[Federal Register: July 13, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 133)]
[Notices]
[Page 40311-40318]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jy05-44]
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Request for Proposals: Fiscal Year 2005 Funding Opportunity for
1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Program Outreach
Initiative
AGENCY: Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA.
ACTION: Initial notice.
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SUMMARY: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) announces the
availability of a yet undetermined amount of funding in competitive
cooperative agreement funds allocated from USDA Rural Development's
fiscal year (FY) 2005 salaries and expense budget. A separate notice
will be published when the funding level has been determined. RBS
hereby requests proposals from 1890 Land Grant Universities and
Tuskegee University (1890 Institutions) for competitively awarded
cooperative agreements for projects that support USDA Rural
Development's goals and objectives of providing technical assistance
for business creation in economically challenged rural communities, for
educational programs to develop and improve upon the professional
skills of rural entrepreneurs, and for outreach and promotion of USDA
Rural Development's programs in small rural communities with the
greatest economic need. Project proposals must be designed to overcome
currently identified economic problems and lead to sustainable economic
development. Project proposals that address both traditional and
nontraditional business enterprises are encouraged. This initiative
seeks to create a working partnership between USDA Rural Development
and the 1890 Institutions through cooperative agreements. A cooperative
agreement requires substantial involvement of the government agency in
carrying out the objectives of the project.
Cooperative agreements will be awarded to the project proposals
receiving the highest scores as determined by a peer review panel of
USDA employees knowledgeable of the subject matter. Awards will be made
to
[[Page 40312]]
the extent that funds are available; however, USDA Rural Development is
making no commitment to fund any particular project proposal or to make
a specific number of awards. Eligible applicants must provide matching
funds equal to at least 25 percent of the total project costs.
This Notice sets forth the information required lists the
information needed to submit an application for these funds.
DATES: Applications must be submitted by 4 p.m., eastern time on August
29, 2005. Proposals received after 4 p.m. eastern time on August 29,
2005, will not be considered for funding.
ADDRESSES: You may obtain application guides and materials for the 1890
Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Outreach and Development
Initiative at the following Internet Address: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/oa/1890.htm
or by contacting Mr. Edgar L.
Lewis, Program Manager, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA, Mail
Stop 3252, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-3252.
Telephone: (202) 690-3407, E-mail: edgar.lewis@usda.gov.
Final paper applications for an 1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural
Entrepreneurial Program Outreach Initiative cooperative agreement may
be submitted via the Postal Service to Cooperative Programs, Attention:
1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Program Outreach
Initiative Program, USDA, Mail Stop 3250, 1400 Independence Ave., SW.,
Washington, DC 20250, or UPS, Federal Express, or similar delivery
service to Cooperative Programs, Attention: 1890 Land Grant
Institutions' Rural Entrepreneurial Program Outreach Initiative
Program, USDA Room 4016, 1400 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC
20250. The phone number that should be used for FedEX or similar
packages is (202) 720-7558.
Submit electronic cooperative agreement applications using the
Grants.gov Web site at http://www.grants.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Edgar L. Lewis, Program Manager,
Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA, Stop 3252, Room 4221, 1400
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-3252. Telephone:(202)
690-3407, E-mail: edgar.lewis@usda.gov, or visit the program Web site
at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/oa/1890.htm.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Overview
Federal Agency: Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS).
Funding Opportunity Title: 1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural
Entrepreneurial Outreach and Development Initiative.
Announcement Type: Initial Announcement.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.856.
Key Dates: Cooperative agreement applications must be received by 4
p.m. eastern time, August 29, 2005. Proposals received after 4 p.m.,
August 29, 2005, will not be considered for funding.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
This solicitation is issued pursuant to 7 U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4) and
Executive Order 13256 (February 12, 2002), ``President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.''
Several other Federal statutes and regulations apply to project
proposals considered for review and to cooperative agreements awarded.
These include, but are not limited to:
7 CFR part 15, subpart A--Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted
Programs of the Department of Agriculture--Effectuation of Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
7 CFR part 3015--Uniform Federal Assistance Regulations.
7 CFR part 3017--Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension
(Nonprocurement).
7 CFR part 3018--New Restrictions on Lobbying.
7 CFR part 3019--Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and
Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other
Non-Profit Organizations.
7 CFR part 3021--Governmentwide Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace
(Financial Assistance).
