NOFO_GlobalMRLFellowshipProgram_Cochran_approved.pdf

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Global Programs

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

2021 Cochran Fellowship Program - U.S. Pesticide System Overview

NOTE: If you are going to apply for this funding opportunity and have not obtained a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number and/or are not currently registered in the System for Award Management (SAM), please take immediate action to obtain a DUNS Number, if applicable, and then to register immediately in SAM at www.sam.gov. It may take 4 weeks or more after you submit your SAM registration before your registration is active in SAM. Detailed information regarding DUNS and SAM is also provided in Section D of this NOFO, subsection, Content and Form of Application Submission.

In addition to obtaining a DUNS number and registering in SAM, you must also obtain Level 2 eAuthentication to apply for this funding opportunity in ezFedGrants. You must submit an online form requesting access. Normally you will receive an email within 24 hours of your submission, if your request is approved. After this occurs, you will need to schedule an appointment with an LRA. Once you meet with the LRA, your Level 2 eAuthentication should be granted within 2 to 3 days after that meeting. See Section D of this NOFO for detailed information.

A. Program Description

Program Overview, Objectives, and Priorities The Cochran Fellowship Program is requesting the design and delivery of training activities for a special initiative Cochran Fellowship Program on the U.S. regulatory system covering pesticides and maximum residue limits (MRL), among related topics.

Background

Since 1984, the U.S. Congress has made funds available to the Cochran Fellowship Program for training agriculturalists from middle-income countries, emerging markets and emerging democracies. Training opportunities are for senior and mid-level specialists and administrators working in agricultural trade and policy, agribusiness development, management, animal, plant, and food sciences, extension services, agricultural marketing, and many other areas. Individuals selected for Cochran trainings come from both the public and private sectors. All training occurs in the United States. Training programs are designed and organized in conjunction with U.S.

universities, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other U.S. Government agencies, agribusinesses, and consultants.

The USDA aims to align pesticide registration systems and MRLs standard setting across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, and to do so based on the U.S. regulatory system and international http://www.sam.gov/ standard setting bodies. Alignment of registration systems and trade standards based on risk is a complex process, involving multiple regulatory agencies and technical staff across regions and continents, and requires a multifaceted approach involving experts from a broad array of subject matters. Aligned trade standards support exports of U.S. agricultural products to foreign markets.

Access to new, low-risk pesticide products continues to be challenging for farmers around the world. Even when these products are available, farmers globally face trade barriers when residue standards differ, or do not exist, in export markets. Efforts to build regulatory capacity and encourage the adoption of import tolerances and Codex MRLs, when appropriate, can help reduce these trade barriers and ensure critical pest control tools are available to farmers.

Description FAS is requesting the design and delivery of a training program on the U.S. pesticide system for twenty-four Fellows from Latin America, Africa and Asia. The program would take place in the United States and could occur in multiple states/cities in 2022 or 2023. Fellows will be foreign government officials responsible for regulating and studying pesticides in their countries.

There will be two fellows from each of 12 countries outlined in the Countries for Program Implementation section. The grantee is expected to host three separate but identical training programs for Fellows, who will possibly be grouped together by region (Latin America, Africa and Asia). The training programs will occur at separate times over the period of performance at intervals to be determined by the recipient and FAS.

The objective of this program is to help foreign regulatory officials widen their knowledge and understanding of the U.S. regulatory systems, as well as build support around risk-based approaches to pesticide policies and international standards. This program should assist Fellows in understanding the entirety of the U.S. pesticide system, and will provide an overview and insights on: critical private and public stakeholders involved in the use and regulation of pesticides; the U.S. regulatory system; pesticide registration; establishment of MRLs; domestic and import testing and surveillance; evidence-based risk analysis; risk-based vs hazard-based approaches; U.S. involvement in international fora, and international standard setting bodies, such as the Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues.

FAS will work with the awardee(s) to identify suitable candidates from countries identified by FAS as a priority. The awardee(s) will arrange for all costs associated with the program including domestic & international airfare, local transportation, visa fees, Meals & Incidental Expenses (M&IE), lodging, international travel insurance, conference rooms and equipment, presenters and experts to cover learning objectives, and U.S. based staff to accompany the fellows during their time in the United States. The grantee(s) will work with FAS to develop and design the daily agenda to ensure it meets identified learning objectives and includes critical stakeholders.

