oppBH200-18-GR-200-WHA-cfda19.750-cidBH200-18-GR-200-WHA-instructions.docx

Notice of Funding Opportunity Strengthening Civil Society and Civil Servant Capacity through Partnership

Catalog of Federal Domestic

Issuance Date: April 6, 2018

Deadline for Receipt of Questions: May 10, 2018 at 5:00 PM local time

Deadline for Submission of Applications: June 4, 2018 at 11:59 PM local time

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The U.S. Embassy in Belmopan, Belize announces a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to strengthen democratic governance through capacity building for civil society organizations and civil servants through partnership in Belize with up to $1,261,666 USD in FY 2017 Economic Support Funds (ESF). The anticipated start date for successful proposals is September 28, 2018. U.S. Embassy Belmopan anticipates funding up to five awards between the amount of $200,000 and $400,000 USD for this NOFO.

The Embassy seeks proposals that strengthen civil society’s capacity and role in the governance process, and/or strengthen civil service capacity at all levels of government. Proposals should be oriented toward civil society organizations working with national and/or local government, particularly in vulnerable and/or marginalized communities. Proposals should detail how each planned activity will incorporate principles of accountability in all substantive areas, processes, and procedures.

The overall goal of this NOFO is to support democracy and governance efforts in Belize. Funding awarded under this NOFO cannot be used for law enforcement or to train members of law enforcement. Applicants should address one or more of the following project objectives:

1) To strengthen civil society organizations and civil servants’ knowledge and skills to develop policies/procedures aimed at reducing corruption and impunity or improved accountability. Proposals should be oriented towards enhancing the capacity of civil servants at all levels of government or that of individuals within civil society organizations to effect legislative and legal reforms to reduce impunity, advocate for change and/or improve government transparency.

OR

2) To increase and enhance civil society and government partnership to improve service delivery and accountability. Proposals should be oriented towards activities by civil society organizations working with national and/or local government, particularly in vulnerable and/or marginalized communities, to improve governance systems.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan invites qualified U.S. non-profit/non-governmental organizations (NGOs) having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS or overseas-based NGOs, U.S. and overseas-based public and private institutions of higher education, and public international organizations to apply.

U.S. Embassy Belmopan reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for the award. The authority for this NOFO is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.

Eligible organizations interested in submitting an application are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of project sought and the application submission requirements and evaluation process.

For further information, please contact:

U.S. Embassy Belmopan; BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov; +501.822.4011 x4371

NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

U.S. Embassy Belmopan is seeking applications from U.S. non-profit/non-governmental organizations (NGOs) having a 501 (c)(3) status with the IRS, overseas-based non-profit/non-governmental organizations, institutions of higher education, and public international organizations (PIOs) for a grant to implement a program entitled “Strengthening Civil Society and Civil Servant Capacity through Partnership.” The authority for this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) is found in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended. Applications are due on June 4th, 2018.

Pursuant to 2 CFR 200.400g, it is U.S. Department of State policy not to award profit under assistance instruments. All reasonable, allocable, and allowable expenses, however, both direct and indirect, that are related to the agreement and are in accordance with applicable cost standards (2 CFR 200 for U.S. - and overseas-based non-profit organizations, and universities; the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 31 48 CFR 31.2 for-profit organizations; and the Mandatory Standard Provision “Allowable Costs (APR 2011)” for public international organizations), may be paid under the grant agreement. NOTE: overseas-based nonprofit organizations are legally required to comply with the 2 CFR 200.

Subject to the availability of funds, U.S. Embassy Belmopan intends to issue three to five awards in an amount not to exceed $1,261,666 USD. Each award will be for an amount between $200,000 and $400,000 USD. The U.S. dollar amount will be funded from U.S. Embassy Belmopan allocated funds, for a project period not to exceed two years. The anticipated start date for this activity is September 28, 2018. U.S. Embassy Belmopan reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted and will determine the resulting level of funding for the award.

Eligible organizations interested in submitting an application are encouraged to read this NOFO thoroughly to understand the type of project sought and the application submission requirements and technical review process.