7 CFR part 3052--Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit
Organizations.
RBS was established under the authority of the Department of
Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994. The mission of RBS is to
enhance the quality of life for rural Americans by providing leadership
in building competitive businesses including sustainable cooperatives
that can prosper in the global marketplace. RBS meets these goals by
investing financial resources and providing technical assistance to
cooperatives and other businesses located in rural communities and
establishing strategic alliances and partnerships that leverage public,
private, and cooperative resources to create jobs and stimulate rural
economic activity.
The primary purposes of the 1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural
Entrepreneurial Program Outreach Initiative are to encourage 1890
Institutions to provide technical assistance for business creation in
economically challenged rural communities, to conduct educational
programs that develop and improve upon the professional skills of rural
entrepreneurs, and to provide outreach and promote USDA Rural
Development programs in small rural communities with the greatest
economic need. Project proposals must be designed to overcome currently
identified economic problems and lead to sustainable economic
development. Project proposals that address both traditional and
nontraditional business enterprises are encouraged.
RBS will use cooperative agreements with the 1890 Institutions to
strengthen the capacity of these communities to undertake innovative,
comprehensive, citizen-led, long-term strategies for community and
economic development. The cooperative agreements will be for an
outreach and development effort to promote Rural Development programs
in targeted underserved rural communities and shall include, but not be
limited to:
(a) Developing a business startup program including technical
assistance, to assist new cooperatives and other businesses with new
business development, business planning, franchise startup and
consulting, business expansion studies, marketing analysis, cash flow
management, and seminars and workshops for cooperatives and small
businesses;
(b) Developing management and technical assistance plans that will:
(1) Assess cooperative and small business alternatives to
traditional agricultural and other natural resource based industries;
(2) Assist in the development of business plans or loan packages,
marketing, or bookkeeping; and
(3) Assist and train cooperatives and small businesses in customer
relations, product development, or business planning and development.
(c) Assessing local community weaknesses and strengths, feasible
alternatives to agricultural production, and the necessary
infrastructure to expand or develop new or existing businesses;
(d) Providing community leaders with advice and recommendations
regarding best practices in community economic development stimulus
programs for their communities;
(e) Conducting seminars to disseminate information to stimulate
business and economic development in selected rural communities; and
[[Page 40313]]
(f) Conducting outreach through use of computer technology and
maintaining an internet web presence which links community leaders and
residents to available economic development information.
Funds may not be used to: (a) Pay costs of preparing the
application package; (b) fund political activities; (c) pay costs prior
to the effective date of the cooperative agreement; (d) provide for
revolving funds; (e) do construction; (f) conduct any activities where
there is or may appear to be a conflict of interest; or (g) purchase
real estate.
II. Awards
Program awards will be made through cooperative agreements between
RBS and the 1890s Institutions receiving the highest scores on their
project proposals. The maximum amount of Federal funds awarded for any
one proposal will be $100,000.
If an applicant is to receive an award that is less than the amount
requested, the applicant will be required to modify the application to
conform to the reduced amount before execution of the cooperative
agreement. RBS reserves the right to reduce or de-obligate any award if
acceptable modifications are not submitted by the awardee(s) within 10
working days from the date the application is returned to the
applicant. Any modification must be within the scope of the original
application.
Throughout the project period, USDA Rural Development's continued
commitment to advance funds will be conditioned upon evidence of
satisfactory progress by the recipient (as documented in certified
acceptable quarterly progress and financial reports), and the
determination that continued funding is in the best interest of U.S.
Government.
III. Eligibility Requirements
1. Applicant Eligibility
To be eligible for an award under this program, an applicant must:
(a) Be an 1890 Institution which includes: Alabama A&M University;
University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff; Delaware State University; Florida
A&M University; Fort Valley State University; Kentucky State
University; Southern University and A&M College; University of
Maryland-Eastern Shore; Alcorn State University; Langston University;
North Carolina A&T State University; Lincoln University (Missouri);
South Carolina State University; Tennessee State University; Prairie
View A&M University; Virginia State University; and West Virginia State
University; and Tuskegee University. RBS will accept only one
application per institution under this program. In the event that more
than one application is submitted, the 1890 Institution's president
will determine the official application for consideration;
(b) Demonstrate that the personnel assigned to the project have the
expertise and experience necessary to fulfill the tasks set forth in
the project proposal. Applicants should demonstrate a previous record
of successful implementation of similar projects;
(c) Demonstrate expertise in the use of computer technologies to
provide technical assistance and access to Internet web sites; and
(d) Submit a completed application as set forth in Section IV.3.
