NOFO Kapapahuliau Native Hawaiian Climate Resilience Program.pdf

The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), Interior Business Center (IBC)

Acquisition Services Directorate (AQD) an agent for

Office of Native Hawaiian Relations Kapapahuliau Native Hawaiian Climate Resilience Program

D24AS00098

Table of Contents A. Program Description

A1. Authority

A2. Background, Goal, and Priorities

B. Federal Award Information

B1. Total Funding

B2. Award Amount

B3. Anticipated Award Funding and Dates

B4. Anticipated Number of Awards

B5. Type of Award

C. Eligibility Information

C1. Eligible Applicants

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching

C3. Other

C. Eligibility Information

C1. Eligible Applicants

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching

C3. Other

D. Application and Submission Information

D1. Address to Request Application Package

D2. Content and Form of Application Submission

D3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)

D4. Submission Dates and Times

D5. Intergovernmental Review

D6. Funding Restrictions

E. Application Review Information

E1. Criteria

E2. Review and Selection Process

E3. Anticipated Announcement and Federal Award Dates

F. Federal Award Administration Information

F1. Federal Award Notices

F2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

F3. Reporting Requirements

G. Federal Awarding Agency Contact(s)

G1. Grant/Cooperative Agreement Administrator

G2. Program Administration Contact

G3. Application System Technical Support

H. Other Information

A. Program Description

A1. Authority

This notice is an initial announcement of a funding opportunity administered by the U.S.

Department of the Interior, Office of the Secretary, Interior Business Center, Acquisition Services Directorate (AQD) as part of the U.S. Government Interagency Agreement between the Office of Native Hawaiian Relations (ONHR) and AQD.

Inflation Reduction Act, P.L. 117-169, Title VIII Sec. 80002 Native Hawaiian Climate Resilience, 136 Stat. 2088.

Assistance Listing

15.098 – Native Hawaiian Climate Resilience Program

A2. Background, Goal, and Priorities Background

In Hawaiʻi, sea level rise and ocean acidification have resulted in coastal flooding, erosion, and coral bleaching, causing negative impacts to nearshore fisheries, coastal communities, and traditional Native Hawaiian practices (e.g., salt cultivation and fishpond maintenance).

Increased temperatures have led to coral bleaching and loss of native bird species and caused extensive drought that has exacerbated wildfire potential, increased damage by feral ungulates, caused loss of native plant species, and increased potential for soil erosion.

Extreme weather events have caused extensive flood damage to homes, businesses, roads, and agricultural lands. In addition to these direct effects, climate change impacts in the continental U.S. and elsewhere in the world have led to supply chain disruptions and other economic impacts, policy shifts, immigration, and public health concerns that also affect Hawaiʻi and the Native Hawaiian Community (NHC).

This NOFO draws upon and is intended to be consistent with several White House and Department of the Interior orders and policy directives, including those related to:

• Environmental Justice (E.O. 14096) which acknowledges and seeks to serve the NHC as an underserved and overburdened people in Hawaiʻi;

• Integration of Indigenous Knowledge – OSTP/CEQ Memorandum and Guidance that recognizes Indigenous Knowledge, including ʻIke Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian knowledge), as https://www.congress.gov/117/plaws/publ169/PLAW-117publ169.pdf https://www.congress.gov/117/plaws/publ169/PLAW-117publ169.pdf https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2023-04-26/pdf/2023-08955.pdf https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/111521-OSTP-CEQ-ITEK-Memo.pdf https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/OSTP-CEQ-IK-Guidance.pdf one of the many important bodies of knowledge that contributes to the scientific, technical, social, and economic advancements of the United States and to our collective understanding of the natural world;

• Interagency Memorandum of Understanding for the Protection of Indigenous Sacred Sites which involves the early consideration of the protection and access to Indigenous sacred sites in agency decision-making – including sites considered sacred to the NHC;

• Interagency Memorandum of Agreement on Native Languages which includes the preservation and usage of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) by federal agencies;

and

• The National Climate Resilience Framework, which establishes and articulates a national direction for climate resilience and provides objectives and principles for building a climate-resilient nation.

These policies and directives, coupled with current international, national, and regional climate assessments indicate that resilience through awareness, adaptation, and transformation is necessary in response to the effects of climate change.

Native Hawaiians have long recognized that culture and tradition connect people, families, and the NHC to one another and to the lands, waters, and all environmental manifestations that encompass Hawaiʻinuiākea (the expanse of the Hawaiian archipelago). This understanding has created an important relationship with environmental nuances, processes, and changes, whether localized extreme weather events or larger climatic shifts. Ancestral ingenuity and adaptation in the face of environmental change was memorialized within moʻokūʻauhau (genealogies), moʻolelo and kaʻao (traditions, histories, and stories –often referred to as Indigenous Knowledge).

This knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through traditional cultural practices over many generations, including, but not limited to: food cultivation, the arts, science and observation, voyaging and celestial navigation, language, religion, family care, health and medicine, natural resource conservation, and site preservation. These types of practices connect Native Hawaiians to the natural, physical, and spiritual environment in a manner that requires attention to change and the ability to respond, adapt, and evolve as necessary and appropriate to preserve the integrity of the Community at-large.

