P25AS00477_ABPP BIG NOFO_25-0826.pdf

Signature Date

National Park Service

Notice of Funding Opportunity

FY2025 ABPP - Battlefield Interpretation Grant

Funding Opportunity Number

P25AS00477

8/26/2025

Table of Contents

BASIC INFORMATION

ELIGIBILITY

Cost Sharing Requirement

GET READY TO APPLY

Required System Registrations

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals

Program Description

Legislative Authority

Type of Award

PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION

Application Content and Format

Application Documents

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package

Submission Dates and Times

Submission Instructions

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

Eligibility Review

Merit Review

Criterion 1 - Innovation in Content Development (Maximum Points: 25)

Criterion 2 - Interpretive and Technical Approach (Maximum Points: 25)

Criterion 3 - Administration and Implementation (Maximum Points: 25)

Criterion 4 - Stakeholder and Audience Engagement (Maximum Points: 25)

Review and Selection Process

Risk Review

AWARD NOTICES

POST AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION

Administration and National Policy Requirements

Reporting

BASIC INFORMATION

Announcement Type: Initial

Funding Opportunity Number: P25AS00477

Assistance Listing Number(s): 15.926

Estimated Total Program Funding: $1,000,000

Expected Number of Awards: 12

Award Ceiling: $200,000

Award Floor: $20,000

Cost Sharing Required?

Yes Closing Date Explanation Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 PM, ET, on the listed application due date.

OMB Control Number:

Have Questions?

Please email all questions to ABPP@nps.gov or leave a message in the voicemail box 202-354- 2020.

Executive Summary Historic battlefields and sites of armed conflict are powerful reminders of the shared heritage of all Americans. As an ongoing effort to engage all Americans in the preservation of cultural resources beyond our park boundaries, the National Park Service American Battlefield Protection Program (NPS ABPP) promotes the preservation and interpretation of these important places.

NPS ABPP awards financial assistance to support community-driven stewardship of battlefields and sites of armed conflict through four grant opportunities: Preservation Planning, Battlefield Restoration, Battlefield Interpretation, and Battlefield Land Acquisition.

NPS ABPP administers Battlefield Interpretation Grants to provide assistance for projects that deploy technology to modernize and enhance battlefield interpretation and education at Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War battlefield sites eligible for assistance under the Battlefield Acquisition Grant Program established under 54 U.S.C. §308103(b). These grants are funded from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which invests earnings from offshore oil and gas leasing to help strengthen communities, preserve history and protect the national endowment of lands and waters. Funding will support scoping and implementation activities for historic preservation projects at eligible sites and will be awarded competitively. Grants require a dollar-for-dollar non-Federal match. State, local, and tribal governments, as well as nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply.

Battlefield Interpretation Grants empower recipients to modernize and enhance battlefield education and interpretation - to inspire wonder, understanding and empathy at the places that witnessed some of our nation's most challenging events. This grant program encourages the use mailto:ABPP@nps.gov of technology to connect with visitors through videos, mobile apps, interpretive signs, augmented reality and more. Battlefield Interpretation Grants seek an enhanced user experience where the application of “technology” and understanding of “modernize” is keyed to the user.

Who is the audience, and how do these elements engage them? The user experience also relates to the narratives shared that can be “modernized.” What audiences are missing, and how might these elements engage them?

Two categories of grants are available for battlefield interpretation projects in different stages:

• Scoping Grants: These are available to fund the early stages of project development, such as research and content creation, consultation with stakeholders, exploration of available technologies, audience research, and development of technical proposals. The federal share for these grants should range from $20,000-$50,000 and have a period of performance of 1-2 years.

• Implementation Grants: These are available to applicants who have completed interdisciplinary scoping prior to the application and can provide draft content and design plans. The federal share for these grants should range from $50,000-$200,000 and have a period of performance of 2-3 years.

It is not necessary for an applicant to receive or complete a Scoping Grant prior to applying for an Implementation Grant, but their Implementation Grant application must show that the prerequisite steps of project development have been completed to be viable. On a case-by-case basis, the length of a project period of performance may differ from the above recommendations.

As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, NPS ABPP encourages projects that promote and expand preservation as well as enhance our understanding of the origins of the United States.