An applicant may subcontract with organizations not eligible to
apply provided such organizations are necessary for the conduct of the
project. However, the subcontracted amount may not exceed one-third of
the total Federal award.
2. Project Eligibility
To be eligible for an award under this program, an applicant must:
(a) Demonstrate that the project eligible beneficiaries are located
in a rural area as defined in 7 U.S.C. 1991(a)(13)(A) with a
demonstrated economic need. Eligible beneficiaries must also be located
in communities that show significant community support for the
proposal;
(b) Provide matching funds equal to at least 25 percent of the
total project costs; and
(c) Establish and maintain an internet web presence linked to the
USDA Rural Development web site. This web site should contain links to
additional economic development function that will benefit residents
and community leaders.
3. Rural Area Definition
Rural underserved targeted counties/communities must be an area
other than a city or town that has a population of greater than 50,000
inhabitants and the urbanized area contiguous and adjacent to such a
city or town, as defined by the U.S. Bureau of Census using the latest
decennial census of the United States.
4. Matching Funds
Matching funds may be provided by either the applicant or third
party in the form of either cash or in-kind contributions and must be
from non-Federal funds. Matching funds must be spent in proportion to
the spending of funds received from the cooperative agreement.
Applicants must verify in their applications that matching funds are
available for the time period of the cooperative agreement.
IV. Application Process
1. Application Packages
If an institution plans to apply using a paper application,
application packages, including the required forms for this funding
opportunity, may be obtained from http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/oa/1890.htm.
If an institution does not have access to the Internet, or if
it is having difficulty accessing the forms online, it may contact the
RBS at (202) 690-3407 or FAX (202) 690-2723. The application forms and
instructions may also be requested via e-mail by sending a message with
the contact person's name, mailing address, and phone number to
edgar.lewis@wdc.usda.gov. The application forms and instructions will
be mailed as quickly as possible. When calling or e-mailing RBS, please
indicate that you are requesting application forms and instructions for
FY 2005 1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Outreach and
Development Initiative.
If an institution plans to apply electronically, the forms must be
obtained from http://www.grants.gov.
2. Application Submission
Applications must be received in the RBS National Office by 4 p.m.
eastern time on August 29, 2005. Proposals received after 4 p.m.
eastern time on August 29, 2005, will not be considered for funding.
The applicant assumes the risk of any delay in proposal delivery.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit completed applications
electronically or via overnight mail or delivery service to ensure
timely receipt by RBS. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged
by e-mail. Therefore, applicants are strongly encouraged to provide
accurate e-mail addresses. If the applicant does not receive an
acknowledgment within 7 work days of the submission deadline, please
contact the program manager. If RBS receives your application after the
deadline due to: (a) Carrier error, when the carrier accepted the
package with guarantee for delivery by the closing date and time, or
(b) Significant weather delays or natural disaster, you will be given
the opportunity to document these problems. RBS will consider the
application as having been received by the deadline if your
documentation meets these requirements and verifies the delay was
beyond your control. Applications submitted via facsimile will not be
accepted.
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An institution may submit its application in paper or in an
electronic format. If a paper application is submitted, a signed
original and two copies of the completed application must be submitted.
The original and 2 copies must include all required forms,
certifications, assurances, project proposal document, and appendices,
be signed by an authorized representative of the institution, contain
original signatures, and be submitted unbound.
A paper application submitted via the Postal Service must be
addressed to Cooperative Programs, Attention: 1890 Land Grant
Institutions' Rural Entrepreneurial Program Outreach Initiative
Program, USDA, Mail Stop 3250, 1400 Independence Ave., SW., Washington,
DC 20250. A paper application submitted via UPS, Federal Express, or
similar delivery service must be addressed to Cooperative Programs,
Attention: 1890 Land Grant Institutions' Rural Entrepreneurial Program
Outreach Initiative Program, USDA Room 4016, 1400 Independence Ave.,
SW., Washington, DC 20250. The phone number to be used for FedEX or
similar packages is (202) 720-7558.
