PKG00257067-instructions.pdf

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

Respiration Protection for Firefighters During Overhaul Operations (Supplemental)

NOTE: If you are going to apply for this funding opportunity and have not obtained a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number and/or are not currently registered in the System for Award Management (SAM), please take immediate action to obtain a DUNS Number, if applicable, and then to register immediately in SAM. It may take 4 weeks or more after you submit your SAM registration before your registration is active in SAM, then an additional 24 hours for Grants.gov to recognize your information. Information on obtaining a DUNS number and registering in SAM is available from Grants.gov at:

http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/register.html. Detailed information regarding DUNS and SAM is also provided in Section D of this NOFO, subsection, Content and Form of Application Submission.

Table of Contents A. Program Description

1. Issued By

2. Assistance Listings (formerly Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number)

3. Assistance Listings Title (formerly CFDA Title)

4. Funding Opportunity Title

5. Funding Opportunity Number

6. Authorizing Authority for Program

7. Appropriation Authority for Program

8. Announcement Type

9. Program Overview, Objectives, and Priorities

10. Performance Metrics

B. Federal Award Information

1. Available Funding for the NOFO: $498,232.00

2. Projected number of Awards (Optional): 1

3. Period of Performance: 12 Months

4. Projected Period of Performance Start Date(s): 01/01/2020

5. Projected Period of Performance End Date(s): 12/31/2020

6. Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/register.html

Notice of Funding Opportunity DHS-ST-20-108-FR01

C. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

2. Applicant Eligibility Criteria

3. Maintenance of Effort (MOE)

4. Cost Share or Match

D. Application and Submission Information

1. Key Dates and Times

2. Agreeing to Terms and Conditions of the Award

3. Address to Request Application Package

4. Steps Required to Submit an Application, Unique Entity Identifier, and System for Award Management (SAM)

5. Electronic Delivery

6. How to Register to Apply through Grants.gov

7. How to Submit an Application to DHS via Grants.gov

8. Timely Receipt Requirements and Proof of Timely Submission

9. Content and Form of Application Submission

Application Instructions

10. Intergovernmental Review

11. Funding Restrictions

12. Allowable Costs

E. Application Review Information

1. Application Evaluation Criteria

2. Review and Selection Process

F. Federal Award Administration Information

1. Notice of Award

2. Pass-Through Requirements

3. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

4. Reporting

5. Monitoring

G. DHS Awarding Agency Contact Information

1. Contact and Resource Information

H. Additional Information

A. Program Description

1. Issued By U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology (S&T), First Responders & Detection (FRD)

2. Assistance Listings (formerly Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number) 97.108

3. Assistance Listings Title (formerly CFDA Title)

S&T - First Responders & Detection

4. Funding Opportunity Title

Respiration Protection for Firefighters During Overhaul

5. Funding Opportunity Number

DHS-ST-20-108-FR01

6. Authorizing Authority for Program

Section 308(b)(1)(C) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, (Pub. L. No. 107-296), as amended.

7. Appropriation Authority for Program Public Law 115-31, Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2019, Title IV, Research, Development, Training and Services

8. Announcement Type

Supplemental Funding

9. Program Overview, Objectives, and Priorities After a structural fire has been extinguished, firefighters conduct salvage and overhaul operations. The primary purpose of these activities is to check for and extinguish any smoldering hot spots, while at the same time trying to minimize damage to the structure and its’ contents. In addition to the hazards associated with debris when taking down ceilings and the other functions involved with overhaul operations, there is considerable exposure to toxic chemicals, gases, and particulate matters during overhaul firefighting.

Often these chemicals, particulate matters, and potentially toxic gases present during the cold smoke environment may be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through skin contact.

Early in the overhaul operations, firefighters normally wear their self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) as this is their only means of complete respiratory protection. Later in the operations, it is common for firefighters to remove the SCBA when the carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations, measured by a handheld instrument, drops below the 8 hour Occupation Safety Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 35 parts per million (ppm). Firefighters remove their SCBA equipment because the overhaul environment is hot, the SCBA is heavy and cumbersome to work in, and must be changed periodically, approximately every 30 minutes. Unfortunately, CO concentrations do not correlate with the concentrations of the multiple harmful chemicals that can be present in the overhaul environment, nor do they in any way indicate the hazards associated with inhaling particulates.

Structural firefighters and fire investigators need a respirator system that offers protection against the chemical and vapor hazards present in the overhaul environment. The technology must be capable of protecting personnel present during overhaul operations from airborne hazards and carcinogens. Prior development efforts by TDA Research and Avon Protection were successful in addressing this void by producing and delivering to DHS prototypes of the overhaul filters for an Operational Field Assessment (OFA), executed at the National Fire Academy in Emittsburg, MD in October 2018. Additional overhaul filters were also provided to DHS at the conclusion of the OFA.