To be eligible for this award, the applicant must submit all required information in its application through Grants.gov (http://www.grants.gov), including the requirements found in any attachments to this Grants.gov opportunity. (Please contact Grants.gov for Applicant Support at 1-800-518-4726 and support@grants.gov with any submission problems. If applicant has persistent problems submitting through Grants.gov and Grants.gov Applicant Support cannot solve the issue, please email your submission to BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov and include a screen shot of the issue on Grants.gov with any additional details. Emailed submissions will be considered on a select basis depending on the Grants.gov submission issues noted.)

This NOFO consists of this cover letter and the following Sections:

This funding opportunity is posted on Grants.gov and may be amended. See Section IV for further details. Potential applicants should regularly check the website to ensure they have the latest information pertaining to this NOFO. Applicants will need to have available or download the Adobe software program in order to view and save the Adobe forms properly. If you have difficulty registering on Grants.gov or accessing the NOFO, please contact the Grants.gov helpdesk at 1-800-518-4726 or via email at support@grants.gov for technical assistance.

It is the responsibility of the recipient of this NOFO document to ensure that it has been received from Grants.gov in its entirety. U.S. Embassy Belmopan bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes associated with electronic submissions. The deadline for submission of applications is June 4, 2018, 11:59 PM local time.

Submit any questions concerning this NOFO in writing to BelmopanCARSIESF@state.gov. The deadline for submission of questions for this NOFO is May 10, 2018, 5:00 PM local time. Responses to questions will be made available to all potential applicants through an additional document posted on Grants.gov.

Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of an application. In addition, final award of any resultant grant agreement cannot be made until funds have been fully appropriated, allocated, and committed through internal U.S. Embassy Belmopan procedures. While it is anticipated that these procedures will be successfully completed, potential applicants are hereby notified of these requirements and conditions for award. Applications are submitted at the risk of the applicant. All preparation and submission costs are at the applicant's expense.

Sincerely, Adrienne M. Galanek Chargé d'Affaires, a.i.

NOFO Number: BH200-18-GR-200-WHA Strengthening Civil Society and Civil Servant Capacity through Partnership

SECTION I – FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND

A secure and stable Central America contributes to a safer and more prosperous United States. Through the U.S. Strategy for Central America (Strategy), of which the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) is a component, U.S. assistance seeks to secure U.S. borders and protect U.S. citizens by addressing the security, governance, and economic drivers of illegal immigration and illicit trafficking, and to promote fair and reciprocal trade in Central America. To promote improved governance, U.S. assistance supports anti-corruption efforts that improve the ease of doing business; strengthens the rule of law; promotes strong institutions and government accountability; reduces impunity; and improves fiscal management by promoting efficient tax collection, civil society engagement, and institutional reform. The Strategy enhances the capabilities of government entities and civil society organizations to build more accountable, transparent, and effective public institutions. CARSI Economic Support Fund (ESF) small grants, such as this opportunity, provide programming to strengthen civil society’s role in improving governance and support a professional, non-partisan civil service.

The Results Architecture (TAB E) is the basis of U.S. government monitoring and evaluation for the Strategy by the U.S. interagency. The Results Architecture is organized according to the Strategy’s three primary objectives (Prosperity, Governance, and Security) and corresponding sub-objectives, and is the primary tool for tracking results, outcomes, and specific indicators, including for CARSI. The Governance sub-objectives under the Strategy that these CARSI ESF funds will address across the region are:

1. Host-nation governments create a competent civil service that provides non-partisan continuity and service.

2. Host-nation governments increase revenues and are accountable for investing public resources responsibly.

3. Central American civil society demand government accountability without reprisal of their rights and are able to influence policy outcomes. Host-nation governments uphold the values and practices of liberal democracy; citizens hold their governments accountable for these actions.

4. Central American host governments and the justice sector within each implement meaningful institutional reforms to decrease impunity.

CARSI assistance supports a safer and more secure region where criminal organizations no longer wield the power to destabilize governments or threaten national and regional security and public safety, as well as to prevent the entry and spread of illicit drugs, violence, and transnational threats to countries throughout the region and to the United States. The five pillars of CARSI are:

1. Create safe streets for the citizens of the region.

2. Disrupt the movement of criminals and contraband within and among the nations of Central America.

3. Support the development of strong, capable and accountable Central American Governments.

4. Re-establish effective state presence and security in communities at risk.

5. Foster enhanced levels of security and rule of law coordination and cooperation among the nations of the region.

Solicitations must primarily reflect support for CARSI pillar three (strong, capable, and accountable governments), and results, particularly indicators, will be reported under the Strategy’s Governance objective. Applicants must provide governance indicators to track results, and that correlate with CARSI pillar three.