If an application is submitted electronically, the application must
be submitted at http://www.grants.gov. Applicants are advised to visit
the site well in advance of the application deadline if they plan to
apply electronically to insure that they have obtained the proper
authentication and have sufficient computer resources to complete the
application.
All Federal grant applicants must provide a Dun and Bradstreet Data
Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number when applying for Federal
grants and cooperative agreements. The DUNS number is required whether
an applicant is submitting a paper application or using the government-
wide electronic portal Grants.gov. A DUNS number is required for every
application for a new award or renewal/continuation of an award,
including applications or plans under formula, entitlement and block
grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003. Please ensure
that your institution has a DUNS number. An institution may acquire a
DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free DUNS number
request line on 1-866-705-5711 or on-line at http://www.dnd.com.
If an institution's application does not contain a DUNS number
field, please write the DUNS number at the top of the first page of the
application, and/or include the DUNS number in the application cover
letter.
3. Completed Application
To be eligible for funding, an application must contain all of the
following elements. Any application that is missing any element or
contains an incomplete element will not be considered for funding.
(a) Completed forms.
(1) Form SF-424, ``Application for Federal Assistance.''
(2) Form SF-424A, ``Budget Information--Non-Construction
Programs,'' including Sections A, B, C, and D. The applicant must
include both federal and matching funds.
(3) Form SF-424B, ``Assurances--Non-Construction Programs.''
(4) Form AD-1047, ``Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension,
and Other Responsibility Matters--Primary Covered Transactions.''
(5) Form AD-1049, ``Certification Regarding Drug-Free Workplace
Requirements.''
(b) Letters of support.
(c) Table of Contents: For ease of locating information, each
proposal must contain a detailed Table of Contents immediately
following the required forms. The Table of Contents should include page
numbers for each component of the proposal. Pagination should begin
immediately following the Table of Contents. Provide page numbers in
the Table of Contents where each evaluation criterion is addressed.
(d) Project Executive Summary: A summary of the Project Proposal,
not to exceed one page.
(e) Project Proposal: The application must contain a narrative
statement describing the nature of the proposed project. Each of the
proposal evaluation criteria referenced in this funding announcement
must be addressed, specifically and individually in narrative form. The
proposal must include at least the following:
(1) Project Title Page. The Title Page must include the following:
Title of the project, names of principal investigators, and applicant
organization.
(2) Introduction. A concisely worded justification or rationale for
the proposal must be presented. Summarize the social and economical
statistical data (income, population, employment rate, poverty rate,
education attainment, etc.), for the project area that substantiates
the need for the initiative. Specify, whether the target area includes
an Empowerment Zone/Enterprise Community, Champion Community,
Federally-recognized Indian reservation or other Federally declared
economic disaster area. An applicant should address the ``Economic Need
of Community'' evaluation criterion in Section VII.1.(c).
(3) Workplan. Discuss the approach (strategy) to be used in
carrying out the proposed project outreach and achieving the proposed
objectives. Address the ``Statement of Work'' evaluation criterion in
Section VII.1.(e). A description of any subcontracting arrangements to
be used in carrying out the proposed project must be included. The
workplan also must include:
(i) Overview: Identify and discuss the specific goals and
objectives of the proposed project and its impact on the proposed
beneficiaries;
(ii) Timeframes: Develop a tentative timeline for completing the
major tasks outlined in the project proposal;
(iii) Milestones: Describe and quantify the expected outcomes of
the proposed project, including the businesses created, professionals
trained, jobs created or assisted, conferences and seminars conducted,
and number of participants, loans packaged, etc.;
(iv) Recipient involvement: Identify the person(s) responsible for
performing the project tasks; and
(v) USDA Rural Development involvement: Identify USDA Rural
Development responsibilities for assisting and monitoring project
tasks;
(4) Estimated Budget. Provide a detailed budget justification,
showing both federal and applicant's matching funds, including in-kind
contributions. Provide a budget to support the work plan showing all
sources and uses of funds during the project period. Detail and
document both cash and in-kind by sources. Note that only goods and
services for which no expenditure is made can be considered in-kind. If
the applicant is paying for the goods and services as part of the
matching funds contribution, the expenditure is considered a cash
match, and should be verified as such.
(5) Certification of Matching Funds. Certify that matching funds
will be available at the same time Federal funds are anticipated to be
spent and that matching funds will be spent in advance of Federal
funding, such that for every dollar of Federal funds advanced or
reimbursed, the applicant will have spent no less in proportion to the
spending of Federal funds received from the cooperative agreement prior
to submitting the request for reimbursement or advance. Please note
that this certification is a separate requirement from the verification
of Matching Funds requirement.