ELIGIBILITY

Eligible Applicants State governments

County governments

City or township governments

Public and State controlled institutions of higher education

Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)

Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)

Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education

Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education

Private institutions of higher education

Additional Information on Eligibility Eligible activities must involve education about or interpretation of Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War battlefields and associated sites eligible for assistance under the battlefield acquisition grant program established under 54 U.S.C. §308103(b). These sites are listed in the

Civil War Sites Advisory Commission Report on the Nation's Civil War Battlefields and the Report to Congress on the Historic Preservation of Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Sites in the United States, available online at: https://www.nps.gov/orgs/2287/resources.htm.

Eligible activities must enhance interpretation and education at eligible battlefields and associated sites using technology. Proposals should clearly explain the role of technology in the context of the specific project, which may include a mix of traditional and innovative media and methods. Activities may include content development, consultation with stakeholders and subject matter experts, audience research and evaluation, technical scoping and development, prototyping, fabrication and installation, production and implementation, and costs associated with Section 106 identification and evaluation requirements for eligible project activities.

Successful applicants typically provide straightforward answers to the Merit Review Criteria, backed by clear and concise supporting documentation, including but not limited to GIS maps, resumes/CVs, charts, graphs, spreadsheets, summary tables, and other relevant information.

Successful applicants also have a plan for making contact, or have already established contact, with landowners or organizations with an economic or legal interest in the proposed project sites.

NPS American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP) encourages all applicants to consider forming inclusive preservation partnerships with these landowners/organizations as well as descendant communities, Native American Tribes, state and/or tribal historic preservation offices, and other nonprofit organizations that may help guide, or want to actively participate in, the proposed project.

Cost Sharing Requirement Cost Sharing Required?

Yes In accordance with 54 U.S.C. § 308104(c), non-Federal cost share in the amount of 50% of the total project costs, or a ratio of 1:1 with the Federally awarded funds, is required to be eligible for an award under this NOFO. The non-Federal entity must contribute at least 50% of the total project cost, meaning one dollar for every Federal dollar requested, from non-Federal sources as evidenced by a letter of commitment, addressed to the applicant, from the funding source(s) or awarding entity. Eligible non-Federal sources of contributions must be allowable under 2 C.F.R.

§ 200.306 and may include: cash and/or in-kind contributions. Non-Federal entity cost share contributions shall be annotated within the SF-424A (see Application Documents) and Budget Narrative submitted by the applicant.

GET READY TO APPLY

Required System Registrations Unique Entity Identifier and SAM.gov Registration

Before applying, all applicants except individuals applying as a natural person must be registered in SAM.gov. During the SAM.gov registration the entity will obtain their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).

The SAM.gov registration process can take several months. If your organization is not already registered in SAM.gov, begin the registration process as soon as possible.

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To register in SAM.gov, go to the SAM.gov website and use the available resources to complete registration.

• Financial assistance registrants must review and certify compliance with the SAM.gov “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications”.

• Already registered? You already have a Unique Entity ID. Before applying, check that your “Financial Assistance General Representations and Certifications” on SAM.gov is complete. Remember to renew your registration every year to keep it active while you have an award or application in progress. You can update your registration whenever you need, including during renewal.

• Need help? For additional information and contact information on the SAM.gov Help page.

Refer to Attachment – Submission Instructions & Tips.

GRANTS.GOV

This program accepts applications through Grants.gov so once you receive your UEI return to Grants.gov to register with Grants.gov. Please allow 30 days to register and set up a Workspace in Grants.gov. See Submission Instructions section below for additional details.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Program Goals

• The objective of National Park Service American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP) Battlefield Interpretation Grant program supports the agency's priorities of enhancing the public's experience with protected lands and large-scale conservation efforts. Our goals are to enhance visitor experiences at America's battlefields and engage a growing community of preservation partners.

Program Description Battlefield Interpretation Grants empower recipients to modernize and enhance battlefield education and interpretation – to inspire wonder, understanding and empathy at the places that witnessed some of our nation’s most challenging events. This grant program encourages the use of technology to connect with visitors through videos, mobile apps, interpretive signs, augmented reality and more.

Applicants are encouraged to prioritize projects in support of the celebration of America’s 250th birthday (America250). This may include, but is not limited to, projects that recognize and honor the nation’s founding, history, and cultural heritage.

Legislative Authority American Battlefield Protection Program - Battlefield Interpretation Modernization Grant Program (54 U.S.C. § 308104)

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act, as amended (P.L. 88-578, codified at 54 U.S.C. 2003 et. seq.)

https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://sam.gov/content/help https://sam.gov/content/help https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration

Type of Award Projects will be funded through G (Grant).

PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION

Application Content and Format Pre-Application Requirements

Prior to submitting an application, applicants should review presidential actions found at:

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/ and DOI Secretary’s Orders found at:

https://www.doi.gov/document-library/secretary-order. By submitting an application in response to this Notice of Funding Opportunity, the applicant certifies awareness and compliance with all current and applicable executive and secretary orders, including the President’s EO on Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing as well as the EO and SO on Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.

Application Documents Applicants must submit the following forms with their application as specified below.

Instructions for accessing and submitting application forms are provided in the Submission Instructions section of this document below. For instructions on completing form fields, see the form instructions on the Grants.gov Forms Repository.

Forms/Assurances/Certifications Submission Requirement SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance Note: For applicants requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funds, the Authorized Representative’s signature (or electronic equivalent) on the Application for Federal Assistance form also represents their certification of the statements in Appendix A to 43 CFR 18-Certification Regarding Lobbying

Required from all applicants

SF-424A, Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs Required for non-construction projects

SF-424B, Assurances for Non-Construction Programs Required from all applicants

SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

Required if requesting more than $100,000 in Federal funds and the applicant has used or plans to use funds other than Federal appropriated funds for lobbying related to the proposed project.

Project Abstract Summary (OMB 4040-0019). Must include, in plain language:

• Award purpose,

• Activities to be performed, Required from all applicants https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fpresidential-actions%2F&data=05%7C02%7CJim_modrick%40nps.gov%7Cc1ed90901ea74c379b7208dd688a811c%7C0693b5ba4b184d7b9341f32f400a5494%7C0%7C0%7C638781666256156310%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=wYGILvSgZJqoZVplUO15WwOHTYop0jgScxVPWMBdbco%3D&reserved=0 https://www.doi.gov/document-library/secretary-order https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository.html https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-43/subtitle-A/part-18#Appendix-A-to-Part-18 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-43/subtitle-A/part-18#Appendix-A-to-Part-18

Forms/Assurances/Certifications Submission Requirement

• Expected deliverables or outcomes,

• Intended beneficiaries, Subrecipient activities (if known or specified at time of award)

Project Narrative The Project Narrative must identify the category for consideration as either a Scoping grant or an Implementation grant. Project Narratives must address all elements of each of the evaluation criteria. Be concise but provide enough detail that members of the merit review panel will be able to rank the proposed project according to the review criteria provided in the Merit Review section: innovation in content development, interpretive and technical approach, administration and implementation, and stakeholder and audience engagement. The work you propose in the project narrative should be supported by costs identified in the budget justification worksheet.

The Project Narrative is limited to 5 pages. Applicants should be concise, and may use bullet points, subheadings, and other formatting techniques to organize their information. All pages should maintain at least one-inch margins on all sides and be a minimum eleven-point font. Any text beyond 5 pages will not be used to score an application. Where appropriate, supporting information such as statistical figures, works cited, resumes, and product examples may be referenced in the narrative and provided as an “attachment” via the Attachment Form to help economize space.

The program-specific components of this application consist of the Project Narrative and additional documents listed below. Do not include any proprietary or personally identifiable information. A complete application includes (see detail at the end of this section):

• SF-424 Application for Financial Assistance

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

• SF-424B Assurances for Non-Construction Programs (required for all proposals)

• Project Narrative (via the Attachment form)

• Budget Detail Narrative (via the Attachment form)

• Project Abstract Summary (via the Attachment form)

• Letter of commitment from the non-Federal awarding entity for cost matching (via the

Attachment form)

• Project Team CVs, resumes, or selection criteria, cost estimates, or statements of work for staff, consultants, or contractors to be hired as part of the project. These attachments should support the descriptions of the project team in the “Innovation in Content Development” and “Administration and Implementation” sections of the Project Narrative (via the Attachment form)

• A map of the site involved in the project (via the Attachment form)

• Detailed Design Documents, required for Implementation applications only (via the

Attachment form)

• Other Supporting Documents (via the Attachment form)

Information referenced in the Project Narrative and provided as an attachment should be concise, with the attachment typically ranging in size from 1 to 3 pages. Where appropriate, lengthier, relevant excerpts from a technical report (example: a work cited page or a list of previous projects) may be included as an attachment if the documentation is responsive to merit review criteria. Using the provided section headings, applicants should write a project narrative that addresses the prompts listed below (items A-G):

A. Project Summary: Summarize the intended preservation outcome project for an eligible battlefield or associated site listed in the Civil War Sites Advisory Commission Report on the Nation's Civil War Battlefields, or the Report to Congress on the Historic Preservation of Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Sites in the United States, and identify all applicable survey codes (e.g., VA042) for the site. Note whether the application is for a Scoping Grant or Implementation Grant and explain how the project proposes to enhance and modernize battlefield interpretation using technology.

