83_FR_41206 83 FR 41046 - Rural Development Cooperative Agreement Program

83 FR 41046 - Rural Development Cooperative Agreement Program

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Rural Housing Service
Rural Utilities Service

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 160 (August 17, 2018)

Page Range41046-41056
FR Document2018-17765

The Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development (Agency) is seeking applications to support regional economic development planning efforts in rural communities under the Rural Economic Development Innovation (REDI) initiative. This funding opportunity will be administered by the Rural Development Innovation Center, in partnership with the Rural Business-Cooperative Service. The Agency is announcing up to $750,000 in competitive cooperative agreement funds in fiscal year (FY) 2018. Rural Development Agency may select one, multiple, or no award recipients. The Agency reserves the right to withhold the awarding of any funds if no application receives a score of at least 60 points. This Notice lists the information needed to submit an application for these funds. This Notice announces that the Agency is accepting FY 2018 applications to support REDI.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 160 (Friday, August 17, 2018) 
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 160 (Friday, August 17, 2018)]
[Notices]
[Pages 41046-41056]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-17765]


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Rural Business-Cooperative Service

Rural Housing Service

Rural Utilities Service


Rural Development Cooperative Agreement Program

AGENCY: Rural Development USDA.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: The Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development (Agency) 
is seeking applications to support regional economic development 
planning efforts in rural communities under the Rural Economic 
Development Innovation (REDI) initiative. This funding opportunity will 
be administered by the Rural Development Innovation Center, in 
partnership with the Rural Business-Cooperative Service. The Agency is 
announcing up to $750,000 in competitive cooperative agreement funds in 
fiscal year (FY) 2018. Rural Development Agency may select one, 
multiple, or no award recipients. The Agency reserves the right to 
withhold the awarding of any funds if no application receives a score 
of at least 60 points.
    This Notice lists the information needed to submit an application 
for these funds. This Notice announces that the Agency is accepting FY 
2018 applications to support REDI.

DATES: The deadline for receipt of a complete application is midnight 
Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday, September 5, via www.grants.gov. 
The Agency will not consider any application received after the 
deadline. After an applicant submits an application via grants.gov, all 
applicants must email [email protected] to confirm 
application and receipt of the application package. Applicants who have 
been selected for funding will receive a letter of official 
notification and will be awarded a cooperative agreement authorized 
under 7 U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4). Pending funding availability, all awards 
will be made no later than September 30, 2018.

[[Page 41047]]

Applicants should plan their projects based on a start date of 
September 30, 2018 and must be completed within 24 months.

ADDRESSES: The deadline for receipt of an application is midnight 
Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday, September 5, 2018. Applications may 
be submitted electronically through the Grants.gov system or through 
email to [email protected]. Note that there are registration 
requirements for submitting applications using the Grants.gov system. 
We recommend that you review the instructions for registering as soon 
as possible, but at least two weeks before you plan to submit your 
application. The requirements can be viewed at: http://grants.gov/applicants/organization_registration.jsp. Your application will be 
rejected by Grants.gov if you miss the deadline and the Agency will not 
consider any application received after the deadline.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:  Question about this announcement can 
be directed to Christine Sorensen, Regional Coordinator, via 202-568-
9832 or [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Preface

    The Agency encourages applications that will support 
recommendations made in the Rural Prosperity Task Force report to help 
improve life in rural America (www.usda.gov/ruralprosperity). 
Applicants are encouraged to consider projects that provide measurable 
results in helping rural communities build robust and sustainable 
economies through strategic investments in infrastructure, 
partnerships, and innovation. Key strategies include:
     Achieving e-Connectivity for Rural America.
     Developing the Rural Economy.
     Harnessing Technological Innovation.
     Supporting a Rural Workforce.
     Improving Quality of Life.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    It is anticipated that the anticipated number of respondents 
affected by this information collection is less than 10 entities and 
therefore, this Notice contains no reporting or recordkeeping 
provisions requiring Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval 
under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35).

Overview

    Federal Agency Name: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural 
Development.
    Funding Opportunity Title: Rural Development Cooperative Agreement 
Program.
    Announcement Type: Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA).
    Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.890.
    Application Due Date: All required application documents must be 
submitted by midnight Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday, September 5 
electronically via www.grants.gov. Applicants submitting proposals must 
also confirm receipt and email [email protected] to confirm 
application and receipt of the application package. Applicants who have 
been selected for funding will receive a letter of official 
notification. Pending funding availability, all awards will be made no 
later than September 30, 2018. Applicants should plan their projects 
based on a start date of September 30, 2018 and must be completed 
within 24 months.
    For More Information: Questions about this announcement can be 
directed to Christine Sorensen, Regional Coordinator, via 202-568-9832 
or [email protected].

A. Program Description

    USDA Rural Development (RD) is authorized to administer cooperative 
agreement awards in accordance with 7 U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4). Rural 
Economic Development Innovation (REDI) aims to strengthen the capacity 
of rural communities (50,000 people or less in the United States plus 
Tribes and territories) in implementing strategic community and 
economic development plans as referenced in Section 379H of the 
Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 2008v). The goal 
of this funding announcement is to solicit applications to provide 
cooperative agreement funding to eligible applicants to enable them to 
provide technical assistance and training and actionable planning of 
implementation of strategic community and economic development plans. 
Supporting regional economic development plans help rural communities 
overcome multi-jurisdictional challenges and better leverage Federal, 
state, local or private funding.
    For purposes of this proposal, a quality regional economic plan 
will include but not be limited to the following:
     Evidence-based understanding of community assets, 
challenges and opportunities.
     Goals are focused, logical, targeted and timely with tasks 
identified and with a responsible party assigned.
     The plan was created through broad community 
participation, public input and buy-in.
     The format must be persuasive in a non-technical manner.
     The plan makes clear how each of its strategies is 
intended to help produce, either directly or indirectly, improvements 
in the local and regional economy.
     Regional economic development plans developed through REDI 
assistance should identify possible projects to be funded through RD 
programs and/or other Federal, state, local or private sector 
resources.
    This funding opportunity expands rural communities' ability to 
access planning resources to convene, identify needs, create actionable 
economic development plans, and implement project priorities to improve 
quality of life in rural communities. Quality of life is a measure of 
human well-being that can be identified though economic and social 
indicators. Modern utilities, affordable housing, efficient 
transportation and reliable employment are economic indicators that 
must be integrated with social indicators like access to medical 
services, public safety, education and community resilience to empower 
rural communities to thrive. Economic development plans developed 
through this funding opportunity should focus on one or more of these 
economic and/or social indicators.
    Applicants are encouraged to consider regional planning projects 
that provide measurable results in helping rural communities built 
robust and sustainable economies through strategic investments in 
infrastructure, partnerships, and innovation. Such projects should also 
support rural communities' ability to qualify for priority funding 
under Section 379H of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act 
[7 U.S.C. 2008v].
    This approach to comprehensive rural community development is 
unique in its attempt to improve rural communities in a way that is (1) 
rooted in emphasizing partnerships and collaboration among multiple 
public agencies and community partners and (2) focused on combining 
state resources to make wide-ranging quality-of-life impacts as opposed 
to separate, piecemeal, incremental improvements.

[[Page 41048]]

B. Federal Award Information

    1. Estimated Funding: Interested applicants shall only propose 
applications with scope of work/budget that does not exceed $750,000 in 
Federal funding.
    2. Start Date and Performance Period: Projects may be up to 2 years 
in duration. Applicants should plan their projects based on a project 
start date of September 30, 2018 and a project end date of no later 
than September 30, 2020.
    3. Type of Federal Award: Cooperative Agreement. Rural Development 
will be substantially involved in the work performed under each 
approved cooperative agreement. Substantial involvement may include but 
is not limited to collaboration, participation, oversight, and control 
of the following:
    i. Authority to suspend work if specification or work statements 
are not met;
    ii. Review and approval of one stage of work before another may 
begin;
    iii. Review and approval of substantive provisions of proposed sub-
grants or contracts;
    iv. Prior review and approval of key personnel; and
    v. Agency collaboration and coordination with respect to 
deliverables and execution of the work plan. At a minimum, applicants 
should anticipate Agency participation in the selection of communities 
to receive regional planning assistance; the convening of community 
members, partners, and stakeholders; the delivery of training on RD 
programs and/or economic development principles; and the review/
approval of regional economic development plans for purposes of 
priority funding under Section 379H of the Consolidated Farm and Rural 
Development Act (7 U.S.C. 2008v).
    4. Number of Awards: The Agency anticipates that it may select one, 
multiple, or no award recipients from this notice of funding 
availability. The Agency reserves the right to withhold the awarding of 
any funds if no application receives a minimum score of at least 60 
points.
    5. Eligibility of renewal or Supplemental Project Applications: 
Applications for renewal or supplementation of any existing Federal 
awards are not eligible for this new Federal award. An application for 
renewal means a proposal submitted to continue an existing agreement by 
adding components to an existing agreement in order to meet the 
objectives of this solicitation.

C. Eligibility Information

    Applicants must meet all of the following eligibility requirements 
by the application deadline. Applications which fail to meet any of 
these requirements by the application deadline will be deemed 
ineligible and will not be evaluated further and will not receive a 
Federal award.
    1. Applicant Eligibility: Federally-recognized Tribes, institutions 
of higher education, nonprofit organizations, or private organizations 
with a demonstrated national structure and/or capacity to deliver and 
support multiple rural planning activities across the nation are 
eligible applicants. Entities are not eligible if they have been 
debarred or suspended or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for 
participation in Federal assistance programs under Executive Order 
12549, ``Debarment and Suspension.'' In addition, an applicant will be 
considered ineligible for a cooperative agreement due to an outstanding 
judgment obtained by the U.S. in a Federal Court (other than U.S. Tax 
Court), is delinquent on the payment of Federal income taxes, or is 
delinquent on Federal debt.
    2. Eligible Project Purposes: The Project purpose must be to 
strengthen the capacity of rural communities (50,000 people or less in 
the United States plus Tribes and territories) in developing and 
implementing regional plans for economic development as referenced in 
Section 379H of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act. 
Eligible project purposes must include the two facets of technical 
assistance:
    i. Planning Technical Assistance: The proposed project should 
provide planning technical assistance to rural communities by assisting 
in the development of regional economic development plans. Proposals 
should include descriptions on how technical assistance will result in 
actionable steps to support implementation of these plans. The proposed 
project should also provide technical assistance to expand rural 
communities' ability to access funding and planning resources to 
convene community members.
    ii. Implementation Technical Assistance: The proposed project 
should provide technical assistance toward implementation of the 
project priorities emerging from the regional economic development 
plans. The technical assistance should include strategies for enhancing 
communities' efforts at leveraging Federal, state, local, and/or 
private funding to build resilient communities and improve quality of 
life. The applicant will demonstrate how their proposal will utilize 
partnerships outside of RD. The applicant will identify such 
partnerships and will demonstrate how they will provide access to such 
partnerships to support implementation of projects identified through 
development of regional economic development plans. The proposed 
project should also describe how it will support implementation of 
multi-jurisdictional and/or multi-sector regional economic development 
plans, as described in Section 379H of the Consolidated Farm and Rural 
Development Act.
    3. Cost Sharing or Matching Requirements: There is a dollar or in-
kind matching requirement that is at least equal to the amount of the 
cooperative agreement award. If this matching fund requirement is not 
met, the application will be deemed ineligible. Matching requirements 
are cash, confirmed funding commitments and/or third party in-kind 
contributions as defined in 2 CFR 200.96. that are at least equal to 
the cooperative agreement amount and committed for a period of not less 
than the cooperative agreement performance period. Applicants must 
recruit one or more private and/or public partner(s) to match one-for-
one (in cash and/or in-kind contributions) the applicant's proposed 
funding request. Cost sharing/matching must be committed at the time of 
application submission. Applications must include written verification 
of commitments of cost sharing or matching support (including both cash 
and in-kind contributions) from third parties. Cost sharing or matching 
funds must meet the criteria stated at 2 CFR 200.306 and be valued in 
accordance with 2 CFR 200.306(d).
    Additional details about cost sharing or matching funds/
contributions is located at 2 CFR 200.306. Applicant matching funds 
must be included in the budget narrative. For matching funds offered by 
project partners, a separate commitment letter is required for each 
cash and/or in-kind match contribution. Commitment letters must be 
signed by the authorized organizational representative of the 
contributing organization and the applicant organization, which must 
include: (i) The name, address, and telephone number of the 
contributor; (ii) the name of the applicant organization; (iii) the 
title of the project for which the contribution is made, (iv) the 
dollar amount of the contribution; and (v) a statement that the 
contributor commits to furnish the contribution during the cooperative 
agreement period.