(6) Leveraging Funds. Discuss in narrative form how the institution
will use other Federal, State, private, and
[[Page 40315]]
other sources of funds and resources to leverage the proposed project.
(7) Coordination and Management Plan. Describe how the project will
be coordinated among the various participants, the nature of the
collaborations and benefits to participants, the communities, the
applicant, and Rural Development. Describe your plans for the
management of the project to ensure its proper and efficient
administration. Describe the scope of Rural Development's involvement
in the project.
(8) Technology Outreach. The project proposal must address the
applicant's ability to deliver computer technology to the targeted
rural communities and maintain computer Internet Web sites linking
community leaders and residents to available economic development
information. Address the ``Digital Technology Outreach'' evaluation
criterion in this Section VII.1.(f).
(9) Key Personnel Support. Provide the curriculum vitae for the key
personnel used to carry out the goals and objectives of the proposal.
(10) Facilities or Equipment. Identify where the project will be
located (housed) and what additional equipment is needed or already
available to carry out the specific objectives of the project.
(11) Previous Accomplishments. Summarize the institution's previous
outreach and development accomplishments work funded by USDA Rural
Development or similar outreach or development experiences. This is
especially important for first time applicants. Address the ``Previous
Accomplishments'' evaluation criterion in Section VII.1.(d).
(12) Local and USDA Rural Development State Office Support. Provide
letters of support from the local community such as businesses,
educational institutions, local governments, community-based
organizations, etc. Letters of support should demonstrate commitments
for tangible resources and or assistance. Include any letter from the
appropriate USDA Rural Development State Office evidencing its
opportunity for input into your proposal and its involvement. Identify
and discuss tangible support contained in the letters.
(13) Additional information. Provide any additional information
that demonstrates commitment for tangible resources and or that
supports your proposal. Additionally you are encouraged to provide any
strategic plan that has been developed to assist cooperative and
business development or entrepreneurship for the targeted communities.
V. Intergovernmental Review of Applications
Executive Order 12372 does apply to this program.
VI. Funding Restrictions
Based on Section 708 of Title 7 Consolidated Appropriations Act
2004, (Pub. L. 108-199) ``No funds appropriated by this Act may be used
to pay negotiated indirect cost rates on cooperative agreements or
similar arrangements between the United States Department of
Agriculture and nonprofit institutions in excess of 10 percent of the
total cost of the agreement when the purpose of such cooperative
arrangement is to carry out programs of mutual interest between the two
parties.'' Other funding restrictions are identified in Section III.
VII. Application Review
1. Criteria--Project proposals will be evaluated using the
following seven criteria. Each criterion is given the weight value
shown with total points equal to 100. The points assigned provide an
indication of the relative importance of each section and will be used
by the reviewers in evaluating the proposals. Points do not have to be
awarded for each criterion. After all proposals have been evaluated,
the Administrator may award an additional 10 discretionary points to
any proposal to obtain the broadest geographic distribution of the
funds, ensure a broad diversity of project proposals, or ensure a broad
diversity in the size of the awards.
(a) Support of Local Community (Up to 10 points)--This criterion
evaluates the support of local government, educational, community, and
business groups. Higher points will be awarded for proposals
demonstrating broad support from all components of the communities
served, particularly cooperative groups. Broad support is demonstrated
by tangible contributions, such as providing volunteers, computers, or
transportation or co-sponsoring workshops and conferences. Points will
be awarded based on the level of tangible contribution in comparison to
the size of the award. Tangible support must be stated in letters from
supporting entities.
(b) Matching Funds/Leveraging (Up to 10 points)--This criterion
evaluates the extent to which the institution has the capacity to
support the project with matching funds and leveraging additional funds
and resources from State, private, public and non-profit sources to
carry out this outreach and development initiative.
A maximum of 10 points will be awarded based upon the amount the
proposal exceeds the minimum 25 percent matching requirement.
Applicants will be required to provide matching funds or equivalent in-
kind in support of this project. Evidence of matching funds
availability must be provided. Funds or equivalent in-kind must be
available at the time at which the cooperative agreement is entered.
Matching funds points will be awarded as listed below.