B. Innovation in Content Development: Explain how and why the project seeks to innovate and enhance the content and medium of battlefield interpretation. Discuss how the project’s approach to content development reflects current scholarship or incorporates new sources or perspectives to understand battlefield history and resources. Identify the team of subject matter experts and/or stakeholders who have or will develop the content. Discuss how the team’s different disciplinary and/or experiential knowledge and perspectives will shape the quality and relevancy of the resulting content. For Scoping Grants when a team has yet to be assembled, lay out a plan for locating and consulting subject matter experts and/or stakeholders which includes selection criteria. Attach and clearly label all relevant supporting documentation via the Attachments Form.

C. Interpretive and Technical Approach: Describe the project’s proposed interpretive approach and outcomes. Discuss how these will engage audiences with the battlefield’s history and resources in ways that advance best practices in public history and interpretive design.

Identify the activities and work tasks needed to accomplish the project’s objectives. Identify all resulting interim and final products of the project. Justify why the proposed formats, media, platforms, or technologies will further the project’s goals. Discuss how the project will ensure effective communication for people with disabilities (e.g., through captioning, audio description, use of accessible video players, physical design of exhibitions or signage, or choice of approach) as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reference and compare any existing tools or projects that serve as models for this project proposal.

D. Administration and Implementation: Explain how the project objectives and activities identified above will be achieved in the allotted time frame by providing a tentative project schedule which includes a description of the sequencing and duration of project activities.

Identify project personnel and their expertise in content, interpretive methods, project management or administration, and technical design. Describe how their experience and qualifications are appropriate for their project roles and responsibilities. Identify if new staff or contractors will be required, and provide brief position descriptions, or describe the criteria that will be used to select these individuals or procure these services. Identify any property owner permissions and Federal, State, local, or tribal permits that will be required and describe plans for obtaining them. If applicable, describe how the project will meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and avoid adverse effects on historic properties. Attach and clearly label all relevant supporting documentation (such as CVs and resumes) via the Attachments Form.

E. Stakeholder and Audience Engagement: Describe how the project team will include, consult, or collaborate with stakeholders of historic and contemporary interests in the site and story, including those who may not be involved in current preservation advocacy or management. These may include local residents, tribes with ancestral connections to the area, descendant communities, and nonprofit organizations such as community museums, faith-based organizations, and educational groups. Discuss how these collaborative perspectives will influence the outcomes of the project and foster accurate interpretation. Identify the project’s specific intended audience(s) and discuss how the chosen methods and use of technology are appropriate for engagement with that audience. Explain the project’s goals for increasing audience engagement with the site and its history, whether through the design process, or participatory interpretive techniques, and how these will be evaluated during and after project development.

F. Current or Recent Grant Performance: As applicable, list any previously awarded NPS ABPP grants from the last five years. Include grant numbers and project titles, as well as a 2-3 sentence summary of the project’s goals and current status.

Budget Narrative Applicants must describe and justify items and costs listed in their budget. The budget narrative must identify the following cost items: total estimated costs, non-Federal cost share, third-party contributions, and any pre-award costs. Total project cost is the sum of all allowable costs, including required and voluntary cost share and third-party contributions.

Budget items must be:

• Reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary

• Compliant with 2 CFR §200 Subpart E cost principles

Indirect Costs: Applicants must indicate in their budget narrative how they will charge indirect costs, including the rate to be applied:

• De Minimis Rate: If eligible, state if your organization is opting to use the de minimis rate of up to 15% of total modified direct costs. Entities that do not have a current Federal negotiated indirect cost rate (including provisional rate) may propose to use the de minimis rate. For more information, refer to 2 CFR 200.414(f).

• Negotiated Rate: State if you will negotiate with your cognizant agency. If your organization has previously negotiated a rate, attach a copy of the most recently negotiated rate agreement (active or expired).

