USDA-NRCS-TX-CIG-24-NOFO0001397_Full.pdf

Conservation Innovation Grants Texas State Program

Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Conservation Innovation Grants State Program - Texas Notice of Funding Opportunity (NFO) No. USDA-NRCS-TX-CIG-24-NOFO0001397

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NFO)

SUMMARY INFORMATION

Federal Awarding Agency Name: U.S. Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC)

Notice of Funding Opportunity Title: Announcement for Program Funding for NRCS’ Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2024 - Texas

Notice of Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-NRCS-TX-CIG-24-NOFO0001397

Assistance Listing: This program is listed in the Assistance Listings (previously referred to as the Catalog of Federal Financial Assistance) on Sam.gov under 10.912, Environmental Quality Incentives Program, which can be found at: https://sam.gov/content/home.

The System for Award Management (SAM) is a web-based, government-wide application that collects, validates, stores, and disseminates business information about the federal government's trading partners in support of the contract awards, grants, and electronic payment processes.

Notice of Funding Opportunity Summary

NRCS is announcing the availability of Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) State Program funding to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies. Applications are accepted from eligible entities (Section C) for projects carried out in the state of Texas. A total of up to $1,000,000 is available for the Texas CIG competition in FY 2024. All non-Foreign, non-federal entities (NFE) and individuals are invited to apply, with the sole exception of federal agencies. Projects may be between one and three years in duration. The maximum award amount for a single award in FY 2024 is $300,000.

For new users of Grants.gov, see Section D. of the full Notice of Funding Opportunity for information about steps required before submitting an application via Grants.gov. Completing all steps required to start an application can take a significant amount of time, plan accordingly.

Key Dates

Applicants must submit their applications via Grants.gov by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on July 1, 2024. For technical issues with Grants.gov, contact Grants.gov Applicant Support at 1- 800-518-4726 or support@grants.gov. Awarding agency staff cannot support applicants regarding Grants.gov accounts.

For inquiries specific to the content of the NFO requirements, contact the federal awarding agency contact (section G of this NFO). Please limit questions to those regarding specific https://sam.gov/content/home mailto:support@grants.gov

CIG State NFO Template January 2024 information contained in this NFO (such as dates, page numbers, clarification of discrepancies, etc.). Questions related to eligibility, or the merits of a specific proposal will not be addressed.

The agency anticipates making selections by July 25, 2024, and expects to execute awards by September 14, 2024. These dates are estimates and are subject to change.

Federal Funding Floor and Ceiling Amounts

The estimated funding floor for this opportunity is $50,000, and the estimated funding ceiling is $300,000. The funding floor means the minimum agreement funding amount for the Federal share per agreement awarded. The ceiling is the maximum agreement funding amount for the Federal share per agreement awarded. These numbers refer to the total agreement amount, not any specific budget period.

Federal Financial Assistance Training

The funding available through this NFO is Federal financial assistance. Grants 101 Training is highly recommended for those seeking knowledge about Federal financial assistance. The training is free and available to the public via https://www.cfo.gov/resources/federal-financial-assistance-training/. It consists of five modules covering each of the following topics: 1) laws, regulations, and guidance; 2) financial assistance mechanisms; 3) uniform guidance administrative requirements; 4) cost principles; and 5) risk management and single audit. FPAC agencies also apply Federal financial assistance regulations to certain non-assistance awards (e.g., non-assistance cooperative agreements).

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cfo.gov%2Fresources%2Ffederal-financial-assistance-training%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cmichele.devaney%40usda.gov%7C64a8b15d44b145ca688408dbdb1db568%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638344692880554498%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=gWNVqnfECl4YtvVHNgN0vY1TJ%2FJ6kDLsRzIAU7x5U4M%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cfo.gov%2Fresources%2Ffederal-financial-assistance-training%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cmichele.devaney%40usda.gov%7C64a8b15d44b145ca688408dbdb1db568%7Ced5b36e701ee4ebc867ee03cfa0d4697%7C1%7C0%7C638344692880554498%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=gWNVqnfECl4YtvVHNgN0vY1TJ%2FJ6kDLsRzIAU7x5U4M%3D&reserved=0

Table of Contents

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

1) Legislative Authority

2) Overview

3) Innovative Conservation Projects or Activities

4) State Component

B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

1. Available Funding

2. Type of Award

C. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants

2. Other

3. Match

D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. How to submit an application