>25 percent to 35 percent match........... 2 points.
>35 percent to 50 percent match........... 5 points.
>50 percent to 75 percent match........... 7 points.
>75 percent match......................... 10 points.
(c) Economic Need of Community (Up to 15 points)--This criterion
evaluates the economic need of the targeted communities.
Five points will automatically be awarded to project proposals with
at least one of the beneficiary communities located in a targeted
community(s): Empowerment Zones, Enterprise Communities, Champion
Communities, Federally-recognized Indian reservations, and other
federally declared economic depressed or disaster areas. The
application must state the name(s) and location(s) of the economically
depressed community(s) and the type(s) of targeted community
designation (i.e., Empowerment Zone).
Up to a maximum of 7 additional points will be awarded for
demonstrated economic need based upon the currently available poverty
rate of the targeted local community(s). An applicant may use targeted
county or community poverty rates. When multi-community proposals are
submitted, the over-all weighted average for all counties or
communities must be used. An applicant must use current (2000 Census)
poverty data for each targeted county or community. Points will be
awarded based upon the differences in the targeted county or
community's average poverty from the respective State poverty rate
(average targeted county or community poverty rate minus the respective
State poverty rate). Percents will be rounded to the next whole number.
Less than 3 percent....................... 0 points.
3-6 percent............................... 1 point.
7-10 percent.............................. 2 points.
11-15 percent............................. 5 points.
Greater than 15 percent................... 7 points.
Up to a maximum of 3 additional points may be awarded based upon
the applicant's ability to demonstrate or
[[Page 40316]]
identify other economic needs of the targeted communities, such as, but
not limited to, unemployment rates, education levels, and job
availability. An applicant must provide sufficient information for the
panel to properly evaluate and rate this criterion.
(d) Previous Accomplishments (Up to 10 points)--This criterion
evaluates the applicant's previous accomplishments with this initiative
and/or its demonstrative capacity to conduct similar projects.
One point will be awarded to an institution for each year it has
been awarded a cooperative agreement under this program up to a total
of 5 years. An applicant must provide evidence of satisfactorily
completing the cooperative agreement for each year for which credit is
claimed. Applicants with less than 5 recent years of awards in this
program may receive up to the maximum 5 points by highlighting the
applicant's previous performance in each of the past 5 years on
projects with cooperative and other business development and outreach
objectives. The applicant should discuss the potential impact of their
project upon the targeted underserved rural communities, as well as
describing previous similar outreach and development work.
Up to a maximum of 5 additional points may be awarded based upon an
applicant's ability to document the positive impact of its project upon
the targeted underserved rural communities. Positive entrepreneurial
developments should be emphasized. Points will be awarded if an
applicant demonstrates that its technical assistance resulted in the
creation of a business(s) in an economically challenged community or
that its educational programs have developed or improved upon the
professional skills of rural entrepreneurs. The applicant must provide
specific information as to the specific businesses created and/or
professional educational programs offered.
(e) Statement of Work (up to 45 points)--This criterion evaluates
the degree to which the proposed project addresses the major purposes
for the ``1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Program
Outreach Initiative.'' Points will be awarded according to the degree
to which the statement of work reflects innovative strategies for
providing technical assistance for business creation in economically
challenged rural communities, for educational programs to develop and
improve upon the professional skills of rural entrepreneurs, and for
outreach and promotion of USDA Rural Development's.
Up to a maximum of 20 points will be awarded to proposed projects
that have a clearly and concisely stated work plan detailing goals and
objectives, timetables, expected results, and measurable outcomes for
providing technical assistance for business creation in economically
challenged rural communities. The greatest number of points will be
awarded to those proposed projects that demonstrate innovative and
creative ways to accomplish these goals.
Up to a maximum of 15 additional points will be awarded to proposed
projects that have a clearly and concisely stated work plan detailing
goals and objectives, timetables, expected results, and measurable
outcomes for educational programs to develop and improve upon the
professional skills of rural entrepreneurs (i.e.; sustainable
agricultural practices, real estate sales, real estate appraising,
accounting for small entrepreneurs, etc.) The greatest number of points
will be awarded to those proposed projects that demonstrate innovative
and creative ways to accomplish these goals.
Up to a maximum of 10 additional points will be awarded to proposed
projects for outreach and promotion of USDA Rural Development's
programs in small rural communities with the greatest economic need.
