FOA Updated to revise POC information and Questions Due Date para G.pdf

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT (FOA)

for

Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) and

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)

Consortium

W911SR-24-S-0001

ISSUED BY:

U.S. Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground, Edgewood Contracting Division (ACC-APG-ECD) on behalf of US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, Chemical Biological Center

(DEVCOM CBC)

Issued: 10 July 2024 Application Inquiries and Questions (Deadline): 09 Aug 2024 Applications Due: 12 Sep 2024

Table of Contents

I. OVERVIEW OF THE FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

1. Agency Name

2. Issuing Acquisition Office

3. Opportunity Title

4. Announcement Type

5. Opportunity Number

6. Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number and Title

7. Response Dates

8. Funding

9. Cost Share or Matching

10. Profit/Fee

11. Place of Performance

II. DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

A. Program Description B. Federal Award Information C. Eligibility Information D. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to View Funding Opportunity Announcement

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

3. Review and Selection Process

4. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)

5. Submission Dates and Times

6. Intergovernmental Review

7. Funding Restrictions

8. Other Submission Requirements

E. Proposal Review Information

1. Evaluation Criteria

2. Review and Selection Process

F. Award Administration Information

1. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

2. Additional Reporting

G. Federal Awarding Agency Contacts H. Other Information

1. Incumbent Performer

2. Cooperative Agreement Proposals

I. OVERVIEW OF THE FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

Short Description of Funding Opportunity: The Department of Defense seeks innovative applications to cooperatively partner with eligible entities in the implementation, execution, development and administration of a Consortium of MSIs and HBCUs to conduct basic, applied and advance research and development efforts at educational institutions pursuant to Section 252 of the FY10 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) codified in 10 USC 4144, Research and Education Programs and Activities: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and Minority Serving Institutions of Higher Education. The department intends to award ONE (1) cooperative agreement, with a maximum award amount of up to $150M over a ten-year period of performance.

Background: The purpose of this Agreement is for the applicant, to establish, manage and provide oversight of a Consortium of MSIs and HBCUs to support and stimulate research and technology development at educational institutions pursuant to 10 USC 4144.

A previous Cooperative Agreement was established between United Negro College Fund Special Programs (UNCFSP) Corporation (now known as Minority Serving Research and Development Consortium (MSRDC) and the U.S. Army Research Development and Engineering Command, Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC), (now known as U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC)). This agreement was awarded with a period of performance of 28 July 2014 through 31 December 2024 as W911SR- 14-02-0001.

The Federal Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education Strategic Plan states that, “the pace of innovation is accelerating globally, and with it, the competition for scientific and technical talent.” It further added that, “now more than ever, the innovation capacity of the United States will depend on an effective and inclusive STEM education system.”

A readily accessible, highly technical and diverse STEM talent is essential to the success of the Department’s Research and Engineering mission. The National Defense Strategy has called for the Department of Defense (DoD) to make significant investments in science and technology modernization priority areas to meet key capability and capacity needs, and technical talent is essential in meeting this task. As the largest employer of Federal scientists and engineers across the Federal agencies, DoD is committed to developing the Nation’s STEM talent.

Required Overview Content

1. Agency Name U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM

CBC)

2. Issuing Acquisition Office U.S. Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground, Edgewood Contracting Division (ACC-APG-ECD)

3. Opportunity Title Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Consortium

4. Announcement Type This is the initial announcement.

5. Opportunity Number

W911SR-24-S-0001

6. Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number and Title

12.630 – Basic, Applied, and Advanced Research in Science and Engineering

7. Response Dates Applications must be received by 3:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST), 12 September 2024.

The following is an estimated summary of the events and dates associated with the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA):

EVENT DATE

Public Announcement Issued 10 July 2024 Opportunity Day 18 July 2024 Application Inquiries and Questions Deadline 09 Aug 2024 Applications Due 12 Sep 2024 Award 12 Dec 2024

Opportunity Day will be held virtually on 18 July 2024 from 1300 to 1600 Eastern Standard Time (EST). To register, contact, Carlethia Smith, email carlethia.d.smith.civ@army.mil. More details will be provided prior to the event.

8. Funding The FOA issued is subject to the availability of funds. The FOA provides the estimated funding levels for the cooperative agreement. The Government has submitted the requisite documents to mailto:carlethia.d.smith.civ@army.mil request funding for the period covered by the cooperative agreement; however, applicants are reminded that this request is subject to Presidential, Congressional and Departmental approval. The funding levels provided in the FOA are for application preparation purposes only. The actual funding level of the cooperative agreement will be updated annually as part of the appropriation process.

