VCGP NOFO for FY27_2026-04-14_1.pdf

Publication date:

2026-01

Department of Veterans Affairs

(VA)

Veterans Cemetery Grants Program

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Basic Information

II. Before You Begin (these steps may take several weeks)

III. Eligibility

IV. Program Description

V. Pre-application Contents and Format

VI. Submission Requirements and Deadlines:

VII. Pre-application Review Information

VIII. Award Notices

IX. Post-Award Requirements and Administration

X. Other Information

XI. Appendices

I. Basic Information

Federal Agency Name Announcement Type

Department of Veterans Affairs Initial

Funding Opportunity Title Funding Opportunity Number

Veterans Cemetery Grants VA-NCA-VCGP-FY2027

Assistance Listing Number

64.203 – Veterans Cemetery Grants Program

Funding Details

The Veterans Cemetery Grants Program (VCGP) plans to provide $60,000,000 in Fiscal Year (FY) 2027. For example, this amount could equate to about 20 discretionary capital improvement (construction) grant awards, averaging $3,000,000 for each award.

Key Dates

Pre-applications for grants must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on July 1, 2026.

Pre-applications submitted after the deadline stated above will be retained by VCGP (subsequent resubmittal not required) for inclusion and development in future program years. Submit materials early to avoid potential issues such as delayed acceptance, unanticipated delays, computer service outages, or other submission-related problems.

On-time submission requires an Entity Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) from the System for Award Management (SAM) and maintaining an active SAM registration throughout the period of performance. For more details, refer to the Before You Begin section.

As funding is available, conforming pre-applications will be included in the October 1 priority list published on the VCGP website.

Executive Summary

The VCGP provides grants to help states, territories, eligible counties, and tribal organizations establish, expand, improve, operate, and maintain Veterans cemeteries.

These grants support NCA’s mission to ensure that 95 percent of Veterans have access to a burial option within 75 miles of their home. These grants support the President’s “Veteran’s First” approach.

https://www.cem.va.gov/grants/index.asp

This NOFO merely highlights certain requirements, but applicants and grant recipients are ultimately responsible for complying with all statutory and regulatory requirements governing the grant pre-application, application, and award.

These grants are unique because the process includes a pre-application phase followed by an application phase once VA offers the prospective grant recipients an opportunity to improve an application. All pre-application documents are submitted through Grants.gov and any revised pre-application documents are submitted directly to VCGP’s project managers. This listing solicits FY 2026 pre-applications to develop potential grant-funded projects for inclusion in the FY 2027 priority list.

For additional information: https://www.cem.va.gov/grants/index.asp and 38 C.F.R. 39

Agency Contact Information:

Link to Additional Information: https://www.cem.va.gov/grants/

Link Description: VCGP website

Grantor Contact: Jon Muckey

Grantor Phone 202-461-1593

Grantor Contact E-Mail Address: Jonny.Muckey@va.gov

Grantor Title: Deputy Director

Copies of the application materials and technical assistance resources are available at:

II. Before You Begin (these steps may take several weeks)

Entity Identifiers

If you believe your organization is a good candidate for this funding opportunity, get your EIN, UEI, and active SAM.gov registration now.

If your organization is already registered in SAM.gov, ensure the registration is active and up to date.

EIN:

Your organization must have an EIN from the IRS.

SAM.gov

Your organization must have a UEI from SAM.gov.

Your organization must have an active registration with SAM.gov.

https://grants.gov/ https://www.cem.va.gov/grants/index.asp https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-39 https://www.cem.va.gov/grants/ https://www.cem.va.gov/grants/index.asp http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/

Customer Engagement Portal

A web version of the VA-FSC Vendor File Request Form (VA10091) must be submitted through the VA Customer Engagement Portal at https://www.cep.fsc.va.gov/ by the pre-application deadline stated in this NOFO.

Ensure that the information provided on the VA10091 form matches exactly with the information listed in SAM.gov registration. The VA10091 form is required for all applicants. Proof (i.e. submission screenshot) that the VA10091 form was submitted should be included in the pre-application packet.

Prepare these requirements immediately. They may take weeks to complete.