[[Page 41049]]

    Applications without signed written commitments are deemed 
incomplete and will be ineligible. The value of applicant contributions 
to the project is established according to Federal cost principles. 
Applicants should refer to 2 CFR 200.306 for additional guidance on 
matching funds, in-kind contributions, and allowable costs.
    4. Substantial Involvement: Proposed project must include a 
component that allows for active participation by the Agency in the 
majority of tasks. Examples of substantial involvement include but are 
not limited to the following: Joint-selection of communities to receive 
regional planning assistance; joint-convening of community members, 
partners, and stakeholders; joint-delivery of training on RD programs 
and/or economic development principles; and joint-review/approval of 
regional economic development plans for purposes of priority funding 
under Section 6025 Strategic Economic and Community Development. It is 
the intent of this project to engage Agency and state RD staff in the 
development of regional economic development plans and it is the 
responsibility of the applicant to identify tasks where RD staff can 
provide substantial involvement in the project. If you do not identify 
those tasks, your application is not eligible for funding.
    5. Use of Funds: Use of project funds (including Federal and 
matching) must be consistent with the project purpose to strengthen the 
capacity of rural communities in developing and implementing regional 
plans for economic development. A non-exclusive list of eligible fund 
uses include: Costs incurred for the services of personnel actually 
engaged in the project, including share of employee benefits, travel 
and per diem expenses, costs of expendable supplies, and travel and per 
diem expenses associated with travel to USDA Headquarters in 
Washington, DC to coordinate and collaborate on project tasks. Use of 
funds must be allowable in adherence with 2 CFR part 200.
    If you include funds in your budget that are unallowable, RD will 
consider the application for funding only if the unallowable costs 
total 10 percent or less of the total project budget, including Federal 
and matching funds. However, if the application is successful, those 
unallowable costs must be removed from the budget before RD will make 
an award. If RD cannot determine the percentage of unallowable costs or 
the amount of those costs exceeds 10 percent of the total project 
budget, the application will not be considered for funding.
    6. Rural Area: The project must directly benefit a rural area. All 
ultimate beneficiaries and/or subrecipients must be located in rural 
areas, and any activities or tasks must occur in rural areas. The term 
`rural area' means the Rural Business Service's Rural Area definition 
as out lined in Section 343(a)(13)(A)(i) of the Consolidated Farm and 
Rural Development Act which states: Any area other than: (1) A city or 
town that has a population of greater than 50,000 inhabitants; and (2) 
any urbanized area contiguous and adjacent to such a city or town.
    7. Number of Applications: You cannot submit more than one 
application for this Notice.

D. Application and Submission Information

    1. Address to Request Application Page. All necessary forms can be 
found within the Grants.gov ``Application Package.''
    2. Content and Form of Application Submission. There is no pre-
application process for this announcement. All checklist, application, 
and standard forms necessary for submission are included in the 
Grants.gov application package. Applications that are incomplete or 
fail to comply with the required content and formatting requirements 
will not be considered for funding.
    i. Content and Format: Each page must be on numbered, letter-sized 
(8\1/2\ x 11) paper utilizing a white background that has 1'' margins; 
and the text of the application must be typed, single spaced, black, 
and in a font no smaller than 12 point.
    ii. Executive Summary (1-page maximum): On a single page, provide 
the applicant entity name, duration of project in months, amount of 
Federal funding requested, amount of non-Federal cost-share/match 
funding committed, and project title. Identify geographic locations, 
and describe in non-technical language the issue or problem rural 
communities have in accessing economic development planning resources, 
the objectives to address this issue, the innovative approach to be 
employed (including the role of participating partners), how impact 
will be quantified, and the predicted benefits or deliverables of the 
project.
    iii. Standard Application Form: Standard Form 424, ``Application 
for Federal Assistance'' is included as part of the application package 
posted on Grants.gov. Instructions for completing the form are also 
included.
    iv. Applicant Qualifications (1-2 pages): Summary of the 
qualifications of the applicant organization is required. Interested 
applicant must have the organizational capacity, experience, and 
knowledge of rural planning needs and must meet the following minimum 
requirements:
    a. Demonstrate national structure and/or capacity to support 
multiple rural planning activities across the nation;
    b. Demonstrate knowledge and prior experience in regional planning, 
particularly related to rural issues;
    c. Demonstrate capacity to assist rural communities to develop 
regional plans such as access to data for needs assessment and planners 
and other technical capacity on staff; and
    d. Demonstrate knowledge and prior experience of leveraging other 
community-driven plans or projects such as Comprehensive Economic 
Development Strategies (CEDS) or other Federally-recognized regional 
economic development plans.
    v. Key Personnel Qualifications (1-2 pages): Summary of the 
qualifications of each key person, including the project director, is 
required. Resumes or CVs will not be accepted. The summary should 
include relevant education, years of relevant experience, a description 
of skills relevant to the person's work on the proposed project, and 
the person's key accomplishments. If you expect to contract out a 
portion of the proposed work, but have not hired the contractor, you 
must include a summary of the qualifications you will require from the 
contractor.
    vi. Project Proposal (15-page maximum): The project proposal must 
include a proposed Work Plan, along with the following information in 
order:
    a. Project Background.
    b. Project Objectives.
    c. Project Approach/Methods.
    d. Theory of Change.
    e. Geographic Locations or Project Areas.
    f. Project Management (Applicants are required to include a Work 
Plan Chart that lists each major Task by Key Personnel involved, Time 
Period of the task, Substantial Involvement of Rural Development staff, 
Deliverables, and Budget associated with each task).
    g. Performance Metrics.
    h. Graphics, References, Citations (Do not count against the 15-
page maximum).
    A Work Plan Chart template is available for applicants as part of 
this funding opportunity on grants.gov.
    vii. Budget Information (10-page maximum): The budget portion of 
the application consists of two parts as described below:

[[Page 41050]]

    a. Standard Form (SF) 424A, ``Budget Information'': Non-
Construction Programs. The SF-424A is included as part of the 
application package posted on Grants.gov.
    b. Detailed Budget Narrative: Provide a detailed narrative in 
support of the budget for the project, broken down by task. Discuss how 
the budget specifically supports the proposed activities. Justify the 
project cost effectiveness and include justification for personnel and 
consultant salaries with a description of duties. Statement(s) of work 
for any subcontractors and consultants must be included as part of the 
application. The budget narrative should include both the Federal funds 
requested and the applicant's matching funds. The format of the budget 
narrative can be in a chart, spreadsheet, table, etc. It should be 
readable on letter-size, printable pages. The information needs to be 
presented in such a way that the reviewers can readily understand what 
expenses are incurred to support the project.
    viii. Certifications: All proposals must include the following 
signed certification forms, which are available at Grants.gov:
    a. AD-3030, ``Representations Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax 
Delinquent Status for Corporate Applicants.'' The AD-3030 must be 
submitted if entity is a corporate non-profit or for-profit corporation 
as indicated in the applicants SAM registration.
    b. AD-3030, ``Representations Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax 
Delinquent Status for Corporate Applicants.'' The AD-3030 must be 
submitted if entity is a corporate non-profit or for-profit corporation 
as indicated in the applicants SAM registration.
    c. SF-424B, ``Assurances for Non-Construction Programs.'' The SF-
242B must be completed by all applicants.
    d. SF-424B, ``Assurances for Non-Construction Programs.'' The SF-
242B must be completed by all applicants.
    ix. Verification of Matching Funds. You must provide verification 
of all matching funds that will be contributed to the project. You must 
include a letter signed by the donating organization's authorized 
representative on the organization's letterhead that identifies the 
amount of matching funds, the time period during which matching funds 
will be available, and the source of the funds (e.g., cash on hand, 
etc.). See Section Eligibility Information (C 3) for more information.
    x. Risk Review: The Agency may request additional documentation 
from selected applicants in order to evaluate the financial, 
management, and performance risk posed by awardees as required by 2 CFR 
200.205. Based on this risk review, the Agency may apply special 
conditions that correspond to the degree of risk assessed.
    xi. National Environmental Policy Act: This Notice has been 
reviewed in accordance with 7 CFR part 1970, ``Environmental Policies 
and Procedures.'' We have determined that an Environmental Impact 
Statement is not required because the issuance of regulations and 
instructions, as well as amendments to them, describing administrative 
and financial procedures for processing, approving, and implementing 
the Agency's financial programs is categorically excluded in the 
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulation found at 7 CFR 
1970.53(f). We have determined that this Notice does not constitute a 
major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human 
environment.
    xii. Civil Rights Compliance Requirements: All awards made under 
this Notice are subject to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as 
required by 7 CFR part 15, subpart A and Section 504 of the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
    3. Unique entity identifier and System for Award Management (SAM). 
DUNS and SAM Numbers: Each applicant (unless the applicant is an 
individual excepted from those requirements under 2 CFR 25.110(b) or 
(c), or has an exception approved by the Federal awarding agency under 
2 CFR 25.110(d)) is required to: (i) Be registered in SAM before 
submitting its application; (ii) provide a valid unique entity 
identifier (Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number) in its 
application; and (iii) continue to 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 Agency may not make a Federal award to an 
applicant until the applicant has complied with all applicable unique 
entity identifier and SAM requirements and, if an applicant has not 
fully complied with the requirements by the time Agency is ready to 
make a Federal award, 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. Applicants must 
obtain a DUNS and register in SAM prior to registering with Grants.gov. 
Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early for their DUNS number 
and SAM registration.
    i. Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number: A DUNS number is 
a unique, nine-digit sequence recognized as the universal standard for 
identifying and keeping track of over 70 million businesses worldwide. 
Applicants must obtain a DUNS number. Information on how to obtain a 
DUNS number can be found at http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform or by calling 
1-866-705-5711. Please note that the registration may take up to 14 
business days to complete.
    ii. System for Award Management (SAM) Registration: SAM is the 
official Federal system that consolidated the capabilities of Central 
Contractor Registry, Federal Agency Registration, Online 
Representations and Certifications Application, and Excluded Parties 
List System. To register, go to: https://www.sam.gov/portal/public/SAM/. Please allow a minimum of 5 days to complete the SAM 
registration.
    4. Submission Dates and Times. Midnight Eastern Standard Time on 
September 5, 2018. You must submit your application using Grants.gov by 
the deadline date and time. Note that there are registration 
requirements for submitting applications using the Grants.gov system. 
We recommend that you review the instructions for registering as soon 
as possible, but at least two weeks before you plan to submit your 
application. The requirements can be viewed at: http://grants.gov/applicants/organization_registration.jsp. Your application will be 
rejected by Grants.gov if you miss the deadline. We will not accept it 
in a different format, and we will not consider it for funding.
    i. Acknowledgement of receipt: Grants.gov provides receipt of 
application submissions. The Agency acknowledges receipt of proposals 
received by the submission deadline via email. An applicant who does 
not receive such an email acknowledgement within 5 business days of the 
submission deadline, but believes the proposal was submitted within the 
submission deadline, must contact the Agency at 202-568-9832 or 
[email protected] within 10 business days of the 
submission deadline. Failure to do so may result in the proposal not 
being considered.
    ii. Withdrawal: Proposals may be withdrawn by written notice at any 
time before award execution. Written notice of withdrawal must be 
signed by the applicant or an authorized representative.
    All required application documents must be submitted by midnight 
Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday,

