates through concrete steps how the entity will implement the proposed project to meet the goals of this NOFO. The work plan http://www.grants.gov/ https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates describes the program performance goals, objectives, and measures, elaborates on key partners, lists deliverables, and assigns staff and timeframes to complete programmatic activities within the two one-year project periods. Performance goals and objectives must be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-framed, see appendix IV for sample format;

o Clearly defined roles and responsibilities to be undertaken by the applicant and partners, as applicable, for the work to be performed;

o A description of the proposed curriculum. The proposed project may utilize an applicant’s existing training curriculum, provided that such curriculum is consistent with the eligibility requirements set forth herein if applicable; and, o Provides a clear plan for project sustainability after the period of Federal funding ends.

• Criterion 2 – Applicant Resources and Capabilities (up to 20 points)

The extent to which the applicant has demonstrated organizational capacity to carry out the proposed project plan by clearly demonstrating that sufficient facilities, equipment, human and fiscal resources are available to provide for student and teacher/instructor recruitment, academic and career counseling, public outreach activities, and otherwise demonstrating that sufficient resources are available to achieve program goals as shown below:

o Describes the Project Director’s position, role, and contribution to project costs, the latter referencing the percentage of working hours dedicated to the project and overall compensation (including in-kind benefits);

o Deployment of an accounting system with the ability to track Federal grant funds. An adequate accounting records system will separate the receipts and payments of a Federal grant from the receipts and payments of their organization’s other activities;

o Written accounting policies and procedures, in accordance with 2 CFR part 200, and adequate internal controls; and o A record of past activities and programs, which enhance the applicant’s capacity to carry out the proposed project.

• Criterion 3 – Project Impact (up to 30 points)

The extent of an applicant’s proposed project’s impact in supporting the education and development of high school students or the related professional development of teachers o Provides detailed projected number of students, trainees, and/or other individuals that will participate in the Program;

o Clearly maps the benefits and outcomes of the proposed project to the Program goals;

o Describes strong proposed partnerships and collaborative strategies, which will promote the Program goals;

o Demonstrates how the project will attract and retain participants from communities underrepresented in the industry and/or disadvantaged geographic areas, for proposals of the Eligible Project types (c)(2) and (d), respectively, in Section A; and o Describes and identifies the outreach initiative and recruitment plans for program participation.

• Criterion 4 – Project Administration and Monitoring (up to 20 points)

The extent to which the applicant has demonstrated a clear and achievable plan to control administrative expenses and a well-organized description of how the project activities will be monitored, assessed, and documented to determine the extent to which performance goals and metrics will be achieved as shown below:

o Measure and monitor project success. (Identify method of tracking.); and o Self-evaluate performance. This includes a description of the evaluation plan, including necessary components (descriptions of the inputs, key processes, variables to be measured, expected outcomes of the funded activities, and how key measures will be reported), as well as a description of how the organization will collect data in such a way that allows for accurate and timely reporting, and program needs/gaps to be filled.

2. Review and Selection Process

Initial Screening

Applications will first be provided to the Grants Officer for initial review to confirm that the applicant 1) meets the eligibility requirements as set forth in Section C, Eligibility Information, and 2) has included all of the items specified in Section E, Application and Submission Information in the proper format and within the applicable page limitations. If an application does not meet the eligibility requirements as set forth in Section C, Eligibility Information, or include all of the items specified in Section D, Application and Submission Information in the proper format and within the applicable page limitations, the Grants Officer may deem the application ineligible. As noted above, all single applicants and team Leads must be registered in https://sam.gov/content/home.

Further, an application will be considered ineligible during the initial screening phase if the application does not meet the following requirements:

• A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is required for Grants.gov registration. The identifier is used for tracking purposes and to validate address and point of contact information for Federal assistance applicants, recipients, and sub-recipients. Register your entity or get a UEI here:

https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration

• All applicants for Federal financial assistance must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) to successfully register in Grants.gov. The SAM database is the repository for standard information about Federal financial assistance applicants, recipients, and sub-recipients. Applicants must update or renew their SAM registration at least once per year to maintain an active status; therefore, it is critical to check registration status well in advance of relevant application deadlines. Information about SAM registration procedures can be accessed at: https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/

• Applicant must have an active UEI and SAM registration at the time of applicant’s submission of its application.

https://sam.gov/content/home https://www.grants.gov/web/grants https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/

• Section C, Eligibility Information, to include all of the items specified in Section D, Application and Submission Information, in the proper format and within the applicable page limitations.