Since that time, TDA Research and Avon Protection Systems are continuing development efforts of the overhaul filter which include additional testing of various carbon lots to ensure that if a lower capacity carbon lot is introduced the filter system would still offer the required user protection. TDA Research and Avon Protection will develop a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-certified stackable filter system that can be used as a traditional APR or with a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR).

This filter system offers fire personnel involved in overhaul operations protection against the inhalation of harmful vapors and chemicals present in the overhaul environment.

Program Objective 1: Carbon Lot Testing

Carbon performance of each lot will be tested individually and in mixtures to ensure that lots with lower capacities will not cause overhaul filters to fail NIOSH or overhaul challenge tests. Each carbon will be tube tested by itself and in combination with the other two carbons. Tube tests will be conducted by the Project Performer. A test plan will be developed and used to manage this fairly complex testing regime.

Program Objective 2: Building Prototype Overhaul Filter Systems

The concept filter system developed during the initial proposal will be further tested and developed before submission to NIOSH. This task includes creating a bill of materials to determine the per system cost. Composing a design validation plan which details how the overhaul filter will meet all parts of the performance specification, to include the NIOSH and overhaul filter requirements. Automating the overhaul filter assembly process and building a filter system that meets the filter requirements of NIOSH.

Program Objective 3 and 4: Prototype Testing and NIOSH Certification

Finalize the rigorous testing described under Program Objective 2 and conduct NIOSH testing at third party laboratories to confirm the Project Performers in-house results.

Hands-on demonstrations and meetings with local firefighters to obtain feedback will be conducted. Prepare final documentation needed for the NIOSH submission. Prepare an overhaul filter system for NIOSH certification.

This program addresses the 2014 Quadrennial Homeland Security Review Mission 5:

Strengthen National Preparedness and Resilience. Specifically, Goal 5.1 Build and sustain core capabilities nationally to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from all hazards. The nation’s first responders, the beneficiaries of this effort, are in fact the front line of our nation’s ability to meet goal 5 and this project will enhance their ability to do so safely and efficiently.

10. Performance Metrics The overhaul filters’ sulfur dioxide and carbon tetrachloride capacities, and their dust emissions will be tested by the Project Performer after rough handling to ensure they can withstand shock and vibration associated with transport and handling. The filter system will undergo NIOSH testing at third party laboratories to confirm results produced by the Project Performer. The Project Performer will conduct multiple Voice of Customer (VOC) meetings with local firefighters from a variety of different department sizes to obtain feedback on the filter system. The VOC meetings will be held at various stages of design to ensure the technology meets the intended requirements as set forth in the Statement of Work to include comfort, maneuverability and breathability when used in the APR or PAPR firefighter device. While DHS does not have any standardized forms for this type of activity, the Project Performer may design and use a questionnaire/survey which will receive prior approval from DHS/S&T Privacy Office.

Deliverables that will be provided to DHS S&T include: (2) complete overhaul filter systems, one for use with the APR and one for use with the PAPR and (30) stackable overhaul filters.

In order to ensure to accept product acceptance by the first responder community, the Project Performer will be required to engage and submit applications for addition to the DHS Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Authorized Equipment List (AEL) and the Interagency Board for Equipment Standardization and Interoperability (IAB) Standardized Equipment List (SEL). While these lists do not guarantee sales, being approved on these lists can sometimes make it easier for an early adopter at a specific department/agency to obtain purchase authorization. DHS also uses these tools to gather performance metrics. DHS is also committed to ensuring the use of their technology by the first responder community by requesting the Project Performer to provide documented metrics regarding product sales and estimated productions costs for the first three years after commercialization. Additionally, to promote the first responder’s technology awareness DHS may request the Project Performer to participate in operational exercises, demonstrations, and conferences for the first three years after commercialization.

B. Federal Award Information

1. Available Funding for the NOFO: $498,232.00

2. Projected number of Awards (Optional): 1

3. Period of Performance: 12 Months Extension to the period of performance is permitted (see Section H below)

4. Projected Period of Performance Start Date(s): 01/01/2020

5. Projected Period of Performance End Date(s): 12/31/2020

6. Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement

C. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

The application below was selected and approved for funding as part of the First Responder Group BAA 13-012 Solicitation Call 0004, Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate, Published in Federal Business Opportunities.

As part of this process, the application was evaluated for scientific and technical merit by

(an) appropriate Scientific Review Group(s) convened by FRG, in accordance with standard peer review policy and procedures. The following was considered in making funding decisions:

•Scientific and technical merit of the proposed project as determined by peer review.