Additionally, awardee(s) will collaborate with the institution(s) selected to host a Special Initiative Borlaug Program covering similar topics. The Borlaug program will host 4 researchers working to generate efficacy and residue data via field trials for establishing MRLs. Recipient(s) from both programs will work alongside FAS to develop the scope of this collaboration before the period of performance. USDA domestic and international staff may accompany the group at their own expense and will account for their own logistical arrangements.

Learning Objectives The program will ensure that the fellows increase their knowledge in the following pesticide areas:

• Overview of U.S. Departments and Agencies involved in the U.S. pesticide regulatory system (Food and Drug Administration, Environmental Protection Agency, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, etc.)

• Coordination/communication/correlation between institutions that work on pesticide programs

• U.S. pesticide legal framework

• U.S. pesticide guidelines and standards

• Role of private sector in the U.S. regulatory system

• U.S. process for setting MRLs

• U.S. import tolerance program

• Generation of efficacy and residue data

• U.S. registration formats

• U.S. data requirements

• Emergency use regulations

• Risk assessment processes

• Biopesticide registration and use in the United States

• Sampling, monitoring and surveillance (domestic & imports)

• Lab diagnostics and Good Lab Practices (GLP) for pesticide residues

• Public/Non-Governmental Organization pesticide communications and public engagement

• Overview of the International Standard Setting Bodies related to pesticides and biopesticides

• Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR)

• World Trade Organization – Sanitary/Phyto-Sanitary Committee Engagement

• The benefits of a risk-based approach vs hazard-based and problems with the precautionary principle

• The European Union’s approach to regulating pesticides and ramifications for trading partners, including overviews of the International Trade Commission and USDA’s Economic Research Service reports

Countries for Program Implementation (2 fellows per country)

• Brazil

• Colombia

• Ghana

• Guatemala

• Indonesia

• Kenya

• Nigeria

• Peru

• Philippines

• South Africa

• Thailand

• Vietnam

Period of Performance Three separate training sessions will take place and will each last up to two (2) weeks, at the discretion of the applicant. Ideally, the activity would take place in FY 2022 or FY 2023, depending on the type of program and availability of Fellows and applicant.

Place of Performance This training will be up to two (2) consecutive weeks in the United States. Locations will be at the discretion of the applicant, but will include a period in Washington, D.C., to meet with U.S.

Government regulatory officials. Participants may also be expected to participate in virtual engagements with USDA Officials prior to their arrival to the United States.

Issued By Foreign Agricultural Service, Office of Global Programs, Fellowship Programs Division

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number and Title

10.962 Cochran Fellowship Program

Notice of Funding Opportunity Title 2021 Cochran Fellowship Program - U.S. Pesticide System Study Tour

NOFO Number

USDA-FAS-10962-0700-10.-21-0004

Authorizing Authority for Program Section 1543 of the Agriculture Development and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S. Code 3293) as amended, and supported by the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977, as amended.

Appropriation Authority for Program FY2021 Omnibus and COVID Relief and Response Act (PL 116-260)

Announcement Type New

B. Federal Award Information

Award Amounts, Important Dates, and Extensions

Available Funding for the NOFO: Up to $300,000 (contingent upon funding)

Projected Number of Awards: 1

Number of Project Budget Periods: 1

Period of Performance: 24 months

Projected Period of Performance Start Date(s): September 1, 2021

Projected Period of Performance End Date(s): August 30, 2023

Extensions may be allowable, please see Section H. Additional Information to see how to request one, should the need arise.

Cost Share or Match requirements: A cost match or cost share is not required.

Funding Instrument: USDA will enter into a cost-reimbursable agreement under 7 USC § 3319a with selected recipients. Program staff will maintain involvement in the administration of the Cochran Fellowship Program.

C. Eligible Applicants State cooperative institutions or other colleges and universities in the United States

Eligibility Criteria All applicants must have an active registration in the SAM database at www.sam.gov – pending or expired registrants are not eligible. This requirement must be met by the closing date of the announcement and will not be waived. Please contact the program officer listed if you have questions about this requirement.