As the NHC stands on the front lines of climate impacts, the relationships and knowledge that are held as a collective are integral to achieving and sustaining resilience in the face of climate change. As the late Dr. Noa Emmett Auwae Aluli, MD, once said, “The health of our lands (ʻāina), is the health of our people (kānaka ʻōiwi), is the health of our nation (lāhui).”

Program Goal

To assist the NHC in preparing the Kō Hawaiʻi Paeʻāina (the Hawaiian archipelago) for its voyage into a changing climate, ONHR has established the Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience Program. The name Kapapahuliau seeks to provide the imagery and foundation (papa) of a https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/mou-interagency-coordination-and-collaboration-for-the-protection-of-indigenous-sacred-sites-11-16-2021.pdf https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/mou-interagency-coordination-and-collaboration-for-the-protection-of-indigenous-sacred-sites-11-16-2021.pdf https://www.bia.gov/sites/default/files/dup/assets/as-ia/whcnaa/Native_American_Language_MOA_FINAL.pdf https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/National-Climate-Resilience-Framework-FINAL.pdf voyaging waʻa (canoe) and crew experiencing the changes (huli) in wind and currents over time (au), and adjusting sails or direction accordingly while maintaining a course to the targeted destination. It embodies a process of learning and transforming by recalling Native Hawaiian ancestral ingenuity in adaptation and provides a foundation for the ONHR to support the NHC to learn and take actions to prepare for threats and hazards, adapt to changing conditions, and withstand and recover rapidly from adverse conditions and disruptions.

The goal of ONHR’s Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience Program is to enhance the ability of the Native Hawaiian Community to navigate the effects of climate change in ways that maintain the integrity and identity of the Native Hawaiian people while also maintaining and enhancing their capacity for coping, adaptation, and transformation.

Program Guiding Principles

In compliance with Congress’ requirement in the Inflation Reduction Act (P.L. 117-169, Sec.

80002) to conduct climate resilience and adaptation activities that serve the NHC, Kapapahuliau is centered around the following five Guiding Principles for which actions are carried out to support the overall Program Goal:

• Aloha ʻĀina (love for the land): The Hawaiian Islands and its environment are essential to NHC identity.

Native Hawaiians have lived in Hawaiʻi since time immemorial, developing an epistimology, culture, values, and society rooted by the distinct physical and spiritual relationships to ʻāina (the land, that which sustains) for which they are from. The cosmogonic genealogy and creation chant, Kumulipo (source of primordial darkness), reflects this understanding and anchors Native Hawaiians to Hawaiʻi by emphasizing a familial and reciprocal relationship to this land and its environment - where “Hawaiʻi cares for us as we take care of Hawaiʻi”. For Native Hawaiians, ʻāina is the lifeblood and center of identity, way of life, and culture and, as such, cannot be replicated anywhere else on Earth. Therefore, preservation of the Hawaiian Islands in the face of climate change is essential and vital to the identity of Native Hawaiians and resilience of the NHC.

• Native Hawaiian Organizations (NHO) currently represent the collective NHC.

The United States recognizes and respects that improved outcomes and resolution of challenges affecting the NHC and its resources and interests are best achieved when informed and implemented by the Community itself. Through numerous statutes addressing vital functions, activities, needs, and concerns of a vibrant, self-determining community (e.g., health, cultural preservation, burials, economic development, education, etc.), Congress involved NHOs in their respective areas of expertise as the appropriate representatives of the NHC.

For this funding opportunity, ONHR reinforces this principle of self-determination and values NHOs as best suited to strengthen Native Hawaiian climate resilience. It is further understood that there is considerable diversity among NHOs with respect to their mission, location, relationships with others, and operational or administrative capacity. Therefore, applicant eligibility is limited to NHOs (as defined in Section C below) and three categories of financial assistance are available to support and build capacity among a broad array of NHOs facing climate change related issues.

• Climate threats and impacts require multi-sector and multi-generational approaches.

It is well understood that climate change has resulted in a range of impacts across a multitude of marine and terrestrial environments affecting habitats, resources, and communities within them. These impacts have a broad reaching effect on the NHC and its integrity and will likely intensify (if unmitigated) through the remainder of this century – affecting multiple generations of Native Hawaiians. Better understanding of the multitude of impacts across the Hawaiian Islands, across different sectors, and over different time scales will provide a broader approach for appropriate adaptation and transformational activities to occur. Therefore, project proposals from NHOs involving a range of sectors or subject areas important to Native Hawaiians (e.g., cultural preservation, traditional foods, arts, health and well-being, socio-economic issues, policy, technology, education, etc.), as well as those involving youth engagement, are encouraged.

• Native Hawaiian climate resilience must incorporate cultural knowledge systems and ingenuity.