Communities, particularly in rural areas of Belize, face unique challenges, including difficulties by local and national authorities to provide services given communities’ remote locations, which can result in marginalization and corruption. To overcome the risks of disenfranchisement posed by these challenges, this funding will support local, sustainable, community-based solutions to improve service delivery, development, and/or combat corruption and the perception of impunity.

Transparent, well-rounded governance depends on government accountability and an understanding and respect for the citizens’ rights. Effective governance also depends on a professional civil service that provides non-partisan continuity and service delivery at all levels of government.

To support further progress in Belize, the U.S. Department of State has allocated $1,261,666 USD in FY 2017 CARSI ESF to focus on sub-objectives 2.1 and 2.3 of the Results Architecture under the Strategy.

PROJECT GOALS

The funds supporting the NOFO will focus on:

(a) Host-nation governments create a competent civil service that provides non-partisan continuity and service; and/or

(b) Central American civil society demand government accountability without reprisal of their rights and are able to influence policy outcomes. Host-nation governments uphold the values and practices of liberal democracy; citizens hold their governments accountable for these actions.

PROJECT OBJECTIVES

Proposals should specify the expected and sustainable results from the projects benefitting from these funds, such as government policies, programs, or services transformed or implemented; improvement in government accountability; effects on and number of vulnerable or marginalized communities and citizens impacted; and other improvements in basic government services that impact citizens and small businesses. All proposals should state clear objectives and specify plans to measure project performances and contributions in meeting objectives. Funds cannot be used to provide direct social services or support for law enforcement officers or forces.

Applicants should address one or more of the following project objectives:

Objective 1:

To strengthen civil society organizations and civil servants’ knowledge and skills to develop policies/procedures aimed at reducing corruption and impunity or improved accountability. Proposals should be oriented towards enhancing the capacity of civil servants at all levels of government or that of individuals within civil society organizations to effect legislative and legal reforms to reduce impunity, advocate for change and/or improve government transparency. Examples of potential activities include, but are not limited to: development of strategies/action plans for catering to the needs of vulnerable populations such as the elderly or victims of human trafficking; capacity building to strengthen organizational skills, policy review, and/or become stronger watchdogs; and building legislative and regulatory drafting abilities to better implement Belize’s strategic goals.

Objective 2:

To increase and enhance civil society and government partnership to improve service delivery and accountability. Proposals should be oriented towards activities by civil society organizations working with national and/or local government, particularly in vulnerable and/or marginalized communities, to improve governance systems. Examples of potential activities include, but are not limited to, improving access and availability of health services to vulnerable communities outside of Belize City or developing and implementing systems of linking employer needs to educational curriculum.

CROSS-CUTTING AND ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

1. Utilize Local Resources and Expertise Locally based projects involving community interaction with local civic and government leadership have the best chances of success. Proposals that include the utilization of local resources and expertise are highly encouraged. Partnerships between civil society organizations also can increase the likelihood of sustainable impacts. International applicants should consider collaboration with domestic organizations and institutions.

DESIRED RESULTS AND REQUIRED OUTCOME INDICATORS

The recipient will develop a project-level Performance Monitoring plan (PMP) (see Tab B) with annual and end-of-project targets and results anticipated for key performance indicators. U.S. Embassy Belmopan will regularly monitor the project’s performance to assess achievement of project activities.

By the end of the project, applicants should demonstrate that the project has contributed to strengthened civil society and/or civil service that will be sustained beyond the project timeframe.

Outcomes are changes that take place because of your organization’s work. The outcomes of your project are the differences that will have been made by delivering your objectives and achieving your outputs. For example, an outcome could be increased job placement as a result of the training, or reduction in local unemployment rates. Project feasibility, potential impact, and performance will be assessed based on these desired outcomes.

Required outcome indicators for the project are provided below. The recipient is expected to identify targets for these indicators based on what it can reasonably achieve within the performance period of the project, and based on the expected overall project results described above. Proposals are encouraged to set additional, project-specific outcome indicators.

Outputs are the results of what your organization does. For example, the number of participants who successfully complete a job-training course or received job placement through your activities are outputs. Required output indicators for the projects are provided below.