9. Cost Share or Matching Cost sharing or matching is not required for this FOA.

10. Profit/Fee Profit/fee is not permitted under the cooperative agreement.

11. Place of Performance

The applicant will be primarily performing at their location and the research and development projects will be mainly performed at the MSI and HBCU locations. There may also be performance at government sponsor locations if required, for a specific project. Though there is no requirement for the consortium members to be physically located on-site at a DoD facility, they should be eligible to obtain Common Access Cards (CACs) and access DoD networks, if required. Work for the remainder of the personnel shall be performed at the applicant’s facility or another authorized location.

II. DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

A. Program Description

The principal purpose for this program is to support and stimulate STEM related research at MSIs and HBCUs. The cooperative agreement’s public purpose is to ensure the United States will continue to maintain and enhance its technological dominance in a competitive world.

The concept of the program is to increase the potential for innovative technology and commercialization opportunities while fulfilling the statutes of the law and its requirement to improve minority institutions’ understanding of their importance in providing cutting edge solutions to defense requirements. The program objective under this Agreement, in consonance with 10 USC 4144, “Research and Education Programs and Activities: historically black colleges and universities and minority serving institutions of higher education” is to establish a baseline and measure the improvements in the following:

Enhance the research and educational capabilities of such institutions in areas of importance to national defense;

Encourage the participation of such institutions in the research, development, testing and evaluation (RDT&E) programs and activities;

Increase the number of graduates from such institutions engaged in disciplines important to the national security functions of the Department of Defense;

Encourage research and educational collaborations between such institutions and other institutions of higher education, Federal Government organizations, and the defense industry;

Provide a unified voice to effectively articulate the strategically important role of the MSIs and HBCUs in Government science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiatives and technology base;

Effectively develop critical technology that can be transitioned to weapons systems and commercial applications;

Maximize the collaborative capabilities of the Government and MSIs and HBCUs; and

Improve Research Facilities of the MSIs and HBCUs.

1.0 Description of Consortium Manager Responsibilities

1.1 The Recipient will identify a Consortium Manager with full authority to act on behalf of the Recipient on all matters relating to the daily operation and management of the Consortium. The Government must be notified in writing prior to the replacement of the Consortium Manager or any other Key Personnel identified in the management structure.

1.2 The Recipient will implement its comprehensive plan for meeting the objective of 10 U.S.C.

4144 to establish various methods to baseline and measure the success of the program.

1.3 The Recipient will ensure the consortium of MSIs and HBCUs established under this Agreement will be used exclusively for the conduct of performance as outlined in this agreement and will not include any other business interest of the recipient. The Recipient will ensure that business practices and processes harmonize with the term and conditions contained within the Agreement award.

1.4 The Recipient will populate the membership of the consortium from among eligible MSIs and HBCUs. This will also include identifying leaders from industry and other academia to serve as mentors for the membership.

1.5 The Recipient must establish and maintain a web presence that is current and relevant for use by the public, prospective Consortium Members, existing Consortium Members, and the Government. The site must be tastefully designed, user friendly, secure, virus protected, compliant with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and password protected for non-public information and activities.

1.6 The Recipient will provide a detailed milestone for completing these efforts identified in sections 1.1 – 1.5 within 30 days of award. Monthly status reports shall be provided and at a minimum, address: cost incurred to date, projected cost for the next reporting period, cost to complete Start-up, status on marketing roll-out plans, membership signups, and status of plans for establishing baselines. Once the Consortium of MSIs is established and operational, reporting requirements will continue as specified in Section 2.14 below.

1.7 The Recipient will provide an Annual Report summarizing the individual research accomplishments, key activities, and forecast of any future activities.

1.8 The Recipient will ensure that the Government has direct and substantial involvement with the Consortium Members to ensure the Government has flexibility to collaborate with the members as envisioned in this Agreement, and 31 U.S.C. 6305, Using Cooperative Agreements.

1.9 The Recipient will provide the vision and guidance to grow the capacity of the MSIs and HBCUs through collaboration, partnering and numerous other capacity building methods to allow the universities, colleges, and students to become major contributors of Defense research.

These institutions and defense companies and corporations may collaborate with members of the consortium; however the preponderance of the work for project awards must be done by the MSIs and HBCUs. When this occurs, the roles must be included and clearly defined in the proposals submitted in response to Request for Project Proposals.

1.10 These programs and projects may be augmented with relevant projects from other DoD and Government agencies.

1.11 The Recipient shall be responsible for all funds obligated by the Government under this Agreement including the Research Project Awards.

1.12 The Recipient and designated Consortium Manager will be responsible for operation and administration of the Consortium to include but not limited to: (1) Maintaining and updating the Consortium Member Agreement; (2) Growing its membership insofar as possible to include all eligible institutions as defined by paragraph 2.13 below; (3) publicizing requirements for White Papers, Research Project Proposals; (4) Reviewing White Papers and Proposals for completeness and responsiveness to posted solicitations (the Government will perform technical and cost evaluation, negotiation and project management); (5) Proper use of all allocated funds and accountability through Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP); and (6) Other responsibilities as stated elsewhere in the Agreement award.