In addition to obtaining a DUNS number and registering in SAM, you must also obtain Level 2 eAuthentication to apply for this funding opportunity in ezFedGrants (eFG). You must submit an online form requesting access. Normally you will receive an email within 24 hours of your submission, if your request is approved. After this occurs, you will need to schedule an appointment with an LRA. Once you meet with the LRA, your Level 2 eAuthentication should be granted within 2 to 3 days after that meeting. See Section D of this NOFO for detailed information.

Maintenance of Effort (MOE) MOE is not allowable.

D. Application and Submission Information

Key Dates and Times

Application Start Date: June 25, 2021

Application Submission Deadline: July 30, 2021 at 11:59PM EDT http://www.sam.gov/

Anticipated Award Date: September 1, 2021

Anticipated Funding Selection Date: August 1, 2021

Address to Request Application Package This NOFO represents the full application information.

Applications will be processed through the ezFedGrants portal at https://grants.fms.usda.gov – prospective applicants are encouraged to register for this portal. Applicants that are unable to access the ezFedGrants portal should contact the program manager for alternative submission instructions. Note that if selected, registration is a requirement of performance.

Content and Form of Application Submission Institutions must be able to host multiple groups over the period of performance and should submit a proposal following the guidelines below:

Required forms and certifications, including:

• Standard Form 424, signed by the applicant

• SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities, when warranted.

• Standard Form 424A. This should be accompanied by a detailed budget worksheet and a detailed budget narrative (NOTE: A budget narrative must be provided). All line items should be described in sufficient detail that would enable FAS to determine that the costs are reasonable and allowable for the project per federal regulations. Definitions of cost items are listed below.

a. Personnel: Costs of employee salaries and wages. For each staff person, provide the name (if known), title, time commitment to the project as a percentage of a full-time equivalent (FTE), annual salary, and grant funded salary. Do not include the costs of consultants. Consultants are to be included under “Contractual.”

b. Fringe Benefits: Costs of employee fringe benefits unless treated as part of an approved indirect cost rate. Provide the method used to calculate the proposed rate amount. If a fringe benefit has been negotiated with, or approved by, a cognizant federal agency, attach a copy of the negotiated fringe benefit agreement. If no rate agreement exists, provide a breakdown of the amounts and percentages that comprise fringe benefit costs such as health insurance, FICA, retirement insurance, taxes, etc.

Identify the base for allocating these fringe benefit expenses. (Attach the agreement to the application package.) For foreign entities this may not apply.

c. Travel: Costs of project-related travel by employees of the applicant organization (do not include costs of sub-contractor or consultant travel). For each proposed trip, provide the purpose, number of travelers, travel origin and destination, number of days, and a breakdown of costs for airfare, lodging, meals, car rental, and incidentals.

The basis for the airfare, lodging, meals, car rental, and incidentals must be provided, such as past trips, current quotations, Federal Travel Regulations, etc.

d. Equipment: Equipment is not an allowable expenditure for this award. Any article of nonexpendable, tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year and an acquisition cost which equals or exceeds the lesser of (a) the capitalization level established by the organization for financial statement purposes, or (b) $5000.

https://grants.fms.usda.gov/ https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/sample/SF424_2_1-V2.1.pdf https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/forms/sample/SF424A-V1.0.pdf

NOTE: Acquisition cost means the net invoice unit price of an item of equipment, including the cost of any modifications, attachments, accessories, calibration and maintenance services, or auxiliary apparatus necessary to make it usable for the purpose for which it is acquired. Ancillary charges, such as taxes, duty, protective in-transit insurance, freight, and installation shall be included in or excluded from acquisition cost in accordance with the organization's regular written accounting practices.

e. Supplies: Supplies are tangible personal property other than that included in the equipment category if the acquisition cost is less than the lesser of the capitalization level established by the non-Federal entity for financial statement purposes or $5,000, regardless of the length of its useful life. Specify general categories of supplies and their costs. Show computations and provide other information which supports the amount requested. A computing device is a supply.

f. Contractual: Costs of all contracts for services and goods that further the work of the project. Sub-contractors, sub-awardees, and/or sub-grantees that do not perform technical work (i.e., landscapers, trash collectors, etc.) belong under other cost categories such as equipment, supplies, construction, other, etc.