• Entities found to be debarred or suspended will be automatically considered ineligible from participating in the Program.

Review Process

As further discussed below, if an application passes the initial screening discussed above, the application will then be reviewed by the Technical Evaluation Team. The evaluation and review processes are intended to assure the selecting official that each proposal being considered for an award meets or exceeds the criteria presented by the FAA in this NOFO and mandated by Congress.

The FAA reserves the right to use outside expertise to perform application evaluation.

Pursuant to Section 4.5.1.2 (Applicant Risk) of the USDOT Guide to Financial Assistance, 2 CFR § 200.206, and applicable law, the Government is required to assess information about an applicant in order to evaluate the risks posed by an applicant before they receive an award. After technical review and before award recommendations, the FAA may consider, without limitation, the following factors as to the applicant’s eligibility, as applicable:

• Designated integrity and history of performance of past Federal awards through SAM and FAPIIS (see 41 U.S.C. § 2313). Per the guidelines on government-wide suspension and debarment in 2 CFR part 180, the Government will confirm that the Recipient and any named partners are not debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in Federal programs or activities;

• Reports and findings from audits performed under Subpart F of 2 CFR part 200 or the reports and findings of any other available audits;

• The applicant’s ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements imposed on non-Federal entities; and

• Potential conflicts of interest on the part of the applicant. The applicant must disclose in writing any potential conflict of interest to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity in accordance with applicable Federal awarding agency policy. 2 CFR § 200.112; and

• Any potential risks posed by the applicant’s budget.

The FAA reserves the right to request additional information, including financial information, as necessary to assess financial stability.

As noted above, the FAA reserves the right to reject an application if the FAA finds, at its sole discretion, that an applicant presents an unacceptable level of risk based on the findings of this risk assessment.

Additionally, if risks are identified but can, in the FAA’s sole discretion, be sufficiently mitigated through the inclusion of special terms and conditions in the grant agreement or otherwise, the FAA reserves the right to proceed with award subject to any additional terms and conditions it deems appropriate.

Technical Evaluation Review

The Technical Evaluation Team will evaluate each application against each of the merit criteria set forth in Section E1.

Based upon the strengths, weaknesses, and risks identified, the Technical Evaluation Review team will assign an adjectival rating to each merit criterion as set forth in the Adjectival Rating Table below.

The Technical Evaluation adjective rating will be one factor among several in the ultimate selection of awardees.

Adjectival Rating Table:

*An applicant that receives an overall adjectival rating of Below Standards will not be considered for selection.

ADJECTIVAL RATING DEFINITION

EXCEEDS STANDARDS

The applicant’s proposal comprehensively responds to the merit criteria and demonstrates a thorough understanding of the goals of the Program.

The applicant’s response exceeds the standard requirements for a “Meets Standard” rating. There may be some weaknesses or risks, although they are mostly minor. Strengths outweigh any weaknesses or risks.

MEETS STANDARDS

The applicant’s proposal adequately addresses the merit criteria and the application demonstrates an understanding of the Program goals. There may be several weaknesses and/or risks; however, the combined impact of any strengths is approximately equal to the combined impact of any weaknesses or risks.

BELOW STANDARDS*

The applicant’s proposal does not provide sufficient information or does not respond adequately to the merit criteria, therefore, the applicant’s proposal is inadequate. The proposal does not demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of the goals of the Program, contains many weaknesses or risks, and little or no strengths. Weaknesses or risks far outweigh any strengths.