[[Page 41051]]

September 5 via www.grants.gov AND by emailing 
[email protected].
    Submitting an application through www.grants.gov requires 
completing a variety of tasks and steps. There are also several 
preliminary registration steps before the applicant can submit the 
application. To register in the Grants.gov system, go to 
www.grants.gov, click on ``Applicants'', then click on ``Get 
Registered.'' If you have completed a prior Grants.gov application, you 
may already have completed the registration process.
    Please allow sufficient time to register in Grants.gov, and for 
possible system delays. Below are instructions for accessing the forms 
necessary to complete an application in Grants.gov:
    i. Go to www.grants.gov. Information about submitting an 
application using Grants.gov is located on the Grants.gov website, 
along with supplementary materials.
    ii. Select the ``Applicant'' tab.
    iii. Select the ``Apply for Grants'' heading.
    iv. Click on ``Get Application Package.'' Follow all steps.
    v. Provide the ``Funding Opportunity Number'' or return to the 
``Search Grants'' section.
    vi. All necessary forms are included within the Grants.gov 
``Application Package.''
    Applications not received through Grants.gov by the submission due 
date and time are not accepted for consideration. The emailed 
application must be assembled into one pdf file document in the order 
specified in section IV, part A. All applications must contain all of 
the elements of a complete package and meet the requirements described 
in this announcement. Grants.gov provides instructions for submitting 
the required application items through the portal. Application receipt 
date and time will be determined by the respective system-generated 
documentation of receipt date and time (Grants.gov provides date and 
time stamps for all proposals submitted through the portal).
    The Agency is not responsible for any technical malfunctions or 
website problems related to Grants.gov or emailed submissions. If you 
encounter issues with Grants.gov, please contact the Grants.gov help 
desk at (800) 518-4726 or grants.gov">[email protected]grants.gov. The applicant assumes the 
risk of any delays in application submission through Grants.gov.
    5. Intergovernmental Review. Intergovernmental Review: Executive 
Order (E.O.) 12372, Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs, 
applies to this program. This E.O. requires that Federal agencies 
provide opportunities for consultation on proposed assistance with 
State and local governments. Many States have established a Single 
Point of Contact (SPOC) to facilitate this consultation. A list of 
States that maintain an SPOC may be obtained at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants_spoc. If your State has an SPOC, you must 
submit your application directly for review. Any comments obtained 
through the SPOC must be provided to us for consideration as part of 
your application. If your State has not established an SPOC, we will 
submit your application to the appropriate agency or agencies at our 
discretion. Applications from Federally-recognized Indian Tribes are 
not subject to Intergovernmental Review.
    6. Funding Restrictions.
    i. Pre-award Costs. Pre-award costs are not authorized.
    ii. Use of Funds. Award funds may be used to pay up to 50 percent 
of the project costs.
    iii. Period of Performance. The maximum Period of Performance is 2 
years. Applicants should anticipate a Period of Performance beginning 
September 30, 2018 and ending no later September 30, 2020.
    iv. Indirect Cost Rate. The indirect cost rate is limited to 10 
percent of direct charges for all nonprofit institutions, including 
institutions of higher education. All other organizations must use the 
rate identified in their Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Approval 
(NICRA). If you do not have a NICRA, you may elect to charge only 
direct costs to the award. If you have never had a NICRA, you may also 
choose to use a de minimis rate of 10 percent of modified total direct 
costs in accordance with 2 CFR 200.414(f). Your indirect cost rate must 
be included on Form SF-424A.
    v. Program Income. If you expect to earn Program Income during the 
Period of Performance, you must identify the amount and how you expect 
to use it (e.g. Matching Funds) in your application. If your 
application is funded, unexpected Program Income or Program Income 
earned in excess of the amount you identify in your application will be 
deducted from the Federal share of the project in accordance with 2 CFR 
200.307(e)(1).
    vi. Prohibited Costs. In addition to costs identified as 
unallowable by 2 CFR part 200, the following costs are prohibited for 
this program. Neither award funds nor matching funds can be used to pay 
for the following types of expenses.
    a. Duplicating services currently provided;
    b. Funding a revolving loan fund;
    c. Construction (in any form);
    d. Salaries for positions involved in construction, renovations, 
rehabilitation, and any oversight of these types of activities;
    e. Intermediary preparation of strategic plans for recipients;
    f. Funding prostitution, gambling, or any illegal activities;
    g. Grants to individuals;
    h. Funding a grant where there may be a conflict of interest, or an 
appearance of a conflict of interest, involving any action by the 
Agency;
    i. Providing assistance to only one individual, organization, or 
business;
    j. Paying obligations incurred before the beginning date without 
prior Agency approval or after the ending date of the cooperative 
agreement;
    k. Purchasing real estate;
    l. Improvement or renovation of the recipient's office space or for 
the repair or maintenance of privately owned vehicles;
    m. Any purpose prohibited in 2 CFR part 200 or 400;
    n. Using cooperative agreement assistance or matching funds for 
Individual Development Accounts;
    o. Purchasing vehicles.

V. Application Review Information

    Applications will first be reviewed to determine if they meet the 
eligibility requirements and comply with the funding restrictions in 
this Notice. If we determine that your application is ineligible, we 
will discontinue processing it, which means that we will not evaluate 
it further or provide any scoring information. We will notify you in 
writing regarding the reason(s) for ineligibility, and we will provide 
a description of your options if you believe that our determination is 
incorrect. Note that in the event that our determination is reversed, 
either due to the discovery of an Agency error or through a formal 
appeal, funding is restricted to available fiscal year 2018 funds.
    If your application is determined to be eligible, we will further 
evaluate it based on the following criteria. All applications will be 
competitively ranked and the minimum score requirements for a 
cooperative agreement award under this Notice is 60 points.
    1. Evaluation Criteria: We will only use the information that you 
provide in your application to evaluate your proposed project. We will 
not review references to websites or publications, so we encourage you 
to fully address each criterion.

[[Page 41052]]

    i. Soundness of Approach (0-20 points). The applicant can receive 
up to 20 points for soundness of approach. The maximum 20 points for 
this criterion will be based on the following:
    a. The objectives must be clearly stated in the proposal and the 
applicant must define how this proposal will be implemented. The 
applicant must demonstrate how the proposal will strengthen the 
capacity of rural communities in developing and implementing regional 
plans for economic development. The applicant must demonstrate how the 
proposed technical assistance includes both the planning and 
implementation components referenced in Section C. The applicant must 
also demonstrate how the proposed technical assistance will expand 
rural communities' ability to access funding and planning resources to 
convene community members. The applicant must also demonstrate how the 
proposal will support implementation of regional economic development 
plans and should include descriptions on how proposed technical 
assistance will result in actionable steps to support implementation of 
these plans. (10 points)
    b. The applicant clearly outlines their ability to provide the 
proposed technical assistance based on clearly stated and well-
documented prior accomplishments. (5 points)
    c. The proposal clearly outlines how it will implement activities 
to support alignment with one or more of the five key strategies 
(achieving e-connectivity, developing the rural economy, harnessing 
technological innovation, supporting a rural workforce, and improving 
quality of life in Rural America) the Agriculture and Rural Prosperity 
Task Force Report. (5 points)
    ii. Partnerships (0-25 points). The applicant can receive up to 25 
points for quality of the applicant's existing partnerships and 
proposed new partnerships for this effort. The applicant must recruit 
one or more private and/or public partners to meet match requirements 
and maximize leveraging of regional economic development plans 
developed through this project. The maximum 25 points for this 
criterion will be based on the following:
    a. The applicant demonstrates how their proposal will focus on the 
quantity and quality of partnerships, including the ability to leverage 
new partners that have previously had limited engagement with RD 
projects or priorities to leverage resources, enhance technical 
assistance, and/or increase reach to underserved areas. The proposal 
must demonstrate that partners with shared missions and goals will be 
engaged to amplify reach in rural areas. (10 points)
    b. The applicant demonstrates how their proposal will support the 
quantity and quality of match commitments to support this project, and 
percentage of match in cash form versus in-kind contributions. (5 
points)
    c. The applicant will demonstrate how their proposal will support 
the ability of applicant to leverage other community-driven plans or 
projects such as Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS) 
or other Federally-recognized regional economic development plans. (5 
points)
    d. The applicant will demonstrate how their proposal will utilize 
partnerships outside of RD. The applicant will identify such 
partnerships and will demonstrate how they will provide access to such 
partnerships to support implementation of projects identified through 
development of regional economic development plans. (10 points)
    iii. Innovation (0-10 points). The applicant can receive up to 10 
points for innovative methods and practices to support development of 
regional economic development plans. The maximum 10 points for this 
criterion will be based on the following:
    a. The applicant's proposal should demonstrate the ability of the 
applicant to propose methods and practices to utilize unique and 
innovative planning methods that are currently not being implemented at 
scale. (5 points)
    b. The applicant's proposal should demonstrate the ability of the 
applicant to demonstrate that the proposed innovative methods and 
practices have been field-tested and ready to scale. (5 points) We are 
looking for unique and innovative ideas that are not currently being 
implemented at scale, so projects that propose innovative solutions 
that haven't been readily deployed before will receive higher points.
    iv. Organizational Capacity & Qualifications (0-15 points). The 
applicant can receive up to 15 points based on organizational capacity 
and qualifications. The maximum 15 points for this criterion will be 
based on the following:
    a. The applicant's proposal should demonstrate that the applicant 
has knowledge and prior experience in regional planning, particularly 
related to rural issues. The applicant should specify years of 
experience, types of communities served, and outcomes achieved. (10 
points)
    b. The applicant's proposal should demonstrate that the applicant 
has identified appropriate key personnel, both in terms of number of 
personnel and qualifications of personnel, to carry out the approach 
identified. Capacity of personnel to access data for needs assessments 
and access to planners and other technical experts will be evaluated. 
(5 points)
    v. Work Plan (0-15 points). The applicant can receive up to 15 
points based on the quality of the proposed work plan and approach. The 
maximum 15 points for this criterion will be based on the following:
    a. Applicants should use the approved work plan template to include 
the following information: Description of objective, background 
approach, timeframe for key tasks along with substantial involvement, 
budget and deliverables that are necessary to implement project to 
support regional economic development planning in rural communities. 
Reasonableness and appropriateness of key tasks will be evaluated based 
on proposed project approach. (5 points)
    b. The applicant's proposal should include a description of the 
types and general locations of rural communities to be served through 
this project, including the ability to support multiple rural planning 
activities across the nation and the reasonableness of effectively 
serving these communities based on key personnel, established 
timeframes, and budget. (5 points)
    c. The applicant's proposal should include a description and 
appropriateness of the tasks to incorporate active participation from 
RD staff. (5 points)
    vi. Performance Outcomes (0-15 points). The applicant can receive 
up to 15 points based on the quality of the proposed performance 
measures to evaluate progress and impacts of proposed project. The 
maximum 15 points for this criterion will be based on the following:
    a. The applicant's proposal should include a description for how 
the results of the technical assistance will be measured, including the 
benchmarks to be used to measure effectiveness. Benchmarks should be 
specific and quantifiable. (10 points)
    b. The applicant's proposal should include a description of 
benchmarks and outcomes achieved during previously deployed planning 
efforts. (5 points)
    2. Review and Selection Process: All eligible applications will be 
evaluated based on the process described below.
    i. Review Process. All eligible applications will be evaluated by 
an Application Review Panel using the criteria described in Section E.1 
of this Notice. Panel members will be