Include third party evaluation contracts (if applicable) and contracts with secondary recipient organizations. Demonstrate that all procurement transactions will be conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extent practical, open and free competition. Identify proposed sub-contractor work and the cost of each sub-contractor. Provide a detailed budget for each sub-contractor that is expected to perform work estimated to be $25,000 or more, or 50% of the total work effort, whichever is less.

• Identify each planned subcontractor and its total proposed budget. Each subcontractor's budget and supporting detail should be included as part of the applicant's budget narrative.

• Provide the following information for each planned subcontract: a brief description of the work to be subcontracted; the number of quotes solicited and received, if applicable; the cost or price analysis performed by the applicant; names and addresses of the subcontractors tentatively selected and the basis for their selection; e.g., unique capabilities (for sole source subcontracts), low bidder, delivery schedule, technical competence; type of contract and estimated cost and fee or profit; and, affiliation with the applicant, if any.

• All required flow down provisions in the award must be included in any subcontract.

g. Other Direct Costs: Any other items proposed as direct costs. Provide an itemized list with costs and state the basis for each proposed item.

h. Indirect Costs: This will be a cost reimbursable agreement issued under 7 USC § 3319a. By statute, indirect cost rates for cost reimbursable agreements cannot exceed 10%.

o A project narrative that includes the following elements:

• Indicate the name of the institution(s) applying to host the groups;

• Indicate the training topic;

• Provide a tentative training plan based on the training interests listed in the statement of work, including topics to be covered, possible field visits and other activities;

• Please include a narrative description of the proposed training, how it will be administered and the role of faculty and/or support staff;

• Provide a summary of relevant institutional capabilities for hosting international fellows in the applicable topic(s);

• Briefly describe the expertise and international experience of the trainer in the group’s field of interest and various countries;

• Demonstrate understanding of cultural context and needs of the trainees;

• Identify the expected skills or knowledge to be acquired by the fellows at the end of the program;

• Briefly demonstrate flexibility in training plan to account for potential program changes and the ability to respond to unforeseen circumstances;

• Include a quality assurance plan. This should include information on how unforeseen problems that can arise will be addressed;

The SF-424 and SF-424A can be completed within the ezFedGrants platform. However, the other required forms must be downloaded from the Forms sections on Grants.gov or will be sent to you upon request to the program officer(s) named in Section G.

Please be aware that OMB Memorandum 18-24: Strategies to Reduce Grant Recipient Reporting Burden has been approved. Various required forms needed to apply for Federal Financial Assistance no longer need to be completed individually at time of application. They are covered in the Financial Assistance Certifications Report.

Effective January 1, 2020, the Financial Assistance Certifications are a common set of certifications and representations required by Federal statutes or regulations in accordance with the grants guidance under Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR 200.208 Certifications and Representations). Those non-Federal entities who intend to apply for, or are already recipients of Federal grants or agreements, must read and agree to the corresponding certifications and representations. Registrants who reply yes to the questions are required to keep these certifications and representations current, accurate, and complete as part of their entity registration.

FAS will verify in SAM.gov that the proper forms are completed, and if they have not been, you will be contacted and directed to do so. Your award will not be issued until the proper forms are completed within the SAM.gov portal.

Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)

Each applicant is required to:

(i) Be registered in SAM (https://www.sam.gov) before submitting its application;

(ii) Provide a valid DUNS number in its application; and

(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 a Federal awarding agency.

https://www.sam.gov/

The Federal awarding agency may not make an award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable DUNS and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements by the time the Federal awarding agency is ready to make a Federal award, the Federal awarding agency 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.

FAS is using ezFedGrants, which is an electronic grants management system.

Applicant(s) with electronic access are required to submit their applications electronically through the ezFedGrants portal.

Before you can apply, you must have a DUNS number, be registered in SAM, and have access to the ezFedGrants website at https://grants.fms.usda.gov

Applicants are encouraged to register early. The registration process can take approximately four weeks to be completed. Therefore, registration should be done in sufficient time to ensure it does not impact your ability to meet required submission deadlines.