Do not wait until you are ready to submit your application to start these requirements.

Incomplete requirements may prevent you from submitting on time.

Pre-applications submitted without an active UEI may be rejected at threshold, meaning the pre-application would be considered ineligible.

For information about SAM, see also the Key Dates, Eligibility, and Submission Requirements and Deadlines sections.

Reminders: Pre-applications are due no later than the date and time stated in the Key Dates section. Keep this NOFO with you when completing the pre-application. It includes supplementary guidance for completing the pre-application.

III. Eligibility

Eligible Applicants

Eligible applicants include states, territories, eligible counties, and tribal organizations:

• “States” is defined as each of the States, Territories, and possessions of the United States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico according to38 C.F.R. 39.2.

• A tribal organization may apply for a grant for a cemetery located on trust land owned by, or held in trust for, the tribal organization. See 38 U.S.C. 2408(g), (l);

38 C.F.R. 39.2.

• Counties are eligible if (see 38 U.S.C. 2408(h)) — o The state in which the county is located does not have a Veterans cemetery owned by the state;

o The state is not in receipt of a grant for the construction of a new Veterans cemetery to be owned by the state;

o The state did not apply for a grant under this section during the previous year;

https://www.cep.fsc.va.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.2 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.2 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim o No tribal organization from the state in which the county is located has a Veterans cemetery on trust land owned by, or held in trust for, the tribal organization;

o No such tribal organization is in receipt of a VCGP grant for the construction of a new Veterans cemetery to be located on such land; and o No such tribal organization applied for a VCGP grant during the previous year; and o The county demonstrates in the application under subsection 38 U.S.C.

2408(a)(2), to the satisfaction of the Secretary, that the county has the resources necessary to operate and maintain the Veterans cemetery owned by the county.

Cost Sharing

Pre-award Matching Architectural and Engineering Funds:

• Provide 10 percent of the project's construction cost identified on the SF424C, Line 9, as required by VA Form 40-0895-6.

• Once the grant is awarded, VA will reimburse the applicant for all allowable architectural and engineering costs. See 38 C.F.R. 39.31(b)(8) and 38 C.F.R.

39.81(b)(3).

• The matching requirement assures that Architect & Engineering Fees for design are available for required submissions before the grant award.

• There is no maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement for this program.

IV. Program Description

Purpose

The Veterans Cemetery Grants Program was established to complement VA's national cemeteries. The program assists states, territories, eligible counties, and tribal organizations in providing gravesites for Veterans in those areas where VA’s national cemeteries cannot fully satisfy Veterans’ burial needs.

Funding Priorities

VCGP prioritizes funding to applicants in accordance with 38 C.F.R. 39.3, where Priority Group 1 has the highest priority and Priority Group 4 the lowest priority. Below are descriptions of the 4 priority groups.

Priority Group 1 —Projects needed to avoid disruption in burial service that would otherwise occur at existing Veterans cemeteries within 4 years of the date of the pre-application. Such projects would include expansion projects as well as improvement https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.va.gov/vaforms/va/pdf/VA40-0895-6.pdf https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.31#p-39.31(b)(8) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.81#p-39.81(b)(3) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.81#p-39.81(b)(3) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.3 projects (such as construction of additional or replacement facilities) when such improvements are required to continue interment operations.

Priority Group 2 —Projects for the establishment of new Veterans cemeteries.

Priority Group 3 —Expansion projects at existing Veterans cemeteries when a disruption in burial service due to the exhaustion of existing gravesites is not expected to occur within 4 years of the date of the pre-application.

Priority Group 4 —Improvement projects for cemetery landscaping or infrastructure, such as building expansion and upgrades to roads and irrigation systems, that are not directly related to the development of new gravesites. Operation and Maintenance Projects that address NCA's national shrine standards of appearance are included in this group.

Goals and Objective

The goal is to establish, expand, or improve a Veteran’s cemetery that meets VA’s national shrine standards by providing burial options for 95% of all Veterans within 75 miles of their residence.

Performance Metrics and Targets

Baseline milestones shall be tracked in accordance with a mutually agreeable construction schedule, and as documented in periodic construction progress reports.