1.13 Eligibility Criteria for Membership. All MSIs and HBCUs of higher education that meet the definition of “Covered Educational Institution,” 10 U.S.C. 4144(f) and offer an undergraduate or graduate degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics are eligible for membership.

Select Defense contractors and other institutions of higher education may become collaborators if they significantly enhance the research, development, testing and evaluation capabilities of individual MSIs and HBCUs and pledge to collaborate with these institutions. Research Project Proposals involving select institutions shall explain the contribution of the institution(s) to the project and to the program objective of 10 U.S.C. 4144.

1.14 Program Transition.

The current MSI and HBCU STEM Consortium Cooperative Agreement ends on 31

December 2024. The period of performance for the base period of this new Cooperative Agreement is expected to start on 30 November 2024. The transition period is estimated to be one month. The CAM will facilitate the transition of all fundamental elements from the current Recipient to the new Recipient.

The recipient any sub-recipient(s) shall participate in person or via electronic participation in a Government-scheduled, Kick-Off Meeting after award. The purpose of this Kick-Off Meeting is to (1) aid both the Government and recipient personnel in achieving a clear and mutual understanding of all requirements, and (2) identify and resolve potential problems.

The Recipient will develop and implement a plan to identify the tasks and activities required to efficiently establish a Consortium of MSIs and HBCUs within three (3) months of issuance of this Agreement. The plan should identify resources required with responsibilities, define schedules and resource estimates, and address plans to minimize operation risks.

1.15 Reports

1.15.1 The Recipient and the Consortium Member(s) conducting Research Projects in accordance with this Agreement shall maintain records of the research and development activities performed and funds expended under the Research Project Awards and Sub awards respectively. All records shall include the results of studies, analyses, tests and other investigations conducted as part of the Research Project Award or Sub award. Based on the progress of the Research Project and other information known to the Grants Officer or designee, the Government will determine if a change to the Research Project Budget or Plan is required. If such a change is expected to modify this Agreement or a Research Project Award, the Grants Officer or designee are the only authorized representatives of the Government who may modify this Agreement or a Research Project Award to incorporate such change.

1.15.2 The Recipient shall ensure that Consortium Members submit documentation as prescribed by individual Research Project awards. The documentation described below is the minimum reporting requirements in each award:

a. Quarterly and Annual Reports for Individual Research Efforts

(1) Technical Status Report. Quarterly and Annually (if effort is for more than one year) - The technical status report shall detail technical progress to date and report on all problems, technical issues or major developments during the reporting period.

(2) Financial Status Report. Quarterly and Annually - The quarterly financial status report shall provide the status of each Research Project Award. This report will provide an accounting of expenditures and shall explain any major deviations from the agreed to project plan. The annual report shall include an accounting of all expenditures for the period to include a roll-up of sub awards for each Research Project Award.

b. General Report Requirements.

(1) Technical Status Reports shall include the following information: .

(a) Technical reports will provide a concise and factual discussion of the significant accomplishments and progress made during the reporting period. Each of the topics described below shall be addressed for the effort performed:

i. A comparison of actual accomplishments with the goals and objectives established for the period.

ii. Reasons why established goals and objectives were not met, if appropriate.

iii. New discoveries, inventions, or patent disclosures and specific applications stemming from the Research Project effort provided that such disclosure shall not compromise the rights of the inventor.

(2) Financial Reports.

(a) The Recipient shall use the Standard Form (SF) 425 to report the status of funds. The SF 425 shall be used for the annual reports (if multi-year projects) and the final report for each project.

(b) Reports shall be on an accrual basis to include financial reports from sub recipients for the Recipient financial roll-up. If the Recipient or sub recipient uses a cash accounting system, they may develop the accrual information through best estimates based on the analysis of the documentation on hand.

(c) Supplemental information on the funding status will be provided in the SF 425, paragraph 12, Remarks. This information will include major deviations from the agreed to project plan, the cause of the deviation, planned corrective actions and the impact on the overall project costs.

(d) A copy of the SF425 shall be submitted to the Grants Officer no later than 90 days after the reporting period for the annual and final reports.

c. Final Reports

(1) Final Technical Report per Research Effort.

(a) A Draft Final Technical Report (FTR) shall be submitted to the Cooperative Agreement Manager (CAM) within thirty (30) calendar days of the completion of the Research Project award. This report will provide a comprehensive, cumulative, and substantive summary of the progress and significant accomplishments achieved during the total period of the Research Project effort. Each of the topics described above shall be addressed as appropriate for the effort performed. If the FTR is acceptable, as submitted, the CAM will forward their approval within fourteen (14) calendar days to the Grants Officer.

(b) Format. The cover and title page shall be Standard Form (SF) 298, Report Documentation Page. Item 13 of the form should contain a 200 to 300 word abstract summarizing technical progress during the reporting period. Style should be third person singular using past tense.