2. Information for New Users of Grants.gov

3. Electronic Application Package

4. Content and Form of Application Submission

5. Submission Dates and Times and Correspondence

6. Intergovernmental Review

7. Funding Restrictions

E. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

1. Review and Selection Process

2. Merit/Technical Criteria

3. Historically Underserved Criteria

4. Administrative and Risk Criteria

5. Awards Over the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (if applicable)

F. FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

1. Federal Award Notices

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

3. Patents, Inventions, and Copyrights

4. Reporting

5. Audit Requirements

G. FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACT

H. OTHER INFORMATION

Attachment A – Application Package Checklist Attachment B – Cover Page Template Attachment C – Sample Budget Narrative and Table Attachment D – Sample Commitment Letter Attachment E – Instructions for Completing SF-424 and SF-424A Attachment F – SF-424A Sample Attachment G – Budget Narrative Guidance

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

1) Legislative Authority

The Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) program is authorized as part of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) (16 U.S.C. 3839aa-8). The Secretary of Agriculture delegated the authority for the administration of EQIP, including CIG, to the Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). EQIP is funded and administered by NRCS under the authorities of Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC).

Projects are funded from one authorization: the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (2018 Farm Bill).

2) Overview

The purpose of CIG is to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies in conjunction with agricultural production in the United States and its territories. CIG projects are expected to lead to the transfer of conservation technologies, management systems, and innovative approaches (such as market-based systems) to agricultural producers, into government technical manuals and guides, or to the private sector. CIG generally funds pilot projects, field demonstrations, and on-farm conservation research. On-farm conservation research is defined as an investigation conducted to answer a specific applied conservation question using a statistically valid design while employing farm-scale equipment on farms, ranches or private forest lands.

The CIG program is not a NRCS producer financial assistance program. Project outcomes should benefit a region of a state or the entire state and not just benefit one farm.

NRCS is committed to the success of all of our nation’s producers, businesses, and partners. Some of our nation's producers belong to communities which have been or are marginalized in ways that have reduced their ability to farm and ranch successfully --despite the vital role that they have played in securing a healthy agricultural economy for our country and protecting, enhancing, and sustaining our valuable natural resources.

NRCS encourages proposal submissions from entities that represent, are partnered with, or are composed entirely of producers belonging to such communities.

This is a program covered by the Justice40 Initiative, which set the goal that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain Federal climate, clean energy, water and wastewater infrastructure, and other covered investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.

3) Innovative Conservation Projects or Activities

CIG funds the development and field testing, on-farm research and demonstration, evaluation, or implementation of:

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• Innovative approaches to incentivizing conservation adoption, including market-based and conservation finance approaches; and

• Innovative conservation technologies, practices, and systems.

Projects or activities under CIG must comply with all applicable federal, tribal, state, and local laws and regulations throughout the duration of the project; and

• Use a technology or approach that was studied sufficiently to indicate a high probability for success;

• Demonstrate, evaluate, and verify the effectiveness, utility, affordability, and usability of natural resource conservation technologies and approaches in the field;

• Adapt and transfer conservation technologies, management, practices, systems, approaches, and incentive systems to improve performance and encourage adoption;

• Introduce proven conservation technologies and approaches to a geographic area or agricultural sector where that technology or approach is not currently in use.

Technologies and approaches that are eligible for funding in a project’s geographic area using an EQIP contract for an established conservation practice standard are ineligible for CIG funding, except where the use of those technologies and approaches demonstrates clear innovation.

4) State Component

The goals and objectives of this program align with the USDA Strategic Plan listed below.

• Use climate-smart management and sound science to enhance the health and productivity of agricultural lands.

• Restore, protect, and conserve watersheds to ensure clean, abundant, and continuous provision of water resources.

• Build resilient food systems, infrastructure, and supply chain.

• Foster agricultural innovation.

For FY 2024, NRCS accepts proposals that address one or more of the State priorities listed below.

Proposed projects must be performed in Texas

CIG Priorities for FY 2024:

1. Urban and Small Farm Agriculture Conservation

Food security and knowledge of where food is produced has become an increasing concern, particularly in urban environments. Urban and small farm agriculture has dramatically increased over the years and represents a new customer eligible for conservation technical and financial assistance. The nine-step planning process for planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating individual conservation plans. The plans are used by agriculture and forest producers to protect, conserve, and enhance natural resources within a social and economic perspective. The conservation planning process includes using tools to measure benchmark conditions and address resource concerns in diverse operations and includes urban and community agriculture systems.