The project budget shall include detailed information on all cost categories and must clearly identify all estimated project costs. Unit costs shall be provided for all budget items including the cost of work to be provided by contractors or sub-recipients. In addition, applicants shall include a narrative description of the items included in the project budget, including the value of in-kind contributions of goods and services provided to complete the project when cost share is identified to be included (see the Eligibility section). Cost categories can include, but are not limited to, those costs items included on the SF424A.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/subpart-E https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-E/subject-group-ECFRd93f2a98b1f6455/section-200.414

Using the section headings provided below (items A – L), write a Budget Narrative that addresses and justifies both grant funds requested in addition to any cost share provided by other sources. Provide unit costs for all budget items including any contracts or sub-awards. For each line item, explain how you arrived at the costs and why the items are necessary to accomplish the project objectives. There is no page limit or required format for the Budget Narrative. Round all numbers to the nearest dollar amount, even if exact costs are known. If any cost categories are not applicable to your project, write $0.00 or N/A. Ensure that the categories and costs listed in the Budget Narrative are aligned with the Budget Categories in Section B of the SF-424A.

Inconsistencies will result in processing delays of the application. Submit the Budget Narrative via the Attachment form.

A. Personnel: Provide the title, unit of time, quantity of time, cost per unit of time and resultant dollar amount for each of the personnel included in the total line item dollar amount. Example: J.

Smith, Curator, 40 hours/week for 50 weeks at $20.00/hr = $40,000. Note that personnel are part of your organization, consultants and independent contractors should be listed under Category F.

Contractual.

B. Fringe Benefits: For each position description included above, provide the fringe benefits rate and dollar amount.

C. Travel: Provide the unit of measure, quantity, cost per unit and resultant dollar amount for each of the following travel details: airfare, lodging, per diem, ground transportation, housing stipend and/or transportation stipend. Also provide a statement that the proposed travel and per diem costs do not exceed current maximum Federal rates (found at:

https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates), or that the proposed travel and per diem costs are in line with the applicant’s written travel policy.

1. Under GSA requirements, the first and last travel days of any trip must be calculated at 75% of the full per diem rate (Example: For a 3-day trip to a location with a GSA per diem rate of $100.00, the total allowable per diem is $75 (Day 1) + $100 (Day 2) + $75 (Day 3) = $250).

2. The Federal allowable mileage rate of 58 cents per mile should be applied to any personally owned vehicle use.

All travel costs must adhere to applicable regulations and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200.474.

D. Equipment: Equipment is defined in 2 CFR Part 200.1 as “tangible personal property (including information technology systems) having a useful life of more than one year and a per unit acquisition cost which equals or exceeds $10,000.” List any equipment being purchased with Federal funds, provide quotes or estimates obtained to support the cost amount, and include a written justification as to why this equipment is necessary for the proposed project. Applicants must demonstrate how purchasing permanent equipment is less expensive than renting.

Recipients are required to maintain records demonstrating that a competitive bidding process was used to purchase such services or equipment. Recipients who purchase equipment must adhere to applicable regulations and conditions including 2 CFR Part 200.313 and 2 CFR Part 200.439.

E. Supplies: Provide a description, quantity, cost per unit, and resultant dollar amount for any consumable supplies, raw materials, and expendable equipment (items costing less than $5,000 https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates and/or having an estimated useful life of less than 1 year). “General office supplies” or “miscellaneous supplies” are not acceptable line items.

F. Contractual: Describe market research undertaken to determine an accurate budgetary estimate. Provide the contract/sub-award description, unit of time, quantity, cost per unit of time and resultant dollar amount for each contract/sub-award. Describe how contract services will be obtained. Award recipients will be required to submit documentation showing that a competitive selection process or other appropriate method of procurement allowable under 2 CFR 200.320 was used for contracts over $10,000, as well as any sub-awards.

G. Construction: Construction costs are unallowable under this NOFO. Do not include any costs under this category and instead write $0.00 or N/A.

H. Other Costs: Provide the description, quantity, cost per unit and resultant dollar amount for each item that does not fit within one of the other budget categories. “Miscellaneous,” “overhead,” and “contingency” are not acceptable line items.

I. Total Direct Charges: List the subtotal of Budget Categories A – H.

J. Indirect Costs: Provide the indirect cost rate percentage, type (negotiated or 15% de minimis), associated base (modified total direct costs), and resultant indirect amount. If indirect costs are included, applicants must include a copy of the current negotiated indirect cost rate agreement, or elect the 15% de minimis rate, and apply the approved rate accordingly. Provide an explanation if the associated base differs from budget category I (Total Direct Charges).

Proposals that fail to document their indirect costs may have those costs disallowed.

K. Total Federal Funding Request: List the total amount of Federal funds being requested.

Check that this amount matches those listed on the SF-424 and SF-424A before submitting the application. Inconsistencies will result in delays in processing the application.

