SCORE 2026-001 Notice of Funding Opportunity.pdf

U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Entrepreneurial Development

SCORE NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

PROGRAM YEAR 2026

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY NO. SB-OEDSC-26-001

The purpose of this Funding Opportunity is to invite proposals for funding from entities that are current recipients of a Small Business Administration (SBA) SCORE award.

Table of Contents

1.0 Section I – Funding Opportunity Description

1.1 Program Overview

1.2 Introduction

1.3 Background

1.4 Purpose

1.5 Leveraging of Resources

1.6 SBA Involvement and Oversight

1.7 Changes or Cancellation

2.0 Section II – Award Information

2.1. Estimated Funding

2.2. Expected Number of Awards

2.3. Period of Performance/Budget Periods

2.4. Project Start Dates

2.5. Funding Information

2.6. Funding Instrument

2.7. Matching Requirement ..................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

3.0 Section III – Eligibility Information

3.1. General ............................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

3.2. Eligible Applicants

3.3. Ineligible Applicants

4.0 Section IV – Application and Submission Information

4.1. Application Instructions

4.2. Submission Instructions

4.3. Score Application Timeline

4.4. Additional Proposal Information

5.0 Section V – Application Review Information

5.1. General

5.2. Evaluation Criteria

5.3. Review and Selection Process

6.0 Section VI – Award Administration

6.1. Award Notification

6.2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

6.3. Reporting

6.4. Recordkeeping Requirements

7.0 Section VII - Agency Contacts

7.1. Small Business Development Center Program Point of Contact

7.2. Financial/Grants Management Point of Contact ................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.

7.3. Grantsolutions.gov Technical Support

8.0 Section VIII - Other Information

8.1. Definitions

8.2. Guidelines

8.3. Advance Understandings

1.0 Section I – Funding Opportunity Description

1.1 Program Overview

1.1.1. Federal Agency Name U. S. Small Business Administration

1.1.2. Funding Opportunity Title SCORE

1.1.3. Announcement Type Initial

1.1.4. Funding Opportunity Number SB-OEDSC-26-001

1.1.5. CDFA Number 59.026

1.1.6. Closing Date for Submissions August 14, 2026

1.1.7. Authority Small Business Act, 15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B)

1.1.8. Duration of Authority Permanent

1.1.9. Funding Instrument Cooperative Agreement

1.1.10. Funding Funding is for a 12-month period (FY 2026)

1.1.11. Award Amount/Funding Range A total amount of $17,000,000 in funding is available for this program.

SBA expects to make 1 award of not more than $17,000,000 per award. There is no matching fund requirement.

1.1.12. Project Duration Awards will have a twelve (12) month period of performance.

1.1.13. Project Starting Date September 30, 2025

1.1.14. Proposal Evaluation Proposals will be reviewed for sufficiency in meeting the requirements of the Program as defined in section 8(b)(1)(B) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637 (b)(1)(B). SBA may ask Applicants for clarification of the technical and cost aspects of proposals.

1.1.15. Agency Programmatic Point of

Contact

Small Business Administration, Office of Entrepreneurial

Development, Email: rachel.newmankarton@sba.gov

1.2 Introduction

The SCORE Program is the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, with more than 9,000 dedicated volunteers in more than 165 local chapters designed to provide business counseling and training assistance to existing small businesses and nascent (pre-venture) entrepreneurs. SCORE, in partnership with SBA’s Office of Entrepreneurial Development and SBA District Offices, is dedicated to helping small businesses start, grow and achieve their goals through training, counseling, and mentoring.

1.3 Background

Since its inception in 1953, SBA has served to aid, counsel, assist, and protect the interests of small businesses. While SBA is best known for its financial support of small businesses through its many lending programs, the Agency also provides funding to organizations that deliver technical assistance in the form of counseling and training to small business concerns and nascent entrepreneurs in order to promote growth, expansion, innovation, increased productivity, and management improvement.

1.4 Purpose

SCORE mentors offer area-specific advice on topics such as financing, marketing, human resources, business planning via in person meetings, email, telephone and video at no cost. SCORE mentors are available to meet with their small business clients on an ongoing basis to provide continued advice and support. SCORE provides a wide range of services including training, webinars, online workshops, courses on demand, a library of online resources, and access to its nationwide database of subject matter experts.

1.5 Leveraging of Resources

Applicants selected for awards under this Funding Opportunity are required to maximize their efforts to leverage SBA funding by working in conjunction with SBA District Offices and other Federal, state, local and tribal government small business development programs and activities; SBA resource partners such as Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), Women’s Business Centers (WBCs), Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs), 7(j) Technical Assistance providers, Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs), U.S. Export Assistance Centers (USEACs), Certified Development Companies (CDCs), and SBA lenders; universities, colleges, and other institutions of higher education; and private organizations such as chambers of commerce, and trade and industry groups and associations.