There is a Hawaiian proverb (ʻōlelo nōʻeau), “Ua lehulehu a manomano ka ʻikena a ka Hawaiʻi – Great and numerous is the knowledge of the Hawaiians”, that reflects the immense multitude of Indigenous Knowledge that exists for Native Hawaiian ways of life. Application and usage of kilo (observations), loea (ancestral ingenuity), and ‘ike kūpuna (traditional knowledge) in the face of environmental change were memorialized within moʻokūʻauhau (genealogies), oli (chants), moʻolelo and kaʻao (traditions, histories, and stories), and other forms of Indigenous Knowledge over centuries across the paeʻāina (Hawaiian archipelago). NHO applicants are therefore expected to utilize such Indigenous Knowledge systems in their project proposals as application and integration ensures pilina (connection), continuity, and resilience of the NHC.

• Kuleana (Right & Responsibility) to advance NHC resilience through dialog and shared learning.

Grant-funded projects are often conducted independently and the results or outcomes of the activity have little dissemination beyond the grantor and grantee. Thus, knowledge gained and lessons learned by the grantee are not readily available to others facing similar circumstances. The ʻōlelo nōʻeau “E lauhoe mai nā waʻa; i ke kā, i ka hoe; i ka hoe, i ke kā; pae aku i ka ʻāina - Paddle the canoes together, bail and paddle, paddle and bail; and land will be reached , is a reminder that if everyone works together with a will, the destination or goal will be reached. Further, this Hawaiian proverb recognizes that the voyage is long and expresses a kuleana for applicants to include shared learning, youth engagement, and/or outreach as a part of their projects in order to increase NHC resilience to climate change. Additionally, opportunities will be created by ONHR for dialog, reporting, and shared learning among Kapapahuliau financial assistance recipients and their participation in such convenings will be required as a condition of award.

Climate Resilience Priorities and Financial Assistance Categories

Within the context of the overarching Program Goal and Guiding Principles, the Kapapahuliau Program has been designed with three (3) Climate Resilience Priorities and three (3) Financial Assistance Categories to support NHOs needing financial assistance to conduct adaptation and/or resilience activities that can have an impact on how the NHC moves into the future with respect to climate change. Given the role the paeʻāina plays in the health and culture of Native Hawaiians, efforts must be focused on or conducted in Hawaiʻi.

The Kapapahuliau Program seeks to support projects from an array of disciplines across all priority areas and financial assistance categories. A description of the Program Priorities and Financial Assistance Categories are provided below.

The Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience Program Priorities are:

1. Coping with Past and Present Climate Change Related Impacts (Coping Response) o Activities eligible for funding may include but are not limited to: repair and recovery of structures or cultural sites, responding to inadvertent discoveries of Native Hawaiian burials in coastal areas (iwi kūpuna), environmental restoration, invasive species removal, endangered species protection, Native Hawaiian youth programs for climate change and Indigenous Knowledge, and mental health care and counseling related to climate impacts.

o Examples of climate change related impacts include such things as: floods, wildfire, coastal erosion, sea-level rise, habitat/ecosystem disruption, extreme heat, and extreme weather events.

2. Adaptation to Climate Change (Adaptation) o Adaptation refers to changes in current understanding and practices in anticipation of, or preparation for, future climate change-related events. It enhances the ability of the NHC to absorb, withstand, respond to, and/or recover rapidly from disturbances linked to extreme weather events and climate hazards. Adaptation is often described as an iterative process involving a cycle of adaptation actions.

o If applying under this Priority, applications should involve one or more of the following actions.

o Increased awareness of, or learning about, climate change via training, workshops, or conferences;

o Risk or vulnerability assessments and planning studies to prepare for climate change impacts;

o Implementation of adaptation plans and strategies through on-site work, youth, and community engagement; and/or o Monitoring and evaluation of past adaptation actions, including research, analysis, and knowledge sharing for new adaptation actions.

3. Creating Opportunities for Innovation, Transformation, and Systemic Change (Transformational) o These types of activities may involve innovation, systemic change, and novel or “out-of-the-box” thinking with respect to addressing climate change impacts to the NHC.

Examples might include, but are not limited to, policy research and analysis, technological advancements, resource management, sustainability, self-governance, co-stewardship, economic opportunities, or health and wellness; as well as Native Hawaiian innovation in culture, arts, media, technology, knowledge, health, energy, or education.

This funding opportunity includes the following three (3) distinct and exclusive financial assistance categories:

1. Kiakahi (Individual NHO) – Named for a single-masted sailing canoe, Kiakahi applicants are those who propose a single project resulting in outcomes that support the applicant and the constituents it serves.

2. ʻAuwaʻa (NHO Collaboration) – Named for a fleet of sailing canoes, ʻAuwaʻa applicants are those that represent a group of identified partners collaborating on a joint project with shared outcomes. The NHO applicant for an ʻAuwaʻa award is considered the lead organization responsible for reporting and cost accounting requirements for the collaborative partnership. Collaborations may be comprised of partner organizations that serve the needs and interests from:

• A particular area [e.g., ahupuaʻa (land tract), moku (district), mokupuni (island)];

• An association of member organizations; and/or

• A particular community of practice [e.g., agriculture, aquaculture, arts, health, etc.].