The recipient should provide output and outcome indicators in addition to the required indicators listed above. Any data collection focused on individuals should be disaggregated by gender if possible.

The recipient will be required to collect baseline data for all the Performance Monitoring and Evaluation indicators during the first year of the project. In addition, certain terms included in the outcomes and indicators will need to be defined at the very beginning of the project so that it is possible to measure the change during and at the end of the project. Examples of such are “capacity,” “spread effect,” etc. Baseline information will be critical for both monitoring and evaluation of project progress and results.

[END OF SECTION I]

SECTION II – AWARD INFORMATION

U.S. Embassy Belmopan expects to award three to five grant agreements based on this NOFO. The anticipated total federal funding amount is $1,261,666 USD. The period of performance is a maximum of two years with an anticipated start date of September 28, 2018.

The U.S. government may issue one or more awards resulting from this NOFO to the responsible applicant(s) whose applications conforming to this NOFO are the most responsive to the objectives set forth in this NOFO. The U.S. government may (a) reject any or all applications, (b) accept other than the lowest cost application, (c) accept more than one application, (d) accept alternate applications, and (e) waive informalities and minor irregularities in applications received.

After a merit review panel, the U.S. government may make an award on the basis of initial applications received, without discussions or negotiations. Therefore, each initial application should contain the applicant's best terms from a cost and technical standpoint. The U.S. government reserves the right (but is not obligated) to enter into discussions with one or more applicants in order to obtain clarifications, additional detail, or to suggest refinements in the project description, budget, or other aspects of an application.

[END OF SECTION II]

SECTION III – ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

(1) Eligible Entities: Applicants that are eligible to apply are U.S. and overseas-based NGOs, nonprofit educational institutions, and public international organizations (PIOs) that are able to respond to the NOFO and be able to mobilize in a short period. Belizean NGOs are strongly encouraged to apply.

To be eligible for a grant award, in addition to other conditions of this NOFO, organizations must have a commitment to non‐discrimination with respect to beneficiaries and adherence to equal opportunity employment practices. Non‐discrimination includes equal treatment without regard to race, religion, ethnicity, gender, and political affiliation.

Applicants are reminded that U.S. Executive Orders and U.S. law prohibits transactions with, and the provision of resources and support to, individuals and organizations associated with terrorism. It is the legal responsibility of the recipient to ensure compliance with these Executive Orders and laws. This provision must be included in any sub‐awards issued under this grant award.

(2) U.S. Embassy Belmopan encourages applications from Belizean organizations and institutions, as well as potential new partners.

[END OF SECTION III]

SECTION IV – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

U.S. Embassy Belmopan urges prospective applicants to immediately confirm their organization has a current Dun and Bradstreet (DUNS) number as well as a current Central Contractor Registration (www.SAM.gov).

Applicant organizations that do not have DUNS number, may obtain one at no cost by calling the toll-free DUNS request line at 1-866-705-5711 or visiting the D&B website at: https://iupdate.dnb.com/iUpdate/viewiUpdateHome.htm

NOTE: Organizations MUST obtain a DUNS number prior to completing the SAM.gov registry process. Please include the same registration information for both which will allow for a smoother registration process.

Applicant organizations can obtain assistance for SAM.gov registration by using the following link: https://www.fsd.gov or calling 1-866-606-8220 (U.S. calls) or 1-324-206-7828 (international calls).

NCAGE Code - Special Requirements for Non-U.S. Applicants:

Non-U.S. organizations must first obtain a North Atlantic Treaty Organization CAGE (NCAGE) Code from the appropriate source. Organizations may request an NCAGE code using the following link: https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/scage/CageList.aspx

TECHNICAL FORMAT REQUIREMENTS

For all application documents, please ensure:

A. All pages are numbered, including budgets and attachments, B. All documents are formatted to 8 ½ x 11 paper, portrait orientation only, and C. All Microsoft Word documents are single-spaced, 12 point Times New Roman font, with a minimum of 1-inch margins.

Complete applications must include the following for proposal submissions:

1. Completed Cover Sheet which includes a project title, name of the solicitation organization, and Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS). (See Tab F)

2. Completed and signed SF-424, SF-424a and SF424b, submitted to Grants.gov, as well as, if applicable, your organization’s most recent audit.

3. Table of Contents (not to exceed one [1] page in Microsoft Word) that includes a page-numbered contents page, including any attachments.