1.6 SBA Involvement and Oversight

The SCORE Program is managed by an Associate Administrator in the Office of Entrepreneurial Development at SBA Headquarters. The SBA will have substantial involvement in the administration, monitoring, and oversight of the Cooperative Agreement. OED shall assign a Grants Management Specialist (GMS) to review the budget and all fiscal documentation for compliance with applicable Federal and program requirements. The Grants Management Officer (GMO) issues the Notice of Award.

A Program Manager within OED serves as the Grants Officer’s Technical Representative (GOTR) responsible for overall monitoring and oversight of the Recipient’s SCORE Program award, including compliance with the terms of the Cooperative Agreement and program service delivery and performance.

The SBA District Office Project Officers (PO) will conduct delegated grant monitoring activities on behalf of OED. SBA will also conduct financial and programmatic examinations of SCORE.

Changes or Cancellation SBA reserves the right to amend or cancel this Funding Opportunity, in whole or in part, at the Agency’s discretion. Should SBA make material changes to this Funding Opportunity, the Agency will extend the closing date as necessary to afford Applicants sufficient opportunity to address such changes.

2.0 Section II – Award Information

2.1. Estimated Funding

SBA expects to issue the award based on the funds appropriated. The Federal appropriation for the SCORE Program for Program Year 2026 is $17 million.

Subject to the availability of funds and compliance with the terms and conditions of the Cooperative Agreement, SBA has the discretion to adjust the award to an amount consistent with the authorized funding level under the federal appropriations law.

2.2. Expected Number of Awards

SBA anticipates making no more than one award under this Notice of Funding Opportunity.

2.3. Period of Performance/Budget Periods

The period of performance for this award is one year.

2.4. Project Start Dates

The project start dates are October 1, 2025, responding to Funding Opportunity No. SB-OEDSC-26-001 for Program Year 2026.

2.4.1. Continuation of Funds

The 2027 Budget does not request funding for the SCORE program. If Congress appropriates funding for the program in future years, SBA may issue a funding opportunity to invite proposals for award continuation. However, the awardee may not receive continued funding if there has been a clear showing of poor performance, as measured by SBA. Poor performance is indicated by unsatisfactory oversight reviews (programmatic and/or financial), improper or insufficient activity affecting the operation and integrity of SCORE and/or a failure to follow the rules and procedures set forth in the statute, regulation, executive orders, and/or Funding Opportunity.

2.5. Funding Information

Funds provided under the SCORE Program must be used solely for the purposes stipulated in this Funding Opportunity and the Notice of Award and may not be commingled with any other monies. All costs proposed in an Applicant’s budget must meet the tests of allowability, allocability, and reasonableness set forth in the Office of Management and Budget Uniform Guidance at 2 CFR Part 200, Subpart E.

2.6. Funding Instrument

The funding instrument is a cooperative agreement and substantial involvement is expected between the awarding Agency and the Recipient when carrying out the activity contemplated in the Agreement.

SCORE is not required to provide any matching support under this program.

3.0 Section III – Eligibility Information

3.1. Eligible Applicants

To be eligible for this Funding Opportunity an Applicant must meet the requirements described in section 8(b)(1)(B) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B) and in the section referred to as SCORE.

3.2. Ineligible Applicants

The following will automatically be considered ineligible, and their applications will be rejected without being evaluated:

• Any organization currently having an outstanding, unresolved financial obligation to any Federal Agency;

• Any organization that is currently suspended, debarred, or otherwise prohibited from receiving awards of contracts or grants from the Federal Government;

• Any organization with an outstanding and unresolved material deficiency reported under the requirements of the Single Audit Act or OMB Circular A-133 within the past three years;

• Any organization having at least one non-compliant condition within SBA program guidelines occurring while administering or implementing any SBA program;

• Any organization that has had a grant or cooperative agreement involuntarily terminated or non-renewed by SBA for cause;

• Any organization that has filed for bankruptcy within the past five years; and/or

• Any organization that proposes to serve as a pass-through and permit another organization to manage the day-to-day operations of the project.

4.0 Section IV – Application and Submission Information

4.1. Application Instructions

Applications must consist of the following elements: a.) Technical proposal; b.) Budget information; c.)

Certifications, Forms and Assurances; and d.) Attachments and Exhibits.

4.1.1. Technical Proposal (not to exceed 20 pages)

The technical proposal serves as the blueprint for the Applicant’s planned project. This information must be provided in a paginated attachment not to exceed 20 pages. It must include the following information:

4.1.1.1. Program Narrative:

• Organization and Structure

Provide an organizational chart for SCORE. Include the name, title, phone number, and email address for the person to whom the SCORE Director reports.

4.1.1.2. Program Management

A brief description of:

a. Methodology, philosophy and justification for the distribution of resources, Chapters, and specialty programs.

b. Standard wait time for an initial client counseling appointment. Please note if changes are anticipated in the coming year, such as due to significant increase or decrease of resources, addition or closure of existing service locations etc.;

c. Management strategy for recruiting, vetting, training evaluating, and offboarding mentors;

d. If applicable, describe plans for the addition of new Regions and Chapters, including the staffing plan.