Revisions to budgets and construction schedules shall be in accordance with 2 C.F.R.

Part 200 and 38 C.F.R. Part 39 regulations, specifically 38 C.F.R. 39.6 and 39.7.

Upon completion of the project, the recipient will provide adequate financial support and a trained workforce (professional or volunteer) to maintain and operate the cemetery in accordance with the standards of NCA.

The regulatory requirements of 38 C.F.R. 39.121 and 38 C.F.R. 39.122 details the recipient’s responsibilities following project completion and require the recipient to allow for VA inspections and audits, respectively.

Guidance for the Use of Funds VCGP grant funds may be used only to establish, expand, or improve a cemetery under 38 U.S.C. 2408(a)(1)(A) or to operate and maintain a cemetery under 38 U.S.C.

2408(a)(1)(B). Some counties may use funds if eligible under 38 U.S.C. 2408(h).

Once a grant is awarded, VA will reimburse the applicant for all allowable architectural and engineering costs.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.6 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.7 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.121 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.122 https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim

Cemeteries receiving grant funds for establishment, expansion, or improvement must follow VA standards and guidelines for site selection, planning, and construction. See 38 C.F.R. 39.60 and 39.61.

VA may cover up to 100 percent of the total cost for an approved project. See 38 C.F.R.

39.50(a) and 39.100(a).

VA's grant for the establishment of a new cemetery may include the cost of initial equipment necessary to operate the cemetery. See 38 U.S.C. 2408(b)(1)(A).

Cemeteries must be operated solely for the interment of Veterans (as defined in 38 C.F.R. 39.2) and their eligible family members. See 38 C.F.R. 39.10(a). Additionally, a grant funded cemetery may also inter individuals described in 38 U.S.C. 2408(i)(2) who are ineligible for burial in a VA National Cemetery. More information about this new authority can be found on the NCA Notices webpage, accessible using this link:

https://www.cem.va.gov/policies/notices.asp

The administration, operation, and maintenance of a VA grant funded cemetery is solely the responsibility of the states, territories, eligible counties, and tribal organizations. See 38 C.F.R. 39.11.

Reimbursement requests are submitted on a Standard Form 271 “OUTLAY REPORT

AND REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION PROGRAMS”.

In accordance with 2 C.F.R. 200.305(b)(3), reimbursement is the preferred method when a federal award is for construction.

Construction costs refers to the amount of funds necessary to convert a tract of land to an operational Veterans cemetery.

In accordance with 38 C.F.R. 39.51 and 39.101, “[t]he amount [of a VCGP award] shall be paid by way of reimbursement and in installments that are consistent with the progress of the project.”

Cemeteries must comply with and use grant funds for projects that meet domestic content procurement preferences specified in the Build America, Buy America Act (Public Law 117-58), Title IX, and 2 C.F.R. Part 184. Domestic content procurement preference means all iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in the project are produced in the United States. Manufactured products must be manufactured in the United States, and the cost of the components of the manufactured product that are mined, produced, or manufactured in the United States must be greater than 65 percent of the total cost of all components of the manufactured product. For construction materials, all manufacturing processes for the construction materials must occur in the United States.

Administrative and Support costs are strictly limited to not more than 17.5% of the total https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.60 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.61 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.50#p-39.50(a) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.50#p-39.50(a) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.100#p-39.100(a) https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.2 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.2 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.10#p-39.10(a) https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.cem.va.gov/policies/notices.asp https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.11 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200#p-200.305(b)(3) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.51 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.101 https://uscode.house.gov/statutes/pl/117/58.pdf https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-184 project cost:

• Administrative and Legal Expenses not to exceed: 1.5% o Salaries and indirect costs are unallowable

• Architectural and engineering fees: 10.0% o Includes the following professional services: architect, civil engineering, and landscape architecture.

• Other architectural and engineering fees: 4.0% o Includes but is not limited to: structural engineering, survey services, geotechnical services, historic/cultural resource services, or anything other than the main three professional services.

• Project inspection fees: 2.0%

Additionally, and where/when allowed per 38 C.F.R. 39.50(b)(5), the total project cost may include a contingency allowance not to exceed five percent (5%) of the total cost of a project that involves new construction or eight percent (8%) of the total cost of an improvement project that does not involve new construction.