4. Executive Summary (not to exceed two [2] pages in Microsoft Word) that includes:

a) The target cities, towns, villages, or areas,

b) Name and contact information for the project’s main point of contact,

c) A statement of work or synopsis of the project, including a concise breakdown of the project’s objectives, activities, and expected results,

d) The total amount of funding requested and project length, and

e) A brief statement on how the project is innovative, sustainable, and will have a demonstrated impact.

5. Proposal Narrative (not to exceed ten [10] pages in Microsoft Word). Please note the ten-page limit does not include the Table of Contents, Executive Summary, Attachments, Detailed Budget, and Budget Narrative or negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA). Applicants are encouraged to submit multiple documents in a single Microsoft Word file (i.e., Table of Contents, Executive Summary, Proposal Narrative, and Budget Narrative in one file).

6. Budget Narrative (preferably in Microsoft Word) that includes an explanation and justification for each line item in the detailed budget spreadsheet, as well as the source and a description of all cost-share offered. For ease of review, U.S. Embassy Belmopan recommends applicants prepare the budget narrative as presented in the detailed budget. Personnel costs should include a clarification of the roles and responsibilities of key staff and percentage of time devoted to the project. The budget narrative should communicate to U.S. Embassy Belmopan any information that might not be readily apparent in the budget and does not simply repeat with words what is stated numerically in the budget. Please see TAB C

7. Detailed Line-Item Budget (in Microsoft Excel) that includes three [3] columns including the request to U.S. Embassy Belmopan, any cost sharing contribution, and total budget (see below for more information on budget format TAB C). A summary budget should also be included using the OMB approved budget categories (see SF-424 as a sample). Costs must be in U.S. dollars.

8. Attachments (not to exceed nine [9] pages total, preferably in Microsoft Word) that include the following in order:

a) Page 1-2: Project Monitoring Plan (see Tab B for more information on this section).

b) Page 3: Roles and responsibilities of key project personnel with short bios that highlight relevant professional experience. This relates to the organization’s capacity. Given the limited space, CVs are not recommended for submission.

c) Page 4: Timeline of the overall proposal. Components should include activities, evaluation efforts, and project closeout.

d) Page 5-7: Supporting Documentation of Government Partnership. Attachments may include letters of support, memoranda of understanding (MOU)/agreement, etc.

9. If your organization has a NICRA and will include NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA must be included as a .pdf file. This document will not be reviewed by the Embassy, but rather used by project and grant staff if the submission is recommended for funding and therefore does not count against the submission page limitations, as described above. If your proposal involves sub-grants to organizations charging indirect costs, please submit the applicable NICRA also as a .pdf file (see below for more information on indirect cost rates). Specify if your organization elects to charge the de minimis rate of 10% of the modified total direct costs (MTDC).

Note: U.S. Embassy Belmopan retains the right to request additional documentation for those items not included on this form.

INFORMATION ON STANDARD FORMS

Please see Tab D for instructions for completion of Standard Forms 424, 424A, and 424B.

ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS, COST PRINCIPLES AND AUDIT REQUIREMENTS FOR FEDERAL AWARDS

Organizations should be familiar with 2 CFR 200 on cost accounting principles. For a copy of the Code of Federal Regulations, go to http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title02/2cfr200_main_02.tpl. Non-U.S.based nonprofit organizations are legally required to comply with 2 CFR 200. Public international organizations retain their privileges and immunities as such, but are encouraged to address requirements in outlined in 2 CFR 200.

AUDITS

The recipient’s proposal should include the cost of an audit that:

1. Complies with the requirements of 2 CFR 200 Subpart F “Audit Requirements;”

2. Complies with the requirements of American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Statement of Position (SOP) No. 92-9, "Audits of Not-for-Profit Organizations Receiving Federal Awards;"

3. Complies with AICPA Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards AU Section 551, "Reporting on Information Accompanying the Basic Financial Statements in Auditor-Submitted Documents," where applicable. When the U.S. Department of State is the largest direct source of Federal financial assistance (i.e., the cognizant Federal Agency) and indirect costs are charged to Federal grants, a supplemental schedule of indirect cost computation is required;

4. A non-Federal entity that expends $750,000 USD or more during the non-Federal entity's fiscal year in Federal awards must have a single or project-specific audit conducted for that year in accordance with the provisions of 2 CFR 200 subpart F.