• Program Objectives SCORE must include a brief summary of program objectives and ongoing programs, highlighting any new programs, special projects, or activities with particular reference to planned activities for the program year that seek to address SBA’s Required Services listed in Section 5.

To facilitate the proposal review, categorize the information on planned program activities using the reporting categories listed in Section 6. The following post-award reporting categories should NOT be included in the proposal:

• 1100 SUCCESS STORIES

• 1500 UNPLANNED TRAVEL

• 1600 KEY PERSONNEL

• 1700 PROBLEMS

• 1800 BUDGET TO ACTUAL

In addition to planned activities described within these categories, the Proposal must include the following:

a. Planned performance service volume and changes, if any:

i. Counseling: List most recent 12-month program year total counseling hours and counseling clients for the program and discuss any anticipated changes for the upcoming project period such as the opening or closing of chapters; and

ii. Training: List prior year total training sessions and clients for the program and discuss any anticipated changes for the upcoming project period such as the opening or closing of chapters.

b. Planned milestones and outcomes:

i. List SCORE goals for: Clients Advised, New Business Starts, Percent of businesses realizing revenue growth, and Jobs Supported. SCORE should submit goals with the 2026 Program Year funding proposal. Along with the numerical targets for each goal, SCORE should include a business rationale for setting the goal. For example, SCORE may look at a five-year average performance as a basis for the goal target. Alternatively, SCORE may utilize other trend data to determine the target. SCORE can choose any methodology they believe will provide a realistic level of achievement. SBA/OED understands economic conditions change, physical disasters happen, and other local events contribute to changes in the state/regional economy. If the proposed goal target is less than the previous year’s achievement, SCORE should include an explanation or rationale for a lower goal target. If a goal target is too low or too high without a sufficient explanation, SBA/OED may request additional clarification or an adjustment to the target.

ii. Identify any other key milestones or performance goals for the project period for the award not captured in Part b.i.

c. Collaboration, outreach, and/or jointly planned ongoing programs or periodic events SCORE is planning to conduct with the District Office and/or other SBA resource partners (e.g., Women’s Business Centers, SBDCs , Veteran Business Outreach Centers, Regional Innovation Clusters, and STEP; lender roundtables; government contracting certification training; and events with SBA 7(j) grantees and other SBA Government Contracting and Business Development Resources, Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs), APEX Accelerators, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and U.S. Department of Agriculture; regional and local trade schools;

Chambers of Commerce; and state and local economic development programs).

d. Client Satisfaction Rate: SCORE client satisfaction will be based on overall service, knowledge and expertise of the SCORE mentor, working relationship with the SCORE advisor, and if the client would recommend SCORE services. Describe SCORE’s plan to collect client feedback on SCORE services and the rate achieved in the most recent client satisfaction survey. This should be reported in Section 1400 of the SCORE’s Annual Report.

e. Online Client Services: SBA views the use of web-based technology as a means to increase outreach within existing budgets, to access populations or areas otherwise difficult to reach, and to offer services 24/7 when appropriate.

f. SCORE Operating Hours and Scheduled Closures: Provide a list of scheduled holidays and planned closures.

g. Partner Location Information Contact: Identify the SCORE contact designated to maintain information in SBA’s Partner Location Information, by name, title, phone number, and email address.

h. Board of Directors:

i. Provide a list of the members of the SCORE Board of Directors.

ii. Include a description of the Board’s responsibilities and provide the date of the Board’s last meeting. There should be regular periodic meetings each year. Provide the future dates if available.

iii. The reasonable cost of travel of any board member for official board activities may be paid out of SCORE’s Federal funds and must follow the Recipient Organization’s policy for per diem and related travel costs. Excessive expenses are not allowed and may be grounds for denial of payment or distribution of funds. See Section 4. for additional guidance.

Conflict of Interest Policy: Include a copy of the SCORE’s current conflict of interest policy for the SCORE Network. SCORE must have a written conflict-of-interest policy that is signed annually by all employees, consultants, instructors, and volunteers of SCORE. The policy must include enforceable elements safeguarding the SCORE Program from actual or apparent conflicts.

i. Training: Provide a list of the types of training to be offered during the budget period. SCORE is expected to provide the SBA Project Officer with a quarterly calendar of SCORE trainings or with electronic access to comparable information.

j. Personnel Résumés: Attach résumés for any new key personnel directly employed by SCORE since the start of the last program year. If not stated in the résumés, please indicate the person’s current position in SCORE. Do not include résumés for trainers, counselors, or support staff.

k. Activities supported with Program Income: Describe planned activities that will be supported with SCORE program income during the performance period and estimated cost. Program income must be used to expand the quantity or quality of services, resources or outreach provided by SCORE. Planned expenditures from program income are subject to OMB Uniform Guidance and SCORE Program rules and requirements. However, do NOT include program costs supported with program income on the Application, Network budget summary, or budget justifications.

l. Funds Managed Outside the Cooperative Agreement: Fully describe any other federal or state small business assistance programs, contributions or grant funds or private or corporate donations managed by SCORE outside the SBA Cooperative Agreement. Include the source and amount of Federal or state entities funds provided by each organization and the purpose for which the funds have been provided. Anonymize any donations from private individuals or private companies

SCORE must maintain an updated list of funding sources and amounts for each source of funds received by SCORE including grants, contracts and contributions. In addition, for each source of funds, documentation regarding the name and phone number of the donor/contractor/grantor, the amount of funding, the intended purpose and any requirements, stipulations or deliverables must be maintained and made available during the biennial financial examination process. This disclosure requirement does not apply to donations from private individuals, privately held companies, donor advised funds, trusts, partnerships or estates.