Jargon, special symbols or notations, subscripts, mathematical symbols or foreign alphabet letters are not permitted. Unless otherwise stipulated in the research tasking, all pages should be prepared for acquisition and distribution by the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC).

All pages should be good quality for copying purposes. The report shall be prepared in accordance with American National Standards Institute/ National Information Standards Organization (ANSI/NISO Z39.18-2005 “R2010, Scientific and Technical Reports - Preparation, Presentation, and Preservation” which may be obtained from American National Standards Institute, Incorporated, 1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018.)

(c) Unless otherwise specified in the research tasking, once the Grants Officer has informed the Recipient that the final technical report (FTR) has been approved, the Recipient shall submit to DTIC - DoD, Federal Government and their Contractors (Login requires CAC, PIV, ECA, or CIV) at https://discover.dtic.mil/submit-documents/. For users without CAC, PIV, ECA, or CIV cards contact DTIC's Information Collection Division at:

dtic.belvoir.ecm.mbx.acquisitions@mail.mil.

(d) The FTR front page shall be marked in a conspicuous place with a distribution statement to denote the extent of its availability for distribution, release, and disclosure without additional approvals or authorizations. The CAM shall provide this information to the Recipient.

(2) Final Financial Report

(a) The final financial status report shall summarize details of the resource status of the Research Project Award, including a roll-up of sub-award financial data. This report shall include a final accounting of accrued expenditures and is subject to an audit by an independent public accountant or the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), see http://www.dcma.mil.

(b) A commercial format shall be used for the final report. This report shall include all accrued expenditures by the Recipient and sub-award recipients on the research project. The final report shall be submitted within 90 calendar days after the end of the reporting period.

Deliverables:

FOA

Citation

Title Description/Type of Format Due Date Reviewer/ Acceptor

Para 1.6 Written monthly status reports, anticipated future work, problems and/or Delays

Microsoft Word, Excel 10th of each month CAM

Para 1.5 Fully functional web site including program description, research opportunities and online application to join consortium, Website should be available and fully functional. Accessible to the public, prospective Consortium Members, existing Consortium Members, and the Government.

45 days after agreement award.

CAM

Para 1.7 MSI and HBCU STEM Consortium Program Annual Report

Annual report following report template in Microsoft Word format

30 calendar days after the end of the program year

CAM

http://groups.niso.org/higherlogic/ws/public/download/12038/Z39_18_2005_R2010.pdf http://groups.niso.org/higherlogic/ws/public/download/12038/Z39_18_2005_R2010.pdf https://discover.dtic.mil/submit-documents/

Para 1.12 Consortium membership List

The recipient will update and maintain a list of MSI Consortium members

No later than 30 calendar days after award and bi-annually there after

CAM

Para 1.12 White Papers Microsoft Office Word/Products No later than 15 calendar days after receipt of white paper

CAM

Para 1.15.2(a)

Quarterly progress report describing work performed during the previous quarter for each awarded project

Microsoft Office Word/Products Quarterly after award of sub agreement

CAM

Para 1.15.2(a)

Quarterly project cost detail worksheet describing actual cost expenditures.

A Microsoft Excel worksheet

Quarterly after award of sub agreement

CAM

Para 1.15.2(a)

Annual progress report describing work performed during the previous quarter for each awarded project

A Microsoft Excel worksheet

Annually after award of sub agreement

CAM

Para 1.15.2(c)(1)

Final Technical Report Microsoft Office Products No later than 30 days after project completion, unless otherwise agreed to by the Government

CAM

Para 1.15.2(c)(2)

Final Financial Report - Independent financial audit of MSI and HBCU STEM Consortium Program

Microsoft Office Products No later than 30 days after project completion, unless otherwise agreed to by the Government

CAM

3.0 Research and Development Investments and Activities.

The research efforts to be undertaken by this program will address the basic, applied and advanced research requirements of the program areas assigned by DoD and the Department of the Army to DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center and other Federal research agencies including but not limited to the following:

Maritime Technologies: Conduct research, development, assessment, and demonstration of emerging marine technologies. Program research will be focused on improving the safety and efficiency of DoD maritime technologies and maintaining and/or enhancing DoD naval dominance. Research may include enhancing operational endurance, sensing, scalable lethality, force integration, and warfighter augmentation. Specific Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (CBRN) research support may include operational enhancements to maritime biological detection systems, hazard mitigation and maintenance or operation of systems.

Optics and Photonics: Conduct research and development for enhanced optical sensing capabilities that provide spectral data needed to identify, detect, and engage targets and other

CBRN hazards. Fields of study should include (but not limited to) lasers, imaging, fiber optics, night vision, and remote sensing capabilities.