[[Page 41053]]

appointed by the Agency and they will be qualified to evaluate the 
applications, based on the type of work proposed by the applicant.
    ii. Selection Process. Applications will be ranked in descending 
order, according to the scores awarded by the Panel. Applications will 
be funded in rank order, until all available funds have been expended. 
Applications at or near the funding line may be funded in part, if the 
Agency believes an appropriate benefit can result from partial funding 
and if the applicant agrees to the amount of partial funding. In the 
event the Agency considers partial funding to be appropriate, we will 
contact the applicant and negotiate the final work plan and budget 
prior to approving an award.
    iii. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates. All awards must be 
obligated by September 30, 2018.

VI. Award Administration Information

    1. Federal Award Notices:
    i. Successful applicants. Successful applicants will be notified in 
writing by the Agency with a Letter of Conditions (LOC). The LOC is a 
notice of selection and does not indicate that an award has been 
approved, nor is it an authorization to begin performance on the award. 
While there may be special conditions that apply on a case-by-case 
basis, the following conditions are standard for all successful 
applicants.
    a. Complete Form RD 1942-46, ``Letter of Intent to Meet 
Conditions.''
    b. Complete Form RD 1940-1, ``Request for Obligation of Funds.''
    c. Complete FMMI Vendor Code Request Form.
    d. Provide a copy of your organization's Negotiated Indirect Cost 
Rate Agreement.
    e. Certify that all work completed for the award will benefit a 
rural area.
    f. Certify that you will comply with the Federal Funding 
Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 and report information 
about subawards and executive compensation.
    g. Certify that the U.S. has not obtained an outstanding judgement 
against your organization in a Federal Court (other than in the United 
States Tax Court).
    h. Execute Form SF-424B, ``Assurances--Non-Construction Programs.''
    i. Execute Form SF-LLL, ``Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying,'' if 
applicable or certify that your organization does not lobby.
    j. Execute Form AD-1047, ``Certification Regarding Debarment, 
Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters-Primary Covered 
Transactions.''
    k. Obtain a certification on Form AD-1048, ``Certification 
Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusion-
Lower Tier Covered Transactions,'' from anyone you do business with as 
a result of this award.
    l. Execute Form AD-1049, ``Certification Regarding a Drug-Free 
Workplace Requirements (Grants).''
    m. Execute Form AD-3031, ``Assurance Regarding Felony Conviction or 
Tax Delinquent Status for Corporate Applicants.''
    n. Execute Form RD 400-4, ``Assurance Agreement.''
    Once the conditions described in the LOC have been met, the award 
will be approved through the execution of Form RD 4280-2 in conjunction 
with the RDCA Program Attachment. If an applicant is unable to meet the 
conditions of the award within 90 calendar days, the award will be 
withdrawn.
    ii. Unsuccessful applicants. Unsuccessful applicants will be 
notified in writing no later than October 31, 2018.
    2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements. The terms of 
the award are available at: http://forms.sc.egov.usda.gov/efcommon/eFileServices/eForms/RD4280-2.PDF.
    3. Reporting Requirements. The following reporting requirements 
apply to awards made through this program.
    i. Performance Reports: Form SF-PPR, ``Performance Progress 
Report,'' must be submitted quarterly based on the following time 
periods: January 1-March 31, April 1-June 30, July 1-September 30, and 
October 1-December 31. Quarterly reports are due within 30 calendar 
days of the end of the reporting period. A final report is due within 
90 calendar days of the completion of the project or the end of the 
period of performance, whichever comes first. Both quarterly and final 
performance reports must be submitted electronically to 202-568-9832 or 
[email protected].
    ii. Financial Report: Form SF-425, ``Federal Financial Report'' 
must be submitted quarterly based on the following time periods: 
January 1-March 31, April 1-June 30, July 1-September 30, October 1-
December 31. Quarterly reports are due within 30 calendar days of the 
end of the reporting period. A final report is due within 90 calendar 
days of the completion of the project or the end of the period of 
performance, whichever is comes first. Both quarterly and final reports 
must be submitted electronically to [email protected].
    iii. Report Suitable for Public Distribution: A report suitable for 
public distribution that describes the accomplishments of the project 
is due within 90 calendar days of the completion of the project. There 
is no format prescribed for this report, but it is expected that it 
will be 1-2 pages in length and describe the project in such a way that 
a member of the public not familiar with the project would gain an 
understanding of the impact of the project.

VII. Federal Awarding Agency Contact

    If you have questions, you may contact Christine Sorensen at 202-
568-9832 or [email protected].

VIII. Notice to Applicants

    The Federal Government is not obligated to make any Federal award 
as a result of this announcement. Only authorized Federal officials can 
bind the Federal Government to the expenditure of funds.

IX. Nondiscrimination Statement

    In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of 
Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its 
Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or 
administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on 
race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including 
gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital 
status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance 
program. Political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil 
rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA 
(not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing 
deadlines vary by program or incident.
    Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of 
communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, 
audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible 
Agency or USDA's TARTET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or 
contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. 
Additionally, program information may be made available in languages 
other than English.
    To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA 
Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office 
or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of 
the

[[Page 41054]]

information requested in the form. To request a copy of a complaint 
form, call, (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to 
USDA by:
    1. Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant 
Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-9410;
    2. Fax: (202) 690-7442; or
    3. Email at: [email protected].
    USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

    Dated: August 10, 2018.
Anne Hazlett,
Assistant to the Secretary, USDA Rural Development.
BILLING CODE 3410-15-P

[[Page 41055]]

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[[Page 41056]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN17AU18.023

[FR Doc. 2018-17765 Filed 8-16-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-15-C