DUNS number. Instructions for obtaining a DUNS number can be found at the following website: http://www.dnb.com/duns-number.html The DUNS number must be included in the data entry field labeled "Organizational DUNS" on the Standard Forms (SF)-424 forms submitted as part of this application.

System for Award Management. In addition to having a DUNS number, applicants applying electronically through ezFedGrants must register with SAM. Step-by-step instructions for registering with SAM can be found here:

www.sam.gov

Failure to register with SAM will result in your application being rejected during the submissions process.

ezFedGrants System Access and Electronic Signature

Level 2 eAuthentication. The next step in the registration process is to obtain a Level 2 eAuthentication account that will allow access to the ezFedGrants system. Instructions for getting a Level 2 eAuthentication account can be obtained by emailing ezFedGrants-cfo@usda.gov

If you experience any issues with self-registration or have eAuthentication-related questions, please contact the eAuthenticationHelpDesk for assistance:

By email to eAuthHelpDesk@usda.gov https://grants.fms.usda.gov/ http://www.dnb.com/duns-number.html http://www.sam.gov/ mailto:ezFedGrants-cfo@usda.gov mailto:ezFedGrants-cfo@usda.gov mailto:eAuthHelpDesk@usda.gov

Requesting a role in ezFedGrants. After obtaining eAuthentication, users will need a role in the system. Descriptions of the roles available and instructions on how to request a role can be obtained by emailing ezFedGrants@cfo.usda.gov.

Electronic Signature. Applications submitted through ezFedGrants constitute a submission as electronically signed applications. When you submit the application through, the name of your Signatory Official on file will be inserted into the signature line of the application.

If you experience difficulties accessing information or have any questions please email the Helpdesk at ezFedGrants-cfo@usda.gov.

Intergovernmental Review An intergovernmental review may be required. Applicant(s) must contact their State’s Single Point of Contact (SPOC) to comply with the State’s process under Executive Order 12372 (https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html) Name and addresses of the SPOCs are maintained at the Office of Managementcd and Budget’s home page at:

https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SPOC-February-2019.pdf

Funding Restrictions Generally, funds may not be used in any manner that is prohibited by 2 CFR Part 200 and 2 CFR Part 400, or the Notice of Funding Opportunity.

Compensation for personal services (whether classified as personnel, contractual services, or any other form) may not exceed the pro-rated equivalent of Step III of the Executive Schedule. For calendar year 2019, this is $176,900 per year; $680.38 per day;

or $85.05 per hour. Non-monetized fringe benefits are generally excluded from this ceiling, however, a federally-negotiated fringe benefits rate agreement may be required if fringe benefits appear to be unusually high.

FAS agreement funds may only be used for the purpose set forth in the award, and must be consistent with the statutory authority for the award. Agreement funds and non-monetary support may not be used for matching contributions for other federal grants or cooperative agreements, lobbying, or intervention in federal regulatory or adjudicatory proceedings. Federal employees are prohibited from serving in any capacity (paid or unpaid) on any proposal submitted under this program. Federal employees may not receive funds under this award. In addition, federal funds may not be used to sue the Federal Government or any other government entity.

These funds cannot be used for construction purposes, general purpose acquisitions (no particular scientific, technical, or programmatic purpose), equipment exceeding $5,000 per item, entertainment, capital improvements, thank you gifts, or other expenses not directly related to the project mailto:ezFedGrants-cfo@usda.gov https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SPOC-February-2019.pdf

This will be a cost reimbursable agreement issued under 7 U.S.C. 3319a. Award recipient’s indirect costs for cost reimbursable agreements are limited to 10% of direct costs.

Management and Administration (M&A) Costs:

M&A costs are not allowable.

Indirect Facilities & Administrative (F&A) Costs.

Indirect F&A costs means those costs incurred for a common or joint purpose benefiting more than one cost objective and not readily assignable to the cost objectives specifically benefited without effort disproportionate to the results achieved. By statute, indirect costs for cost reimbursable agreements cannot exceed 10% of direct costs.

Other Submission Requirements All applications must be submitted electronically as indicated above.