•Availability of funds.

•Relevance of the proposed project to program priorities.

This purpose of this NOFO is to provide supplemental funding. An application will only be accepted from TDA Research, Inc.

2. Applicant Eligibility Criteria

The application received an initial review and evaluation under the BAA review process.

The application will receive another administrative review to determine compliance with requirements and completeness of the application. This review includes determining whether:

• A complete application package has been submitted, that is, all required elements of the application are included.

• An evaluation to determine the risks to the program posed by each applicant, including conducting due diligence to ensure an applicant’s ability to manage federal funds.

3. Maintenance of Effort (MOE)

There is no statutory maintenance-of-effort (MOE) requirement associated with this award of the funding in this Notice.

4. Cost Share or Match

There is no cost share or matching requirement associated with this award of the funding in this Notice.

D. Application and Submission Information

1. Key Dates and Times

a. Application Start Date: 12/01/2019

b. Application Submission Deadline: 11/26/2019 23:59:59 PM

Eastern Daylight Time Late applications are neither reviewed nor considered

c. Anticipated Funding Selection Date (Optional): No later than 12/01/2019

d. Anticipated Award Date (Optional): No later than 01/10/2020

e. Other Key Dates

2. Agreeing to Terms and Conditions of the Award By submitting an application, applicants agree to comply with the requirements of this NOFO and the terms and conditions of the award, should they receive an award.

3. Address to Request Application Package

Application forms and instructions are available at Grants.gov. To access these materials, go to http://www.grants.gov , select “Applicants” then “Apply for Grants.” In order to obtain the application package select “Download a Grant Application Package.” Enter the Assistance Listings (formerly CFDA) and/or the funding opportunity number located on the cover of this NOFO, select “Download Package,” and then follow the prompts to download the application package.

For a hardcopy of the full NOFO, please write or fax a request to:

Janet Bailey Office of Procurement Operations (MGMT I OPO) 245 Murray Lane SW Mail Stop 0115 Washington, D.C. 20528-0115 Phone: 202-447-0362 Email: janet.bailey@HQ.DHS.GOV

Applications will be processed through the Grants.gov portal.

4. Steps Required to Submit an Application, Unique Entity Identifier, and System for Award Management (SAM)

To apply for an award under this program, all applicants must:

a. Apply for, update, or verify their Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS)

Number from Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) and Employer ID Number (EIN)

Event Suggested Deadline for Completion Obtaining DUNS Number Four weeks before actual submission deadline Obtaining a valid EIN Four weeks before actual submission deadline Updating SAM registration Four weeks before actual submission deadline Starting application in Grants.gov One week before actual submission deadline

b. In the application, provide a valid Data Universal Numbering System DUNS number, which is currently the unique entity identifier;

c. Have an account with login.gov;

d. Register for, update, or verify their SAM account and ensure the account is active before submitting the application;

e. Create a Grants.gov account;

f. Add a profile to a Grants.gov account;

a. Establish an Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) in Grants.gov;

b. Submit (if applicable, add: an initial) application in Grants.gov;

g. (If applicable) Submit the final application in the <insert applicable system>; and

h. Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a federal awarding agency.

Applicants are advised that DHS may not make a federal award until the applicant has complied with all applicable DUNS and SAM requirements. Therefore, an applicant’s SAM registration must be active not only at the time of application, but also during the application review period and when DHS is ready to make a federal award. Further, as noted above, an applicant’s or recipient’s SAM registration must remain active for the duration of an active federal award. If an applicant’s SAM registration is expired at the time of application, expires during application review, or expires any other time before award, DHS may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a federal award to another applicant.

The Standard Language for Using Grants.gov to Apply is provided to aid in fulfilling these requirements (if applicable), based off of https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/grantors/grantor-standard-language.html:

5. Electronic Delivery

DHS is participating in the Grants.gov initiative to provide the grant community with a single site to find and apply for grant funding opportunities. DHS encourages or requires applicants to submit their applications online through Grants.gov, depending on the funding opportunity. If applicable, add: For this funding opportunity, the <DHS FAO> requires applicants to submit applications through Grants.gov.

6. How to Register to Apply through Grants.gov

a. Instructions: Registering in Grants.gov is a multi-step process. Read the instructions below about registering to apply for DHS funds. Applicants should read the registration instructions carefully and prepare the information requested before beginning the registration process. Reviewing and assembling the required information before beginning the registration process will alleviate last-minute searches for required information.

https://www.login.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/grantors/grantor-standard-language.html

The registration process can take up to four weeks to complete. Therefore, registration should be done in sufficient time to ensure it does not impact your ability to meet required application submission deadlines.