3. Hoʻokele (NHO Grant-Maker) – Named for the helmsman or navigator of a canoe, Hoʻokele applicants are those who have the administrative capacity and experience to provide financial and technical assistance to sub-recipient NHOs (sub-recipient NHOs must meet the same eligibility requirements as recipient NHOs) from underserved or disadvantaged communities that need assistance but often lack the administrative capacity to be successful in a competitive grant environment. Sub-recipient NHOs may be from:

• A particular area [e.g., ahupuaʻa (land tract), moku (district), mokupuni (island)];

• An association of member organizations; and/or

• A particular community of practice [e.g., agriculture, aquaculture, arts, health, etc.].

Using the visualization of a grid of intersecting Climate Resilience Priorities and Financial Assistance Categories, nine (9) different options for project proposals can be considered. These options and a few examples are provided for reference below:

1. Kiakahi / Coping Response:

• An NHO that stewards a cultural site repairing damage caused by a recent storm event.

2. Kiakahi / Adaptation:

• A Hawaiian Homestead Association conducting a vulnerability assessment and adaptation plan for their homestead.

3. Kiakahi / Transformational:

• An NHO involved in technology development exploring generative artificial intelligence applications for climate resilience related Indigenous Knowledge preservation.

4. ʻAuwaʻa / Coping Response:

• An NHO-led partnership of Native Hawaiian social and health care providers offering counseling and mental health assistance to a particular island or region affected by a climate-related impact such as drought, fire, or floods.

5. ʻAuwaʻa / Adaptation:

• An association of youth-oriented NHOs involved in educating Native Hawaiian youth on traditional agriculture, invasive species threats, food & water security, and participating in volunteer program to enhance cultivation and eradicate invasive species affecting their food crops.

6. ʻAuwaʻa / Transformational:

• A collaboration of NHOs conducting policy research to further the establishment of community-based resource management areas to better conserve and protect key subsistence foods and cultural resources.

7. Hoʻokele / Coping Response:

• An NHO with grant-making capacity and expertise in post-disaster recovery seeking to support NHO in the affected area(s) with restoration and redevelopment actions that address Native Hawaiian social, cultural, knowledge, and economic interests.

8. Hoʻokele / Adaptation:

• An NHO with grant-making capacity and expertise in coastal habitats and shoreline processes seeking to support NHO sub-recipients needing training and technical assistance to monitor the effects of sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and coral bleaching on the areas and resources they work with.

9. Hoʻokele / Transformational:

• An NHO with grant-making capacity and expertise in indigenous knowledge and epistemology seeking to support NHOs involved in Native Hawaiian primary and secondary education curriculum development to preserve cultural traditions and explore knowledge creation as climate change affects Hawaiʻi and its resources.

B. Federal Award Information

B1. Total Funding Estimated Total Funding $20,000,000

B2. Award Amount Maximum Award Category 1: Kiakahi (Individual) – $1,000,000 Category 2: ʻAuwaʻa (Collaborative) – $2,000,000 Category 3: Hoʻokele (Grant-Maker) – $ 5,000,000

Minimum Award Category 1: Kiakahi (Individual) – $100,000 Category 2: ʻAuwaʻa (Collaborative) – $500,000 Category 3: Hoʻokele (Grant-Maker) – $ 2,000,000

B3. Anticipated Award Funding and Dates Anticipated Award Date August 1, 2024

B4. Anticipated Number of Awards Expected Number of Awards Category 1: Kiakahi (Individual) – 6 - 10 (Estimated Average Award: $500,000) Category 2: ʻAuwaʻa (Collaborative) – 6 - 10 (Estimated Average Award: $1,000,000) Category 3: Hoʻokele (Grant-Maker) – 3 (Estimated Average Award: $3,500,000)

B5. Type of Award Funding Instrument Type G – Grants (for Categories 1 and 2 / Kiakahi and ʻAuwaʻa awards). Substantial involvement is not expected between the ONHR and the recipient when carrying out the activities contemplated in the agreement.

CA – Cooperative Agreements (for Category 3 / Hoʻokele awards) The recipient should expect the ONHR to have substantial involvement in the project. Prior to submitting an application, applicants are encouraged to contact prospective NHO sub-recipients where the work is proposed to take place to discuss proposed projects in order to determine eligibility under the ONHR priorities and criteria described in this NOFO. Substantial involvement may include, but not be limited to, such things as:

1. Collaboration between the ONHR and applicant/primary recipient in carrying out management, development, implementation, operation, monitoring and evaluation of the proposed work;

2. Training and technical assistance for sub-recipient personnel;

3. Review and approval by the ONHR of one stage of work prior to the start of the next stage;

4. Review and approval by the ONHR of modifications or sub-awards prior to their award;

5. Participation in selecting recipient project staff; and/or

6. Ability to immediately halt work because of failure to meet agreement objectives.

B6. Funding Limitations and Award Amounts

The funding periods and amounts referenced in this solicitation are subject to the availability of funds at the time of award, as well as the DOI priorities at the time of the award. Publication of this solicitation does not obligate DOI to award any specific grant or to obligate all or any part of available funds. Future funding is subject to the availability of appropriations and cannot be guaranteed. DOI may cancel or withdraw this solicitation at any time.