These tools were developed for application over a large-scale area and may be challenging to apply in the smaller setting commonly found within the urban and small farm agriculture environment.

Example of topics which Priority will be given are those that:

• Expand tools and support for training and technical assistance in urban and small-scale agriculture.

• Provide new tools or methods to aid in urban conservation planning for inventorying and analyzing resource concerns.

• Provide innovative technologies to promote, coordinate, plan and implement urban conservation.

• Promote urban and community agriculture and conservation systems, especially in underserved communities.

2. Innovation in agricultural systems, technology, testing, outreach, and partnerships for the Broad-Scale Application of Climate Smart Agriculture.

Climate smart agriculture conservation practices have documented environmental benefits but also have economical and working lands productivity benefits.

Examples of topics in which priority will be given are those that:

• Demonstrate innovative use of climate smart conservation practices.

• Develop tools to streamline soil health and climate assessments and monitoring.

• Develop, demonstrate and promote design and implementation of climate smart management systems documenting the ability of conservation practices to sequester carbon, economic viability and effect on soil functions.

• Innovative approach for adopting climate smart practices in arid environments.

• Develop innovative approach for adopting climate smart practices that enhance “effective precipitation” usage by native plant communities of an area total precipitation.

o Demonstrate climate smart principles that maintain cooler soil surface temperatures.

o Demonstrate climate smart principles that regulate Relative Humidity changes and extremes.

o Demonstrate climate smart principles that decrease soil moisture loss to surface evaporation.

o Develop conservation practice and methods to increase (pollen, spores) condensation nuclei particles in air.

3. Innovation in natural resource assessment leading to improved conservation planning and application efficiency.

Example of topics which Priority will be given are those that:

• Provide new tools or methods to aid in conservation planning inventory and assessments of soil, water, air, plants, animals, and energy resource concerns.

• Formulate new methods to develop solutions for addressing resource concerns and assist with conservation planning and implementation in emerging agricultural opportunities.

• Assist with evaluating the success of conservation practice implementation.

4. Coastal conservation and aquaculture.

Coastal ecosystems include many different types of habitats and provide both direct and indirect ecosystem services for humans, such as nutrient cycling, water filtration, carbon sequestration, erosion buffers and fish and wildlife habitat. These ecosystems are vulnerable to various natural disturbances. When these ecosystems are damaged or destroyed there can be serious consequences for the marine and upland species that depend upon these ecosystems.

Aquaculture is the production of aquatic organisms under controlled or semi-controlled conditions throughout part or all their lifecycle. U.S. aquaculture production is growing because demands for healthy seafood products are increasing. The Texas aquaculture industry is a major player in the U.S. aquaculture production sector. Texas aquaculture has recently been authorized to include native oysters as a potential livestock for production. Aquaculture producers as well as NRCS conservationist are not as closely connected as other agricultural industries or agricultural ecosystems.

Example of topics which Priority will be given are those that:

• Develop, demonstrate, and promote innovative conservation practices benefiting coastal resiliency. Document the practice or practices’ ability to develop and/or improve fish and wildlife habitat, water quality improvements, erosion control and storm resiliency.

• Connect public agencies to develop a solution-oriented strategy for broadscale design and installation of living shorelines.

• Develop Innovative use of conservation practices to design and install living shorelines.

• Develop innovative use of conservation practices to design and install aquaculture production systems.

5. Social Science to implement watershed scale conservation buffer program in Texas Conservation buffers have been proven to be an effective practice in treating erosion, improving water quality, and providing wildlife habitat. Although these practices have proven success, most agriculture producers do not adopt these practices. More information and/or tools are needed to understand why buffers are not being adopted and how NRCS can have success in getting producers to adopt these practices.

Example of topics which Priority will be given are those that:

• Develop innovative use of practices that include conservation buffer installation in natural settings for various resource concerns and human concerns.

B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

1. Available Funding

a. Estimated Funding NRCS Texas expects to award approximately $1,000,000 through this opportunity.

However, the agency retains the discretion to award a larger or lesser amount.

b. Start Dates and Performance Periods

Projects may be between one and three years in duration. Applicants should plan their projects based on an estimated project start date of September 30, 2024.

c. Number of Awards The agency expects to make 6 awards.