41046 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices Management Plan (GMP) (Amendment Blue Butterfly was listed as a Administrative Review five of the Forest Plan): endangered species in 2015 and the The Lee Canyon Project and the SMNRA-wide Standards and designated critical habitat for the Forest Plan amendment will be subject Guidelines: (GMP Standard 0.31) New butterfly includes portions of the Lee to objection under 36 CFR part 218. roads, administrative facilities, and Canyon Ski Area, Constraint #2 from the developed recreation sites other than Dated: May 7, 2018. standard cannot be met. The Proposed low-impact facilities (trails, trailhead Chris French, Action and other action alternatives also parking, signs, restrooms, etc.) will be include the addition of a 500 vehicle Associate Deputy Chief, National Forest outside a 100-yard buffer zone around System. parking lot at the ski area to known Clokey’s eggvetch and rough [FR Doc. 2018–17730 Filed 8–16–18; 8:45 am] accommodate increased visitor use angelica populations or potential without the development of additional BILLING CODE 3411–15–P habitat, and outside biodiversity parking in lower Lee Canyon or shuttle hotspots (defined as areas of particular services. The project-specifc Forest Plan diversity or sensitivity). DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Amendment would exempt the project The need for this Forest Plan from the requirements under Constraint amendment is that in the Lee Canyon Rural Business-Cooperative Service #2 and Constraint #3. Proposed Action new service roads, and The substantive requirements of the Rural Housing Service ski area facilities would occur within the 100-yard buffer zone established 2012 Planning Rule (36 CFR part 219) likely to be directly related and, Rural Utilities Service around known Clokey’s eggvetch and rough angelica populations or potential therefore, applicable to the Forest Plan Rural Development Cooperative habitat. These areas have been amendment for the Lee Canyon Project Agreement Program thoroughly inventoried for these species are in 36 CFR 219.9(b) regarding and none were found within the project threatened and endangered species and AGENCY: Rural Development USDA. foot print. This project-specific Forest 36 CFR 219.10(a)(1), (3), and (7) ACTION: Notice. Plan amendment will allow regarding integrated resource development within the 100-yard buffer management for multiple use. The scope SUMMARY: The Assistant to the Secretary zones for these two-species established and scale to which these substantive for Rural Development (Agency) is requirements would apply are the scope seeking applications to support regional in the Standard GMP 0.31 (p. 18) to economic development planning efforts allow for construction of service roads and scale of the Lee Canyon Project. The in rural communities under the Rural and ski area facilities. amendment would not apply to any Under the Proposed Action and other Economic Development Innovation other projects or activities. action alternatives, Standard GMP 0.31 (REDI) initiative. This funding would be amended to allow new service Responsible Official opportunity will be administered by the roads and developed recreation sites to Rural Development Innovation Center, The Responsible Official for the Lee in partnership with the Rural Business- be placed within the 100-yard buffer Canyon Project and the Forest Plan Cooperative Service. The Agency is zone around known Clokey’s eggvetch amendment is William A. Dunkelberger, announcing up to $750,000 in and rough angelica populations or Forest Supervisor, Humboldt-Toiyabe competitive cooperative agreement potential habitat, and within National Forest Supervisor’s Office, funds in fiscal year (FY) 2018. Rural biodiversity hotspots in the Lee Canyon 1200 Franklin Way, Sparks, Nevada Development Agency may select one, Special Use Permit Boundary. Management Area 11: (11.57) Allow 89431, phone (775) 355–5310. multiple, or no award recipients. The limited expansion of ski area in Lee Agency reserves the right to withhold Decision To Be Made the awarding of any funds if no Canyon and enhancement of skiing In consideration of the stated purpose application receives a score of at least opportunities and facilities within the and need and the analysis of 60 points. scope of an approved master This Notice lists the information development plan and under the environmental effects documented in needed to submit an application for following constraints: this EIS, the Responsible Official will these funds. This Notice announces that 1. Expansion occurs within the review the proposed action and the Agency is accepting FY 2018 existing sub-basin. alternatives in order to make the 2. Does not impact any threatened, applications to support REDI. following decisions: endangered, or sensitive species or DATES: The deadline for receipt of a • Whether to authorize the proposed complete application is midnight species of concern or its habitat. 3. Expansion is commensurate with action or an alternative, including the Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday, development of additional parking in required no-action alternative, all or in September 5, via www.grants.gov. The the lower Lee Canyon area and shuttle part; Agency will not consider any services. • What design criteria and mitigation application received after the deadline. 4. Expansion incorporates defensible measures to require as a condition of the After an applicant submits an space design and fire safe facilities. authorization; application via grants.gov, all applicants 5. Where consistent with other must email RD.Innovation@ • What evaluation methods and osec.usda.gov to confirm application standards and guidelines. The need for this Forest Plan documentation to require for monitoring and receipt of the application package. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 amendment is that the Proposed Action project implementation and mitigation Applicants who have been selected for and other action alternatives include effectiveness; and funding will receive a letter of official development of ski runs, mountain • Whether to amend the Forest Plan notification and will be awarded a coasters, zip lines, mountain bike trails, to exempt the project from Standard cooperative agreement authorized under parking areas, and access roads within GMP 0.31 and from Constraints #2 and 7 U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4). Pending funding the Lee Canyon Ski Area permitted #3 of Standard GMP Management Area availability, all awards will be made no boundary. As the Mount Charleston 11.57. later than September 30, 2018. VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices 41047 Applicants should plan their projects Overview • Evidence-based understanding of based on a start date of September 30, community assets, challenges and Federal Agency Name: U.S. 2018 and must be completed within 24 opportunities. Department of Agriculture, Rural months. • Goals are focused, logical, targeted Development. ADDRESSES: The deadline for receipt of Funding Opportunity Title: Rural and timely with tasks identified and an application is midnight Eastern Development Cooperative Agreement with a responsible party assigned. Standard Time on Wednesday, Program. • The plan was created through broad September 5, 2018. Applications may be Announcement Type: Notice of community participation, public input submitted electronically through the Funding Availability (NOFA). and buy-in. Grants.gov system or through email to Catalog of Federal Domestic • The format must be persuasive in a RD.Innovation@osec.usda.gov. Note that Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.890. non-technical manner. there are registration requirements for submitting applications using the Application Due Date: All required • The plan makes clear how each of application documents must be its strategies is intended to help Grants.gov system. We recommend that submitted by midnight Eastern Standard produce, either directly or indirectly, you review the instructions for Time on Wednesday, September 5 improvements in the local and regional registering as soon as possible, but at electronically via www.grants.gov. economy. least two weeks before you plan to Applicants submitting proposals must • Regional economic development submit your application. The also confirm receipt and email plans developed through REDI requirements can be viewed at: http:// RD.Innovation@osec.usda.gov to assistance should identify possible grants.gov/applicants/organization_ confirm application and receipt of the projects to be funded through RD registration.jsp. Your application will be application package. Applicants who programs and/or other Federal, state, rejected by Grants.gov if you miss the have been selected for funding will local or private sector resources. deadline and the Agency will not receive a letter of official notification. consider any application received after This funding opportunity expands Pending funding availability, all awards the deadline. rural communities’ ability to access will be made no later than September FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 30, 2018. Applicants should plan their planning resources to convene, identify Question about this announcement can projects based on a start date of needs, create actionable economic be directed to Christine Sorensen, September 30, 2018 and must be development plans, and implement Regional Coordinator, via 202–568–9832 completed within 24 months. project priorities to improve quality of or Christine.Sorensen@wdc.usda.gov. For More Information: Questions life in rural communities. Quality of life about this announcement can be is a measure of human well-being that SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: can be identified though economic and directed to Christine Sorensen, Regional Preface Coordinator, via 202–568–9832 or social indicators. Modern utilities, Christine.Sorensen@wdc.usda.gov. affordable housing, efficient The Agency encourages applications transportation and reliable employment that will support recommendations A. Program Description are economic indicators that must be made in the Rural Prosperity Task Force integrated with social indicators like USDA Rural Development (RD) is report to help improve life in rural access to medical services, public safety, authorized to administer cooperative America (www.usda.gov/ education and community resilience to agreement awards in accordance with 7 ruralprosperity). Applicants are empower rural communities to thrive. U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4). Rural Economic encouraged to consider projects that Economic development plans developed Development Innovation (REDI) aims to provide measurable results in helping through this funding opportunity strengthen the capacity of rural rural communities build robust and should focus on one or more of these communities (50,000 people or less in sustainable economies through strategic economic and/or social indicators. the United States plus Tribes and investments in infrastructure, Applicants are encouraged to consider territories) in implementing strategic partnerships, and innovation. Key regional planning projects that provide community and economic development strategies include: measurable results in helping rural plans as referenced in Section 379H of • Achieving e-Connectivity for Rural the Consolidated Farm and Rural communities built robust and America. Development Act (7 U.S.C. 2008v). The sustainable economies through strategic • Developing the Rural Economy. goal of this funding announcement is to investments in infrastructure, solicit applications to provide partnerships, and innovation. Such • Harnessing Technological cooperative agreement funding to projects should also support rural Innovation. eligible applicants to enable them to communities’ ability to qualify for • Supporting a Rural Workforce. provide technical assistance and priority funding under Section 379H of • Improving Quality of Life. training and actionable planning of the Consolidated Farm and Rural implementation of strategic community Development Act [7 U.S.C. 2008v]. Paperwork Reduction Act and economic development plans. This approach to comprehensive rural It is anticipated that the anticipated Supporting regional economic community development is unique in number of respondents affected by this development plans help rural its attempt to improve rural information collection is less than 10 communities overcome multi- communities in a way that is (1) rooted amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 entities and therefore, this Notice jurisdictional challenges and better in emphasizing partnerships and contains no reporting or recordkeeping leverage Federal, state, local or private collaboration among multiple public provisions requiring Office of funding. agencies and community partners and Management and Budget (OMB) For purposes of this proposal, a (2) focused on combining state resources approval under the Paperwork quality regional economic plan will to make wide-ranging quality-of-life Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. include but not be limited to the impacts as opposed to separate, Chapter 35). following: piecemeal, incremental improvements. VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