E. Application Review Information

Application Evaluation Criteria Prior to making a Federal award, the Federal awarding agency is required by 31 U.S.C. 3321 and 41 U.S.C. 2313 to review information available through any OMB-designated repositories of government-wide eligibility qualification or financial integrity information. Therefore application evaluation criteria may include the following risk based considerations of the applicant: (1) financial stability; (2) quality of management systems and ability to meet management standards; (3) history of performance in managing federal award; (4) reports and findings from audits; and (5) ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements.

Overall Program (45 points) The overall program plan and design should be relevant to the specified training objectives and fellows’ backgrounds. The program plan should be thorough, well thought out, and will achieve the desired post-program deliverables. Relevant university, organization and/or partner resources should be identified. Additional resources/organizations should be identified as appropriate.

Site visits and meetings should be meaningful to the content of the program. Overall Program will also be reviewed based on host institutions ability to demonstrate flexibility and their quality assurance plan.

Technical Expertise and Experience (35 points) Trainer must have appropriate technical background to provide the desired training. If necessary, other appropriate collaborating scientists and/or experts should be identified to meet any of the objectives which the primary trainer cannot address. Trainer’s experience and knowledge of relevant agricultural conditions within the fellows’ country(ies) or a similar location will be considered as appropriate. Also taken into account is the trainer’s experience with international training and adult education.

Budget (15 points)

The proposed budget should be appropriate for the number of fellows and length of the program.

The budget should include appropriate cost savings where available and narrative should accompany each line item.

Quality (5 points) The overall proposal will be reviewed for overall quality, ensuring that proposal is comprehensive, well thought-out and contains correct spelling and grammar.

Review and Selection Process In all cases, the Program Manager will ensure application is submitted on time as specified in this announcement. Also, the Program Manager will ensure the organization is capable of delivering the program/activities as described in the announcement based on the applicant’s project narrative.

FAS conducts a two-part application review process. The Agency conducts an initial review of applications to determine the responsiveness of the application. If an applicant is determined to be ineligible (see Section C. Eligibility Information) or an application is determined to be non-responsive, FAS will notify the applicant. All responsive and eligible applications will be reviewed as described below:

1. FAS will assemble reviewers which may include both federal and non-federal reviewers to review the eligible applications. Reviews of submitted applications will be conducted either on site or by remote review.

2. Technical reviewers will review each eligible application against the evaluation criteria. The reviewers will assign a score and provide summary comments based on the evaluation criteria identified above. Evaluation Criteria: the evaluation criteria must be directly related to key aspects of the project. The criteria must be measurable with an associated point range. It is a best practice, but not required, that the entire review criteria score range should be out of 100.

3. An application may be selected for a post-review quality control and possible rescoring if it received significantly diverging scores and comments from reviewers.

4. If necessary, a secondary application review process includes an internal review panel consisting of FAS staff, and the selecting official reviewing the recommendation list which will display the highest ranked applications. From this list this internal review panel will make final funding recommendations.

The internal review panel may take applications out of rank order in consideration of strategic program priorities, which are identified below:

a. Geographic distribution

b. Incorporation of minority-serving institutions

c. Institutional capability to host foreign Fellows

d. Pre-existing relationships between FAS and an institution

5. FAS will perform an additional review of the applicant organization which may include reviewing any and/or its key personnel. This review will include reviewing audit reports, publicly available materials and/or government databases and may have a bearing on award outcome. FAS may request additional materials from the applicant as part of this review, including:

• The summary letter from the applicant’s most recent audit report; and

• Documentation of previous grant award completion that includes the name of the grantor, amount awarded, and whether the grant recipient sufficiently completed the requirements of the grant award (e.g., a final close-out report, certification of grant award completion, etc.)

6. After the technical review and before making final funding decisions, FAS may contact the highest-ranking applicants to seek clarification and to negotiate technical and programmatic aspects of the application. If an application includes a sub-awardee, FAS may request to speak with all parties included in the application to ensure sufficient planning and coordination has taken place prior to making an award.