2. Type of Award

a. Type of Federal Award The agency plans to award grant agreement(s) pursuant to this opportunity.

b. Procurement Contracts The agency does not expect to award procurement contracts associated with this

NFO.

c. Eligibility of Renewal or Supplemental Project Applications Applications for renewal or supplementation of existing projects are not eligible to compete with applications for new Federal awards. An application for renewal means an application submitted to continue an existing agreement that meets the objectives and requirements of this NFO. An application for supplementation of an existing project means an application to add components to an existing agreement so that it would meet the objectives and requirements in this NFO.

C. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants

Applicants and applications must meet eligibility criteria by the application deadline to be considered for award. Eligible applicant type is determined by the implementing program statute. Applicant entities identified in the SAM.gov exclusions database as ineligible, prohibited/restricted, or excluded from receiving Federal contracts and certain Federal assistance and benefits will not be considered for Federal funding, as applicable to the funding being requested under this Federal program (2 CFR 200.206(d)).

All U.S. non-Foreign, non-Federal entities and individuals are eligible to apply for projects carried out in Texas. US Federal agencies are not eligible to apply to this opportunity or impart their work to non-federal portion of the budget.

Individuals that are business owner/operators cannot apply as individuals.

2. Other

Any award made pursuant to this NFO will be made to a single entity. Applicants that apply as “partnerships” or other similar groupings must clearly describe the relationship between the applicant and the “partner” parties. In all but exceptional cases, it must be reflected in the award as an awardee/sub awardee relationship.

An applicant organization may submit more than one application for different projects or proposing different approaches. In the case of applications submitted as revisions or corrections to a previously submitted application under this NFO, the agency will consider the last application submitted prior to the established deadline.

Awards made pursuant to this NFO are not Farm Bill incentive contracts; therefore, the awards in and of themselves are not limited by the payment limitation in 16 USC Chapter 58. However, any agricultural producers receiving a payment through participation in a project awarded under this NFO must meet the eligibility requirements of 7 CFR Part 12 and 7 CFR Part 1400 and have control of the land involved for the term of the proposed award period.

a. CIG Specific Eligibility

All CIG projects must involve EQIP-eligible producers that meet EQIP’s eligibility requirements listed in 7 CFR § 1466.6(b)(1) through (3):

• Be in compliance with the highly erodible land and wetland conservation provisions (7 CFR Part 12).

• Be a person, legal entity, joint operation, Indian tribe, or native corporation who is engaged in agricultural production or forestry management or has an interest in the agricultural or forestry operation as defined in 7 CFR Part 1400.

• Have control of the land involved for the term of the proposed contract period.

https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2017-title7-vol10/pdf/CFR-2017-title7-vol10-sec1466-6.pdf https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/granule/CFR-2005-title7-vol10/CFR-2005-title7-vol10-part1400

b. EQIP Payment Limitation and Duplicate Payments

The following provisions apply to CIG funding:

• CIG funds are awarded through grant agreements. These grant agreements are not EQIP contracts; thus, CIG awards in and of themselves are not limited by the payment limitation found at section 1240G of the Food Security Act of 1985, 16 U.S.C. 3839aa-7, which imposes a $450,000 payment limitation for all payments made to persons or legal entities under an EQIP contract entered into between FY 2019 and FY 2023.

• All agricultural producers receiving a payment through participation in a CIG project must meet the eligibility requirements of 7 CFR § 1466.6(b)(1) through

(3) noted above. In addition, all CIG payments are subject to the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) limitation. All agricultural producers receiving a payment through participation in a CIG project must have an AGI that does not exceed $900,000.

If awarded a grant, grantees must self-certify and maintain records showing that participating producers receiving payments using CIG funding meet the EQIP eligibility and AGI requirements. Section 1704 (a)(3) of the 2018 Farm Bill states the Secretary may waive the AGI limit on a case-by-case basis, if the Secretary determines that environmentally sensitive land of special significance would be protected as a result of such waiver. CIG grantees may request waivers once their project commences.

• Section 1240B of the Food Security Act of 1985, 16 U.S.C. 3839aa-2, prohibits duplicative payments. Accordingly, direct or indirect payments cannot be made for a practice for which an individual or legal entity has already received funds or is contracted to receive funds through any USDA conservation program (e.g., Conservation Reserve Program, EQIP, Agricultural Management Assistance, Conservation Stewardship Program). If awarded a grant, grantees must self-certify that payments to producers using CIG funding are not duplicative.

c. Historically Underserved (HU) Producers

The CIG program provides special consideration to projects substantially involving or benefitting Historically Underserved producers. Historically Underserved producer is defined for this opportunity at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/getting-assistance/underserved-farmers-ranchers.