41048 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices B. Federal Award Information C. Eligibility Information life. The applicant will demonstrate 1. Estimated Funding: Interested Applicants must meet all of the how their proposal will utilize applicants shall only propose following eligibility requirements by the partnerships outside of RD. The applications with scope of work/budget application deadline. Applications applicant will identify such that does not exceed $750,000 in which fail to meet any of these partnerships and will demonstrate how Federal funding. requirements by the application they will provide access to such 2. Start Date and Performance Period: deadline will be deemed ineligible and partnerships to support implementation Projects may be up to 2 years in will not be evaluated further and will of projects identified through not receive a Federal award. development of regional economic duration. Applicants should plan their 1. Applicant Eligibility: Federally- development plans. The proposed projects based on a project start date of September 30, 2018 and a project end recognized Tribes, institutions of higher project should also describe how it will education, nonprofit organizations, or support implementation of multi- date of no later than September 30, private organizations with a jurisdictional and/or multi-sector 2020. regional economic development plans, 3. Type of Federal Award: demonstrated national structure and/or as described in Section 379H of the Cooperative Agreement. Rural capacity to deliver and support multiple Consolidated Farm and Rural Development will be substantially rural planning activities across the Development Act. involved in the work performed under nation are eligible applicants. Entities 3. Cost Sharing or Matching each approved cooperative agreement. are not eligible if they have been Requirements: There is a dollar or in- Substantial involvement may include debarred or suspended or otherwise kind matching requirement that is at but is not limited to collaboration, excluded from or ineligible for least equal to the amount of the participation, oversight, and control of participation in Federal assistance cooperative agreement award. If this the following: programs under Executive Order 12549, matching fund requirement is not met, i. Authority to suspend work if ‘‘Debarment and Suspension.’’ In the application will be deemed specification or work statements are not addition, an applicant will be ineligible. Matching requirements are met; considered ineligible for a cooperative cash, confirmed funding commitments ii. Review and approval of one stage agreement due to an outstanding and/or third party in-kind contributions of work before another may begin; judgment obtained by the U.S. in a as defined in 2 CFR 200.96. that are at iii. Review and approval of Federal Court (other than U.S. Tax least equal to the cooperative agreement substantive provisions of proposed sub- Court), is delinquent on the payment of amount and committed for a period of grants or contracts; Federal income taxes, or is delinquent not less than the cooperative agreement iv. Prior review and approval of key on Federal debt. performance period. Applicants must personnel; and 2. Eligible Project Purposes: The recruit one or more private and/or v. Agency collaboration and Project purpose must be to strengthen public partner(s) to match one-for-one coordination with respect to the capacity of rural communities (in cash and/or in-kind contributions) deliverables and execution of the work (50,000 people or less in the United the applicant’s proposed funding plan. At a minimum, applicants should States plus Tribes and territories) in request. Cost sharing/matching must be anticipate Agency participation in the developing and implementing regional committed at the time of application selection of communities to receive plans for economic development as submission. Applications must include regional planning assistance; the referenced in Section 379H of the written verification of commitments of convening of community members, Consolidated Farm and Rural cost sharing or matching support partners, and stakeholders; the delivery Development Act. Eligible project (including both cash and in-kind of training on RD programs and/or purposes must include the two facets of contributions) from third parties. Cost economic development principles; and technical assistance: sharing or matching funds must meet the review/approval of regional i. Planning Technical Assistance: The the criteria stated at 2 CFR 200.306 and economic development plans for proposed project should provide be valued in accordance with 2 CFR purposes of priority funding under planning technical assistance to rural 200.306(d). Section 379H of the Consolidated Farm communities by assisting in the Additional details about cost sharing and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. development of regional economic or matching funds/contributions is 2008v). development plans. Proposals should located at 2 CFR 200.306. Applicant 4. Number of Awards: The Agency include descriptions on how technical matching funds must be included in the anticipates that it may select one, assistance will result in actionable steps budget narrative. For matching funds multiple, or no award recipients from to support implementation of these offered by project partners, a separate this notice of funding availability. The plans. The proposed project should also commitment letter is required for each Agency reserves the right to withhold provide technical assistance to expand cash and/or in-kind match contribution. the awarding of any funds if no rural communities’ ability to access Commitment letters must be signed by application receives a minimum score of funding and planning resources to the authorized organizational at least 60 points. convene community members. representative of the contributing 5. Eligibility of renewal or ii. Implementation Technical organization and the applicant Supplemental Project Applications: Assistance: The proposed project should organization, which must include: (i) Applications for renewal or provide technical assistance toward The name, address, and telephone supplementation of any existing Federal implementation of the project priorities number of the contributor; (ii) the name amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 awards are not eligible for this new emerging from the regional economic of the applicant organization; (iii) the Federal award. An application for development plans. The technical title of the project for which the renewal means a proposal submitted to assistance should include strategies for contribution is made, (iv) the dollar continue an existing agreement by enhancing communities’ efforts at amount of the contribution; and (v) a adding components to an existing leveraging Federal, state, local, and/or statement that the contributor commits agreement in order to meet the private funding to build resilient to furnish the contribution during the objectives of this solicitation. communities and improve quality of cooperative agreement period. VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices 41049 Applications without signed written total project budget, the application will iv. Applicant Qualifications (1–2 commitments are deemed incomplete not be considered for funding. pages): Summary of the qualifications of and will be ineligible. The value of 6. Rural Area: The project must the applicant organization is required. applicant contributions to the project is directly benefit a rural area. All ultimate Interested applicant must have the established according to Federal cost beneficiaries and/or subrecipients must organizational capacity, experience, and principles. Applicants should refer to 2 be located in rural areas, and any knowledge of rural planning needs and CFR 200.306 for additional guidance on activities or tasks must occur in rural must meet the following minimum matching funds, in-kind contributions, areas. The term ‘rural area’ means the requirements: and allowable costs. Rural Business Service’s Rural Area a. Demonstrate national structure 4. Substantial Involvement: Proposed definition as out lined in Section and/or capacity to support multiple project must include a component that 343(a)(13)(A)(i) of the Consolidated rural planning activities across the allows for active participation by the Farm and Rural Development Act which nation; Agency in the majority of tasks. states: Any area other than: (1) A city or b. Demonstrate knowledge and prior Examples of substantial involvement town that has a population of greater experience in regional planning, include but are not limited to the than 50,000 inhabitants; and (2) any particularly related to rural issues; following: Joint-selection of urbanized area contiguous and adjacent c. Demonstrate capacity to assist rural communities to receive regional to such a city or town. communities to develop regional plans 7. Number of Applications: You such as access to data for needs planning assistance; joint-convening of cannot submit more than one assessment and planners and other community members, partners, and application for this Notice. technical capacity on staff; and stakeholders; joint-delivery of training d. Demonstrate knowledge and prior on RD programs and/or economic D. Application and Submission experience of leveraging other development principles; and joint- Information community-driven plans or projects review/approval of regional economic 1. Address to Request Application such as Comprehensive Economic development plans for purposes of Page. All necessary forms can be found Development Strategies (CEDS) or other priority funding under Section 6025 within the Grants.gov ‘‘Application Federally-recognized regional economic Strategic Economic and Community Package.’’ development plans. Development. It is the intent of this 2. Content and Form of Application v. Key Personnel Qualifications (1–2 project to engage Agency and state RD Submission. There is no pre-application pages): Summary of the qualifications of staff in the development of regional process for this announcement. All each key person, including the project economic development plans and it is checklist, application, and standard director, is required. Resumes or CVs the responsibility of the applicant to forms necessary for submission are will not be accepted. The summary identify tasks where RD staff can included in the Grants.gov application should include relevant education, provide substantial involvement in the package. Applications that are years of relevant experience, a project. If you do not identify those incomplete or fail to comply with the description of skills relevant to the tasks, your application is not eligible for required content and formatting person’s work on the proposed project, funding. requirements will not be considered for and the person’s key accomplishments. 5. Use of Funds: Use of project funds funding. If you expect to contract out a portion (including Federal and matching) must i. Content and Format: Each page of the proposed work, but have not be consistent with the project purpose must be on numbered, letter-sized (81⁄2 hired the contractor, you must include to strengthen the capacity of rural x 11) paper utilizing a white background a summary of the qualifications you will communities in developing and that has 1″ margins; and the text of the require from the contractor. implementing regional plans for application must be typed, single vi. Project Proposal (15-page economic development. A non- spaced, black, and in a font no smaller maximum): The project proposal must exclusive list of eligible fund uses than 12 point. include a proposed Work Plan, along include: Costs incurred for the services ii. Executive Summary (1-page with the following information in order: of personnel actually engaged in the maximum): On a single page, provide a. Project Background. project, including share of employee the applicant entity name, duration of b. Project Objectives. benefits, travel and per diem expenses, project in months, amount of Federal c. Project Approach/Methods. costs of expendable supplies, and travel d. Theory of Change. funding requested, amount of non- e. Geographic Locations or Project and per diem expenses associated with Federal cost-share/match funding travel to USDA Headquarters in Areas. committed, and project title. Identify f. Project Management (Applicants are Washington, DC to coordinate and geographic locations, and describe in required to include a Work Plan Chart collaborate on project tasks. Use of non-technical language the issue or that lists each major Task by Key funds must be allowable in adherence problem rural communities have in Personnel involved, Time Period of the with 2 CFR part 200. accessing economic development task, Substantial Involvement of Rural If you include funds in your budget planning resources, the objectives to Development staff, Deliverables, and that are unallowable, RD will consider address this issue, the innovative Budget associated with each task). the application for funding only if the approach to be employed (including the g. Performance Metrics. unallowable costs total 10 percent or role of participating partners), how h. Graphics, References, Citations (Do less of the total project budget, impact will be quantified, and the not count against the 15-page including Federal and matching funds. predicted benefits or deliverables of the maximum). amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 However, if the application is project. A Work Plan Chart template is successful, those unallowable costs iii. Standard Application Form: available for applicants as part of this must be removed from the budget before Standard Form 424, ‘‘Application for funding opportunity on grants.gov. RD will make an award. If RD cannot Federal Assistance’’ is included as part vii. Budget Information (10-page determine the percentage of of the application package posted on maximum): The budget portion of the unallowable costs or the amount of Grants.gov. Instructions for completing application consists of two parts as those costs exceeds 10 percent of the the form are also included. described below: VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

41050 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices a. Standard Form (SF) 424A, ‘‘Budget the financial, management, and i. Data Universal Numbering System Information’’: Non-Construction performance risk posed by awardees as (DUNS) Number: A DUNS number is a Programs. The SF–424A is included as required by 2 CFR 200.205. Based on unique, nine-digit sequence recognized part of the application package posted this risk review, the Agency may apply as the universal standard for identifying on Grants.gov. special conditions that correspond to and keeping track of over 70 million b. Detailed Budget Narrative: Provide the degree of risk assessed. businesses worldwide. Applicants must a detailed narrative in support of the xi. National Environmental Policy obtain a DUNS number. Information on budget for the project, broken down by Act: This Notice has been reviewed in how to obtain a DUNS number can be task. Discuss how the budget accordance with 7 CFR part 1970, found at http://fedgov.dnb.com/ specifically supports the proposed ‘‘Environmental Policies and webform or by calling 1–866–705–5711. activities. Justify the project cost Procedures.’’ We have determined that Please note that the registration may effectiveness and include justification an Environmental Impact Statement is take up to 14 business days to complete. for personnel and consultant salaries not required because the issuance of ii. System for Award Management with a description of duties. regulations and instructions, as well as (SAM) Registration: SAM is the official Statement(s) of work for any amendments to them, describing Federal system that consolidated the subcontractors and consultants must be administrative and financial procedures capabilities of Central Contractor included as part of the application. The for processing, approving, and Registry, Federal Agency Registration, budget narrative should include both implementing the Agency’s financial Online Representations and the Federal funds requested and the programs is categorically excluded in Certifications Application, and applicant’s matching funds. The format the National Environmental Policy Act Excluded Parties List System. To of the budget narrative can be in a chart, (NEPA) regulation found at 7 CFR register, go to: https://www.sam.gov/ spreadsheet, table, etc. It should be 1970.53(f). We have determined that portal/public/SAM/. Please allow a readable on letter-size, printable pages. this Notice does not constitute a major minimum of 5 days to complete the The information needs to be presented Federal action significantly affecting the SAM registration. in such a way that the reviewers can 4. Submission Dates and Times. quality of the human environment. readily understand what expenses are Midnight Eastern Standard Time on xii. Civil Rights Compliance incurred to support the project. September 5, 2018. You must submit Requirements: All awards made under your application using Grants.gov by the viii. Certifications: All proposals must this Notice are subject to Title VI of the deadline date and time. Note that there include the following signed Civil Rights Act of 1964 as required by are registration requirements for certification forms, which are available 7 CFR part 15, subpart A and Section submitting applications using the at Grants.gov: 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Grants.gov system. We recommend that a. AD–3030, ‘‘Representations Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax 3. Unique entity identifier and System you review the instructions for Delinquent Status for Corporate for Award Management (SAM). DUNS registering as soon as possible, but at Applicants.’’ The AD–3030 must be and SAM Numbers: Each applicant least two weeks before you plan to submitted if entity is a corporate non- (unless the applicant is an individual submit your application. The profit or for-profit corporation as excepted from those requirements under requirements can be viewed at: http:// indicated in the applicants SAM 2 CFR 25.110(b) or (c), or has an grants.gov/applicants/organization_ registration. exception approved by the Federal registration.jsp. Your application will be b. AD–3030, ‘‘Representations awarding agency under 2 CFR rejected by Grants.gov if you miss the Regarding Felony Conviction and Tax 25.110(d)) is required to: (i) Be deadline. We will not accept it in a Delinquent Status for Corporate registered in SAM before submitting its different format, and we will not Applicants.’’ The AD–3030 must be application; (ii) provide a valid unique consider it for funding. submitted if entity is a corporate non- entity identifier (Data Universal i. Acknowledgement of receipt: profit or for-profit corporation as Numbering System (DUNS) number) in Grants.gov provides receipt of indicated in the applicants SAM its application; and (iii) continue to application submissions. The Agency registration. maintain an active SAM registration acknowledges receipt of proposals c. SF–424B, ‘‘Assurances for Non- with current information at all times received by the submission deadline via Construction Programs.’’ The SF–242B during which it has an active Federal email. An applicant who does not must be completed by all applicants. award or an application or plan under receive such an email acknowledgement d. SF–424B, ‘‘Assurances for Non- consideration by a Federal awarding within 5 business days of the Construction Programs.’’ The SF–242B agency. The Agency may not make a submission deadline, but believes the must be completed by all applicants. Federal award to an applicant until the proposal was submitted within the ix. Verification of Matching Funds. applicant has complied with all submission deadline, must contact the You must provide verification of all applicable unique entity identifier and Agency at 202–568–9832 or matching funds that will be contributed SAM requirements and, if an applicant Christine.Sorensen@wdc.usda.gov to the project. You must include a letter has not fully complied with the within 10 business days of the signed by the donating organization’s requirements by the time Agency is submission deadline. Failure to do so authorized representative on the ready to make a Federal award, Agency may result in the proposal not being organization’s letterhead that identifies may determine that the applicant is not considered. the amount of matching funds, the time qualified to receive a Federal award and ii. Withdrawal: Proposals may be period during which matching funds use that determination as a basis for withdrawn by written notice at any time amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 will be available, and the source of the making a Federal award to another before award execution. Written notice funds (e.g., cash on hand, etc.). See applicant. Applicants must obtain a of withdrawal must be signed by the Section Eligibility Information (C 3) for DUNS and register in SAM prior to applicant or an authorized more information. registering with Grants.gov. Applicants representative. x. Risk Review: The Agency may are strongly encouraged to apply early All required application documents request additional documentation from for their DUNS number and SAM must be submitted by midnight Eastern selected applicants in order to evaluate registration. Standard Time on Wednesday, VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices 41051 September 5 via www.grants.gov AND this program. This E.O. requires that a. Duplicating services currently by emailing RD.Innovation@ Federal agencies provide opportunities provided; osec.usda.gov. for consultation on proposed assistance b. Funding a revolving loan fund; Submitting an application through with State and local governments. Many c. Construction (in any form); www.grants.gov requires completing a States have established a Single Point of d. Salaries for positions involved in variety of tasks and steps. There are also Contact (SPOC) to facilitate this construction, renovations, several preliminary registration steps consultation. A list of States that rehabilitation, and any oversight of before the applicant can submit the maintain an SPOC may be obtained at: these types of activities; application. To register in the http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/ e. Intermediary preparation of Grants.gov system, go to grants_spoc. If your State has an SPOC, strategic plans for recipients; www.grants.gov, click on ‘‘Applicants’’, f. Funding prostitution, gambling, or you must submit your application then click on ‘‘Get Registered.’’ If you any illegal activities; directly for review. Any comments g. Grants to individuals; have completed a prior Grants.gov obtained through the SPOC must be h. Funding a grant where there may application, you may already have provided to us for consideration as part be a conflict of interest, or an completed the registration process. of your application. If your State has not appearance of a conflict of interest, Please allow sufficient time to register established an SPOC, we will submit involving any action by the Agency; in Grants.gov, and for possible system your application to the appropriate i. Providing assistance to only one delays. Below are instructions for agency or agencies at our discretion. individual, organization, or business; accessing the forms necessary to Applications from Federally-recognized j. Paying obligations incurred before complete an application in Grants.gov: Indian Tribes are not subject to the beginning date without prior Agency i. Go to www.grants.gov. Information Intergovernmental Review. approval or after the ending date of the about submitting an application using 6. Funding Restrictions. cooperative agreement; Grants.gov is located on the Grants.gov i. Pre-award Costs. Pre-award costs k. Purchasing real estate; website, along with supplementary are not authorized. l. Improvement or renovation of the materials. ii. Use of Funds. Award funds may be recipient’s office space or for the repair ii. Select the ‘‘Applicant’’ tab. used to pay up to 50 percent of the or maintenance of privately owned iii. Select the ‘‘Apply for Grants’’ vehicles; project costs. heading. m. Any purpose prohibited in 2 CFR iv. Click on ‘‘Get Application iii. Period of Performance. The maximum Period of Performance is 2 part 200 or 400; Package.’’ Follow all steps. n. Using cooperative agreement v. Provide the ‘‘Funding Opportunity years. Applicants should anticipate a Period of Performance beginning assistance or matching funds for Number’’ or return to the ‘‘Search Individual Development Accounts; Grants’’ section. September 30, 2018 and ending no later September 30, 2020. o. Purchasing vehicles. vi. All necessary forms are included within the Grants.gov ‘‘Application iv. Indirect Cost Rate. The indirect V. Application Review Information Package.’’ cost rate is limited to 10 percent of Applications will first be reviewed to Applications not received through direct charges for all nonprofit determine if they meet the eligibility Grants.gov by the submission due date institutions, including institutions of requirements and comply with the and time are not accepted for higher education. All other funding restrictions in this Notice. If we consideration. The emailed application organizations must use the rate determine that your application is must be assembled into one pdf file identified in their Negotiated Indirect ineligible, we will discontinue document in the order specified in Cost Rate Approval (NICRA). If you do processing it, which means that we will section IV, part A. All applications must not have a NICRA, you may elect to not evaluate it further or provide any contain all of the elements of a complete charge only direct costs to the award. If scoring information. We will notify you package and meet the requirements you have never had a NICRA, you may in writing regarding the reason(s) for described in this announcement. also choose to use a de minimis rate of ineligibility, and we will provide a Grants.gov provides instructions for 10 percent of modified total direct costs description of your options if you submitting the required application in accordance with 2 CFR 200.414(f). believe that our determination is items through the portal. Application Your indirect cost rate must be included incorrect. Note that in the event that our receipt date and time will be on Form SF–424A. determination is reversed, either due to determined by the respective system- v. Program Income. If you expect to the discovery of an Agency error or generated documentation of receipt date earn Program Income during the Period through a formal appeal, funding is and time (Grants.gov provides date and of Performance, you must identify the restricted to available fiscal year 2018 time stamps for all proposals submitted amount and how you expect to use it funds. through the portal). (e.g. Matching Funds) in your If your application is determined to be The Agency is not responsible for any application. If your application is eligible, we will further evaluate it technical malfunctions or website funded, unexpected Program Income or based on the following criteria. All problems related to Grants.gov or Program Income earned in excess of the applications will be competitively emailed submissions. If you encounter amount you identify in your application ranked and the minimum score issues with Grants.gov, please contact will be deducted from the Federal share requirements for a cooperative the Grants.gov help desk at (800) 518– of the project in accordance with 2 CFR agreement award under this Notice is 60 4726 or support@grants.gov. The 200.307(e)(1). points. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 applicant assumes the risk of any delays vi. Prohibited Costs. In addition to 1. Evaluation Criteria: We will only in application submission through costs identified as unallowable by 2 CFR use the information that you provide in Grants.gov. part 200, the following costs are your application to evaluate your 5. Intergovernmental Review. prohibited for this program. Neither proposed project. We will not review Intergovernmental Review: Executive award funds nor matching funds can be references to websites or publications, Order (E.O.) 12372, Intergovernmental used to pay for the following types of so we encourage you to fully address Review of Federal Programs, applies to expenses. each criterion. VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