Analyses & Reports: Conduct statistical and data analyses of CBRN operational decision-making, evaluations, and/or other mission requirements. Research and technical reports shall address CBRN mission and focus on solving operational, engineering, and technological challenges.

Armaments & Defense: Conduct research and development of advanced weapons, ammunition, and fire control systems. Competencies are designed to transition armament and defense technology into the field and rapidly respond to warfighter needs. Specific studies may include next generation munitions for increased range and lethality through integrating the science of additive manufacturing and biomanufacturing. CBRN studies may include increased protection of platforms and Warfighters against novel threats.

Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning/Big Data: Expand capabilities of software applications to perform tasks that currently require human intelligence and train software models using example data, simulations, or real-world experiences rather than by direct programming or coding. Conduct research and development on trusted artificial intelligence and machine learning with trusted autonomous systems to ensure operational effectiveness and integration of applications into DoD systems.

Chemical and Biological: Conduct research and development in advancement of chemistry and bioscience aspects of chemicals, toxins and biological organisms that may have potential as biological or chemical warfare materials. Research may include studies on biological and chemical detection, enhanced biothreat and/or chemical sensing capabilities, including material science aspects.

Cyber Security & Communication Technology: Advanced research to be conducted on development and integration of wideband sensors capable of operating within cyberspace, electronic warfare, radar, and communications that can counter advanced threats. Research shall be focused on enhancing capability to communicate, real-time dissemination of information, and providing advantage in highly contested environments.

Energy Sciences: Conduct research of alternative sources of energy including waste-to-energy, novel biological and chemical processes, fuel cells and batteries, and small-scale power technologies. Defense-specific energy science research shall also include directed energy systems such as high-power lasers and microwave technologies that will allow the DoD to counter current and emerging threats with rapid responses.

Homeland Security: Identify and develop innovative solutions to counter terrorism and homeland security threats. Specific initiatives may include increasing the nation’s preparedness against chemical and biological threats through improved threat awareness, advanced surveillance and detection, and responsive countermeasures.

Advanced Manufacturing & Fabrication: Conduct research and development of innovative new materials and novel manufacturing techniques that can dramatically improve defense capabilities. Manufacturing and fabrication technique enhancements will reduce acquisition and supportability costs of defense weapon systems as well as reduction in repair cycle times across system lifecycles.

B. Federal Award Information

The FOA is expected to result in the award of a cooperative agreement with a performance period of 10 (ten) years. The anticipated award amount of the cooperative agreement over the ten-year performance period is up to $150,000,000 (subject to availability of funding). See breakout in Table 1 below.

Table 1. MSI and HBCU STEM Consortium Program Award Lifecycle

The total not to exceed (NTE) budget for each year of the funding opportunity is summarized in Table 1. Applicants should formulate their own budgets based on their understanding of the requirements but should keep in mind the following: (1) The Government projects initially $500,000.00 for the applicant to establish, manage, and provide oversight for the Consortium of MSIs and HBCUs, with the remaining budget recouped from specific government project sponsors based on applicants proposed strategy.

For proposal purposes ONLY, government has set a ceiling of $150M over the 10 year period of performance. Applicants should provide a cost estimate for the establishment and management of a consortium, ramping up to 10 FTEs in the first year, based on the ramp up of the program, identify any additional FTEs that may be needed to manage the program over the 10 year period of performance. Applicants should segregate the start-up cost from the remaining cost estimate for management of the consortium.

Once awarded, the recipient consortium manager shall receive the startup funding of $500,000.00 described above, with any additional funding provided by each assigned research task. The applicant may either propose specific costs to support each added research task or propose a fixed percentage of administrative cost to be paid in addition to the agreed upon amount for each effort funded. If a fixed administrative cost is proposed, then the basis of such cost should be detailed in the cost proposal. Any fixed administrative cost will be negotiated on a yearly basis such that this cost most closely represents the actual administrative costs necessary to manage the consortium.

Below is a brief description of a cooperative agreement:

Cooperative Agreement. A legal instrument which, consistent with 31 U.S.C. 6305, is

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6 Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10

Total Cooperative Agreement (NTE): $8M $10M $15M $15M $15M $15M $15M $19M $19M $19M used to transfer a thing of value to the State, local government, or other recipient to carry out a public purpose of support or stimulation authorized by a law of the United States instead of acquiring (by purchase, lease, or barter) property or services for the direct benefit or use of the United States Government. Substantial involvement is expected between the Federal Government and the recipient when carrying out the activity contemplated by the cooperative agreement. The term Cooperative Agreement does not include "cooperative research and development agreements" as defined in 15 U.S.C.

3710a. Recipients and subrecipients of Cooperative Agreements are prohibited by law from charging or receiving a fee or profit from Cooperative Agreement funding.