Program Authority

38 U.S.C. 2408; 38 C.F.R. Part 39; 2 C.F.R. Part 200

V. Pre-application Contents and Format

Instructions for submitting a conforming Pre-application:

• Register with Grants.gov

• Once registered, go to the Search Grants page on Grants.gov.

• Type "VA-NCA-VCGP-2026" in the Opportunity Number search field and click the Search button.

• Click on the "VA-NCA-VCGP-2026" link in the Search Results section.

• Click on “View on Grants.gov” button on the right side of the page.

• Review the SYNOPSIS, VERSION HISTORY, RELATED DOCUMENTS and

PACKAGE tabs.

• Click the RELATED DOCUMENTS tab

• Click this link: 38 C.F.R. 39.31 Pre-application Requirements for establishment, expansion, or improvement grant funded projects, or 38 C.F.R.

39.81 Pre-application Requirements for operation or maintenance grant funded projects. Please include all assurances, supporting documentation and forms for https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39#p-39.50(b)(5) https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200 https://grants.gov/register https://www.grants.gov/search-grants https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-39#39.31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-39#39.31 a conforming pre-application described in 38 C.F.R. 39.31 paragraphs (a) through (d) or 38 C.F.R. 39.81 paragraphs (a) through (d) respectfully.

• Note: There are two sets of forms to download and complete in accordance with the pre-application requirements :

Veterans Cemetery Grants Forms (VA Forms 40-0895-X) SF-424 Family and Budget Narrative Attachment Forms (these forms are also available on the PACKAGE tab).

Click the Apply button and login to Grants.gov.

Note: Consider creating a Workspace, which allows a team or individual to access and edit different forms within the pre-application. Applicants can also save and upload from their computer the forms and assurances needed for a conforming pre-application.

Once you have confirmed the that all requirements have been met, save and submit your pre-application.

Track the status of a completed Grant Opportunity Pre-application using CFDA Number (64.203) or Grants.gov Tracking Number.

Pre-Application Materials

Overview

A conforming pre-application includes all required supporting documentation and all necessary assurances. VA will determine whether the pre-application conforms to all requirements listed in paragraphs (a) through (d) of 38 C.F.R. 39.31 for Establishment, Expansion, or Improvement Projects or 38 C.F.R. 39.81 for Operation and Maintenance Projects, as applicable, including whether it contains sufficient information necessary to establish the project's priority.

Pre-application Components

Also see “Appendix A: Pre-application Components”.

Provide completed pre-application materials in accordance with document instructions and signature requirements.

VI. Submission Requirements and Deadlines:

Address to Request Pre-application Package

All pre-application materials and forms are available at:

https://www.cem.va.gov/grants/index.asp

Or https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.81 https://www.cem.va.gov/grants/forms.asp https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/sf-424-family https://grants.gov/ https://www.grants.gov/applicants/grant-applications/track-my-application https://grants.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.31#p-39.31(a) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.31#p-39.31(d) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.81

Grants.gov on the "VA-NCA-VCGP-2026" link “Related Documents” tab

UEI and SAM

To be eligible, applicants must have an EIN from the IRS, a UEI from SAM, and an active SAM.gov registration. Entities must maintain an active status in SAM throughout the application period and grant period of performance. VA will only award a grant to applicants that have complied with the EIN, UEI, and SAM requirements. VA will only pay grant reimbursements to grant recipients with an active SAM.gov registration.

For more information, see 2 C.F.R. Part 200 and 2 C.F.R. Part 25 as well as SAM.gov.

Certain requirements also apply to subrecipients and contractors.

If an applicant is not compliant with the EIN, UEI, or SAM requirements at the time VA is ready to make an award, VA may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a federal award and may use that determination as a basis for making an award to another applicant or for making a different funding decision.

If awarded a grant, applicants must maintain compliance with EIN, UEI, and SAM requirements for the duration of the grant as a continuing condition of eligibility.

Information also is available in the Before You Begin section.

Submission Instructions

Following the Office of Federal Financial Management (OFFM) policy directive, electronic submissions are mandatory through Grants.gov.