For the FY 2024 State CIG Classic component, at least 10 percent of the total funds available may be set aside for proposals that benefit HU producers. To be eligible for the set aside, applicants must be:

i. A historically underserved producer;

ii. A community-based organization comprised of, representing, or exclusively working with historically underserved producers on a CIG project;

https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2017-title7-vol10/pdf/CFR-2017-title7-vol10-sec1466-6.pdf https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2017-title7-vol10/pdf/CFR-2017-title7-vol10-sec1466-6.pdf https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/getting-assistance/underserved-farmers-ranchers

iii. An entity developing an innovative conservation approach or technology specifically targeting historically underserved producers’ unique needs and limitations; or

iv. An 1890 or 1994 land grant institution (7 U.S.C. 3222 et seq.), Hispanic-serving institution (20 U.S.C. 1101a), or other minority-serving institution, such as an historically Black college or university (20 U.S.C. 1061), a tribally controlled college or university (25 U.S.C. 1801), or Asian American and Pacific Islander-serving institution (20 U.S.C. 1059g).

To compete for set-aside funds, the applicant must signal their intent by following the instructions in Section D. 4 (g). These applicants must meet all other requirements of this announcement, including addressing at least one CIG priority listed in this notice.

Funds not awarded through this set aside will revert to the pool of non-set aside funds.

d. NRCS Involvement in CIG Projects

The Conservation Innovation Grants program is a competitive program run by the NRCS, therefore NRCS staff should not be involved in the development of proposals in any way and NRCS should not appear in the application. Therefore, any letters of support from NRCS and any involvement of NRCS in a proposal will be viewed as a conflict of interest and these proposals will be removed from the competition. NRCS staff should not be actively included in the development of any proposal such as asking their direct opinion, advice or feedback directly of the proposal or acquiring a support letter. NRCS staff are allowed to give applicants information on other NRCS programs or basic administrative information regarding the CIG program.

All technical assistance required to carry out a CIG project is the responsibility of the grantee.

NRCS designates an NRCS employee as a technical contact for each grant award.

Technical contacts provide oversight activities during the project such as site visits, reviewing performance reports, financial reports, and audits to ensure that standards, objectives, terms, and conditions for the projects are accomplished.

Technical Contacts also evaluate project results and work with grantees on any relevant end-of-project efforts to disseminate project results. NRCS employees, however, are not involved in project development or should be substantially involved in carrying out grant activities.

3. Match

This NFO requires applicants to match at least 50 percent of total project costs (includes Federal and non-Federal). For example, if an applicant requests $50,000 in CIG funding, at least $50,000 in non-federal cost-share or matching funds must be committed by the applicant.

Applicants applying and qualifying for the HU set aside (including Indian Tribes and Native American tribal organizations other than federally recognized Tribes), may be eligible for a reduced project match of one-third of the total project budget, or 50 percent of the Federal request. For example, an HU-qualifying entity requesting $250,000 in Federal CIG funding would need to provide at least $125,000 in matching funds. In this example, the total project costs would equal $375,000, the federal portion would equal $250,000 and the matching funds would equal $125,000. Further waivers may be available, depending on state requests.

Applications that do not include the required level of matching will be ineligible for award. Matching funds may be committed by the applicant, project partners, or both.

Match may be achieved with contributions of cash, services, materials, equipment, or third-party in-kind contributions. Recipients with unrecovered indirect costs may also use those to meet matching obligations. Funds from another Federal award cannot be used as match except where the Federal statute authorizing a program specifically provides that Federal funds made available for such program can be applied to match.

Additional details about matching funds can be found at 2 CFR 200.306. Refer to Section D of this NFO for information about any required submittals related to match requirements. While the pace of match may vary throughout the award period, the agency will actively monitor match levels as it receives payment requests to ensure the total match requirement is met by the award periods of performance end date.

Additional details about matching funds are located at 2 CFR 200.306.

D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. How to submit an application

Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov (see Section D.2.).

Submissions must be received by the time and date due. Late submissions will not be reviewed or considered. The agency will rely on system generated date and time receipt documentation for submission made.

2. Information for New Users of Grants.gov

a. Overview

While a Grants.gov account is not required to download an NFO and related documents, it is required to submit an application. If your organization has never submitted an application via Grants.gov, please be aware that there are several steps you must take to register your organization before you can submit an https://www.grants.gov/ application. Completing those steps can take a significant amount of time, plan accordingly.

b. Register to Apply through Grants.gov

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.