41052 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices i. Soundness of Approach (0–20 that partners with shared missions and both in terms of number of personnel points). The applicant can receive up to goals will be engaged to amplify reach and qualifications of personnel, to carry 20 points for soundness of approach. in rural areas. (10 points) out the approach identified. Capacity of The maximum 20 points for this b. The applicant demonstrates how personnel to access data for needs criterion will be based on the following: their proposal will support the quantity assessments and access to planners and a. The objectives must be clearly and quality of match commitments to other technical experts will be stated in the proposal and the applicant support this project, and percentage of evaluated. (5 points) must define how this proposal will be match in cash form versus in-kind v. Work Plan (0–15 points). The implemented. The applicant must contributions. (5 points) applicant can receive up to 15 points demonstrate how the proposal will c. The applicant will demonstrate based on the quality of the proposed strengthen the capacity of rural how their proposal will support the work plan and approach. The maximum communities in developing and ability of applicant to leverage other 15 points for this criterion will be based implementing regional plans for community-driven plans or projects on the following: economic development. The applicant such as Comprehensive Economic a. Applicants should use the must demonstrate how the proposed Development Strategies (CEDS) or other approved work plan template to include technical assistance includes both the Federally-recognized regional economic the following information: Description planning and implementation development plans. (5 points) of objective, background approach, components referenced in Section C. d. The applicant will demonstrate timeframe for key tasks along with The applicant must also demonstrate how their proposal will utilize substantial involvement, budget and how the proposed technical assistance partnerships outside of RD. The deliverables that are necessary to will expand rural communities’ ability applicant will identify such implement project to support regional to access funding and planning partnerships and will demonstrate how economic development planning in resources to convene community they will provide access to such rural communities. Reasonableness and members. The applicant must also partnerships to support implementation appropriateness of key tasks will be demonstrate how the proposal will of projects identified through evaluated based on proposed project support implementation of regional development of regional economic approach. (5 points) economic development plans and development plans. (10 points) b. The applicant’s proposal should should include descriptions on how iii. Innovation (0–10 points). The include a description of the types and proposed technical assistance will result applicant can receive up to 10 points for general locations of rural communities in actionable steps to support innovative methods and practices to to be served through this project, implementation of these plans. (10 support development of regional including the ability to support multiple points) economic development plans. The rural planning activities across the b. The applicant clearly outlines their maximum 10 points for this criterion nation and the reasonableness of ability to provide the proposed will be based on the following: effectively serving these communities technical assistance based on clearly a. The applicant’s proposal should based on key personnel, established stated and well-documented prior demonstrate the ability of the applicant timeframes, and budget. (5 points) accomplishments. (5 points) to propose methods and practices to c. The applicant’s proposal should c. The proposal clearly outlines how utilize unique and innovative planning include a description and it will implement activities to support methods that are currently not being appropriateness of the tasks to alignment with one or more of the five implemented at scale. (5 points) incorporate active participation from RD key strategies (achieving e-connectivity, b. The applicant’s proposal should staff. (5 points) developing the rural economy, demonstrate the ability of the applicant vi. Performance Outcomes (0–15 harnessing technological innovation, to demonstrate that the proposed points). The applicant can receive up to supporting a rural workforce, and innovative methods and practices have 15 points based on the quality of the improving quality of life in Rural been field-tested and ready to scale. (5 proposed performance measures to America) the Agriculture and Rural points) We are looking for unique and evaluate progress and impacts of Prosperity Task Force Report. (5 points) innovative ideas that are not currently proposed project. The maximum 15 ii. Partnerships (0–25 points). The being implemented at scale, so projects points for this criterion will be based on applicant can receive up to 25 points for that propose innovative solutions that the following: quality of the applicant’s existing haven’t been readily deployed before a. The applicant’s proposal should partnerships and proposed new will receive higher points. include a description for how the results partnerships for this effort. The iv. Organizational Capacity & of the technical assistance will be applicant must recruit one or more Qualifications (0–15 points). The measured, including the benchmarks to private and/or public partners to meet applicant can receive up to 15 points be used to measure effectiveness. match requirements and maximize based on organizational capacity and Benchmarks should be specific and leveraging of regional economic qualifications. The maximum 15 points quantifiable. (10 points) development plans developed through for this criterion will be based on the b. The applicant’s proposal should this project. The maximum 25 points for following: include a description of benchmarks this criterion will be based on the a. The applicant’s proposal should and outcomes achieved during following: demonstrate that the applicant has previously deployed planning efforts. (5 a. The applicant demonstrates how knowledge and prior experience in points) their proposal will focus on the quantity regional planning, particularly related to 2. Review and Selection Process: All amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 and quality of partnerships, including rural issues. The applicant should eligible applications will be evaluated the ability to leverage new partners that specify years of experience, types of based on the process described below. have previously had limited engagement communities served, and outcomes i. Review Process. All eligible with RD projects or priorities to leverage achieved. (10 points) applications will be evaluated by an resources, enhance technical assistance, b. The applicant’s proposal should Application Review Panel using the and/or increase reach to underserved demonstrate that the applicant has criteria described in Section E.1 of this areas. The proposal must demonstrate identified appropriate key personnel, Notice. Panel members will be VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices 41053 appointed by the Agency and they will k. Obtain a certification on Form AD– iii. Report Suitable for Public be qualified to evaluate the applications, 1048, ‘‘Certification Regarding Distribution: A report suitable for public based on the type of work proposed by Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility distribution that describes the the applicant. and Voluntary Exclusion-Lower Tier accomplishments of the project is due ii. Selection Process. Applications Covered Transactions,’’ from anyone within 90 calendar days of the will be ranked in descending order, you do business with as a result of this completion of the project. There is no according to the scores awarded by the award. format prescribed for this report, but it Panel. Applications will be funded in l. Execute Form AD–1049, is expected that it will be 1–2 pages in rank order, until all available funds ‘‘Certification Regarding a Drug-Free length and describe the project in such have been expended. Applications at or Workplace Requirements (Grants).’’ a way that a member of the public not near the funding line may be funded in m. Execute Form AD–3031, familiar with the project would gain an part, if the Agency believes an ‘‘Assurance Regarding Felony understanding of the impact of the appropriate benefit can result from Conviction or Tax Delinquent Status for project. partial funding and if the applicant Corporate Applicants.’’ VII. Federal Awarding Agency Contact agrees to the amount of partial funding. n. Execute Form RD 400–4, In the event the Agency considers ‘‘Assurance Agreement.’’ If you have questions, you may partial funding to be appropriate, we Once the conditions described in the contact Christine Sorensen at 202–568– will contact the applicant and negotiate LOC have been met, the award will be 9832 or Christine.Sorensen@ the final work plan and budget prior to approved through the execution of Form wdc.usda.gov. approving an award. RD 4280–2 in conjunction with the VIII. Notice to Applicants iii. Anticipated Announcement and RDCA Program Attachment. If an Award Dates. All awards must be The Federal Government is not applicant is unable to meet the obligated by September 30, 2018. obligated to make any Federal award as conditions of the award within 90 a result of this announcement. Only VI. Award Administration Information calendar days, the award will be authorized Federal officials can bind the withdrawn. 1. Federal Award Notices: Federal Government to the expenditure ii. Unsuccessful applicants. of funds. i. Successful applicants. Successful Unsuccessful applicants will be notified applicants will be notified in writing by in writing no later than October 31, IX. Nondiscrimination Statement the Agency with a Letter of Conditions 2018. (LOC). The LOC is a notice of selection In accordance with Federal civil 2. Administrative and National Policy rights law and U.S. Department of and does not indicate that an award has Requirements. The terms of the award been approved, nor is it an Agriculture (USDA) civil rights are available at: http:// regulations and policies, the USDA, its authorization to begin performance on forms.sc.egov.usda.gov/efcommon/ the award. While there may be special Agencies, offices, and employees, and eFileServices/eForms/RD4280-2.PDF. institutions participating in or conditions that apply on a case-by-case 3. Reporting Requirements. The administering USDA programs are basis, the following conditions are following reporting requirements apply prohibited from discriminating based on standard for all successful applicants. to awards made through this program. race, color, national origin, religion, sex, a. Complete Form RD 1942–46, i. Performance Reports: Form SF– gender identity (including gender ‘‘Letter of Intent to Meet Conditions.’’ b. Complete Form RD 1940–1, PPR, ‘‘Performance Progress Report,’’ expression), sexual orientation, ‘‘Request for Obligation of Funds.’’ must be submitted quarterly based on disability, age, marital status, family/ c. Complete FMMI Vendor Code the following time periods: January 1– parental status, income derived from a Request Form. March 31, April 1–June 30, July 1– public assistance program. Political d. Provide a copy of your September 30, and October 1–December beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior organization’s Negotiated Indirect Cost 31. Quarterly reports are due within 30 civil rights activity, in any program or Rate Agreement. calendar days of the end of the reporting activity conducted or funded by USDA e. Certify that all work completed for period. A final report is due within 90 (not all bases apply to all programs). the award will benefit a rural area. calendar days of the completion of the Remedies and complaint filing f. Certify that you will comply with project or the end of the period of deadlines vary by program or incident. the Federal Funding Accountability and performance, whichever comes first. Persons with disabilities who require Transparency Act of 2006 and report Both quarterly and final performance alternative means of communication for information about subawards and reports must be submitted electronically program information (e.g., Braille, large executive compensation. to 202–568–9832 or print, audiotape, American Sign g. Certify that the U.S. has not Christine.Sorensen@wdc.usda.gov. Language, etc.) should contact the obtained an outstanding judgement ii. Financial Report: Form SF–425, responsible Agency or USDA’s TARTET against your organization in a Federal ‘‘Federal Financial Report’’ must be Center at (202) 720–2600 (voice and Court (other than in the United States submitted quarterly based on the TTY) or contact USDA through the Tax Court). following time periods: January 1– Federal Relay Service at (800) 877–8339. h. Execute Form SF–424B, March 31, April 1–June 30, July 1– Additionally, program information may ‘‘Assurances—Non-Construction September 30, October 1–December 31. be made available in languages other Programs.’’ Quarterly reports are due within 30 than English. i. Execute Form SF–LLL, ‘‘Disclosure calendar days of the end of the reporting To file a program discrimination amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 Form to Report Lobbying,’’ if applicable period. A final report is due within 90 complaint, complete the USDA Program or certify that your organization does calendar days of the completion of the Discrimination Complaint Form, AD– not lobby. project or the end of the period of 3027, found online at: http:// j. Execute Form AD–1047, performance, whichever is comes first. www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_ ‘‘Certification Regarding Debarment, Both quarterly and final reports must be cust.html, and at any USDA office or Suspension, and Other Responsibility submitted electronically to write a letter addressed to USDA and Matters-Primary Covered Transactions.’’ Christine.Sorensen@wdc.usda.gov. provide in the letter all of the VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