Do not make multiple Submissions of same Pre-application through Grants.gov (e.g.

revisions to scope/ budget). Instead, after discussion with VCGP’s assigned project manager, email revised pre-applications to vcgp@va.gov.

Pre-applications are due no later than date and time stated in the Key Dates section.

For assistance, contact vcgp@va.gov.

Submission Dates and Times

Pre-applications are due not later than the time and date stated in the Key Dates section.

Pre-applications received after the time and date stated in the Key Dates section will be filed and retained for inclusion and development in future program year(s).

https://grants.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-I/part-25 http://www.sam.gov/ https://grants.gov/ https://grants.gov/ mailto:vcgp@va.gov mailto:vcgp@va.gov

Intergovernmental Review

This funding opportunity is restricted to states, territories, eligible counties, and tribal organizations and, as such, these entities must coordinate within their respective organizations to comply with the requirements of Executive Order 12372, Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.

VII. Pre-application Review Information

Responsiveness Review

Upon receipt, VCGP project managers will review pre-applications and notify the applicant of any nonconformity. Additionally, VCGP project managers will work diligently and collaboratively with states, territories, eligible counties, and tribal organizations to bring the applicant’s pre-application into conformance with 38 C.F.R.

39.31 for establishment, expansion, or improvement projects or 38 C.F.R. 39.81 for operation or maintenance projects.

If the pre-application conforms with requirements, VCGP project managers shall notify the state, territory, eligible county, or tribal organization that the pre-application has been found to meet the pre-application requirements, and the proposed project will be included in the next scheduled ranking of projects, as indicated in 38 C.F.R. 39.3(d) and published by October 1 in any given program year.

Non-Conforming pre-applications will be filed and retained for inclusion and development in future program year(s).

Review Criteria

Conforming pre-applications that are received on or before the time and date specified stated in the Key Dates section are prioritized in Priority Groups, with Priority Group 1 having the highest priority and Priority Group 4 the lowest priority as described in 38 C.F.R. 39.3(a).

Scoring Criteria:

By October 1 of each year, VA will make a list prioritizing all pre-applications that were received on or before July 1 of that year and that were approved under 38 C.F.R. 39.31 or 38 C.F.R. 39.81, ranking them in their order of priority within the applicable priority group for funding during the fiscal year.

Within Priority Groups 1, 2, and 3, the highest priority will be given to projects in geographical locations with the greatest number of Veterans who will benefit from the https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-24/subtitle-B/chapter-V/subchapter-C/part-570/subpart-K/section-570.612 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-24/subtitle-B/chapter-V/subchapter-C/part-570/subpart-K/section-570.612 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.81 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.3#p-39.3(d) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.3#p-39.3(a) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.3#p-39.3(a) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.31 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.81 project as determined by VA. This prioritization system, based on Veteran population data, will assist VA in maintaining and improving access to burial in a Veterans cemetery to more Veterans and their eligible family members.

Within Priority Group 1, at the discretion of VA, higher priority may be given to a project that must be funded that fiscal year to avoid disruption in burial service. 38 C.F.R.

39.3(b).

Grants for projects within Priority Group 4 will be awarded in any fiscal year only after grants for all project applications under Priority Groups 1, 2, and 3 that are ready for funding have been awarded. See 38 C.F.R. 39.3(c). No more than $10 million in any fiscal year will be awarded for Operation and Maintenance Projects under Priority Group

4. See 38 U.S.C. 2408(f)(2) and 38 C.F.R. 39.3(c).

Review and Selection Process

For states, territories, eligible counties, and tribal organizations to obtain an Establishment, Expansion, or Improvement grant as listed in 38 C.F.R. 39.30 or for an Operation and Maintenance grant as listed in 38 C.F.R. 39.80 the following requirements will apply:

• Its pre-application must comply with the requirements of 38 C.F.R. 39.31 or 38 C.F.R. 39.81, as applicable;

• Its project must be ranked sufficiently high on the priority list in 38 C.F.R. 39.3, or sufficiently high within Priority Group 4 for an Operation and Maintenance Project, for the applicable fiscal year so that funds are available for the project;

• Its plans and specifications for the project must be approved by VA under 38 C.F.R. 39.32 or 38 C.F.R. 39.82, as applicable;

• The state, territory, eligible county, or tribal organization must meet the application requirements in 38 C.F.R. 39.34 or 38 C.F.R. 39.84, as applicable;

and

• Other requirements specified in 38 C.F.R. 39.6, 39.10, and 39.33 or 38 C.F.R.