Confidentiality and Conflict of Interest Technical and cost proposals submitted under this funding opportunity will be protected from unauthorized disclosure in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. FAS may use one or more support contractors in the logistical processing of proposals. However, funding recommendations and final award decisions are solely the responsibility of FAS personnel.

FAS screens all technical reviewers for potential conflicts of interest. To determine possible conflicts of interest, FAS requires potential reviewers to complete and sign conflicts of interest and nondisclosure forms. FAS will keep the names of submitting institutions and individuals as well as the substance of the applications confidential except to reviewers and FAS staff involved in the award process. FAS will destroy any unsuccessful applications after three years following the funding decision.

F. Federal Award Administration Information

Notice of Award Notice of award will be given to the institution via email. This email is not an authorization to begin performance. The notice of Federal award, signed by the Deputy Administrator of Global Programs, is the authorizing document through electronic means. It should also indicate if there are any pass-through obligations that successful applicants are required to meet upon receiving award funds, including specific timeline requirements.

Administrative and National Policy Requirements All successful applicants for all grant and cooperative agreements are required to comply with Standard Administrative Terms and Conditions for Federal Assistance Awards, which are on the FAS website at:

https://www.fas.usda.gov/cost-reimbursable-agreements-administrative-general-terms-and-conditions

The applicable Standard Administrative Terms and Conditions will be for the last year specified at that URL, unless the application is to continue an award first awarded in an earlier year. In that event, the terms and conditions that apply will be those in effect for the year in which the award was originally made unless explicitly stated otherwise in subsequent mutually-agreed amendments to the award.

Before accepting the award the Recipient should carefully read the award package for instructions on administering the grant award and the terms and conditions associated with responsibilities under Federal Awards. Recipients must accept all conditions in this NOFO as well as any Special Terms and Conditions in the Notice of Award to receive an award under this program.

Federal Financial Reporting Requirements The Federal Financial Reporting Form (FFR), as known as the SF-425, must be submitted within 30 days of the end of each quarter (ending March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31), and a final report submitted within 90 days of the end of the agreement. The required form is available online at: https://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/download/149786

Program Performance Reporting Requirements Performance Progress Reporting must be submitted within 30 days of the end of each quarter (ending March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31), and a final report submitted within 90 days of the end of the agreement.

Program Expectations

• Ensure that each Fellow completes the Cochran Training Program Evaluation; and

• Development of an Action Plan by each Fellow, in accordance with the Action Plan template. The Action Plan identifies goals and outlines specific steps or activities which each Fellow will perform upon return to their home country. An Action Plan generally includes steps, milestones, measures of progress, responsibilities, assignments, and timeline. The recipient shall provide a copy of each fellow’s Action Plan to the Cochran Fellowship Program.

• A brief final report (format at the discretion of the recipient).

• A pre-training questionnaire to determine Fellows baseline knowledge of the learning objectives. (Template will be provided)

• A post-training questionnaire to determine the knowledge gained in each of the learning objectives. (Template will be provided)

• Analysis of the pre and post training questionnaire. (Template will be provided)

Performance Expectations:

• Provide a thumb drive of the training highlights to each Fellow;

• Ensure that each Fellow completes the Cochran Training Program Evaluation (which will be provided);

https://www.fas.usda.gov/cost-reimbursable-agreements-administrative-general-terms-and-conditions https://www.fas.usda.gov/cost-reimbursable-agreements-administrative-general-terms-and-conditions https://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/download/149786

• Development of an Action Plan by each Fellow. The Action Plan identifies goals and outlines specific steps or activities which each Fellow will perform upon return to home country. An Action Plan generally includes steps, milestones, measures of progress, responsibilities, assignments, and a timeline. The applicant shall provide a copy of each Fellow’s Action Plan to the Cochran Fellowship Program.

• A brief final report (format at the discretion of the applicant).

• A pre-training questionnaire to determine Fellows’ baseline knowledge of the learning objectives. (Template and examples shall be provided upon request)

• A post-training questionnaire to determine the knowledge gained in each of the learning objectives. (Template and examples shall be provided upon request)

• Analysis of the pre- and post-training questionnaire.

• Deliverables are due two weeks after the completion of each training.

• All transportation within the United States, from the point of arrival to the point of departure.

o The host institution is responsible for international airfare of participants.

o Please include baggage fees for any domestic flights.