C. Eligibility Information

C1. Eligible Applicants Eligible Applicants 25 – Others (see text field entitled “Additional Information on Eligibility” for clarification)

Additional Information on Eligibility For this financial assistance opportunity, applicants for all Financial Assistance Categories (Kiakahi, ʻAuwaʻa, and Hoʻokele) must meet the following definition of, and criteria for, a “Native Hawaiian Organization.”

“Native Hawaiian Organization” or “NHO” means a non-profit organization — (A) that principally serves or benefits the Native Hawaiian Community, (B) that is composed primarily of Native Hawaiians, who also control or serve in substantive leadership and decision-making roles; and (C) that has demonstrated expertise in Native Hawaiian heritage, economic development, health and well-being, self-governance, or natural and cultural resources management. Native Hawaiian Community means the distinct Native Hawaiian indigenous political community that Congress, exercising its plenary power over Native American affairs, has recognized and with which Congress has implemented a special political and trust relationship. Native Hawaiian means any individual who is a descendant of the aboriginal people who, prior to 1778, occupied and exercised sovereignty in the area that now constitutes the State of Hawai‘i.

All applicants are required to include in their application submission, per Section D. below, an attestation or certification signed by a duly authorized NHO representative (such as the Executive Director, CEO, or Board of Directors) acknowledging that the NHO meets the definition and criteria of an NHO specified above. For Category 2 (ʻAuwaʻa) and 3 (Hoʻokele) awardees, all partners NHOs and subawardees, respectively must indicate and include such an attestation.

Registration or placement on the List of NHOs maintained by ONHR is not a pre-requisite or requirement for submitting an application, nor does it confer eligibility as an NHO in lieu of the attestation or certification per Section D.

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement Cost sharing, as in matching funds for the project provided by other sources other than this grant, is not required for this funding announcement. Any voluntary cost sharing or matching does not impact application review and evaluation and must be consistent with the requirements of 2 CFR 200.306.

C3. Other Excluded Parties: AQD conducts a review of the SAM.gov Exclusions database for all applicant entities and their key project personnel prior to award. AQD cannot award funds to entities or their key project personnel identified in the SAM.gov Exclusions database as ineligible, prohibited/restricted or otherwise excluded from receiving federal contracts, certain subcontracts, and certain federal assistance and benefits, as their ineligibility condition applies to this federal program.

C. Eligibility Information

C1. Eligible Applicants Eligible Applicants 25 – Others (see text field entitled “Additional Information on Eligibility” for clarification)

Additional Information on Eligibility For this financial assistance opportunity, applicants for all Financial Assistance Categories (Kiakahi, ʻAuwaʻa, and Hoʻokele) must meet the following definition of, and criteria for, a “Native Hawaiian Organization.”

“Native Hawaiian Organization” or “NHO” means a non-profit organization — (A) that principally serves or benefits the Native Hawaiian Community, (B) that is composed primarily of Native Hawaiians, who also control or serve in substantive leadership and decision-making roles; and (C) that has demonstrated expertise in Native Hawaiian heritage, economic development, health and well-being, self-governance, or natural and cultural resources management. Native Hawaiian Community means the distinct Native Hawaiian indigenous political community that Congress, exercising its plenary power over Native American affairs, has recognized and with which Congress has implemented a special political and trust relationship. Native Hawaiian means any individual who is a descendant of the aboriginal people who, prior to 1778, occupied and exercised sovereignty in the area that now constitutes the State of Hawai‘i.

All applicants are required to include in their application submission, per Section D. below, an attestation or certification signed by a duly authorized NHO representative (such as the Executive Director, CEO, or Board of Directors) acknowledging that the NHO meets the definition and criteria of an NHO specified above. For Category 2 (ʻAuwaʻa) and 3 (Hoʻokele) awardees, all partners NHOs and subawardees, respectively must indicate and include such an attestation.

Registration or placement on the List of NHOs maintained by ONHR is not a pre-requisite or requirement for submitting an application, nor does it confer eligibility as an NHO in lieu of the attestation or certification per Section D.

C2. Cost Sharing or Matching Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement Cost sharing, as in matching funds for the project provided by other sources other than this grant, is not required for this funding announcement. Any voluntary cost sharing or matching does not impact application review and evaluation and must be consistent with the requirements of 2 CFR 200.306.

C3. Other Excluded Parties: AQD conducts a review of the SAM.gov Exclusions database for all applicant entities and their key project personnel prior to award. AQD cannot award funds to entities or their key project personnel identified in the SAM.gov Exclusions database as ineligible, prohibited/restricted or otherwise excluded from receiving federal contracts, certain subcontracts, and certain federal assistance and benefits, as their ineligibility condition applies to this federal program.

D. Application and Submission Information

This Notice of funding REQUIRES registration in SAM.gov and Grants.gov. DO NOT WAIT! Register in SAM.gov and Grants.gov as soon as possible. Finalizing these registrations could take a month or more. You do not want a late registration to prevent you from being able to properly and timely submit your application through Grants.gov.

Additional information about the SAM.gov Unique Entity Identifier is included in section D3 below.