For assistance with the registration process, contact Grants.gov Applicant Support, available 24/7, at 1-800-518-4726 or support@grants.gov.

Organizations must complete all steps to register (steps i. through v. below).

Complete organization instructions are included on Grants.gov here:

https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/

Although creating a Grants.gov account online can be completed online in minutes, SAM registrations may take several weeks. Therefore, organizations should begin the process early to ensure they have sufficient time to complete registration and meet required application submission deadlines.

Individuals (those submitting on their own behalf) are not subject to the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) or SAM requirement and may begin with step iii., Create a Grants.gov Account, listed below.

c. Steps to Register

i. Obtain a UEI: All entities applying for funding must have a UEI issued by SAM.gov. Applicants must enter the UEI in the data entry field labeled "UEI" on the SF-424 form.

ii. Register with SAM: All organizations (entities) must register with System for Award Management (SAM) to apply online through Grants.gov. Failure to register with SAM will prevent your organization from applying through Grants.gov. SAM registration must be renewed annually. Part of the SAM registration process includes designating an Electronic Business Point of Contact (EBiz POC). The EBiz POC plays an integral part in the organization’s Grants.gov registration and application process. The individual in that role must authorize all other roles in Grants.gov. For more detailed instructions for registering with SAM, refer to https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/

iii. Create a Grants.gov Account: From the Grants.gov webpage (https://www.grants.gov/), click “Register” in the top right-hand corner and follow the on-screen instructions.

mailto:support@grants.gov https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/ https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/ https://www.grants.gov/

iv. 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 submitting on their own behalf. If you work for or consult with multiple organizations, you can have a profile for each organization under one Grants.gov account. In such cases you can log in to one Grants.gov account to access all your grant profiles. To add an organizational profile to your Grants.gov account, enter the UEI for the organization in the UEI field.

If you are an individual applicant submitting on your own behalf, you do not need a UEI to add the profile. For more detailed instructions about creating a profile on Grants.gov, refer to https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/add-profile

v. EBiz POC Authorized Profile Roles: After you register with Grants.gov and create an Organization Applicant Profile, you must establish roles for individuals in the organization. The Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) role is critical; it gives an individual permission to complete and submit applications on behalf of the organization. Without this role, the organization cannot submit any applications. The request for role assignment will be routed to the organization’s EBiz POC for approval. Once approved, the AOR can submit an application online. For more detailed instructions about creating a EBiz POC authorized profile on Grants.gov, refer to https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/ebiz-poc-authorizes-profile-roles

Track Role Status: To track your role request, refer to https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/track-profile-role-status

d. 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 (step c.v. above) is often missed, and it is crucial for valid and timely submissions.

e. 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 NFO, you can create individual instances of a workspace. An applicant can start an application in Workspace and return to work on it later within Workspace.

https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/add-profile https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/add-profile https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/ebiz-poc-authorizes-profile-roles https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/ebiz-poc-authorizes-profile-roles https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/track-profile-role-status https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration/track-profile-role-status

Applicants using unreliable internet connections should be aware that the process of completing the Workspace can take some time. Therefore, applicants should allow enough time to prepare and submit the application before the package closing date.

f. Apply for an Opportunity

Below is an overview of applying on Grants.gov. For complete instructions on how to apply for opportunities, refer to https://www.grants.gov/applicants/workspace-overview/

If the Apply button in the opportunity is not active (greyed out), the user does not have the appropriate permissions or has an incomplete applicant registration. For additional information, refer to https://grantsgovprod.wordpress.com/2023/06/08/unlock-the-mystery-of-the-gray-apply-button-four-scenarios/#:~:text=The%20Apply%20button%20will%20be,to%20view%20the% 20close%20date.

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

ii. 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 status 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.

• 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/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility

• 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.