The audit costs shall be identified by 2 CFR 200.425.

INDIRECT COST-RATE

An organization with a negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA) negotiated with a cognizant Federal government agency other than the U.S. Department of State must include a copy of the cost-rate agreement. Applicants should indicate in the proposal budget how the rate is applied and if any of the rate will be cost-shared. Per 2 CFR 200.414 any non-Federal entity that has never received a NICRA, except for those non-Federal entities described in Appendix VII to Part 200—States and Local Government and Indian Tribe Indirect Cost Proposals, paragraph D.1.b, may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10% of modified total direct costs (MTDC) that may be used indefinitely. As described in 2 CFR 200.403, factors affecting allowability of costs, costs must be consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs, but may not be double-charged or inconsistently charged as both. If chosen, this methodology once elected must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a non-Federal entity chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the non-Federal entity may apply to do at any time.

TAB A: PROPOSAL GUIDELINES

Proposals should include the following components:

· Introduction and Problem Statement

· Planned Activities

· Indicators

Problem Statement and Rationale: Describe the problem and how the project will achieve or contribute to achieving a sustainable solution and a measurable outcome. The applicant should explain the extent of existing assistance within the particular geographic area, and how the proposed intervention may complement (or differ from) other similar interventions. The applicant should also explain, as necessary, the particular experience and qualifications it brings to the project. The rationale should also reflect understanding of the priorities and policies of the U.S. Embassy Belmopan or program with which this solicitation is associated.

Planned Activities and Indicators: Describe the planned activities, and relevant stakeholders for implementation. The applicant should highlight key stakeholders and their expected role in the project, along with any contingencies. The applicant should list assumptions that are dependent on the ultimate success of the project. This could include elements like geographic location, coordination efforts with other international organizations, or political will from host governments, private sector, and NGOs. As appropriate, limited contingency possibilities should be included in the proposal, in case the initial planning assumptions are not met. Example of a planned activity and contingency:

In the proposal, there should be a clearly defined link between each of the following elements as delineated:

Problem Statement Planned Activities/Inputs Process Indicators Output Indicators Outcome Indicators Impact

Process Indicators measure the activity that has been completed. Please delineate the specific activities to be conducted, such as workshops, roundtables, trainings, forums, exchanges, policy dialogues, etc. All indicators must include targets. Example of a process indicator:

Output Indicators, otherwise known as deliverables associated with the agreement, should be included. Unlike process indicators, outputs are what is produced, and are often tangible. At this level, it is the measurement of ability, knowledge, skills, or access. All indicators must include targets. Example of an output indicator involving the same participants:

Outcome Indicators measure the change in system or behavior or practice. Expected outcomes are the results that come from a series of activities that are necessary to achieve impact. All indicators must include targets. Example of an outcome indicator:

All indicators must include measurable, numerical targets that should serve as the foundation for monitoring and evaluation efforts. Ultimately, proposed activities and achievement of indicator targets will lead to impact.

TAB B: PROJECT MONITORING PLAN

U.S. Embassy Belmopan will work with recipient organizations to implement the appropriate monitoring plan that meets both the needs of U.S. Embassy Belmopan and the implementing partner. Incorporating a well-designed monitoring component into a project is one of the most efficient methods of documenting the progress and potential success of a project. Successful monitoring depends on the following:

· Setting objectives that are specific, measurable, attainable, results-focused, and placed in a reasonable time frame (SMART)

· Linking project activities to stated objectives

· Developing key performance indicators that measure realistic progress towards the objectives

U.S. Embassy Belmopan expects implementing organizations will track participants or partners as appropriate and be able to respond to key assessment questions, including satisfaction with the project/training, information learned as a result of the project/training, changes in attitude and behavior as a result of the project, and effects of the project on institutions in which participants work or with whom participants partner. Applicants should include the monitoring and evaluation process in their timeline.

Recipients will be required to provide reports with an analysis and summary of their findings, both quantitative and qualitative, in regular progress reports to U.S. Embassy Belmopan.

The monitoring plan should include, at a minimum, the following elements:

· A results “Logic Model” planning document (see sample).

· Indicators, as described in Tab A, as well as details on how each indicator will be measured, frequency of the measurements, units of measure, etc. Provide indicators at the output and outcome levels. Monitoring plans should include a chart component that clearly delineates indicators and targets. All indicators must include measurable, numerical targets.