D1. Address to Request Application Package For more information, visit the Office of Native Hawaiian Relations website at:

www.doi.gov/hawaiian/climate-resilience or contact Brad Kaʻaleleo Wong, Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience Project Manager at: bradley_wong@ios.doi.gov.

D2. Content and Form of Application Submission

All applicants seeking financial assistance in one of the three categories in this funding opportunity (Kiakahi, ʻAuwaʻa, or Hoʻokele) are required to submit the following forms and mailto:bradley_wong@ios.doi.gov documents in accordance with the instructions provided below. Please review this section carefully, especially for ʻAuwaʻa and Hoʻokele applicants, as there are “Additional Requirements” for the Project Narrative and Budget Justification and Narrative.

Application Forms and Documents:

• Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424)

• Project Abstract Summary (OMB Form #4040-0019)

• Project Narrative

• Additional Project Narrative Requirements for ʻAuwaʻa Applicants

• Additional Project Narrative Requirements for Hoʻokele Applicants

• Budget Justification and Narrative

• Additional Budget Narrative Requirements for ʻAuwaʻa Applicants

• Additional Budget Narrative Requirements for Hoʻokele Applicants

• Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs (SF-424A)

• Attestation or Documentation Confirming Eligibility

• Certification Regarding Lobbying

• SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL)

• Conflict of Interest Disclosure

• Partnership Letters of Commitment (ʻAuwaʻa applicants only)

• Letters of Support (Optional)

• Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement

• Single Audit Reporting Statement

• Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement

All applications for financial assistance under this funding opportunity must be submitted through Grants.gov. All standardized forms (SF-424, OMB Form #4040-0019, etc.) are available in Grants.gov, SF-424 Family | GRANTS.GOV.

The Project Cover Sheet, Project Narrative, and any supporting documents shall be saved in an Adobe Acrobat .pdf file format and submitted electronically through the Grants.gov website no later than the submittal deadline noted in Section D4. See Section G for additional details regarding application submission and Grants.gov registration.

Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424)

Applicants must submit the appropriate Standard Form (SF)-424, Application for Federal Assistance. The required application forms are available with this announcement on Grants.gov.

The SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance must be completed, signed, and dated. Do not include any proprietary or personally identifiable information. Please note: Enter only the amount requested from this Federal program in the “Federal” funding box on the SF-424 Application form. Include any other federal sources of funding in the “Other” box and provide details on those federal source(s) and funding amount(s) in the required Budget Narrative (see the “Budget Narrative” section below).

Project Abstract Summary (OMB Form #4040-0019) https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html https://omb.report/omb/4040-0019 https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms/sf-424-family.html https://grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family http://www.grants.gov/

Please complete and submit with your application package the Project Abstract Summary Form (OMB Form #4040-0019). The Project Abstract section should summarize the project purpose, activities to be performed, expected deliverables or outcomes, intended beneficiaries, and if applicable, any sub-recipient activities. Please also include the intended Kapapahuliau program priority/priorities being addressed and the award category you will be applying for. This information will be transmitted to USAspending.gov and be viewable by the public for successful applicants receiving funding awards.

Project Narrative

Project Cover Sheet (Not to exceed 1 page)

1. Project Title

2. Native Hawaiian Organization applicant name

3. Financial Assistance Category sought (Section A2. Kiakahi, ʻAuwaʻa, or Hoʻokele)

4. Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience Program Priority(s) being addressed (Section A2.)

5. Project Partner Organizations (ʻAuwaʻa applicants only)

6. Project Duration (May not exceed 60 months)

7. Budget Summary: Total federal funds requested, total project cost, and cost-sharing (if applicable, although not necessary)

8. Project Location(s) in Hawaiʻi

Project Summary, Goals, and Objectives

1. Describe the project location(s) in Hawaiʻi and the audience the project is seeking to assist, demonstrating the needs of that area and audience for this project. Share any information about relevant history or any changes that have occurred over time as it relates to climate change. Include any relevant maps.

2. Summarize the purpose and overall mission of the project.

3. Describe the project’s goals and objectives and how they align with the specific

Kapapahuliau Program Priority being addressed. The project goals and objectives must be specific, measurable, and realistic (attainable within the project’s proposed project period). Please refer to “Project Monitoring and Evaluation” section below for expectations on using these goals.

4. Explain how the project’s outcomes will address the overall goal of Kapapahuliau to increase resilience of the NHC to the effects of climate change.

5. Describe how Native Hawaiian cultural knowledge systems, practices, methodologies, or ways of knowing are integrated into the project to address the current challenges of climate change and/or provides support for resilience. This can be integrated into project aspects as a part of the foundation of program design/structure, content, education, research, implementation of activities, and/or other processes.

6. Describe shared learning, youth engagement, and/or outreach with community conducted as a part of the project, and how it assists in supporting NHC resilience to climate change.

Additionally describe any external sharing and communication beyond the primary audience.