L. Non-Federal Share of Budget: Provide the details of the non-Federal share of the budget, including description, source, quantity, cost per unit, and resultant dollar amount for each item.

Recipients will be required to fulfill any matching commitments they agree to and inability to do so may result in a reduction of the Federal award.

Project Abstract Summary: Please complete and submit with your application package the Project Abstract Summary form with the following information:

• Funding Opportunity Number;

• Goals and Objectives of your proposed project;

• Summary of Project Activities;

• Performance Goals including milestones and expected outcomes;

• Who will benefit from your project.

This information will be transmitted to USASpending.gov and be viewable by the public.

In addition to the requirements outlined above, complete applications should include the below additional documents. Submit all documents via the Attachments form.

1. Letter of Commitment for Cost Match: Provide a letter from the non-Federal entity, addressed to the applicant, which acknowledges their commitment to supply the non-Federal share of at least 50% of the total project cost, as described in the Budget Narrative. Multiple letters may be submitted if there are multiple non-Federal funding sources.

2. Project team CVs/Resumes or Selection Criteria: Include CVs or resumes of key project personnel. These may include position descriptions, selection criteria, cost estimates, or statements of work for staff, consultants, or contractors to be hired as part of the project. These attachments should support the descriptions of the project team in the “Innovation in Content Development” and “Administration and Implementation” sections of the Project Narrative.

3. Detailed Design Documents: Required for Implementation Grants only, this includes a detailed design document, and/or prototypes, as well as any draft content for the project (e.g., text, outline, bibliography, etc.). Ensure that these documents display that the project has completed the necessary planning to produce a high-quality finished product per the proposed schedule.

4. Map: At least one map must be submitted, depicting the project with reference to the core and study area boundaries of associated eligible battlefields; the project’s APE for Section 106 purposes; boundaries of any properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places within the project area; and existing buildings, structures, and potential historic resources within the project area.

5. Other Supporting Documents: If applicable, provide any materials necessary to support effective review of your proposal. These may include letters of commitment or support from project partners and stakeholders, bibliographies, existing models or examples for the project, additional plans and designs related to project work, and/or audience surveys. Supporting documents should be clearly labeled and should relate to specifics of the Project Narrative.

Optional submission(s) for Public Relations and social media: Applicants may voluntarily include 1 to 3 additional images that are related to their project proposal by attaching them to the Optional Image Worksheet and submitting the worksheet via the Attachments form. These images will not be considered part of the application package and will not be considered in the merit review and selection process outlined in that section of this NOFO. If the application package is selected for award, NPS ABPP may use the submitted images for web-based announcements and social media. The images may be photographs, paintings, sketches, or another artwork relating to the project site, and should be a media quality JPEG, PNG, or TIF and include a caption for each image that describes what it depicts. Additionally, please include a credit for each image that identifies the origin/owner of the image and any applicable permissions for its use.

If being considered or selected for award, NPS reserves the right to request additional or clarifying information for any reason deemed necessary including, but not limited to:

1. Other budget information

2. Financial capability

3. Evaluation of risk

4. Name and phone number of the Designated Responsible Employee for complying with national policies prohibiting discrimination (See 43 CFR 17).

Conflict of Interest and Unresolved Matters Disclosures:

If any actual or potential conflict of interest exists related to this project at the time of application, the applicant must provide sufficient information to support a program determination of significance per 2 CFR 1402.112. Refer to 2 CFR 200.112 Conflict of Interest and 2 CFR 200.113.

Overlap or Duplication of Effort Statement:

Applicants must state in their application if the activities, costs, or time commitment of key personnel proposed in this application overlap with those in any other Federal proposal or award or not. If no overlap exists, include a statement to that effect. If any overlap exists, provide:

• Activities: Description any overlapping activities.

• Costs: Description of any overlapping costs.

• Time: Description of any overlapping key personnel time.

• A copy of any overlapping or duplicative proposal submitted to any other potential funding entity.

• Details on when any overlapping proposal was submitted, to whom, and the expected date of the funding decision.

Other Required Information Distinct Project Threshold: Proposals must describe projects that are clearly separate from the regular activities carried out by applicant organizations, excluding those covered by indirect costs and qualified under 2 CFR § 200.414. Proposals that contain general operational costs not covered under an indirect cost rate, or for work that has been substantially completed prior to the submission of an application will be determined ineligible.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

Address to Request Application Package All relevant forms are included in the Package, available on the general information or synopsis view (see Package tab). If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact: ABPP@nps.gov.