39.83, as applicable, must be satisfied.

VA may approve under 38 C.F.R. 39.35 or 38 C.F.R. 39.85, as applicable, any application up to the amount of the grant requested once the requirements have been satisfied, provided that sufficient funds are available, and that the total amount of grants awarded during any fiscal year for Operation and Maintenance Projects does not exceed $10 million.

In determining whether sufficient funds are available, VA shall consider the project's priority ranking (or the project’s ranking within Priority Group 4 for an Operation and Maintenance Project), the total amount of funds available for cemetery grant awards https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.3#p-39.3(b) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.3#p-39.3(b) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.3#p-39.3(c) https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title38-section2408&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39/section-39.3#p-39.3(c) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.30 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.80 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.31#p-39.31(e) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.81 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.81 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.3 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.32 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.32 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.82 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.34 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.84 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.6 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.10 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.33 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.83 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.83 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.35 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.85 during the applicable fiscal year, and the prospects of higher-ranking projects being ready for award before the end of the applicable fiscal year.

Risk Review

Prior to making an award, and at any time post-award, VA will review any available information, including its own records and any Office of Management and Budget-designated repository of Governmentwide eligibility or financial integrity information, such as SAM.gov.

VA will comply with the requirements of 2 C.F.R. Parts 180 and 801.

VA will conduct a business risk assessment in accordance with 2 C.F.R. 200.206, VA will evaluate risks posed by applicants to include review of available information on financial stability, management systems and standards, history of performance, audit reports and findings, and ability to effectively implement requirements.

Based on results of the risk assessment, VA may ask applicants or grant recipients to submit additional information regarding their ability to manage Federal funds.

The risk assessment may consider results of the applicant’s eligibility (threshold review) or the quality of its pre-application (merit review). If VA decides to make an award, VA may add specific conditions to the award corresponding to the degree of risk.

Applicants may review and comment on any information in SAM.gov about their organization. If the applicant comments on any SAM.gov records, VA will consider the comment as part of the risk review.

VIII. Award Notices

Conforming pre-applications will be included in VCGP’s annual priority list and published by October 1 in any given program year.

Not later than the publishing of VCGP’s annual priority list, VCGP project managers will provide written notification of non-conforming pre-applications. Non-Conforming pre-applications will be filed and retained for inclusion and development in future program year(s).

As funding allows and in priority list order, “Notices of Grant Opportunity” (letters) will be issued to applicants with conforming pre-applications. If Grant Opportunities are declined, and to the extent funds remain available, additional Grant Opportunity letters may be issued to applicants with conforming grant applications. Notices of grant opportunity (letters) are NOT authorizations to proceed and do not obligate funds.

In accordance with 38 C.F.R. 39.35 and 39.85, as applicable, following VA approval of bid tabulations and cost estimates, VA will review the complete Establishment, Expansion, and Improvement Project grant application or the Operation and http://www.sam.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-180 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-801 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.206 http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.35 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.85

Maintenance Project grant application for approval in accordance with the requirements of 38 C.F.R. 39.30 or 38 C.F.R. 39.80, respectively, and if the application is approved, the grant will be awarded the Grant Agreement prior to the end of the fiscal year.

The fully executed Grant Agreement is the authorizing document that obligates Federal grant funds.

IX. Post-Award Requirements and Administration

Administrative and National Policy Requirements

The recipient must agree to the general terms and conditions of the Grant Agreement, which will include specific rules and regulations recipients must follow. This includes federal laws, program regulations, program requirements, Executive Orders, requirements outlined in this NOFO, and the terms and conditions outlined in the Grant Agreement.

The Recipient must agree that, upon completion of the project, it will provide adequate financial support and a trained workforce (professional or volunteer) to maintain and operate the Veterans cemetery in accordance with the operational standards and measures prescribed by NCA.