Workplan, Project Activities

1. Prepare a work plan in the form of a timeline which includes proposed project activities that relate to the overall project goals. Include all relevant milestones and outcomes. The proposed project activities description must be detailed enough for reviewers to make a clear connection between the proposed activities and the project costs. Activities are the specific actions to be undertaken to fulfill the project objectives and reach the project goal(s).

2. Include any resulting tables, spreadsheets, or flow charts within the body of the project narrative (do not include as separate attachments). The timetable should not propose specific dates but instead group activities by months for each month over the entire proposed project period. As a reminder, the project duration may not exceed 60 months.

Project Monitoring and Evaluation Project Evaluation here is defined as the systematic collection and documentation of information about your project’s outcomes in order to improve the project’s effectiveness, guide judgments about its impact, and/or inform decisions about future programming or funding.

1. Prepare a monitoring and evaluation plan for the project. Building on the stated project goals and the priorities of Kapapahuliau, describe how the project/program will assess its goals and how the evaluation plan will be implemented. Evaluation plans may be quantitative and/or qualitative and may include evaluation tools, pre- and post tests, and/or surveys. Include or describe any available questionnaires, surveys, or other assessment tools to be used for project evaluation. Describe how findings will be fed back into decision making and project activities throughout the project period.

Qualifications

1. Summarize any previous or on-going efforts by your NHO (or other organizations or individuals associated with your NHO) that demonstrates the NHO’s capacity for conducting the activities or tasks identified in the proposed work. Explain the successes or challenges of past efforts and how your proposed project builds on or overcomes them.

2. Provide a description to show that your NHO is understanding of the issues of climate change, and its impact on the Native Hawaiian Community.

3. Identify (name and title/position) and provide resumes for all key NHO personnel who will be conducting work on the proposed project and their respective roles and responsibilities.

4. Identify any contractors and/or outside subject matter experts (not part of your NHO) who will be working with your NHO on this project and describe their respective roles and responsibilities to enhance the project.

Site Access/Control and Federal Environmental & Historic Preservation Compliance (Required for Kiakahi and ʻAuwaʻa applicants only -- Ho’okele applicants may skip to “Additional Project Narrative Requirement for Hoʻokele Applicants”)

1. If the proposed project is location dependent and involves environmental restoration work or focused on traditional cultural practices at a particular site, provide relevant information and supporting documentation to demonstrate your NHO’s property ownership, lease, permit, or authorization from the property owner to provide access and conduct project activities.

2. In addition, and in order to comply with federal regulations [e.g., National Environmental Policy Act, Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)], please answer “Federal Natural and Cultural Resource Compliance Questions” listed below. If applicable, indicate if any federal compliance actions have been completed/attained prior, and attach any supporting documentation.

3. Federal Natural and Cultural Resource Compliance Questions – Please include answers to the following questions:

a. Additional information on project location: Please provide Moku, ahupuaʻa, address, TMKs, current landowner(s)

b. Is this project currently funded by another federal award? If yes, provide any relevant information.

c. Will the project directly involve environmental restoration, cultural site restoration, or ground disturbing activities (e.g., excavation, land clearing, grubbing, grading, invasive plant removal, native planting, etc.)? If so:

i. Describe those locations, activities, and methods. Please be specific;

ii. Describe whether there is a potential to disturb endemic or native wildlife, habitats, or other important natural or cultural resources;

iii. Describe any best practices that have been taken to prevent or reduce disturbance or damage to resources. (Examples could include following an approved restoration plan, following specific best management practices, operating under supervision of a knowledgeable, trained leader, having only authorized people use power equipment, notifying experts of any special finds or circumstances that arise, etc.).

iv. Will project activities occur on federally-designated critical habitat for threatened/endangered species? Or are there known threatened/endangered species that frequent the project site?

v. If applicable, are there any Native Hawaiian burial plans associated with the site?

vi. Does the project involve activities at a known historic site(s) listed or eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places or are there Hawaiian traditional cultural properties/wahi pana located within the project area or nearby? If so, are there any known archaeological studies or surveys that have been completed for the site?

vii. Are you aware of any previous correspondence with the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) regarding the land parcel(s)? (Yes, No, I don’t know

Additional Project Narrative Requirements for ʻAuwaʻa Applicants

ʻAuwaʻa applicants are considered as lead NHO representing the collaborative partnership and will be responsible for overall performance, cost accounting, reimbursement, and reporting for partner organizations. In addition to the information provided in the Project Narrative described above, all ʻAuwaʻa applicants are required to provide the following information as part of their Project Narratives:

Partner Organization Roles and Responsibilities

1. Identify all partner organizations that comprise the ʻAuwaʻa application.

2. Describe the roles and responsibilities of each partner organization.

3. Describe activities to be conducted by each partner organization and how the outputs or results of such activities contribute to the overall goals and objectives of the project.

Partner Organization Coordination and Oversight

1. Describe how coordination among partner organizations will occur and how monitoring and oversight will be provided to ensure that the overall project goals and objectives are achieved.

2. Include in the description plans for troubleshooting, technical assistance, or other corrective actions to ensure that the overall project milestones are being met.