• 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 UEI. Once it is completed, the information will transfer (i.e., prepopulate) to the other forms.

https://www.grants.gov/applicants/workspace-overview/ https://www.grants.gov/applicants/workspace-overview/ https://grantsgovprod.wordpress.com/2023/06/08/unlock-the-mystery-of-the-gray-apply-button-four-scenarios/#:%7E:text=The%20Apply%20button%20will%20be,to%20view%20the%20close%20date https://grantsgovprod.wordpress.com/2023/06/08/unlock-the-mystery-of-the-gray-apply-button-four-scenarios/#:%7E:text=The%20Apply%20button%20will%20be,to%20view%20the%20close%20date https://grantsgovprod.wordpress.com/2023/06/08/unlock-the-mystery-of-the-gray-apply-button-four-scenarios/#:%7E:text=The%20Apply%20button%20will%20be,to%20view%20the%20close%20date https://grantsgovprod.wordpress.com/2023/06/08/unlock-the-mystery-of-the-gray-apply-button-four-scenarios/#:%7E:text=The%20Apply%20button%20will%20be,to%20view%20the%20close%20date https://www.grants.gov/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility

iii. 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.

iv. 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/applicants/applicant-training

3. Electronic Application Package

Applicants interested in submitting an application in response to this NFO must submit it via Grants.gov; the agency will not accept applications submitted via email or any other method. No exceptions will be made for applicants experiencing issues with Grants.gov unless a known system wide Grants.gov issue is identified, in which case the deadline will be extended for all applicants, as appropriate. Applicants are urged to submit early to the Grants.gov system.

For technical issues with Grants.gov, contact Grants.gov Applicant Support, available 24/7, at 1-800-518-4726 or support@grants.gov. Awarding agency staff cannot support applicants regarding Grants.gov accounts.

Address to Request Application Package All information necessary to apply for this opportunity is included in the Grants.gov opportunity announcement.

4. Content and Form of Application Submission

The agency may choose not to consider applications that fail to comply with the required content, format, and page limits, or those that are incomplete. Do not submit video files or files larger than 10MB. File names of attachments must be limited to 50 characters, may not include special characters (e.g., &,–,*,%,/,#), periods (.), blank spaces or accent marks, and must be unique (i.e., no other attachment may have the same file name). An underscore (example: my_Attached_File.pdf) may be used to separate a file name. Attachments must NOT be password protected.

To be considered for funding under this opportunity, an application must contain the documents below.

a. Application Form https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-training mailto:support@grants.gov http://www.grants.gov/

(Standard Form 424 Application for Federal Assistance) See Instructions for Completing SF-424 located in the attachments section.

b. Project Narrative

Each page must be numbered and have one-inch margins. The text of the project narrative must be single spaced and typed in a standard typeface (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial, Courier) with no smaller than 12-point font. The project narrative must not exceed 17 pages, including a mandatory 1-page Cover Page, described below. This page limitation applies to the project narrative only.

The project narrative must cover all activities proposed to be carried out with both the Federal and non-Federal matching funds. Activities related but beyond the scope of the CIG project budget should be described in the background section only.

The project narrative must include the following information, in this order:

i. Cover Page (1 page maximum)

Applications that fail to provide a cover page will be rejected in the first stage of screening.

On a single page, provide the following information in order outlined (See Attachment B for a template):

• The applicant entity name.

• The project title.

• The project duration in years.

• The amount of Federal funding requested.

• The amount of non-Federal cost-share committed (match).

• The name, phone number, and email address for the applicant’s technical contact (usually the project director), this person is considered the primary contact for the project by NRCS.

• The name, phone number, and email address for the applicant’s administrative contact (usually an individual in a grants office or project manager working under a project director).

• The geographic location of the project.

• The state priority that is addressed by the project. List only one priority from Section A. 4. If the proposal addresses more than one priority, you must select a primary priority for your application to be considered under.

• An estimated number of participating producers expected to be involved with the project.

• Include a declaration if the project is competing for the historically underserved set aside (see Section D. 4 (g) for further instructions and qualifications).

• A brief description (1–3 sentences) of the innovation that is the focus of the project—please be concise.

• If relevant, list any NRCS practice standards that this project could potentially inform (if multiple exist, select the top five).

ii. Project Abstract (1 page maximum): Provide a concise project summary (in nontechnical language) that captures the issue or problem the project will address, the project goal, the innovative approach to be employed (including the role of participating partners), the anticipated project results and key deliverables, and the predicted impact to conservation more broadly.

iii. Project goal/objectives: State the main goal of the project and then outline the supporting objectives to reach this goal. Objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound (SMART). Provide supporting information that describes the innovative nature of the project and how this innovation could advance the field of conservation. If the project is addressing innovation of an NRCS conservation practice standard, or proposing a new standard, state this explicitly and identify the standard.

iv. Project background: Describe the issue or problem driving the need for the proposed innovation. Provide evidence that the proposed innovation has been studied sufficiently to indicate a high probability for success. Be sure to give enough details to demonstrate to the reviewers why this innovation is compelling.