Organizations must have a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number, active System for Award Management (SAM) registration, and Grants.gov account to apply for grants. If individual applicants are eligible to apply for this grant funding opportunity, then you may begin with step 3, Create a Grants.gov account, listed below.

Creating a Grants.gov account can be completed online in minutes, but DUNS and SAM registrations may take several weeks. Therefore, an organization's registration should be done in sufficient time to ensure it does not impact the entity's ability to meet required application submission deadlines. Complete organization instructions can be found on Grants.gov here:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration.html

1) Obtain a DUNS Number: All entities applying for funding, including renewal funding, must have a DUNS number from Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). Applicants must enter the DUNS number in the data entry field labeled "Organizational DUNS" on the SF-424 form.

For more detailed instructions for obtaining a DUNS number, refer to:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-1-obtain-duns-number.html

2) Register with SAM: All organizations applying online through Grants.gov must register with the System for Award Management (SAM). Failure to register with SAM will prevent your organization from applying through Grants.gov. SAM registration must be renewed annually.

For more detailed instructions for registering with SAM, refer to:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-2-register-with-sam.html

3) Create a Grants.gov Account: The next step is to register an account with Grants.gov. Follow the on-screen instructions or refer to the detailed instructions here: https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration.html

4) Add a Profile to a Grants.gov Account: A profile in Grants.gov corresponds to a single applicant organization the user represents (i.e., an applicant) or an individual applicant. If you work for or consult with multiple organizations and have a profile for each, you may log in to one Grants.gov account to access all of your grant applications. To add an organizational profile to your Grants.gov https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-1-obtain-duns-number.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-1-obtain-duns-number.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-2-register-with-sam.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration/step-2-register-with-sam.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration.html account, enter the DUNS Number for the organization in the DUNS field while adding a profile.

For more detailed instructions about creating a profile on Grants.gov, refer to:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration/add-profile.html

5) EBiz POC Authorized Profile Roles: After you register with Grants.gov and create an Organization Applicant Profile, the organization applicant's request for Grants.gov roles and access is sent to the EBiz POC. The EBiz POC will then log in to Grants.gov and authorize the appropriate roles, which may include the AOR role, thereby giving you permission to complete and submit applications on behalf of the organization. You will be able to submit your application online any time after you have been assigned the AOR role.

For more detailed instructions about creating a profile on Grants.gov, refer to:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration/authorize-roles.html

6) Track Role Status: To track your role request, refer to:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration/track-role-status.html

7) Electronic Signature: When applications are submitted through Grants.gov, the name of the organization applicant with the AOR role that submitted the application is inserted into the signature line of the application, serving as the electronic signature. The EBiz POC must authorize people who are able to make legally binding commitments on behalf of the organization as a user with the AOR role; this step is often missed, and it is crucial for valid and timely submissions.

7. How to Submit an Application to DHS via Grants.gov

Grants.gov applicants can apply online using Workspace. Workspace is a shared, online environment where members of a grant team may simultaneously access and edit different webforms within an application. For each NOFO, you can create individual instances of a workspace.

Below is an overview of applying on Grants.gov. For access to complete instructions on how to apply for opportunities using Workspace, refer to:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/workspace-overview.html

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

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration/add-profile.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration/authorize-roles.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration/track-role-status.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/workspace-overview.html

b. Complete a Workspace: Add participants to the workspace to work on the application together, complete all the required forms online or by downloading PDF versions, and check for errors before submission. The Workspace progress bar will display the state of your application process as you apply. As you apply using Workspace, you may click the blue question mark icon near the upper-right corner of each page to access context-sensitive help.

c. Adobe Reader: If you decide not to apply by filling out webforms you can download individual PDF forms in Workspace. The individual PDF forms can be downloaded and saved to your local device storage, network drive(s), or external drives, then accessed through Adobe Reader.

NOTE: Visit the Adobe Software Compatibility page on Grants.gov to download the appropriate version of the software at:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html

d. Mandatory Fields in Forms: In the forms, you will note fields marked with an asterisk and a different background color. These fields are mandatory fields that must be completed to successfully submit your application.

e. Complete SF-424 Fields First: The forms are designed to fill in common required fields across other forms, such as the applicant name, address, and DUNS number.

To trigger this feature, an applicant must complete the SF-424 information first.

