RFA-JG-25-137 Additional Questions & Answers 20241230.docx

RFA-JG-25-137: Innovative Approaches for TB Prevention and Case Finding to END TB Additional Questions & Answers 12/30/2024

1. Where in the application materials do we include the evaluation/performance measurement components? Is that part of the 25 pages of research plan or submitted separately?

The evaluation/performance measurement component(s) should be part of the Research Plan component. The application should include measurable goals and aims based on a 5-year research project period. The recipient will establish specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, time-phased, inclusion, and equitable (SMARTIE) project objectives for each activity described in the application’s project plan and describe the development and implementation of project performance measures based on specific programmatic objectives. See pg.12/50 under Evaluation/Performance Measurement.

1. Are there specific or preferred frameworks to present the evaluation/performance measurement component?

Formatting the evaluation/performance measurement component of the application is up to the discretion of the applicant.

1. Are the process evaluation measures to be developed as part of the application, or are those inclusive of the site activation and ongoing monitoring in place through CDC oversight?

The overall CDC Evaluation and Performance Measurement Strategy will focus on both process and outcome evaluation. Process evaluation is conducted to monitor activities during the implementation and operation of a program while an outcome evaluation examines the long-term successes and accomplishments of a program. See pg.12/50 under Evaluation/Performance Measurement.

1. What type of documents can be included in the appendices?

Appendices to be included in the application is up to the discretion of the applicant. Also see pg. 22/50 under Appendix and Page Limitations.

1. How and where should the applicant indicate which component they are applying for? We note that in the RFA that applications to the separate components should have distinct titles, but are there are places or language we should use to ensure clarity?

As noted on pg. 18/50 under 10. Number of Applications, applicants may apply to one or both thematic components (A/B) by submitting scientifically distinct and separate applications. The applicant should make sure to title each of the applications to be distinctly different for the system to accept both the applications. If more than one applicant from the same institute applies, there will only be one award made per institution to ensure diversity across recipients.

1. Under section 12, we note the requirement to attach a Risk Assessment Questionnaire, but we do not see another reference to this document in the NOFO. Please indicate if there is a standard form for this we can use or how we can address this in our application.

The new requirement for a Risk Assessment Questionnaire under section 12. Other Submission Requirements and Information (pg. 25/50) was erroneously added. CDC has retired the Risk Assessment Questionnaire Requirement and applicants are no longer required to submit the CDC Risk Assessment Questionnaire as part of their NOFO application. CDC continues to conduct the review of risk posed by applicants as described starting on pg. 32/50 under 4. Review and Selection Process. CDC may ask for additional information prior to the award based on the results of the review. Risk Assessment Questionnaires that are submitted will not be included in this risk review.