Merit Criterion Points Table:

Criterion 1 – Project Plan

Below Standards = 20 points

Meets Standards = 25 points

Exceeds Standards = 30 points

Criterion 2 – Applicant Resources and Capabilities

Below Standards = 10 points

Meets Standards = 15 points

Exceeds Standards = 20 points

Criterion 3 – Project Impact

Below Standards = 20 points

Meets Standards = 25 points

Exceeds Standards = 30 points

Criterion 4 – Project Administration

Below Standards = 10 points

Meets Standards = 14 points

Exceeds Standards = 20 points

Total:

Overall Ratings Table:

Overall Adjectival Rating Total Points

Exceeds Standards 100-80

Meets Standards 79-61

Below Standards* 60-0

*An applicant that receives an overall adjectival rating of Below Standards will not be considered for selection.

The adjectival ratings will be evaluated using the following definitions for strengths, weaknesses and risks:

Strength

An aspect of an application that would positively impact the likelihood of the applicant successfully carrying out the proposed project, that exceeds the requirements for grant award, or otherwise furthers the program goal of supporting the education and recruitment of aviation maintenance technical workers and the development of the aviation maintenance workforce.

Weakness

An aspect of an application that would negatively impact the likelihood of the applicant successfully carrying out the proposed project, that fails to meet the requirements for award, or otherwise fails to further the program goal to support the education and recruitment of aviation maintenance technical workers and the development of the aviation maintenance workforce.

Risk

An aspect of an application that presents an uncertainty as to the ability of the applicant to successfully carry out the proposed project, meet the requirements for award, or otherwise further the program goal to support the education and recruitment of aviation maintenance technical workers and the development of the aviation maintenance workforce.

The initial screening and technical evaluation review processes are intended to assure the Grants Officer makes a grant award recommendation to the selecting official in accordance with the criteria and considerations set forth in this NOFO, and mandated by Congress. The maximum score any application can receive is 100 points. The minimum acceptable score will be 61 points. Only those applications that meet or exceed the minimum acceptable score will be considered for funding. Note that a score of 61 or more does not guarantee that the applicant will receive an award. Also note that the ultimate Technical Evaluation assessment is the Adjectival Rating determined by the numerical score, rather than the numerical score itself.

If the FAA does not make a Federal award to an applicant because the official determines that the applicant does not meet either or both of the minimum qualification standards as described in 2 CFR § 200.206, the FAA will report that determination in FAPIIS. Applicants found to be in violation of Federal statutes or to have previous disbarments will automatically be considered ineligible.

Other Review Considerations

After the Technical Evaluation Review, the FAA may consider programmatic factors to make selections that meet the goals and objectives of the Program. These include the availability of funds. Further, the FAA seeks a balanced award selection and considers diverse factors, such as but not limited to, type of applicant institution, participation by individuals from communities traditionally underrepresented in the aviation maintenance workforce, and the following other factors prior to final selection:

• The extent to which the project supports the policy objectives of applicable Executive Orders, including, without limitation, o Executive Order 13985 of January 20, 2021, on Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government;

o Executive Order 14041 of September 3, 2021, on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities; and o Executive Order 14045 of September 13, 2021, on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellent, and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics.

• Whether a project is located in a qualified opportunity zone designated pursuant to 26 U.S.C. § 1400Z-1;

• The geographic distribution throughout the United States and its Territories of the activities of the collective group of awarded proposals; and

• Consistent with the Rural Opportunities to Use Transportation for Economic Success (ROUTES) initiative (https://www.transportation.gov/rural), the USDOT recognizes that rural transportation networks face unique challenges. To the extent that those challenges are reflected in the merit criteria listed in this section, the USDOT will consider how the activities proposed in the application will address those challenges, regardless of the geographic location of those activities.

• Based on the overall adjectival rating assigned by the Technical Evaluation Team, and after taking into account the other considerations set forth in this NOFO for award, the Grants Officer shall recommend applications for award to the selecting official, who will then make the final award decision.

3. Federal share greater than the simplified acquisition threshold [Required, if applicable]

The FAA, prior to making a Federal award with a total amount of Federal share greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, is required to review and consider any information about the applicant’s that is in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM (currently FAPIIS) (see 41 U.S.C. 2313)

An applicant, at its option, may review information in the designated integrity and performance systems accessible through SAM and comment on any information about itself that a Federal awarding agency previously entered and is currently in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM

The FAA will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to the other information in the designated integrity and performance system, in making a judgment about the applicant’s integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under Federal awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as described in 2 CFR 200.206.

https://www.transportation.gov/rural https://www.govinfo.gov/link/uscode/41/2313 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.206

4. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates

The FAA anticipates announcing grant recipients and making awards in the 2nd Quarter of Fiscal Year 2024 (January 1 – March 31, 2024).

