NOFO RELO Manila AI Policy US Exchange_Q and A.docx

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) English Language Exchange Programs: AI and Educational Technology Integration – Q&A

U.S. Department of State, U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, Public Diplomacy Section

Opportunity number: OFOP0003244

Q: Which currency should be used for the budget submission? The NOFO mentions both U.S. dollars and Philippine pesos.

A: Applicants should submit all budget information exclusively in U.S. dollars (USD). The reference to Philippine pesos is a standard template error and does not apply to U.S. based applicants. Organizations in the Philippines must convert any Philippine peso estimates to USD.

Q: Are grantees required to disburse funds directly to program participants? Can meal plans or transit passes be provided instead of direct per diem?

A: Yes, the implementing organization must disburse funds to participants. Providing meal plans or transit passes (such as an OMNY card) is acceptable. However, funds for incidentals and pre departure expenses (such as visa fees and local travel) must still be disbursed directly to participants. This is typically handled using prepaid cards. A mix of direct disbursement and provided services is allowed.

Q: Does RELO Manila have established contacts at SXSW EDU for the exchange program?

A: No official discussions have occurred between RELO Manila and SXSW EDU regarding this exchange. The selected implementing organization must contact SXSW EDU directly to arrange group rates and coordinate program options.

Q: Can a U.S. based 501(c)(3) apply as the prime applicant and partner with an international exchange organization as a subrecipient to handle J1 visa processing, DS 2019 issuance, participant travel, and Fly America Act compliance?

A: Yes, this partnership structure is allowed. The proposal and budget must clearly define the roles, responsibilities, and associated costs for both the prime applicant and the subrecipient.

Q: Is direct experience administering a U.S. government grant a strict eligibility requirement? Can capacity be demonstrated through a subrecipient and financial management personnel?

A: Direct prior experience is not an absolute requirement. The merit review panel evaluates the overall professional capacity to direct the program. Applicants can demonstrate this capacity through the combined expertise of their financial management personnel and the track record of their subrecipient.

Q: The NOFO requests email submission, but the Grants.gov listing references Grants.gov. How should applications be submitted?

A: Complete application packages should ideally be submitted directly via email to RELOManila@state.gov. This ensures all proposal information is consolidated. While the Grants.gov workspace will be monitored, email submission is highly preferred.

Q: Where are the current fillable versions of the SF 424 forms located?

A: Fillable versions of the SF 424 series forms are available for download on Grants.gov. They can be found under the "Forms" tab on the main menu or within the "Package" tab of the specific funding opportunity listing.

Q: What information must be included in the required security package?

A: The security package must include a clear plan demonstrating how participant safety will be managed during the program. This document must outline emergency response protocols, crisis communication steps, plans for safety orientations (both pre departure and upon arrival), and procedures for health monitoring and regular participant check ins. Effective and reliable communication with participants is a critical requirement of this plan.

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