If SCORE is managing other small business programs outside the SBA Cooperative Agreement, it must maintain separate accounting/financial records to ensure a clear audit trail for the funds provided under the SCORE Cooperative Agreement.

m. Micro-purchase and the Simplified Acquisition Thresholds for Grantees for Financial Assistance:

Awards are subject to major revisions to the federal procurement rules found at 2 CFR, including the acquisition thresholds established in 2 CFR §200.320. SCORE must provide a statement acknowledging they are adhering to these thresholds. SCORE will be responsible for ensuring SCORE Chapters also follow the guidelines for the micro-purchase threshold.

4.1.2. Cost Proposal

Information on proposed project costs must be provided through the completion or submission of the following:

a. Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424). Included in Grantsolutions.gov package;

b. Budget Information - Non-Construction Programs (SF-424A). Included in Grantsolutions.gov package;

• In Section B of SF-424A, line 6g titled “Construction” shall be used for Consultant costs as described in the SCORE Budget Justification Instructions Section 4.1.2.3(c).

c. SCORE Cost Price Analysis and Budget Justifications

• Include a separate budget justification form with required cost detail for the SCORE Lead Office and each Region.

• Personnel lists must include each person’s name, position, salary, and percent of time budgeted to the SCORE Program.

• SCORE may use its own budget justification form, as long as the format includes ALL budget details required in the Cost Price Analysis and Budget Justifications template and the guidance herein. It must be uploaded as Attachment #4.

d. Budget Narrative - If all required cost details are not shown on the SCORE budget justification and personnel list, include a separate budget narrative for SCORE.

e. Cost Price Analysis and Budget Justifications Worksheet SBA/OED recommend the use of the updated template provided by SBA which includes a template for the SCORE’s Cost Price Analysis and Budget Justifications Worksheet

4.1.2.1. Budget Preparation

SBA/OED will provide SCORE with the projected funding level to be used in budget preparation.

• Budget information must describe the financial resources contributed by the Applicant. The budget summary SF-424A budget justification form must clearly indicate which program costs will be paid by Federal dollars and in-kind.

Applicants must NOT include SCORE program income or unspent program funds from prior budget periods on the Application SF-424, Budget Information SF-424A, or budget justification forms submitted in response to this Funding Opportunity. Planned program income expenditures should be described instead as part of the Technical Proposal. See Section 4 for guidance.

4.1.2.2. SCORE Budget Justification Instructions

The budget cost categories and required cost details for each category are described below. The direct total cost must agree with the SF-424 and SF-424A.

a. Personnel: List name and title of all personnel charged to federal funds (direct costs). For vacancies, show the position title in the budget justification. If additional space is needed to explain the cost, include a budget narrative. Use the personnel list to show annual salary, and total amount budgeted for each position as the basis used to estimate personnel costs charged to the SCORE Program.

b. Fringe Benefits: Indicate the fringe rates and provide the schedule used. Do not include fringe cost in the total amount required for personnel.

c. Travel: For local travel, provide total anticipated mileage and mileage rate. For out of state/region travel, provide estimated cost and justification including a.) Purpose, b.)

Destination, c.) Mode of transportation and rate (i.e., airfare or mileage and rate), d.) Number of trips, and e.) Number and position of travelers. Federal grant funds are not authorized to attend out of state/region conferences.

d. Equipment: List items per unit above the cost threshold established in 2 CFR 200 and having at least one year of useful life. The Recipient Organization must maintain an inventory of equipment purchased with program dollars, including cost, location, and a detailed description of each item. Equipment inventory must be made available upon request of SBA.

e. Supplies: Show anticipated cost of supply items such as general office, operational, computer supplies and other supply items above the threshold established in 2 CFR 200. The Recipient Organization must maintain an inventory of controlled supplies of higher dollar value and high potential for loss such as computers, and it must be made available upon request of the SBA.

f. Contractual: List costs for contractual services that support program operations, such as IT and website support, marketing, equipment maintenance, or meeting facilitation. Provide budget details, including a.) Name of contractor, b.) Statement of work, c.) Number of hours and d.) Rate of pay.

g. Consultants: Provide detail for consultant costs shown on the line 6g of SF-424A. (Note that form SF- 424A lists category g. as “Construction,” but Applicants are asked to use this line for SCORE Consultant costs only.

h. Consultant costs include costs for non-employee SCORE advisors, trainers and other staff who provide client services on an hourly or fee for professional service basis. Provide consultant(s) name, specify purpose, and indicate the number of hours, and rate of pay.

i. Other: List all expenses included in this cost category separately, with planned cost per item.