41054 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices information requested in the form. To Independence Avenue SW, Washington, Dated: August 10, 2018. request a copy of a complaint form, call, DC 20250–9410; Anne Hazlett, (866) 632–9992. Submit your completed 2. Fax: (202) 690–7442; or Assistant to the Secretary, USDA Rural form or letter to USDA by: Development. 1. Mail: U.S. Department of 3. Email at: program.intake@usda.gov. BILLING CODE 3410–15–P Agriculture, Office of the Assistant USDA is an equal opportunity Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 provider, employer, and lender. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices 41055 RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INNOVATION (REDI) FY18 COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT APPLICATION PACKAGE CHECKLIST D Application Forms (in Grants.gov application package). D Executive Summary (1-page maximum). D Applicant Qualifications (1-2 pages). D Key Personnel Qualifications (1-2 pages). D Project Proposal (15-page maximum). D Project Background. D Project Objectives. D Project Methods. D Geographic Location or Project Areas. D Project Management (Applicants are required to include a Work Plan Chart that lists each major Task by Key Personnel involved, Time Period of the task, Substantial Involvement of Rural Development staff, Deliverables, and Budget associated with each task). D Performance Measures. D Graphics, References, Citations (Do not count against the 15-page maximum) D Letters of Support (i.e. match requirement, additional resource commitment from partners, etc.). amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 D Budget Information (10-page maximum). EN17AU18.022</GPH> VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4725 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1

41056 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 160 / Friday, August 17, 2018 / Notices [FR Doc. 2018–17765 Filed 8–16–18; 8:45 am] • Postal Mail/Commercial Delivery: www.rd.usda.gov/files/3555- BILLING CODE 3410–15–C Please send your comments addressed 1chapter07.pdf) as the current Fannie to Kate Jensen, Finance and Loan Mae posted yield for 90-day delivery Analyst, Single Family Housing (Actual/Actual), plus one percent for 30- DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Guaranteed Loan Program, USDA Rural year fixed rate conventional loans, Development, 1400 Independence rounded up to the nearest one quarter of Rural Housing Service Avenue, STOP 0784, Room 2250, one percent. The Agency is considering Washington, DC 20250–1522. whether to modify the maximum Establishment of Maximum Interest FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kate interest rate and would like stakeholder Rate Jensen, Finance and Loan Analyst, at feedback on the issue. AGENCY: Rural Housing Service, USDA. kate.jensen@wdc.usda.gov or (503) 894– The following questions and 2382. discussion items are posed to guide ACTION: Request for information. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: stakeholder comments. Where possible, SUMMARY: The Rural Housing Service RHS requests that comments include Background specific suggestions regarding ways to (RHS or Agency) seeks public comments on updating the provisions of the Single RHS delivers programs authorized by improve existing programs and delivery Family Housing Guaranteed Loan the Housing Act of 1949, as amended mechanisms and eliminate or minimize Program (SFHGLP), specifically (42 U.S.C. 1472 et seq.) (Housing Act). the duplication of RHS’s regulation and regarding the maximum interest rate, its The preamble to the Housing Act policies with work performed by other impact on loan making to potential declares that every American deserves a entities, including federal, state, and SFHGLP borrowers, and possible ‘‘decent home and a suitable living local agencies. RHS welcomes pertinent changes to the interest rate cap. RHS is environment.’’ RHS guarantees a variety comments that are beyond the scope of soliciting input regarding the maximum of housing loans for home purchases, these questions. interest rate to help the Agency repair, and rental housing development 1. Should the Agency continue with determine whether the interest rate cap in rural areas. The SFHGLP provides the requirement that the maximum should be modified in order to support low- and moderate-income borrowers allowable interest rate shall not exceed the agency’s mission to offer applicants, access to mortgage credit by the current Federal National Mortgage who are unable to secure the credit guaranteeing loans issued by agency- Association posted yield for 90-day necessary for such housing from other approved private sector lenders. Loans delivery (Actual/Actual) plus one sources under conventional credit may finance the full construction and percent for 30-year fixed rate terms, an opportunity to acquire new or acquisition cost of a property up to 100 conventional loans, rounded up to the existing housing for use as a primary percent of the appraised value. nearest one quarter of one percent? residence; finance the repair and Mortgages have 30-year terms and fixed 2. Should the Agency consider rehabilitation costs associated with the rates negotiated with the lender that indexing the maximum allowable purchase of the home; and refinance an cannot exceed an interest rate cap that interest rate to a source other than the existing Section 502 loan to lower the is determined by the Agency. Financing Federal National Mortgage Association? interest rate. may also be used to refinance existing 3. Should a higher maximum These opportunities are provided to USDA guaranteed or direct loans. The allowable interest rate cap be applicants under terms and conditions program maintains its neutral or slightly established? If so, what maximum rate which the applicant can reasonably be negative subsidy status through is recommended, and why? expected to fulfill. guarantee and annual loan fees. 4. Does the current maximum interest rate create any barriers to loan making DATES: Written Comments: Interested Request for Comment in eligible rural areas? If so, how and parties must submit written comments Stakeholder input is vital to ensure under what circumstances? amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with NOTICES1 on or before October 16, 2018. that the maximum interest rate 5. What effect would increasing or ADDRESSES: Submit comments in either continues to support the agency’s eliminating the maximum interest rate paper or electronic format by the mission and not overly burden SFHGLP have for loan originators and borrowers following methods: lenders and their customers. Currently, in underserved populations and rural • Federal eRulemaking Portal at the maximum allowable interest rate is communities? http://www.regulations.gov. Follow defined in Section 7.3.B of the program 6. If the maximum allowable interest EN17AU18.023</GPH> instructions for submitting comments. handbook (available at https:// rate cap were to be increased or VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:17 Aug 16, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\17AUN1.SGM 17AUN1


Document Created: 2018-08-17 03:26:05
Document Modified: 2018-08-17 03:26:05
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionNotices
ActionNotice.
DatesThe deadline for receipt of a complete application is midnight Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday, September 5, via www.grants.gov. The Agency will not consider any application received after the deadline. After an applicant submits an application via grants.gov, all applicants must email [email protected] to confirm application and receipt of the application package. Applicants who have been selected for funding will receive a letter of official notification and will be awarded a cooperative agreement authorized under 7 U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4). Pending funding availability, all awards will be made no later than September 30, 2018. Applicants should plan their projects based on a start date of September 30, 2018 and must be completed within 24 months.
ContactQuestion about this announcement can be directed to Christine Sorensen, Regional Coordinator, via 202-568- 9832 or [email protected]
FR Citation83 FR 41046 
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