The greatest number of points will be awarded to those proposed
projects that demonstrate innovative and creative ways to accomplish
these goals.
All proposals must integrate substantial USDA Rural Development
involvement.
(f) Digital Technology Outreach (Up to 5 points)--This criterion
evaluates the applicant's experience and capacity to provide outreach
and assistance to targeted underserved rural communities through use of
computer technologies.
A maximum of 5 points will be awarded based upon the applicant's
demonstrated capacity to promote innovations and improvements in the
delivery of computer technology benefits, including a web presence to
underserved rural communities whose share in these benefits is
disproportionably low.
(g) Coordination and Management of the Project (Up to 5 points)--
This criterion evaluates the applicant's demonstrated capacity to
coordinate and manage the proposed project among the various
stakeholders.
Up to a maximum of 5 points will be awarded based upon the
applicant's ability to demonstrate broad and collaborative involvement
with the applicant's respective USDA Rural Development State Office on
the proposed project. This involvement and collaboration should
include, but not be limited to: (1) Evidence of any USDA Rural
Development State Office's input in and review of the applicant's
proposal, (2) a detailed plan for the State Office's continued
participation in the proposed project that includes specific
participatory tasks, and (3) a detailed plan as to how Rural
Development programs can be integrated into the proposed project.
2. Selection Process
Each application will be evaluated in a two-part process. First,
each application will be reviewed to ensure that both the applicant and
project meet the eligibility requirements as set forth in Section III.
All applicants deemed to be eligible will be scored based upon the
criteria set forth in Section VII.(1). Each eligible application will
be scored by at least two expert reviewers. The individual scores for
each application will be tallied and applications receiving the highest
scores will be recommended to the Administrator, RBS, for award. The
RBS Administrator has the final authority to award discretionary points
in accordance with Section VII.(1) and determine the applications to be
funded. If a tie score results after the proposals have been rated and
ranked, the tie will be resolved by the proposal with the largest
matching funds as a percent of the Federal amount of the award being
selected for award.
VIII. Award Administration
1. Award Notification
Upon completion of the review process, successful applicants will
be notified, in writing, by the USDA Rural Development National Office
of its award. Each successful applicant will receive a cooperative
agreement for signature by the institution's president or designee. The
document will become binding upon execution by the appropriate USDA
official.
Unsuccessful applicants will be notified, in writing, of the
results of review.
2. Advance of Funds Requirements
Requests for advance of funds must be submitted to the National
Office on a quarterly basis on a completed Form SF-270, ``Request for
Advance or Reimbursement.'' A completed Form SF-269 (Long Form),
``Financial Status Report,'' must be submitted with each advance of
funds request.
[[Page 40317]]
3. Project Reviews
USDA Rural Development State Office representatives will conduct
semi-annual onsite reviews of award recipients as well as any
additional reviews deemed necessary by the National Office.
4. Reporting Requirements
During the term of the cooperative agreement, each award recipient
must submit quarterly progress reports and a final report detailing the
tasks performed and results accomplished to the National and
appropriate State Office. Quarterly reports must be submitted on or
prior to January 31, April 28, and July 28, and October 31, 2006. A
final report must be submitted within 90 days of the date of the
project's completion. Reports may be submitted in hard copy original or
an electronic copy that includes all required signatures. Failure to
submit satisfactory, timely reports may result in suspension or
termination of award.
Upon the request of USDA Rural Development, the award recipient
will submit manuscripts, videotapes, software, or other media, as were
identified in project proposals. USDA Rural Development retains those
rights delineated in 7 CFR 3019.36.
5. Administrative Requirements
Award Recipients are responsible for:
(a) Completing the objectives as defined in the proposed workplan.
(b) Maintaining up-to-date project records during the term of the
agreement.
(c) Maintaining an accounting of Federal and matching fund
expenditures, including in-kind contributions. Award recipients must
submit to the National Office a completed Form SF-269 (Long Form) with
each advance of funds request and within 90 days of the project's
completion.
(d) Immediately refunding to USDA Rural Development, at the end of
the agreement, any balance of unobligated funds received from USDA
Rural Development.
(e) Providing matching funds or equivalent in-kind in support of
the project, at least to the level agreed to in the accepted proposal.
(g) Participating in the Annual or Bi-annual USDA Rural Development
Entrepreneurship and Information Conferences/Workshops when planned.