· Establish, where possible, performance baseline data and expected performance targets for each indicator/outcome. In some cases, the baseline may be zero.

· Describe monitoring tools, such as rapid assessment surveys, site visits, key stakeholder interviews, etc., that will be used.

· Plans should describe how the project’s impact and effectiveness will be monitored throughout the project.

Sample Evaluation Plan

Activity: Training Course

Activity: Government Roundtable

Sample “Logic Model” Planning Tool

Note: Outcomes, outputs, and activities should include numerical, measurable targets. A Logic Model is a useful tool for planning; and utilized when designing monitoring and evaluation methodology and frameworks.

Impact: Improved Food Security for 50,000 households in Country X

Outcome 1 Improved production and productivity of female and male producers

Outcome 2 Increased adoption of appropriate nutrition practices, by female and male beneficiaries

Output 1.1 Farmer Field Schools (FFS) Established

Output 1.2 Improved access to input supply systems/services

Output 2.1 Home Gardens Established

Output 2.2 Improved knowledge of nutrition practices

Activities Train producers on FFS methodology

Conduct agro-forestry training

Develop and translate materials

Conduct meetings with suppliers

Distribute new seed varietals

Organize and hold supply fairs

Train producers on how to develop home gardens

Distribute new seeds

Train producers in food conservation and preparation

TAB C: BUDGET GUIDELINES

Complete budgets will provide a detailed line-item budget outlining specific cost requirements for proposed activities. A minimum of three columns should be used to delineate the Embassy funding request, cost-share by applicant, and total project funding. Complete applications will include a budget narrative to clarify and justify individual line-items (i.e. calculations of how the costs were derived per month or year, their necessity, and overall contribution to the project’s cost-effectiveness).

The three-column proposal line item budget should include the following components, in the suggested format below:

A. PERSONNEL

a) Primarily Headquarters-Based Personnel

b) Primarily Field-Based Personnel

Subtotal Personnel

B. FRINGE BENEFITS

Subtotal Fringe Benefits

C. TRAVEL

a) Monitoring Travel

b) Field Travel

Activity 1: Workshop

Activity 2: Town Hall Meeting

Subtotal Travel

D. EQUIPMENT

a) Primarily H.Q.-Based Equipment (if applicable)

d) Primarily Field-Based Equipment

Subtotal Equipment

E. SUPPLIES

a) Primarily H.Q.-Based Supplies (if applicable)

b) Primarily Field-Based Supplies

Subtotal Supplies

F. CONTRACTUAL

a) Subgrants

b) Consultant Fees

Subtotal Contractual

H. OTHER

a) Other Direct Costs

Subtotal Other

I. TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES

(Sum of A-H Subtotals)

J. INDIRECT CHARGES

a) Indirect Costs/NICRA (X% of costs)

Subtotal Indirect Charges

K. TOTAL COSTS (Sum I-J)

Note: This budget template is designed to serve as an example of the format for complete budget submissions and is NOT exhaustive. Please utilize the attached template or download from Grants.gov. Individual line items included in each applicant’s budget should reflect specific project activities. (pax = participants)

Before grants are awarded, U.S. Embassy Belmopan reserves the right to reduce, revise, or increase proposal budgets in accordance with the needs of U.S. Embassy Belmopan’s project and availability of funds.

As mentioned above, the detailed budget should also include an accompanying budget notes document that explains and justifies each line item, in the suggested format below:

LINE-ITEM BUDGET

A. Personnel: Identify staffing requirements by each position title and brief description of duties. For clarity, please list the annual salary of each position, percentage of time and number of months devoted to the project. (e.g., Administrative Director: $30,000/year x 25% x 8.5 months; calculation: $30,000/12 = $2,500 x 25% x 8.5 months = $5,312.).

B. Fringe Benefits: State benefit costs separately from salary costs and explain how benefits are computed for each category of employee - specify type and rate.

C. Travel: Staff and any participant travel:

1. International airfare

2. In-country travel

3. Domestic travel in Country X., if any

4. Per diem/maintenance: includes lodging, meals and incidentals for both participant and staff travel. Rates of maximum allowances for United States and foreign travel are available from the following website: http://www.policyworks.gov. Per diem rates may not exceed the published U.S. government allowance rates; however, institutions may use per diem rates lower than official government rates.