Once it is completed, the information will transfer to the other forms.

f. 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. Grants.gov recommends submitting your application package at least 24- 48 hours prior to the close date to provide you with time to correct any potential technical issues that may disrupt the application submission.

g. Track a Workspace Submission: After successfully submitting a workspace application, a Grants.gov Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) is automatically assigned to the application. The number will be listed on the Confirmation page that is generated after submission. Using the tracking number, access the Track My Application page under the Applicants tab or the Details tab in the submitted workspace.

For additional training resources, including video tutorials, refer to:

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/applicant-training.html

Applicant Support: Grants.gov provides applicants 24/7 support via the toll-free number 1-800-518-4726 and email at support@grants.gov. For questions related to the specific https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility.html https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/applicant-training.html mailto:support@grants.gov grant opportunity, contact the number listed in the application package of the grant you are applying for.

If you are experiencing difficulties with your submission, it is best to call the Grants.gov Support Center and get a ticket number. The Support Center ticket number will assist DHS with tracking your issue and understanding background information on the issue.

8. Timely Receipt Requirements and Proof of Timely Submission

a. Online Submission. All applications must be received by midnight Eastern time on the due date established for each program. Proof of timely submission is automatically recorded by Grants.gov. An electronic date/time stamp is generated within the system when the application is successfully received by Grants.gov. The applicant with the AOR role who submitted the application will receive an acknowledgement of receipt and a tracking number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) from Grants.gov with the successful transmission of their application. This applicant with the AOR role will also receive the official date/time stamp and Grants.gov Tracking number in an email serving as proof of their timely submission.

When DHS successfully retrieves the application from Grants.gov, and acknowledges the download of submissions, Grants.gov will provide an electronic acknowledgment of receipt of the application to the email address of the applicant with the AOR role who submitted the application. Again, proof of timely submission shall be the official date and time that Grants.gov receives your application. Applications received by Grants.gov after the established due date for the program will be considered late and will not be considered for funding by DHS.

Applicants using slow internet, such as dial-up connections, should be aware that transmission can take some time before Grants.gov receives your application. Again, Grants.gov will provide either an error or a successfully received transmission in the form of an email sent to the applicant with the AOR role attempting to submit the application. The Grants.gov Support Center reports that some applicants end the transmission because they think that nothing is occurring during the transmission process. Please be patient and give the system time to process the application.

9. Content and Form of Application Submission Applicant must submit a Full Application by the specified due date and time to be considered for funding under this FOA. Applicants must complete the following application forms found on the Grants.gov website at https://www.grants.gov, in accordance with the instructions.

Application Instructions The Program Narrative shall not exceed 20 single sided pages in length, not including the cover page, Table of Contents, and resumes for key personnel. The page size shall be 8-1/2 https://www.grants.gov/ x 11 inches, single or double spaced, with 1 inch margins. Times New Roman 12 point font should be used for the submission.

No Classified Proposals (or portions of proposals) will be accepted.

There are two groups of forms associated with this application: mandatory and optional.

Please read the instructions carefully to determine which forms you must submit.

MANDATORY FORMS

SF424 (R&R)

Instructions for Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424)

Item Field Name Information

1. Type of Submission: (Required) Select one type of submission in accordance with agency instructions.

• Pre-application

• Application

• Changed/Corrected Application - Check if this submission is to change or correct a previously submitted application. Unless requested by the agency, applicants may not use this form to submit changes after the closing date.

2. Type of Application: (Required) Select one type of application in accordance with agency instructions.

• New - An application that is being submitted to an agency for the first time.

• Continuation - An extension for an additional funding/budget period for a project with a projected completion date. This can include renewals.

• Revision - Any change in the federal government's financial obligation or contingent liability from an existing obligation. If a revision, enter the appropriate letter(s). More than one may be selected.

If "Other" is selected, please specify in text box provided.

A. Increase Award B. Decrease Award C. Increase Duration D. Decrease Duration E. Other (specify)

3. Date Received: Leave this field blank. This date will be assigned by the Federal agency.

4. Applicant Identifier: Leave this field blank.

5a. Federal Entity Identifier: Enter the Funding Opportunity Number.

5b. Federal Award Identifier: For new applications leave blank. For a continuation or revision to an existing award, enter the previously assigned federal award grant number.