Cooperative agreements for institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, foreign organizations, and foreign public entities are primarily governed by the following:

a. Federal statutes, including 31 U.S.C. 6305

b. Federal regulations including Title 32 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Chapter 1, Subchapter C, DoD Grants and Agreement Regulations; and Title 2 CFR Subtitle B, Chapter XI Department of Defense

c. DoD Research and Development General Terms and Conditions

The authority for the MSI and HBCU STEM Consortium Program is 10 USC 4144, Research and Education Programs and Activities: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and minority serving institutions of higher education.

The following websites may be accessed to obtain an electronic copy of the governing regulations and terms and conditions:

a. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR): http://www.ecfr.gov

b. DoD Research and Development General Terms and Conditions:

https://www.onr.navy.mil/work-with-us/manage-your-award/manage-grant-award/grants- terms-conditions

It is anticipated there will be substantial involvement by the Government (principally DEVCOM CBC as the Government’s proponent) during the performance of the Agreement. DEVCOM CBC will appoint a CAM to provide program oversight and to manage and provide oversight of the responsibilities and activities between the Government, Applicant and the Consortium Members (and sub awardees). DEVCOM CBC will participate in the resolution of technical management and scheduling concerns.

DEVCOM CBC, in concert with the applicant’s consortium management team, will monitor the capabilities of the MSIs and HBCUs to match those capabilities with research and development opportunities within DEVCOM CBC, DOD components and other federal agencies as appropriate. The DEVCOM CBC laboratory and test facilities will be utilized when feasible and professional employees will be engaged in cooperative efforts with MSIs to further their technology capabilities. The Government and the applicant’s Consortium Member(s) intend to conduct individual and collaborative http://www.ecfr.gov/ http://www.onr.navy.mil/work-with-us/manage-your-award/manage-grant-award/grants-http://www.onr.navy.mil/work-with-us/manage-your-award/manage-grant-award/grants-http://www.onr.navy.mil/work-with-us/manage-your-award/manage-grant-award/grants-http://www.onr.navy.mil/work-with-us/manage-your-award/manage-grant-award/grants-research and development leading to technology demonstrations to advance the state-of-the-art of STEM, which will enrich the experience of educators and education of students while achieving the objectives of urgent programs and projects relevant to DEVCOM CBC’s mission.

C. Eligibility Information

The Recipient must be an established (or must become established prior to award) as an Internal Revenue Code 501(c)3 compliant, tax-exempt non-profit organization, and must manage the Consortium of MSIs and HBCUs offering STEM education with research capabilities in basic, applied and advanced research. The successful applicant will not only establish and operate the Consortium, but must provide the vision and guidance to grow the capacity of the MSIs and HBCUs through collaboration, partnering and numerous other capacity building methods to allow these universities, colleges and students to become major contributors to Defense research.

To be qualified, potential applicants must have the following:

• Management capability and adequate financial and technical resources to administer the program of activities envisioned under this FOA

• A satisfactory record of managing and administering such MSI/HBCU STEM programs or activities (if a prior recipient of an award).

• A satisfactory record of integrity and business ethics.

• Be otherwise qualified and eligible to receive a cooperative agreement under applicable laws and regulation.

In deciding whether a Recipient is otherwise qualified, the Agreements Officer shall ensure that the potential Applicant is registered and in good standing in the System for Award Management (SAM).

D. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to View Funding Opportunity

Announcement This FOA may be accessed via the following websites:

a. Grants.gov (www.grants.gov)

b. SAM.gov website (http://www.sam.gov)

Amendments to this FOA, if any, will be posted to these websites when they occur.

Interested parties are encouraged to periodically check these websites for updates and amendments.

2. The following information is for those wishing to respond to the FOA: Content and http://www./

Form of Application Submission

(1) Applications shall be submitted via Grants.gov.

(2) Grants.gov registration shall be accomplished prior to application submission in Grants.gov.

Each organization that desires to submit applications via Grants.Gov shall complete a one-time registration. There are several one-time actions your organization shall complete in order to submit applications through Grants.gov (e.g., obtain a Unique Entity Identifier, register with SAM, register with the credential provider, register with Grants.gov and obtain approval for an Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) to submit applications on behalf of the organization). To register, please see http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization- registration.html

Please note the registration process for an Organization or an Individual can take between three to five business days or as long as four weeks if all steps are not completed in a timely manner.

Questions relating to the registration process, system requirements, how an application form works, or the submittal process should be directed to Grants.gov at 1-800-518- 4726 or support@grants.gov.

A Grants.gov User Guide can be found at:

https://www.grants.gov/help/html/help/index.htm#t=GetStarted%2FGetStarted.htm will assist AORs in the application process. If you encounter any problems, contact customer support at 1-800-518- 4726 or at support@grants.gov. If you forget your username or password, follow the instructions provided in the Credential Provider tutorial. Tutorials may be printed by right- clicking on the tutorial and selecting “Print”.