Submission Dates and Times Closing Date for Applications: 11/25/2025

Closing Date Explanation

Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 11:59 PM, ET, on the listed application due date.

Submission Instructions Apply Through Grants.gov To apply through Grants.gov, please follow the instructions in the Quick Start Guide for Applicants. Before applying, ensure that at least one person at your organization is registered and has the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Only the AOR can submit the https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-B/chapter-XIV/part-1402#1402.112 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-B/section-200.112 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-B/section-200.113 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200/subpart-B/section-200.113 https://grants.gov/register https://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants http://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants application. If you need more users, they must create their own Grants.gov account. Follow these steps below to apply:

• Create a Workspace: Creating a workspace allows you to complete it online and route it through your organization for review before submitting.

• Complete a Workspace: Invite participants to the workspace so you can collaborate on the application. Required applications forms are included in the Grants.gov Funding Opportunity Package and can be completed in the Workspace, unless noted otherwise in the Required Forms table above. Check for errors before submission.

• Submit a Workspace: An application may be submitted through workspace by clicking the Sign and Submit button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab

• Track a Workspace Submission: After successfully submitting a workspace application, a Grants.gov Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) is automatically assigned to the application.

The system generates a date and time stamp and sends it to the applicant’s AOR via email as proof of submission. Make sure your application passes the Grants.gov validation checks. Do not encrypt, zip, or password-protect any files. Only registered individuals in SAM as both a user and an AOR can submit applications. Please allow 30 days to register in Grants.gov.

Application System Technical Support: For Grants.gov technical registration and submission, downloading forms, and application packages, contact Grants.gov Customer Support at 1-800- 518-4726 or by email at Support@grants.gov.

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

Eligibility Review During the eligibility review, the application is checked for timely submission, completed packages (see Application Documents above) and alignment with the requirements of this announcement. The Federal agency may remove an application if it does not pass the eligibility review.

If an applicant selected for funding hasn't finished their SAM.gov registration (see 2 CFR 25.200 and 2 CFR 25.110) when the federal agency is ready to make an award, we may decide that the applicant is ineligible for the award and choose to grant it to someone else. Please refer 2 CFR

25.205 for more information.

If selected for award, NPS reserves the right to request additional or clarifying information for any reason deemed necessary, including, but not limited to:

(a) Other budget information

(b) Financial capability

(c) Evaluation of risk

(d) Name and phone number of the Designated Responsible Employee for complying with national policies prohibiting discrimination (See 43 C.F.R. § 17)

If removed from consideration for ineligibility, the Federal agency will notify the applicant in writing.

If an applicant selected for funding hasn't finished their SAM.gov registration (see 2 CFR 25.200 and 2 CFR 25.110) when the federal agency is ready to make an award, we may decide that the applicant is ineligible for the award and choose to grant it to someone else. Please refer 2 CFR

25.205 for more information.

Prior to making an award, the DOI checks the anticipated recipient and their key project personnel against the current list of prohibited or restricted persons or entities in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Exclusions database. We are prohibited from making an award if a recipient or any key personnel are found ineligible, prohibited, restricted, or otherwise excluded from receiving or participating in an award, as their ineligibility condition applies to this program.

If removed from consideration for ineligibility, the Federal agency will notify the applicant in writing.

Merit Review

Criterion 1 - Innovation in Content Development (Maximum Points:

25)

• How innovative is the proposed approach to understanding the battlefield’s history and resources through interpretive and/or educational content?

• How extensively will the project incorporate current or new scholarship, sources, and/or perspectives not previously consulted?

• To what extent does the content development team include subject matter experts and/or stakeholders with varied areas of experience and expertise? For Scoping Grants without a final team, does the proposal describe how the applicant will form an interdisciplinary team and the criteria they will use?

• How effectively will the proposed approach to content development produce work that is up to date, well researched, inclusive of multiple perspectives, sustainable, and relevant to the intended audience(s)? For Implementation Grants, how well does the draft content exemplify these qualities?

Criterion 2 - Interpretive and Technical Approach (Maximum Points: 25)

• Are the project’s interpretive objectives, activities, and products described in detail?

• How well do the interpretive or educational methods advance best practices in public history and interpretive design?

• How suitable are the proposed activities and products for meeting the project objectives?

How effective, appropriate, and realistic are the uses of technology?

• How comprehensively does the proposed project incorporate inclusive and accessible design for people with disabilities?