6. Date Received by State: Leave this field blank.

7. State Application Identifier: Leave this field blank.

8. Applicant Information: Enter the following in accordance with agency instructions:

a. Legal Name: (Required) Enter the legal name of applicant that will undertake the assistance activity. This is the organization that has registered with the Central Contractor Registry (CCR). Information on registering with CCR may be obtained by visiting www.Grants.gov.

b. Employer/Taxpayer Number (EIN/TIN):

(Required) Enter the employer or taxpayer identification number (EIN or TIN) as assigned by the Internal Revenue Service. If your organization is not in the US, enter 44- 4444444.

c. Organizational DUNS: (Required) Enter the organization's DUNS or DUNS+4 number received from Dun and Bradstreet. Information on obtaining a DUNS number may be obtained by visiting www.Grants.gov.

d. Address: Enter address: Street 1 (Required); city (Required);

County/Parish, State (Required if country is US), Province, Country (Required), 9-digit zip/postal code (Required if country US).

e. Organizational Unit: Enter the name of the primary organizational unit, department or division that will undertake the assistance activity.

f. Name and contact information of person to be contacted on matters involving this application:

Enter the first and last name (Required); prefix, middle name, suffix, title. Enter organizational affiliation if affiliated with an organization other than that in 7.a.

Telephone number and email (Required); fax number.

9. Type of Applicant:

(Required) Select up to three applicant type(s) in accordance with agency

A. State Government B. County Government C. City or Township Government D. Special District Government instructions. E. Regional Organization F. U.S. Territory or Possession G. Independent School District H. Public/State Controlled Institution of Higher Education I. Indian/Native American Tribal Government (Federally Recognized) J. Indian/Native American Tribal Government (Other than Federally Recognized) K. Indian/Native American Tribally Designated Organization L. Public/Indian Housing M. Nonprofit N. Private Institution of Higher Education O. Individual P. For-Profit Organization (Other than Small Business) Q. Small Business R. Hispanic-serving Institution S. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) T. Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs) U. Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions V. Non-US Entity W. Other (specify)

10. Name Of Federal Agency: (Required) Enter the name of the federal agency from which assistance is being requested with this application.

11. Catalog Of Federal Domestic Assistance Number/Title:

Enter the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance number and title of the program under which assistance is requested, as found in the program announcement, if applicable.

12. Funding Opportunity Number/Title:

(Required) Enter the Funding Opportunity Number and title of the opportunity under which assistance is requested, as found in the program announcement.

13. Competition Identification Number/Title:

Enter the competition identification number and title of the competition under which assistance is requested, if applicable.

14. Areas Affected By Project: This data element is intended for use only by programs for which the area(s) affected are likely to be different than the place(s) of performance reported on the SF-424 Project/Performance Site Location(s) Form. Add attachment to enter additional areas, if needed.

15. Descriptive Title of Applicant's Project:

(Required) Enter a brief descriptive title of the project. If appropriate, attach a map showing project location (e.g., construction or real property projects). For pre-applications, attach a summary description of the project.

16. Congressional Districts Of: 15a. (Required) Enter the applicant's congressional district.

15b. Enter all district(s) affected by the program or project.

Enter in the format: 2 characters state abbreviation - 3 characters district number, e.g., CA-005 for California 5th district, CA-012 for California 12 district, NC-103 for North Carolina's 103 district. If all congressional districts in a state are affected, enter "all" for the district number, e.g., MD-all for all congressional districts in Maryland. If nationwide, i.e.

all districts within all states are affected, enter US-all. If the program/project is outside the US, enter 00-000. This optional data element is intended for use only by programs for which the area(s) affected are likely to be different than place(s) of performance reported on the SF-424 Project/Performance Site Location(s) Form. Attach an additional list of program/project congressional districts, if needed.

17. Proposed Project Start and End Dates:

(Required) Enter the proposed start date and end date of the project.

18. Estimated Funding: (Required) Enter the amount requested, or to be contributed during the first funding/budget period by each contributor.

Value of in-kind contributions should be included on appropriate lines, as applicable. If the action will result in a dollar change to an existing award, indicate only the amount of the change. For decreases, enclose the amounts in parentheses.

19. Is Application Subject to Review by State Under Executive Order 12372 Process?

(Required) Applicants should contact the State Single Point of Contact (SPOC) for Federal Executive Order 12372 to determine whether the application is subject to the State intergovernmental review process. Select the appropriate box. If "a." is selected, enter the date the application was submitted to the State.

20. Is the Applicant Delinquent on any Federal Debt?

(Required) Select the appropriate box. This question applies to the applicant organization, not the person who signs as the authorized representative. Categories of federal debt include;

but, may not be limited to: delinquent audit disallowances, loans and taxes. If yes, include an explanation in an attachment.

21. Authorized Representative: To be signed and dated by the authorized representative of the applicant organization. Enter the first and last name (Required); prefix, middle name, suffix. Enter title, telephone number, email (Required); and fax number. A copy of the governing body's authorization for you to sign this application as the official representative must be on file in the applicant's office. (Certain federal agencies may require that this authorization be submitted as part of the application.)