As it is possible for Grants.gov to reject the application during this process, it is strongly recommended that applications be uploaded at least two days before any established deadline in the FOA so they will not be received late and be ineligible for award consideration. It is also recommended to start uploading applications at least two days before the deadline to plan ahead for any potential technical and/or input problems involving the applicant’s own equipment.

NOTE: All web links referenced in this section are subject to change by Grants.gov and may not be updated here.

Applicants must complete the mandatory forms and any optional forms (e.g., SF-LLL Disclosure of Lobbying Activities) in accordance with the instructions on the forms and the additional instructions below. The required fields should be completed in accordance with the “pop-up” instructions on the forms. To activate the instructions, turn on the “Help Mode” (icon with the pointer and question mark at the top of the form). Files that are attached to the forms must be in Adobe Portable Document Form http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration.html http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration.html mailto:support@grants.gov http://www.grants.gov/help/html/help/index.htm#t%3DGetStarted%25 http://www.grants.gov/help/html/help/index.htm#t%3DGetStarted%25 http://www.grants.gov/help/html/help/index.htm#t%3DGetStarted%25 https://www.grants.gov/help/html/help/index.htm#t%3DGetStarted%2FGetStarted.htm mailto:support@grants.gov

(PDF) unless otherwise specified in this announcement.

The following formatting rules apply for the file attachments:

Paper size when printed – 8.5 x 11 inch paper Margins – 1 inch on all sides of paper Spacing – single Font – No smaller than Times New Roman, 10 point Form: SF 424 (R&R) (Mandatory) – Complete this form first to populate data in other forms. Authorized Organization Representative (AOR) usernames and passwords serve as “electronic signatures” when your organization submits applications through Grants.gov.

By using the SF 424 (R&R), applicants are providing the certification required by 32 CFR Part 28 regarding lobbying.

Form: Research & Related Other Project Information - Complete questions 1 through 6 and attach files.

• Project Summary/Abstract (Field 7 on the form) - The Project Summary should be a brief abstract that summarizes the content of the proposal. The project summary must not exceed 5 pages. Pages in excess of this page limit will not be evaluated.

• Project Narrative (Field 8 on the form) - Chapters and Numbers of pages – Field 8 is to contain the chapters set forth below and may not exceed the stipulated page counts for those chapters. Pages in excess of the noted page limits will not be evaluated.

• Chapter 1- Technical Plan. The pages included in Chapter 1 shall be numbered. Applicants are advised that Chapter 1 must not exceed 20 pages, utilizing one side of the page. (See details below)

• Chapter 2 - Management. The pages included in Chapter 2 shall be numbered. Applicants are advised that Chapter 2 of the proposal must not exceed 10 pages, utilizing one side of the page. (See details below)

• Chapter 3 - Past Performance Information - The pages included in Chapter 3 shall be numbered. Applicants are advised that Chapter 3 of the proposal must not exceed 10 pages, utilizing one side of the page. This does not include past performance questionnaires. (See details below)

• Chapter 4 - Credentials - Credentials are limited to 10 pages to include the resumes or biographical sketches of individuals. (See details below)

• Bibliography and References Cited (Field 9 on the form) - Attach a listing of applicable publications cited in above sections.

• Facilities and Other Resources (Field 10 on the form) - The applicant is to include a listing of facilities and other resources available to support the proposal. Any Government resources necessary for performance are to be clearly identified.

Attach this information at Field 10.

• Equipment (Field 11 on the form) - The applicant is to include a listing of equipment available to support the proposal. Any Government equipment necessary for performance is to be clearly identified. Attach this information at Field 11.

• Other Attachments (Field 12 on the form) are as follows:

ATTACHMENT 1. Attach the Cost Proposal. The cost portion of the proposal shall contain cost estimates sufficiently detailed for meaningful evaluation. For all proposals, the elements of the budget should include:

• Explanation on how the initial government provided funds will be used to start up operations and management for the Consortium.

• Cost estimate for the establishment and management of a consortium, ramping up to 10 FTEs in the first year, based on the ramp up of the program, identifying any additional FTEs that may be needed to manage the program over the 10 year period of performance. Applicants should segregate the startup cost from the remaining cost estimate for management of the consortium.

• Description and explanation of how the recipient will provide actual cost for each research project, or provide explanation of proposed fixed fee. If fixed fee is proposed, include explanation of how the percentage was determined and how it will be adjusted during the performance of the agreement.

• Statement disclosing if the recipient’s accounting system been reviewed and found acceptable for expenditure based efforts.

• Brief description of how the recipient organization's financial statements align with established Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) guidelines and standards.

ATTACHMENT 2. SF-LLL - Disclosure of Lobbying Activities If applicable, attach a complete SF- LLL. Applicability: If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the grant/collaborative agreement, you must complete and submit Standard Form - LLL, "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying.”