(h) In cooperation with local businesses, developing a program of
cooperative and business startup and technical assistance that will
assist with new company development, business planning, new enterprise,
franchise startup and consulting, business expansion studies, marketing
analysis, cashflow management, and seminars and workshops for
cooperatives and small businesses.
(i) Providing office space, equipment, and supplies for all
personnel assigned to the project.
(j) Developing management and technical assistance plans in
cooperation with USDA Rural Development State Office that will:
(1) Assess cooperative and small business alternatives to
agriculture, and other natural resources-based industries;
(2) Assist in the development of business plans and loan packages,
marketing, bookkeeping assistance, and organizational sustainability;
and
(3) In cooperation with USDA Rural Development State Office,
provide technical assistance and training in customer relations,
product development, and business planning and development.
(k) Assessing local community needs, weaknesses and strengths,
feasible alternatives to agriculture production, and the needed
infrastructure to expand or develop new or existing businesses. The
plans for any such studies must be submitted to the USDA Rural
Development National office for approval prior to the study being
conducted.
(l) In cooperation with the USDA Rural Development State Office,
providing community leaders with advice and recommendations regarding
best practices in community economic development stimulus programs for
their communities.
(m) Developing digital technology outreach and establishing and
maintaining an Internet web site, linking community leaders and
residents to available economic development information.
(n) Assuring and certifying that it is in compliance with, and will
comply in the course of the agreement with, all applicable laws,
regulations, Executive Orders, and other generally applicable
requirements, including those set out in 7 CFR parts 3015 and 3019.
(o) Using Federal funds only to pay meeting-related travel expenses
when employees are performing a service of direct benefit to the
Government and in direct furtherance of the objectives of the proposed
agreement. Federal funds cannot be used to pay non-Federal employees to
attend meetings.
(p) Not commingling or using program funds for administrative
expenses to operate an intermediary relending program (IRP).
(q) Submitting to USDA Rural Development National Office, in
writing, any request for revising the project work plan, budget, or
requesting a no-cost extension amending the cooperative agreement.
(r) Assisting the USDA Rural Development State Office in conducting
a semi-annual on-site review of the recipient's project.
(s) Collaborating, as needed, with the USDA Rural Development
National and State Offices in performing the tasks in the agreement and
providing the Rural Development National Office with the information
necessary for Rural Development to fulfill its responsibilities in the
agreement.
USDA Rural Development is responsible for:
(1) Monitoring the program as it is being implemented and operated,
including monitoring of financial information to ensure that there is
no commingling or use of program funds for administrative expenses to
operate an IRP or other unapproved items.
(2) Terminating activity, after written notice, if tasks are not
met.
(3) Reviewing and approving changes to key personnel.
(4) Providing technical assistance as needed.
(5) Approving the final plans for any community business workshops;
cooperative, business, and economic development sessions; and training
workshops to be conducted by the recipient.
(6) Providing reference assistance, as needed, to the recipient for
technical assistance given on a one-on-one basis to entrepreneurs and
startup businesses.
(7) Reviewing and commenting on strategic plans developed by
recipients for targeted areas.
(8) Reviewing economic assessments made by the recipient for
targeted counties enabling USDA Rural Development to determine the
extent to which its programs are beneficial.
(9) Carefully screening projects to prevent First Amendment
violations.
(10) Monitoring the program to ensure that a web site link to USDA-
Rural Development is established and maintained.
(11) State Offices conducting semi-annual on-site reviews and
submitting written reports to the National Office.
(12) Participating in 1890 outreach and development program
workshops, seminars and conferences as needed.
(13) Providing any other work agreed to by USDA Rural Development
in the Cooperative Agreement.
IX. Agency Contact
For Further Information Contact: Mr. Edgar L. Lewis, Program
Manager, Rural
[[Page 40318]]
Business-Cooperative Service, USDA, Stop 3252, Room 4221, 1400
Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-3252. Telephone: (202)
690-3407, e-mail: edgar.lewis@wdc.usda.gov.
X. Paperwork Reduction Act
The paperwork burden associated with this initiative has been
cleared by the Office of Management and Budget under OMB Control Number
0570-0041.
Dated: July 7, 2005.
David Rouzer,
Acting Administrator, Rural Business-Cooperative Service.
[FR Doc. 05-13752 Filed 7-12-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-XY-P