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-25.200 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-25/subpart-A/section-25.110 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-25/subpart-B/section-25.205 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-25/subpart-B/section-25.205

• For Implementation Grants, how effective, thorough, and well-researched are the detailed design plans, prototypes, and/or draft content?

Criterion 3 - Administration and Implementation (Maximum Points:

25)

• Are budget items described in detail, reasonable, and necessary?

• How realistic are the proposed budget, task schedule, and goals for the project period?

• How clearly are the roles and responsibilities of all project personnel (staff and contractors) defined, and how qualified are key personnel? Does the project team have relevant experience with the subject matter, interpretive/educational methods, project management, and technical design? Or are there methods and criteria for identifying any new staff or contractors?

• Does the applicant have necessary permissions and permits, or a clear plan to obtain them within the project time frame?

• If applicable, will the project meet any relevant Secretary of the Interior’s Standards, and avoid adverse effects on historic properties?

• How well does the applicant demonstrate, through this application and/or their past performance record, the ability to meet administrative and technical grant requirements?

Criterion 4 - Stakeholder and Audience Engagement (Maximum Points: 25)

• How effectively has the applicant involved appropriate partners, stakeholders, and/or communities in project planning to include a variety of perspectives and foster accurate interpretation?

• How viable is the strategy for engagement with relevant stakeholders, audiences, and/or communities throughout the project? Will the project include outreach to groups who are not already invested in current preservation goals or site management?

• How appropriate are the chosen methods and use of technology for the intended audience(s)?

• How effectively will plans for project evaluation measure and improve the project’s effectiveness in meeting its interpretive or educational objectives?

Review and Selection Process This program reviews proposed budgets to ensure:

• figures are correct

• estimated costs are necessary and reasonable and clearly linked to project narratives

• avoid obviously unallowable costs

• identify costs requiring prior approval

• ensure indirect cost rates are applied correctly

• confirm cost sharing requirements are reflected in the budget.

This program reviews applications for potential overlap or duplication between the proposed project and any other funded or proposed project. Depending on the circumstances, DOI may choose to not make an award.

NPS personnel, and in some cases independent reviewers, will review all proposals. All proposals for funding will be considered using the criteria outlined above. A summary of the review panel comments may be provided to the applicant if requested.

a. Initial Review Prior to conducting the comprehensive merit review, an initial review will be performed to determine whether: (1) the applicant is eligible for an award; (2) the information required by the NOFO has been submitted; (3) all mandatory requirements of the NOFO are satisfied; (4) the proposed project is responsive to the program objectives of the NOFO (program determination);

and(5) the proposed project is in compliance with all applicable executive and secretary orders, including the President’s EO on Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing as well as the EO and SO on Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History. If an applicant fails to meet the requirements or objectives of the NOFO, or does not provide sufficient information for review, the applicant will be considered non-responsive and eliminated from further review.

b. Comprehensive Merit Review All applications that satisfactorily pass the initial review will be eligible for the Comprehensive Merit Review. Each criterion will be scored based on the strengths and weaknesses of the application narrative against the specific questions listed under each criterion in Paragraph 1 of this section. Each criterion is scored out of 25 points. Numerical ratings may fall into the following numerical rating categories:

Superior: Applicant fully addresses all aspects of the criterion, convincingly demonstrates that it will meet the Government's performance requirements and demonstrates no weaknesses.

Good: Applicant fully addresses all aspects of the criterion, convincingly demonstrates a likelihood of meeting the Government's requirements, and demonstrates only a few minor weaknesses.

Satisfactory: Applicant addresses all aspects of the criterion and demonstrates the ability to meet the Government's performance requirements. The Application contains weaknesses and/or a number of minor weaknesses.

Marginal: Applicant addresses all aspects of the criterion and demonstrates the ability to meet the Government's performance requirements. The Application contains significant weaknesses and/or a significant number of minor weaknesses.

Poor: Applicant addresses some aspects of the criterion and demonstrates some doubt in the likelihood of successfully meeting the Government's requirements. Significant weaknesses are demonstrated and clearly outweigh any strength presented.

Not Acceptable: Applicant does not address all aspects of the criterion and the information presented indicates a strong likelihood of failure to meet the Government's requirements.

c. Selection The Selection Official will consider the Comprehensive Merit Review recommendations, program policy factors such as building capacity of preservation partners, preference regarding geographic variation regarding applicant selection, and the amount of funds available to select applications for funding.

d. Discussions and Award The Government may enter into discussions with a selected applicant for any reason deemed necessary, including, but not limited…