ATTACHMENT 3. Complete the following (see below) Representations under DoD Assistance Agreements: Appropriations Provisions on Tax Delinquency and Felony

Convictions

3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM)

Each applicant (unless the applicant is an individual or Federal awarding agency that is exempt from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110(b) or (c), or has an exemption approved by the Federal awarding agency under 2 CFR 25.110(d)) is required to:

a. Be registered in SAM prior to submitting its application;

b. Provide a valid unique entity identifier (formerly DUNS) in its application; and

c. Maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active Federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a Federal awarding agency.

The Federal awarding agency may not make a Federal award to an applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable unique entity identifier and SAM requirements. If an applicant has not fully complied with the requirements by the time the Federal awarding agency is ready to make a Federal award, the Federal awarding agency may determine that the applicant is not qualified to receive a Federal award and use that determination as a basis for making a Federal award to another applicant.

4. Submission Dates and Times

a. Proposals: Electronic submission of proposals through Grants.gov are due by 3:00 p.m. time 02 SEP 2024. Proposals submitted after the closing date will not be considered or evaluated by the Government.

Proposal Receipt Notices: After a proposal is submitted to Grants.gov, the AOR will receive a series of three emails from Grants.gov. The first two emails will be received within 24 to 48 hours after submission. The first email will confirm time of receipt of the proposal by the Grants.gov system and the second will indicate that the proposal has either been successfully validated by the system prior to transmission to the grantor agency or has been rejected due to errors. A third email will be received once the grantor agency has confirmed receipt of the proposal. Reference the Grants.gov User Guide at Grants.gov Online Help for information on how to track your application package.

For the purposes of this FOA, an applicant’s proposal is not considered received by the US ARMY Contracting Command until the Agreement Officer’s Representative (AOR) received email #3.

5. Intergovernmental Review

Not Applicable

6. Funding Restrictions

Per 2 CFR § 200.216, funds may not be used to procure telecommunications equipment or video surveillance services or equipment produced by

• Huawei Technologies Company,

• ZTE Corporation Hytera Communications Corporation,

• Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company,

• Dahua Technology Company

• any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities

• See 2 CFR 200.216 for the full prohibition.

Funds from an award may not be used by a Recipient or Subrecipient to attain fee or profit.

7. Other Submission Requirements

Information to Be Requested from Successful Applicants: Applicants whose proposals are accepted for funding will be contacted before award to provide additional information required for award. The required information may include requests to clarifying budget explanations, representations, certifications, and some technical aspects.

E. Proposal Review Information

1. Criteria

It is the intent of the FOA to solicit the most creative, innovative, and effective approach to the establishment and management of a Consortium of Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) that will engage in STEM technologies for the US Army Combat Capabilities Command (DEVCOM) Chemical Biological Center.

The award decision will be based on an overall evaluation of each applicant’s proposal in accordance with the factors set forth below. The factors are (1) Technical Plan to establish and manage the Consortium for the MSI and HBCU STEM Consortium, (2) Management (3) Past Performance, (4) Credentials, and Cost (Not Weighted).

Factor (1) Technical Plan – Evaluation will focus on applicant’s approach, experience and qualifications to assess the likelihood that that offeror can successfully perform the requirements described in the FOA. The technical Plan shall describe in detail how they will achieve objectives identified in Sections 2.1-2.12 and provide plans of action and milestones for completing the effort and shall address the following elements:

• Consortium Operations. The applicant shall describe the operational structure of the Consortium as an entity (includes members) and method(s) to be used to assure Members are involved in identifying research solutions and meeting the objectives of 10 USC 4144.

• The applicant shall provide a preliminary Milestone Plan for establishment of a non-profit, if necessary, and Consortium operations. The Milestone plan shall include website development/launch, onboarding MSIs and HBCUs to the Consortium. The Final Milestone Plan will be required within 30 days after award of the agreement.

• Applicant’s shall describe their approach to attracting MSIs and HBCUs to conduct research in a Consortium environment. Discuss any plans for mentoring the minority universities and access to venture capital or other sources of funding to enhance the potential of the Consortium. The proposal shall also provide a plan for enhancing research participation of the minority institutions and increasing the number of minority students engaged with DOD laboratories, Centers and Defense contractors.

Factor (2) Management – Evaluation will focus on the applicant’s methodology and mechanisms of the proposed comprehensive management plan to ensure that it provides for adequate oversight and management of the MSI and HBCU STEM Consortium in the furtherance of the Government’s FOAs. This element will focus upon the plan for managing the administration of recipient activities over the lifetime of the award. The applicant should demonstrate a viable management approach by providing a feasible, comprehensive management plan considering each of the following items as a minimum: a detailed description of its overall management concept to include, but not limited to, management of data, personnel, and application cycle; a detailed description of its methodology and mechanisms for development of a comprehensive program plan, to include, but not limited to, marketing and outreach, assistance with…