5. “Staff” refers to grantee staff only, and not sub-grantee staff or contractors

D. Equipment: Please provide justification for any equipment purchase/rental, defined as tangible personal property having a useful life of more than one year and an acquisition cost of $5,000 or more.

E. Supplies: List items separately using unit costs (and the percentage of each unit cost being charged to the grant) for photocopying, postage, telephone/fax, printing, and office supplies (e.g., Telephone: $50/month x 50% = $25/month x 12 months).

F. Contractual:

1. Sub-grants - For each sub-grant/contract please provide a detailed line-item budget breakdown explaining specific services. Please provide a sub-grant budget using the approved OMB budget format. (See Tab C: Budget Guidelines, above.)

2. Consultant Fees - For example lecture fees, honoraria, travel, and per diem for outside speakers or independent evaluators: list number of people and rates per day (e.g., 2 x $150/day x 2 days).

G. Other: These will vary depending on the nature of the project. The inclusion of each should be justified in the budget narrative. All costs must be allowable, allocable, and reasonable, and consistent with OMB guidelines. Line items such as “Miscellaneous,” “Contingency Fund,” and “Reserve Fund” are not permitted.

H. Indirect Charges - See 2 CFR 200.414, "Indirect Costs”

1) If the organization has an indirect cost-rate agreement with the U.S. government, please include a copy of this agreement. Please specify if your organization elects to charge the de minimis rate of 10% of the modified total direct costs. This does not count against submission page limitations.

2) If the organization is charging an indirect rate, please indicate how the rate is applied to direct administrative expenses, to all direct costs, to wages and salaries only, etc.

3) Do not include indirect costs against participant expenses in the budget, as it generally does not pay for these costs.

Cost Share/Cost-Effectiveness – Cost sharing is not required. Explanation of contributions should be included, whether cash or in-kind. Assign a monetary value in U.S. dollars to each in-kind contribution. If the proposed project is a component of a larger program, identify other funding sources for the proposal and indicate the specific funding amount to be provided by those sources. In addition, it is recommended that budget narratives address the overall cost-effectiveness of the proposal, including leveraging of institutional or other resources. Cost sharing or matching refers to a portion of project or program cost that is not borne by the Federal government. Applicants must follow cost-sharing or matching policy as stipulated in 2 CFR 200.306. Cost-sharing amounts proposed will be incorporated as part of the allowable budget items. If selected for an award, the organization will have to provide the minimum amount of cost-sharing as stipulated in the budget approved by the Grants Officer. If the organization does not meet its cost-share amount stipulated in the approved budget by the end of the period of performance the Embassy will have the option to (1) reduce its contribution in proportion to the organization’s contribution in the event that it does not provide the minimum amount of cost sharing stipulated in the budget or (2) hold the organization accountable for the amount specified in the approved budget.

BUDGET CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS:

The Embassy does not pay for the following:

· Publication of materials for distribution within the United States

· Administration of a project that will make a profit

· Expenses incurred before or after the specified dates of award period of performance (unless prior written approval received)

· Projects designed to advocate policy views or positions of foreign governments or views of a particular political faction

· Alcoholic beverages

· Costs of entertainment, including amusement, diversion, and social activities and any associated costs are unallowable, except where specific costs that might otherwise be considered entertainment have a programmatic purpose and are authorized either in the approved budget for the Federal award or with prior written approval of the Federal awarding agency

· Purchase of land

· Construction

· Direct social support,

· Support for law enforcement officials or security forces

The Embassy may make conditions and recommendations on proposals to enhance proposed projects. Conditions and recommendations are to be addressed by the applicant before approval of the award. To ensure effective use of U.S. Embassy Belmopan funds, conditions or recommendations may include requests to increase, decrease, clarify and/or justify costs.

TAB D: GUIDELINES FOR STANDARD FORMS

SF-424 - Complete all fields except fields noted as “Leave Blank” below.

1. Type of Submission: Application

2. Type of Application: New

3. Date Received: Leave blank. This will automatically be assigned

4. Applicant Identifier: Leave blank

19. Enter “c”

20. Select the appropriate box. If you answer “yes” to this question you will be required to provide an explanation.

21. Enter the name, title, and contact information of the individual authorized to sign for the application.

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