Research & Related (R&R) Budget An R&R Budget is required for ALL applications. Please ensure that the total requested corresponds to Block 16.a on the SF 424 R&R form.

Budget Justification A Budget Justification is also required for ALL applications. Please ensure that items listed in the budget justification correspond to the funds requested on the R&R Budget form. Attach the Budget Justification to the R&R Budget form. If you need to attach more than one file to fully capture your budget justification, you may use the optional “Attachments” form.

Please use the following guidance when assembling your budget justification:

Use the following cost categories to group items of cost in your budget justification.

PERSONNEL

FRINGE BENEFITS

TRAVEL

EQUIPMENT (see item C on R&R Budget Form) SUPPLIES (see item F.1 on R&R Budget Form) CONTRACTUAL (see item F.5 on R&R Budget Form) OTHER DIRECT COSTS (see items under item F on R&R Budget Form)

INDIRECT COSTS

If you wish to display your budget justification by task, please ensure that you supply a total for each of the cost categories listed above (and related fields on the R&R Budget Form) for the proposed budget period in your application.

Research & Related Project/Performance Site Location(s) Please provide information for every site (including subcontractors and outside vendors, with sub-awards or subcontracts of $25,000 or more) in your project.

SF 424B Assurances for Non-Construction Programs Submit this form. It will be electronically signed upon submission to Grants.gov as part of your application.

Certification Regarding Lobbying Submit this form. If paragraph two of the certification applies, then complete and submit the SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying, which is provided as an optional form in the application package.

Research & Related Senior/Key Person Profile Please supply biographical information on key personnel. The files can be attached at item 12 on the “Other Project Information Form”, or use the optional “Attachments” form.

OPTIONAL FORMS

SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities Do NOT submit this form UNLESS paragraph 2 of the “Certification Regarding Lobbying” form applies to your organization. Some items on this form auto-populate once you complete the SF-424.

Attachments Form Use this form to attach other documents if you need another place to electronically attach portions of your application.2. Content and Form of Application Submission.

10. Intergovernmental Review

An intergovernmental review may be required. Applicants must contact their state’s Single Point of Contact (SPOC) to comply with the state’s process under Executive Order 12372.

(See https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html;

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

11. Funding Restrictions

Equipment Title to equipment acquired by the Recipient with Federal funds provided under this Award shall vest in the Recipient, subject to the conditions pertaining to equipment in OMB Circular A-110, Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Other Agreements with Institutions of Higher Learning, Hospitals and Other Non-Profit Organizations, relocated to 2 CFR Part 215.

Prior to the purchase of Equipment in the amount of $5,000 or more per unit cost, the Recipient must obtain the written approval from DHS.

https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/codification/executive-order/12372.html https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/SPOC-February-2019.pdf

For equipment purchased with Award funds having a $5,000 or more per unit cost, the Recipient shall submit an inventory that will include a description of the property;

manufacturer model number, serial number or other identification number; the source of property; name on title; acquisition date; and cost of the unit; the address of use;

operational condition of the property; and, disposition data, if applicable. This report will be due with the Final Performance Report 90 days after the expiration of the Project Period, and may be emailed to DHS-GrantReports@dhs.gov (include the Recipient name and DHS grant number in the subject line).

Travel Domestic Travel: Domestic travel required in the performance of the duties approved in this Award must be approved by DHS in advance and in writing and comply with the applicable OMB Cost Principles Circular and Federal travel regulations. Requests for travel identifying the traveler, the purpose, the destination, and the estimated travel costs must be submitted to the DHS Grants Officer 30 days prior to the commencement of travel.

Foreign Travel: Foreign travel required in the performance of the duties approved in this Award is not anticipated. However, if foreign travel is required, it must be approved by DHS in advance and in writing and comply with the applicable OMB Cost Principles Circular. Requests for foreign travel identifying the traveler, the purpose, the destination, and the estimated travel costs must be submitted to the DHS Grants Officer 60 days prior to the commencement of travel.

Supplanting of Funds Funds approved under this Award shall be used to supplement and not to supplant other funds dedicated to this effort.

Notices must include information on funding restrictions to allow an applicant to develop an application and budget consistent with program requirements. Examples are whether construction is an allowable activity, if there are any limitations on direct costs such as foreign travel or equipment purchases, and if there are any limits on indirect costs (or facilities and administrative costs). Applicants must be advised if federal awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-federal award costs.

Program specific funding restrictions or other limitations for applicants to consider when developing an application and budget consistent with program requirements are to be listed in this section.

12. Allowable Costs

a. Pre-Award Costs Pre-award costs are allowed.

b. Management and Administration (M&A) Costs

Discretionary M&A costs are allowable in the event the Recipient does not have an indirect cost rate agreement. The Recipient is allowed a maximum of up to ten (10) percent for M&A costs in these instances.