Other expense items may include, but are not limited to, computer software, copying, postage, printing, publications, subscriptions, dues, telephone, conference fees, and office space rental, see 2 CFR 200.465. If rental costs are proposed, provide square footage required for SCORE activities and rate.

If nominal costs for meals and hospitality expenses associated with client workshops or related events are proposed, include a justification that demonstrates such costs are reasonable and necessary to support the SCORE program mission and goals. Details may be included on the budget justification form, budget narrative, or in a clearly marked section of the technical narrative.

Do not list other items with zero amounts.

** SF-424B and SF-LLL are also incorporated as part of the electronic Application form on Grantsolutions.gov.

4.1.3. Attachments

Please upload in GrantSolutions the following in the appropriate section and include “Attachment #” in the document name.

• Attachment #1: List of Attachments submitted through GrantSolutions.gov;

• Attachment #2: Technical Proposal, including program narrative, organization chart, Chapter listing, resumes, and other required information;

• Attachment #3: Cost Proposal, including SCORE budget narrative, detailed budget justification by line item, personnel listing and other required cost details for each Network Service Center and the Cost Price Analysis Worksheet;

• Attachment #4: Additional information or other documentation the Grantor and the Applicant deem (e.g., Single Audit specific to the SCORE Program) necessary to support its Proposal.

4.1.5 Financial Guidelines

4.1.5.1 Administrative Requirements and Cost Principles

SCORE is governed by the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, in accordance with 2 CFR Part 200.

4.1.5.2 Budget Preparation & Funding

Specific items of cost may be included in the Proposal and considered allowable under the additional conditions and requirements set forth below.

1. Travel

All travel performed as part of this Agreement must be in accordance with SCORE Program objectives and in compliance with the Recipient's travel policy.

2. Lobbying

There is a broad federal restriction on all grantees of the Federal Government, which prohibits the use of federal appropriated funds to lobby Congress or agencies concerning certain specified federal actions 31 U.S.C. §1352 (also known as the Byrd Amendment).

3. Justification of Costs

All costs proposed require justification and narrative explanation for SCORE. All proposed costs must be included in the specific line items and fully justified. All forms contained in the financial application package must be completed accurately and in full.

4. Supplies, Printing, and Costs Related to SCORE

Generally, promotional items are not an allowable expense using SCORE Program funds (including program income). Promotional items are objects such as gifts, memorabilia, awards, mugs, and any other item which does not have a specific direct benefit to SCORE. However, costs proposed for printing the SCORE logo on SCORE training supplies such as pens, name tags, notepads, or flash drives (which contain course material), are allowable. Certain promotional items (e.g., clothing imprinted with the SCORE logo) may be charged to Program funds on a case-by-case basis and should be listed in detail in the Proposal. SBA/OED will review such proposed costs on a case-by-case basis to determine reasonableness and allowability. The SBA Grants Management Specialist may request further information if required to make this determination.

This Section does not include advertising materials specifically allowed in 2 C.F.R. § 200.421 such as:

(a) The recruitment of personnel required by the non-Federal entity for performance of a Federal award;

(b) The procurement of goods and services for the performance of a Federal award;

(c) The disposal of scrap or surplus materials acquired in the performance of a Federal award except when non-Federal entities are reimbursed for disposal costs at a predetermined amount;

or

(d) Program outreach and other specific purposes necessary to meet the requirements of the Federal award.

5. Miscellaneous or Contingency Costs

No miscellaneous or contingency costs may be included in the budget. Contributions to a contingency reserve or any similar provision made for unforeseen events are unallowable.

6. Subcontracting

All subcontracting awarded as a result of this Agreement will be in accordance with 2 CFR §200.317-332.

7. Proposal Costs

This request does not commit the Federal Government to pay any costs incurred in the submission of a proposal.

8. SCORE Board Compensation

With the exception of travel costs, compensation for the Board members is not allowed. This includes compensation reimbursed from Federal funds or donated by the Board member and used as non-cash match (in-kind).

9. Improvements to SCORE Facilities

If minor construction/physical improvement to SCORE facilities is proposed, Applicant must provide justification for use of program funds, estimated costs, facilities, or lease agreement or other documentation from the property owner.

4.2. Submission Instructions

In order to receive your award, you must successfully complete the application process via www.grantsolutions.gov using amounts no greater than those to be provided in your directed announcement from the Office of Entrepreneurial Development. You will receive an invitation to apply, also referred to as your directed announcement for this cooperative agreement from www.grantsolutions.gov and the application period will be provided. SBA will only accept applications submitted via www.grantsolutions.gov. Intermediaries that submit incomplete application packages or do not submit a package via www.grantsolutions.gov within the application deadline may not receive funding.

http://www.grantsolutions.gov/

All SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. If you have questions regarding the development and submission of your grant application, please contact help@grantsolutions.gov for assistance.