v. Project design and methods:. Clearly describe the design and methodology of the project. Describe details of the processes that will be used, scientific tests that will be conducted, tools that will be developed, any sampling that will be performed, and background on why these choices were made, especially if different from convention. We encourage new grant writers to consider using a logic model approach to improve clarity of this section. For more on the logic model, see the University of Wisconsin’s publication “Developing a logic model:

Teaching and training guide” (Ellen Taylor-Powell and Ellen Henert, February 2008).

vi. Project evaluation: Describe the methodology used to evaluate the project and describe how results will be quantified. It should be clear to the reviewers how project objectives relate to the evaluation.

vii. Project deliverables/products: Provide a list of specific deliverables and products that directly relate to the project objectives, outcomes, and benefits that will allow NRCS to monitor project progress and approve payments. The proposal must include a set of technical deliverables that reflect the performance and broader applicability of the project.

https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/programdevelopment/files/2016/03/lmguidecomplete.pdf https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/programdevelopment/files/2016/03/lmguidecomplete.pdf

In addition to project-specific deliverables, CIG grantees are responsible for:

a) Participating in at least one event (e.g., conference or workshop) during the grant period where the grantee presents on the activities of the project.

b) A final factsheet.

c) Closing event—this could be a webinar, field day, training event, etc., used to disseminate project results.

viii. Project outcomes and benefits: Identify the expected results and outcomes of the project and the anticipated impact on conservation and society and any other benefits derived from the project. Forecast the lasting impact of project results. Identify project beneficiaries, (i.e., agricultural producers) by type, region, or sector; historically underserved producers and communities; rural communities; and/or municipalities.

ix. Geographic location and size of project or project area: Identify the geographic location and the estimated size and scope (e.g., acres, farm types, demographics) of the project area. Maps are recommended.

x. EQIP-eligible producer participation: Estimate the number of EQIP eligible producers involved in the project and describe the extent of their involvement.

Describe whether these producers have been identified, and if not yet identified clearly articulate the process that will be carried out to identify and attract producer participation. If competing in the set aside for historically underserved projects, include an estimate on the number of historically underserved producers scheduled to participate in the project.

xi. Project action plan and timeline: Provide a bulleted list of project actions and deliverables relative to timeframes and associated project milestones through to project completion. Applicants should develop their timelines based on a project start date of September 30, 2024.

xii. Project management: Give a description of how the project will be organized and managed, including a list/description of project partners. Include a description of how communication will be structured within the project team to ensure effective project management.

xiii. Technology transfer: Describe how the results will be transferred to producers and stakeholders through communications and outreach activities.

xiv. Graphics, including pictures, charts, graphs, and similar items count towards the 17-page maximum.

The following documents do not count toward the above stated page limit but are required unless otherwise noted.

c. References, Bibliographies, and Citations, if applicable.

Upload the references, bibliographies, and citations under Other Attachments (listed as an Optional Form) in the Grants.gov Opportunity Application Package.

d. Team Qualifications

Provide brief descriptions of key technical and administrative personnel qualifications, their experience managing Federal awards, and their anticipated contributions to the project. Do not include resumes or curriculum vitae (CVs).

Each individual’s description should be no more than a ½ of page. Upload the team qualifications under Other Attachments (listed as an Optional Form) in the Grants.gov Opportunity Application Package.

e. Assessment of Environmental Impacts.

If implementation of the proposal is anticipated to have physical, chemical, or biological impacts on the environment, please describe the impacts and their extent. Upload the Assessment of Environmental Impacts under Other Attachments (listed as an Optional Form) in the Grants.gov Opportunity Application Package. The description of the potential environmental impacts must address both beneficial and adverse impacts of the proposed action. The length of the description should be commensurate with the complexity of the project proposed and the natural environmental resources impacted directly, indirectly, or cumulatively. Where possible, information on environmental impacts should be quantified, such as number of acres of wetlands impacted, amount of carbon sequestration estimated, etc. Natural environmental resources include soil, water, air, plants, and animals, as well as other resources protected by law, regulation, executive order, and agency policy. NRCS may choose not to approve funding for projects that may result in unacceptable adverse environmental impacts.

See Section F. 2 Administrative and National Policy Requirements for specific details as it relates to environmental impacts.

f. Declaration of previous CIG projects involvement and past performance.

If the applicant has previously received a CIG award (either at the National or State levels),…