M&A are not operational costs but are necessary costs incurred in direct support of the grant or as a consequence of it, such as travel, meeting-related expenses, and salaries of full/part-time staff in direct support of the program. As such these can be itemized in financial reports.

An application must provide in the project narrative a detailed description of these expenses.

c. Indirect Facilities & Administrative (F&A) Costs Indirect costs are allowable. Provide a copy of the latest rate agreement negotiated with a cognizant Federal agency. If the applicant organization is in the process of initially developing or renegotiating a rate, upon notification that an award will be made, it should immediately develop a tentative indirect cost rate proposal based on its most recently completed fiscal year, in accordance with the cognizant agency's guidelines for establishing indirect cost rates, and submit it to the cognizant agency.

Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect cost proposals may also request indirect costs. When an indirect cost rate is requested, those costs included in the indirect cost pool should not also be charged as direct costs to the award. Also, if the applicant is requesting a rate that is less than what is allowed under the program, the authorized representative of the applicant’s organization must submit a signed acknowledgement that the applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed.

E. Application Review Information

1. Application Evaluation Criteria

a. Programmatic Criteria

DHS will conduct an initial review of applications to determine the responsiveness of the application. If an applicant is determined to be ineligible (see Section C.

Eligibility Information) or an application is determined to be non-responsive, DHS will notify the applicant.

Applications will be evaluated relative to the requirements of the funding opportunity announcement. Therefore, interested parties should be aware that evaluators will distinguish between what is required information and rationalizations, “brochuremanship,” or extraneous information. Final consideration will, however, take into consideration additional information submitted that supports claims in proposals for this opportunity.

The applicant has the responsibility to provide information that clearly demonstrates its ability to satisfactorily respond to the requirements of the funding opportunity announcement.

b. Financial Integrity Criteria Prior to making a federal award, the Grants and Financial Assistance Division, is required by 31 U.S.C. § 3321 note, 41 U.S.C. § 2313, and 2 C.F.R. § 200.205 to review information available through any OMB-designated repositories of government wide eligibility qualification or financial integrity information.

Therefore, application evaluation criteria may include the following risk-based considerations of the applicant:

1) Financial stability.

2) Quality of management systems and ability to meet management standards.

3) History of performance in managing federal award.

4) Reports and findings from audits.

5) Ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements.

c. Supplemental Financial Integrity Criteria and Review

Prior to making a federal award where the anticipated total federal share will be greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, currently $250,000 (see Section 805 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018, Pub. L. No. 115-91, OMB Memorandum M-18-18 at https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/M-18-18.pdf):

1) The Grants and Financial Division is required to review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM, which is currently the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System (FAPIIS) and is accessible through the SAM website.

2) An applicant, at its option, may review information in FAPIIS and comment on any information about itself that a federal awarding agency previously entered.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/M-18-18.pdf https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/M-18-18.pdf https://www.fapiis.gov/fapiis/index.action https://www.sam.gov/SAM/

3) The Grants and Financial Assistance Division will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to the other information in FAPIIS, in making a judgment about the applicant’s integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under federal awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as described in 2 C.F.R. § 200.205.

2. Review and Selection Process

DHS will conduct an initial review of applications to determine the responsiveness of the application. If an applicant is determined to be ineligible (see Section C. Eligibility Information) or an application is determined to be non-responsive, DHS will notify the applicant.

Applications will be evaluated relative to the requirements of the funding opportunity announcement. Therefore, interested parties should be aware that evaluators will distinguish between what is required information and rationalizations, “brochuremanship,” or extraneous information. Final consideration will, however, take into consideration additional information submitted that supports claims in proposals for this opportunity.

The applicant has the responsibility to provide information that clearly demonstrates its ability to satisfactorily respond to the requirements of the funding opportunity announcement.

F. Federal Award Administration Information

1. Notice of Award

Before accepting the award, the AOR and recipient should carefully read the award package. The award package includes instructions on administering the grant award and the terms and conditions associated with responsibilities under federal awards.

Recipients must accept all conditions in this NOFO as well as any special terms and conditions in the Notice of Award to receive an award under this program.

The applicant can expect to receive a grant award by email executed by a DHS Grants Officer authorized to obligate DHS funding.

2. Pass-Through Requirements

There are not any pass-through obligations

3. Administrative and National Policy Requirements All successful applicants for DHS grant and cooperative agreements are required to comply with DHS Standard Terms and Conditions, which are available online at: DHS Standard Terms and Conditions.

The applicable DHS…