All proposals (narratives and forms) must be submitted electronically via the Federal Government-wide portal, www.Grantsolutions.gov. Applicants should save and print written proof of an electronic submission made at Grantsolutions.gov. If problems occur while using Grantsolutions.gov, the Applicant is advised to a) Print any error message received; and b) Contact Grantsolutions.gov for immediate assistance.

Applicants may obtain advice and assistance with the Grantsolutions.gov submission process by visiting www.Grantsolutions.gov or by calling 1-866-577-0771 or 202-401-5282 Monday through Friday 7 AM – 8 PM EDT (closed Federal holidays) or email: help@grantsolutions.gov.

4.3. SCORE Application Timeline

SCORE is funded on the FISCAL year:

July 8, 2026: 2026 Notice of Funding Opportunity posts to Grantsolutions.gov August 14, 2026: Proposal due via electronic submission on http://www.grantsolutions.gov/at 11:59 pm EDT

4.4. Additional Proposal Information

4.4.1 Treatment of Proposal Information

If SCORE’s Proposal contains confidential data, such information will be treated in accordance with 13 CFR Part 102.

4.4.2 Treatment of Client Information (Privacy Requirements)

Unless otherwise specified, all financial, statistical, personnel and/or technical information and data furnished, produced or otherwise made available to SCORE by its small business customers during the performance of this Agreement shall not be used for purposes other than performance of work under this Agreement. The above information received by SCORE may be privileged and must not be released or disclosed by SCORE without the prior written consent of the client unless otherwise required by law.

If such information is requested in a legal proceeding, SCORE must take the necessary precautions and legal recourse to protect privileged information.

For clients who have responded “yes” to Participation in Surveys and SBA Communications in Part I of SBA Counseling Information Form 641, SCORE shall provide the information and data contained in Part I along with the small business name every 90 days. SBA will safeguard client and customer Personal Identifiable Information (PII).

No files or records will be removed from the premises of any government agency with which the Recipient may work without the approval of the agency in possession of such documents.

Except where a client consents in writing or as directed by SBA, SCORE is not permitted to disclose any client information to a third party (or share such information with other units of your organization not directly involved in the conduct of this project).

mailto:help@grantsolutions.gov http://www.grantsolutions.gov/ mailto:help@grantsolutions.gov http://www.grantsolutions.gov/at https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-13/chapter-I/part-102 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-13/chapter-I/part-102 http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/search/pagedetails.action?browsePath=Title%2B13%2FChapter%2BI%2FPart%2B102&granuleId=CFR-2012-title13-vol1-part102&packageId=CFR-2012-title13-vol1&collapse=true&fromBrowse=true

5.0 Section V – Application Review Information

5.1. General

Applications will first be screened to determine if the Applicant meets stated mandatory eligibility requirements. SBA will not evaluate Applicants that do not document in their application that they meet the requirements for participation in the SCORE Program. Submissions will only be accepted via www.Grantsolutions.gov.

Proposals will be rejected without being evaluated if they are submitted by ineligible organizations or are illegible or materially incomplete due to an Applicant’s failure to include all required forms and/or provide the required level of detail.

In addition, an Applicant must disclose in its application if it currently holds any other financial assistance awards from SBA or has any other applications for SBA financial assistance awards still pending. If it does, the Applicant must identify how it will avoid duplication of efforts, commingling of funds, and overlapping or double claiming of costs among those projects. Applicants must treat each SBA project as separate and discrete with individual outcomes and deliverables and provide distinct reporting, accounting, and audit trails for each application and award.

Failure to sufficiently distinguish between multiple applications from the same organization, or between an application and one or more current SBA awards, may result in rejection of an application on the ground that it is duplicative of proposed or existing efforts.

5.1.1. SBA Duties and Responsibilities

SBA Agency Officials and Offices will coordinate and communicate through SCORE for the following:

• Carry out the duties and responsibilities imposed on it by the statutes and regulations governing this program.

• Respond to requests for guidance or information related to the SCORE Program.

• Respond to requests for Agency participation and collaboration in project activities, as appropriate.

• Promote the project by referring interested parties to you for assistance and displaying your printed materials.

• Facilitate cooperation and coordination between SCORE, other SBA resource partners, and other

Federal agencies.

• Review and act upon requests for modifications to your technical proposal, budget, key personnel, project/budget period, and other project parameters.

• Review and act upon SCORE reports and payment requests.

• Where authorized by law, share SBA resources and/or donated materials.

• Monitor performance under this award and ongoing operations to determine if SCORE is making effective and efficient use of project funds. This includes reviewing records, files, and procedures relating to performance under this award, as well as interviewing clients to gauge program effectiveness.

5.1.2. Intergovernmental Review

The SCORE Program does not involve the mandatory payment of any matching funds from the state or local government and does not affect directly any state or local government. As appropriate, SCORE programs should comply with Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.”