F. Federal Award Administration Information

1. Federal Award Notices

Selection Notification

• The FAA Grants Officer will notify the recipient’s Fiscal Officer or designated point of contact when selected for award. The Grants Officer will sign and send award documents to the official responsible for acting on behalf of the applicant named as the designated point of contact in the proposal.

• The Grants Officer is the individual authorized by the Senior Procurement Executive to commit the FAA to a course of action and bind the FAA to the expenditure of funds. Expenses incurred during proposal preparation are not reimbursed. The officially signed grant award, when executed, is the authorizing document that enables the recipient to begin the agreed-upon activities.

• Awards made under this Program are subject to the 2 CFR part 200 Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (https://www.ecfr.gov/). These Terms and Conditions will be incorporated in the award by reference. Awardees receipt of funds is contingent on execution of the Government’s award agreement.

Non-Selection Notification

The FAA Grants Officer will notify applicants that have not been selected, in writing, as promptly as possible after the determination has been made. Ineligible applicants will be notified via email.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

The applicant must adhere to all Local, State, and Federal laws and directives, including National Policies identified in required form SF-424B, Assurances Non-Construction, and those outlined in the updated Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. To review 2 CFR part 200, last updated November 7, 2022, visit the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations.

Further, please see APPENDIX V – Uniform Administrative Requirements, for additional important policy statements.

3. Reporting

The following metrics are examples of what will be used in measuring relevant outcomes for this grant Program. The FAA reserves the right to request other information and metrics from a grantee in order to ensure that performance is aligned with the program goals and requirements.

• Recruitment and Outreach: Efforts designed to increase awareness of anticipated gaps in the aviation industry’s labor pool and encourage student and population to participate in the https://www.ecfr.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl grantee’s program(s). Identify plans to allow participation to aviation maintenance in economically disadvantaged geographic areas and communities underrepresented in the industry and/or disadvantaged geographic areas. Document the actual activities, number and location of recruitment events conducted, and number of attendees.

• Registration and Retention: Number of those enrolled in the proposed program(s) and/or activities as measured by actual program registration and attendance by the student and population.

• Program Completion: Number of students successfully completing the program.

• Certification: Number of the students or population having completed the application or certification requirements necessary to become a licensed maintenance technician.

The grant recipient is responsible for complying with the reporting requirements for eligible participants of FAA-funded projects during the term of the period of performance, as applicable to the project. The grant recipient will submit this information electronically with required quarterly and final reports.

Quarterly Reports

At the discretion of the FAA Grants Officer, a quarterly report will be required, and must provide a narrative to include but not be limited to: noteworthy activities or events performed during the period;

a summary of accomplishments; sources of all funds, and other contributions generated; fiscal expenditures; performance metrics by the recipient; obstacles and problems encountered, remedies or proposed solutions; and a Financial Statement of funds expended to date to show progress.

Quarterly Progress Reports must include the following details about the relevant Milestones and Goals:

• Detailed accounting of the activities conducted, including activities of team members and number of students reached during the reporting period;

• Plans for accomplishments in the next reporting period;

• Problems or delays that the recipient has experienced in the conduct of the activities; and

• Updated SF-425 Federal Financial Report 4040-0014 and SF-425A Federal Financial Report Attachment to document expenditures and the status of funds.

Final Closeout Report

The Grant Recipient must prepare and electronically submit the Grant Closeout report to the FAA Grants Officer within 120 days after the end of the grant award period of performance. The fully inclusive Closeout Report must document all progress, performance metrics, and the final invoice with the Federal financial report (SF-425). If a grant recipient does not expend the funds made available for the grant award, the remaining funds will be de-obligated within 120 days of the end of the period of performance as part of the closeout activities in accordance with the Grants Oversight and New Efficiency (GONE) Act, https://www.grants.gov/learn-grants/grant-policies/gone-act-2016.html.

https://www.grants.gov/learn-grants/grant-policies/gone-act-20…