• Lodging accommodation, in single occupancy.

• Fellows’ subsistence (meals and/or per diem allowance, please add a $5/day supplement for incidentals).

• Implementors should offer appropriate cross-cultural activities for the purpose of sharing language, culture, or history in accordance with J-1 Visa requirements.

• Please note all meetings with Federal Government offices or officials must be initiated by the Fellowship Programs team.

Government Furnished Items:

USDA FAS will provide Fellows with J-1 compliant Emergency Medical Insurance and arrange for DS-2019/J-1 visas for Fellows.

Monitoring FAS through its authorized representatives, has the right, at all reasonable times, to make site visits to review project accomplishments and management control systems and to provide such technical assistance as may be required. During site visits, FAS will review recipients’ files related to the funded program.

As part of any monitoring and program evaluation activities, recipients must permit FAS, upon reasonable notice, to review related records and to interview the organization’s staff and clients regarding the program, and to respond in a timely and accurate manner to FAS requests for information relating to their program.

Close Out Reporting Requirements Within 90 days after the end of the period of performance, or after an amendment has been issued to close out a grant, whichever comes first, recipients must submit a final FFR and final progress report detailing all accomplishments and a qualitative summary of the impact of those accomplishments throughout the period of performance.

If applicable, an inventory of all construction projects that used funds from this program has to be reported using the Real Property Status Report (Standard Form SF 429) available at:

https://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/download/149866

Acceptance of final reports by the agency constitutes a closeout of the award with no further notice or obligation to either party. This acceptance will indicate the period of performance has expired, and any remaining funds will be deobligated. Records must be retained for a minimum of three years after the final reports are submitted, as described in 2 CFR 200.333

The recipient is responsible for returning any funds that have been drawn down or reimbursed but remain as unliquidated on recipient financial records.

G. Awarding Agency Contact Information

Contact and Resource Information:

Giovanna Casas-Reyes; International Program Specialist, Fellowship Program Division Hours of operations: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Eastern Standard Time E-mail address: giovanna.casas-reyes@usda.gov 1400 Independence Ave, SW, Room 6606-S Washington, DC 20250 or

Sean Potts; International Program Specialist, Fellowship Program Division Hours of operations: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Eastern Standard Time E-mail address: sean.potts@usda.gov 1400 Independence Ave, SW, Room 6606-S Washington, DC 20250

Inquiries will be returned within 24 working hours (3 business days). All questions must be received no later than 16 working hours (2 working days) prior to submission deadline, except the point of contact will confirm receipt of proposals upon request.

H. Additional Information

1. Extensions Extensions to this program are allowed. Applicants may request extensions in order to complete all project activities. The request must be submitted 60 days prior to the expiration of the performance period. Requests for extensions are subject to approval.

2. Prior Approval of Pre-Award Costs The Recipient shall not request reimbursement for costs incurred pertaining to the operation of the project, program, or activities prior to the approved project period.

3. Budget Revisions https://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/download/149866 mailto:giovanna.casas-reyes@usda.gov mailto:sean.potts@usda.gov

a. Transfers of funds between direct cost categories in the approved budget when such cumulative transfers among those direct cost categories exceed ten percent of the total budget approved in this Award require prior written approval.

b. The Recipient shall obtain prior written approval for any budget revision that would result in the need for additional resources/funds.

c. The Recipient is not authorized at any time to transfer amounts budgeted for direct costs to the indirect costs line item or vice versa, without prior written approval.

4. Post-award program income In the event program income becomes available to the recipient post-award, it is the recipient’s responsibility to notify the FAS Program Manager to explain how that development occurred, as part of their request for guidance and/or approval. The Program Manager will review approval requests for program income on a case-by-case basis; approval is not automatic. Consistent with the policy and processes outlined in 2 C.F.R. Part 200, pertinent guidance and options, as determined by the type of recipient and circumstances involved, may be approved by the Grant Officer. If approval is granted, an award modification will be issued with an explanatory note in the remarks section of the face page concerning guidance and/or options pertaining to the recipient’s approved recipient’s approved request. All instances of program income shall be listed in the progress and financial reports.