5.1.3. SCORE Program Objectives and Required Services

The SCORE Program is sponsored and partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

The SCORE Program is governed by the Small Business Act, 15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B) and Federal regulations. Although SBA is responsible for the oversight of the SCORE Program, a legal partnership exists between SBA and the Recipient Organization for the delivery of assistance to the small business community.

SCORE, under the Small Business Act, is required to provide counseling and training to small businesses, including working with the SBA to develop and provide informational tools to support business start-ups and existing business expansion.

The SCORE Program is governed by a binding legal instrument between the Recipient Organization and the SBA known as a notice of award or cooperative agreement. The purpose of the Cooperative Agreement is to ensure the delivery of high-quality business and economic development assistance (as defined by 15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B) and the Small Business Act) to small businesses and prospective small businesses.

SCORE must ensure that their training, business counseling, and technical assistance services are available to all small business populations.

The services provided must include those required by statute and shall include the activities of SCORE (Applicant). Each Applicant will be accountable to SBA for performing all services included in its Proposal.

5.1.4. Required Services

SCORE is required to provide the following services:

5.1.4.1. On a non-fee basis, one-on-one confidential counseling/consultation/advising/guidance:

• Working with individuals or businesses to increase awareness of basic credit practices and credit requirements;

• Working with individuals or businesses to develop business plans, financial packages, credit applications, and contract proposals;

• Develop and provide informational tools to assist individuals with pre-business startup planning, existing business expansion, and export planning. To the extent practical, work with SBA to develop and deliver tools;

• Working with individuals or businesses referred by the SBA District Offices, other SBA resource partners, and SBA participating lenders (Providing any preferential treatment to clients of any specific lender is prohibited, as is the SCORE’s acceptance of payment for the provision of counseling services); and,

• SCORE must have counselor resources or referrals available to meet the needs of entrepreneurs.

5.1.4.2. Rural Assistance:

• Assisting small businesses in rural areas in an effort to increase their participation in exporting, https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q&esrc=s&source=web&cd&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjF9dPJiKiAAxXaAzQIHcHpCrAQFnoECA0QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2020%2F04%2FSPOC-4-13-20.pdf&usg=AOvVaw15VjoXdEt5pZF62h9cK88k&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q&esrc=s&source=web&cd&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjF9dPJiKiAAxXaAzQIHcHpCrAQFnoECA0QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2020%2F04%2FSPOC-4-13-20.pdf&usg=AOvVaw15VjoXdEt5pZF62h9cK88k&opi=89978449 government procurement, tourism, access to credit, incubators, innovation and technology, and other small business programs, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S.

Department of Agriculture, and other relevant Federal Agencies; and

• SCORE may develop marketing and production strategies that will enable the rural businesses to better compete in the domestic market, provide technical assistance needed by rural small businesses, make available managerial assistance to rural small business concerns and provide information and assistance in obtaining financing for business startups and expansion.

5.1.4.3. Export Assistance:

• Report client data for export assistance as required.

• Make qualified referrals to SBA’s Office of Manufacturing and Trade of small businesses that need

(1) help obtaining financing for export development activities, to expand export operations, or to facilitate export transactions; (2) assistance overcoming trade barriers; or (3) access to grant funding through the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant to begin or expand exporting.

• Cooperate with SBA’s Office of Manufacturing and Trade, the Department of Commerce, and other relevant Federal Agencies to assist small businesses to:

o Identify and develop potential export markets;

o Develop trade linkages between U.S. and foreign small business firms;

o Participate in international trade shows, trade missions, and other export development activities;

o Access export assistance in rural areas;

o Develop export marketing strategy;

o Globalize websites and strengthen e-commerce capabilities to support global sales;

o Overcome barriers to export expansion and obtain referrals to appropriate resources for trade adjustment and trade remedy assistance; and o Identify translation services.

Where appropriate, SCORE and the SBA may work collaboratively with state governments to establish a state international trade center for these purposes.

5.1.4.4. Intellectual Property Protection

SCORE will provide services to individuals to include training in person or through a website relating to:

• Domestic and international intellectual property protections, and

• How those protections should be considered in the business plans and growth strategies of small businesses.

5.1.4.5. Regulatory Compliance:

• Share current information concerning environmental, energy, health, safety, and other Federal, state and local regulations that affect small businesses and counsel small businesses on methods of compliance with such regulations. Such information may be in the form of notifications of areas of risk or requirements and links and referrals to sources of expert information; and

• Develop information publications, establish reference materials, make appropriate referrals to the SBA’s Office of the National Ombudsman and Office of the Advocate, and distribute online links to compliance guides published under section 212(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, Public Law 102-121.

5.1.5. SBA Required Services

SBA District Directors and SCORE should identify services that meet local needs based on periodic needs assessments. SCORE should integrate the SBA strategic plan into the Proposal, including but not limited to:

• Assisting small businesses to onshore services and production facilities.

• Assisting manufacturing workers interested in starting their own business and working closely with the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program to assist small manufacturers;

• Providing programs focused on existing businesses to assist them with growth and expansion.