Additional Project Narrative Requirements for Hoʻokele Applicants

In addition to the information provided in the Project Narrative described above, all Hoʻokele applicants are required to provide the following information as part of their Project Narratives:

Additional Workplan and Activities Information:

1. Describe in detail the organization’s plans for a sub-granting process. At a minimum, this shall include:

a. Application process for financial assistance;

b. Accounting and oversight of sub-grant process and sub-awards;

c. Sub-recipient compliance with federal accounting, conflict of interest, and lobbying requiremment; and

d. Grant management and performance reporting.

Additional Qualifications Information

1. Describe your organization’s capacity and plans for providing technical assistance to sub-recipients.

2. If applicable, describe the organization’s familiarity and ability to fulfill federal regulations compliance [e.g., National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)].

3. Describe your organization’s experience working on climate change related issues affecting the geography or topical area of interest, including but not limited to: sea-level rise; marine and terrestial temperature change; extreme weather events (e.g. flooding, wildfire, drought, etc.); socio-economic impacts; and human health impacts.

4. Qualifications and Relevant Work Experience in Providing Community Funding:

a. Description of current or past work experience in administering a grant funding program in the respective region/area of interest.

b. Demonstration of robust contact and relationships with the NHC and related organizations within the geography/community of interest. This may include the number of NHOs in a cooperative or partnership; the diversity of subject matters affected by climate change; in-reach to relevant NHOs who understand the needs of their respective community.

c. Identify (name and title/position) all key NHO personnel who will be conducting work on the proposed project and their respective roles and responsibilities.

Budget Narrative and Justification Itemized Budget Narrative Proposal

1. Provide an itemized budget narrative (preferably in an Excel spreadsheet) on all cost categories clearly identifying all estimated project costs. The budget narrative should describe the total funding needed to accomplish the objectives described in the project narrative, accounting for all costs within the entire award period. These budget items should further align with the Work Plan tasks and other project activities identified in the Project Narrative. Cost categories can include, but are not limited to, the object classes included on the SF-424A: Personnel, Fringe Benefits, Travel with estimation methodology and justification, Equipment (generally items over $5,000), Supplies, contractual costs with a description of procurement method, and Other. These Object Classes are described in the Form Instructions document available on grants.gov. The sum of funds requested under these Object Classes should be described as Total Direct Costs. Unit costs shall be provided for all budget items including the cost of work to be provided by contractors, partner organizations, or sub-recipients. The budget narrative submitted with the final application should match the dollar amounts included on all required standard forms.

Budget Justification

1. In addition, applicants must include an accompanying budget justification which explains how each categorical cost in the Budget Narrative is derived and with sufficient detail to enable reviewers to determine if costs are 'allowable and reasonable' according to the cost principles referenced in 2 CFR 200, Subpart E. Reviewers will evaluate project costs by reviewing your budget narrative.

Required Grantee Travel and Attendance at an Annual Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience Program Grantee Meeting Grantees will be required to have one to two individuals who work directly on the project attend an in-person annual DOI/ONHR-sponsored grantee 3-day meeting in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi during each year of their grant award. Tentatively, annual meetings will be convened during the month of August with the inaugural meeting in 2025. Grantees with multi-year awards will be required to attend the annual meeting for each year of their award period of performance.

1. Applicants must include costs in the budget to cover this requirement.

2. Travel costs must not exceed $2,500 per person per annual conference.

3. Applicants should follow their own travel policies to budget for this 3-day meeting.

4. Additional funds for these expenses will not be available once grant is awarded.

5. In the event the meeting is converted to a virtual meeting due to timing or if there is a venue change, any unexpended funds may be repurposed in the grant with proper grant approvals.

Additional Information on Budget Requirements

1. The costs required for organizational operation that cannot be easily associated with an individual project or program should be described as Indirect Costs. Organizations with a federally Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) should include a copy of the approved NICRA in Supplemental Materials.

2. Organizations without a NICRA may claim the 10% de minimis rate for calculating indirect charges on the Modified Total Direct Costs (see 2 C.F.R. 200.1 for definitions).

Refer to Section D6 of this announcement for more information about indirect costs.

These totals should also be recorded on the SF-424A.

3. Award costs shall be organized by fiscal year. If Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience funding will be used to complete part of a larger project, a budget overview for the entire project should be provided to demonstrate how the Kapapahuliau Climate Resilience funding request relates to the overall project budget and is needed for successful project implementation.

4. ONHR will review budget information in recommended applications to determine if costs are allowable, allocable, reasonable, necessary, and realistic. If available, submit budget estimate supporting documentation such as quotes, estimating methodology, historical costs, screen shots of commercial pricing, and copies of contractual agreements.

5. If a project has been submitted for funding consideration elsewhere, the amount(s) requested or secured from other funding sources, and whether the funds requested/secured are federal or non-federal, should be included. Applicants must indicate if federal funds, non-federal funds, or a combination of both are being used as a match or leverage. Please see the “Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement” below for additional information and requirements.

Additional Budget Narrative Requirements for ʻAuwaʻa Applicants

• As stated previously, ʻAuwaʻa applicants are considered as lead NHO representing the collaborative partnership and will be responsible for overall performance, cost accounting, reimbursement, and reporting for partner organizations.