The Recipient acknowledges responsibilities, inspections, and reports following project completion in accordance with 38 C.F.R. 39.120 (for Operations and Maintenance Projects) and 38 C.F.R. 39.121 and 38 C.F.R. 39.122 (applicable to Establishment, Expansion, and Improvement, and Operation and Maintenance Projects).

Reporting

The Recipient must agree that it will prepare and submit reports containing information as the Director, Veterans Cemetery Grants Program, may from time to time reasonably require, and give the Director, Veterans Cemetery Grants Program, or the Director’s authorized representative, upon demand, access to the records upon which such information is based.

Reporting during the Period of Performance (submitted electronically via email):

• Annual reporting using VA Form 40-0241 (located in Grants.gov).

• Periodic construction progress reports.

• Submittal of Standard Form 271 “OUTLAY REPORT AND REQUEST

FOR REIMBURSEMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION PROGRAMS”.

Reporting requirements reflected in appendix XII of 2 C.F.R. Part 200.

Reporting post Period of Performance (submitted electronically via email):

• Annual reporting using VA Form 40-0241

Monitoring https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.30 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.80 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.120 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.121 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.122 https://www.grants.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/appendix-Appendix%20XII%20to%20Part%20200

Recipients are responsible for compliance with applicable portions of 2 C.F.R. 200.329 through 200.333; VA onsite monitoring during and after the Period of Performance; and allowing VA inspectors and auditors to conduct necessary inspections including, but not limited to, on-site reviews focused on standards found in 38 C.F.R. 39.121 and 39.122.

X. Other Information

VA is required to ensure compliance with all applicable statutes, regulations, and Executive Orders when evaluating and awarding grants. In accordance with Executive Order 14332, Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking, aside from the evaluation criteria published in this announcement, VA has discretion to remove from consideration any applicant VA deems does not demonstrably advance the President’s or VA’s priorities. VA will not fund activities that use racial preference for eligibility criteria or promote gender ideology. VA will not fund activities that promote or facilitate violations of immigration laws or are sources of waste, fraud, or abuse. VA will not tolerate activity or conduct by grant recipients that constitute acts of moral turpitude, are scandalous, or bring the recipient, the project funded by this grant, or VA into public disrepute, contempt, or ridicule.

Signing Authority The Secretary of Veterans Affairs has delegated authority to the Assistant Secretary for Management and Chief Financial Officer, to approve this document and authorized the undersigned to sign and submit the document to Grants.gov for publication electronically as an official document of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Richard F. Topping Assistant Secretary for Management/Chief Financial Officer Department of Veterans Affairs https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.121 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-39.122 https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/08/improving-oversight-of-federal-grantmaking/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/08/improving-oversight-of-federal-grantmaking/ http://www.grants.gov/

XI. Appendices

Appendix A: Pre-application Components

Click this link: 38 C.F.R. 39.31 Pre-application Requirements for establishment, expansion, or improvement grant funded projects.

Click this link: 38 C.F.R. 39.81 Pre-application Requirements for operation or maintenance grant funded projects.

Appendix B: Definitions

The regulations for the Veterans Cemetery Grants Program (VCGP) found in 38 C.F.R.

Part 39, as well as the uniform guidance for grants (2 C.F.R. Part 200), contain all definitions, authorities, and requirements pertaining to this program.

Appendix C: Relevant Resources

1. Federal Grant Systems Hub (beta) available soon via Grants.gov

2. Federal Service Desk (FSD)

3. Grants.gov

4. HHS website

5. SAM.gov

6. Uniform Guidance for Grants https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/part-39 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200 https://app.powerbigov.us/view?r=eyJrIjoiYTMyZGUwNzktNGIwZi00NWQ2LTllZTQtYmNhYTFlNGIwYzA1IiwidCI6ImQ1OGFkZGVhLTUwNTMtNGE4MC04NDk5LWJhNGQ5NDQ5MTBkZiJ9 https://grants.gov/ http://www.fsd.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ https://pms.psc.gov/grant-recipients/funding-request-formula.html http://www.sam.gov/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200