• Developing, facilitating and/or leveraging appropriate virtual programs and/or initiatives that can be utilized by small business clients and, where appropriate, other SBA resource partners;

• Using market research tools, to serve the needs of the small business community;

• Provide access to tools and initiatives offered by SBA’s Office of Veterans Business Development;

• Developing programs in conjunction with the SBA Regional Administrators and SBA District Offices; coordinating with their state, local, and tribal economic development officials, chambers of commerce, lenders and other public and private entities to maximize business development in underserved areas;

• Developing economic recovery programs and plans that include counseling small business owners on ways and means to strengthen business recovery and continuity; and

• Participating in and actively supporting community economic development and recovery in the SCORE’s stated area of geographic coverage, including coordination with all levels of government – Federal, state, and local in support of initiatives that strengthen the infrastructure of the community and ensure stability and equality in community-based economic growth and development. The private sector, including business and professional organizations, should be invited to become stakeholders with SCORE acting as catalysts to initiate development projects beneficial to the community as a whole.

5.1.5.1. Addressing the Need for Skilled Labor

• Partnering with other Federal, state, and local resources that deliver apprenticeship and job training programs to assist small businesses with labor shortages, particularly in onshoring and manufacturing, construction trade and childcare.

5.1.5.2. Government Contracting Assistance

• Provide information and assistance to small business owners interested in pursuing Federal, state, and local prime contract and subcontract opportunities;

• Advise and assist small business owners to develop and execute effective marketing and sales plans for targeting Federal prime contracts;

• Work cooperatively with the APEX Accelerator Program;

• Provide information and assistance to small business owners interested in participating in the SBA Certification Programs; and

5.1.5.3. Access to Capital and Other SBA Programs

• Provide assistance and guidance with the necessary documentation required for applications for capital assistance; including assistance for SBA loan products and services, including small-dollar loans.

• Inform small business contractors about SBA’s Surety Bond Guarantee Program, as appropriate.

5.1.5.4. Additional SBA Service Groups

While the core purpose of the SCORE program remains the provision of direct assistance to small businesses, SCORE may also, under certain circumstances, provide technical assistance to non-profit organizations. Specifically, where a significant portion of a non-profit organization's activities involves providing aid to small business concerns, it is permissible for SCORE to provide counseling or training to such non-profits on the grounds that such action still results in the provision of technical assistance to small business concerns.

5.1.6. Program Operations Overview

SCORE must provide services as geographically close as possible to small businesses by using a variety of service delivery mechanisms, including satellite locations, and virtual counseling and training, as appropriate. The facilities and volunteers of SCORE will be in places that will provide maximum accessibility and benefits to the small businesses that SCORE is intended to serve. SCORE will develop a plan as part of the proposal specifying the extent to which SCORE program duties will be delivered to address the needs of the small business community in the area to be served. If an applicant is nationwide, it can have a nationwide proposal with flexibility to address local communities.

5.1.7. Prior Approval

Actions requiring prior approval by SBA not listed in this Funding Opportunity are listed in the SBA and SCORE Program Notice of Award Terms and Conditions and 2 CFR 200.

5.1.9.1 Travel Outside the Region

Prior approval for out of region travel not included in the original proposal and exceeding $10,000 to areas impacted by federally designated disasters is required from the local District Office and SBA/OED.

5.1.9.2 Travel Outside the U.S.

Federal funds are not authorized for travel outside the United States or its territories.

5.1.9.3 Improvements to SCORE Facilities

If minor construction/physical improvement to SCORE facilities is proposed, Applicant must provide justification along with budget revision for use of program funds, including estimated costs, facilities or lease agreement, or other documentation from the property owner prior to implementation.

5.1.9.4 Changes in Service Delivery Plan

If a Recipient proposes to add or close a Chapter, SCORE must request prior approval in writing or by email from the SBA/OED Program Manager. The Recipient may also be required to submit modifications to the technical proposal and/or cost proposal and supporting documents to effect this change.

5.2. Evaluation Criteria

All timely, materially complete applications received from eligible organizations will be reviewed in accordance with the criteria listed below.

5.2.1. Organizational Experience and Capacity

Applications will first be screened to determine if the Applicant meets stated mandatory eligibility requirements.

5.2.2. Collaboration and Leveraging of Resources

Applicants will be reviewed on the breadth of their plans for coordinating their proposed activities and working to expand the scope and reach of their project in collaboration with entities such as SBA’s District Offices, other Federal, state, local and tribal government agencies, other SBA grant Recipients/resource partners (e.g., SBDCs, WBCs, STEP, VBOCs, Regional Innovation Clusters), Community Development Corporations, Small Business Investment Companies, trade associations and schools, business/industry groups, institutions of higher education and/or private organizations. Additionally, Applicants should note the availability of any non-award funds and/or in-kind resources that will be pledged to the performance of their projects.

5.2.3. Risk Assessment

As required by 2 CFR § 200.205(b),…