[Federal Register: June 13, 2007 (Volume 72, Number 113)]
[Notices]
[Page 32609-32616]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr13jn07-30]
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Request for Proposals: Fiscal Year 2007 Funding Opportunity for
1890 Land-Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Outreach and
Development Initiative
AGENCY: Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA.
ACTION: Initial notice of request for proposals.
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SUMMARY: Business and Cooperative Programs are administered through
USDA Rural Development. USDA Rural Development announces the
availability of approximately $1.5 million in competitive cooperative
agreement funds. USDA Rural Development 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 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.
DATES: Paper copies of applications must be postmarked and mailed,
shipped, or sent overnight no later than July 30, 2007, to be eligible
for FY 2007 funding. Electronic copies of applications must be received
by July 30, 2007, to be eligible for FY 2007 funding. Late applications
are not eligible for FY 2007 funding.
ADDRESSES: You may obtain application guides and materials for the 1890
Land-Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Outreach and Development
Initiative (1890 REOD Initiative) at the following Internet address:
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/oa/1890.htm or by contacting Edgar L.
Lewis, Program Manager, USDA Rural Development, Cooperative Programs,
Mail Stop 3252, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-
3252, telephone: (202) 690-3407, e-mail: edgar.lewis@wdc.usda.gov.
Final paper applications for an 1890 REOD Initiative cooperative
agreement may be submitted via the U.S. Postal Service to USDA Rural
Development, Attention: 1890 REOD Initiative, Mail Stop 3250, 1400
Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250, or via UPS, FedEx, or
similar delivery service to USDA Rural Development, Attention: 1890
REOD Initiative, Room 4016, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington,
DC 20250. The telephone number that should be used on 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: Edgar L. Lewis, Program Manager, USDA
Rural Development, Cooperative Programs, Mail Stop 3252, Room 4204,
1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-3252 telephone:
(202) 690-3407, TDD Federal Information Relay Service: 1-800-877-8339,
e-mail: edgar.lewis@wdc.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.
Funding Opportunity Title: 1890 Land-Grant Institutions Rural
Entrepreneurial Outreach and Development Initiative (1890 REOD
Initiative).
Announcement Type: Initial Announcement.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.856.
Key Dates: Cooperative agreement applications may be submitted on
paper or electronically according to the following deadlines.
Paper copies must be postmarked and mailed, shipped, or sent
overnight no later than July 30, 2007, to be eligible for FY 2007
funding. Electronic copies must be received by July 30, 2007, to be
eligible for FY 2007 funding. Late applications 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 15b: Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap in Programs
or Activities Receiving Financial Assistance,
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.
USDA Rural Development was established under the authority of the
Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994. The mission of
USDA Rural Development is to enhance the quality of life for rural
[[Page 32610]]
Americans by providing leadership in building competitive businesses,
including sustainable cooperatives that can prosper in the global
marketplace. USDA Rural Development 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 REOD 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.
USDA Rural Development will use cooperative agreements with the
1890 Institutions to strengthen the capacity of these communities to
undertake innovative, comprehensive, citizen-led, and 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 for:
(1) Assessing cooperative and small business alternatives to
traditional agricultural and other natural resource based industries;
(2) Assisting in the development of business plans or loan
packages, marketing, or bookkeeping; and
(3) Assisting and training 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
(f) Conducting outreach through the use of computer technology and
maintaining an Internet Web presence that links community leaders and
residents to available economic development information.
II. Award Information
Type of Award: Cooperative Agreements.
Fiscal Year Funds: FY 2007.
Approximate Total Funding: $1,500,000.
Approximate Number of Awards: 13.
Approximate Average Award: $115,000.
Floor of Award Range: None.
Ceiling of Award Range: $115,000.
Anticipated Award Date: September 21, 2007.
Budget Period Length: 12 months.
Project Period Length: 12 months.
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) pay for construction, (f) conduct any activities
where there is or may appear to be a conflict of interest, or (g)
purchase real estate.
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. USDA Rural Development 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, West Virginia State
University, and Tuskegee University.
Although an applicant may be eligible to compete for an award based
on its status as an eligible entity, other factors may exclude an
applicant from receiving Federal assistance under this program (e.g.
debarment d suspension). Applicants from ineligible institutions or
persons will be rejected in their entirety. USDA Rural Development 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) Establish 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.
[[Page 32611]]
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 sites 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 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 is having difficulty accessing the forms
online, it may contact USDA Rural Development at (202) 690-3407, FAX:
(202) 690-2723, or TDD Federal Information Relay Service: 1-800-877-
8339. 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 telephone number to edgar.lewis@wdc.usda.gov. The
application forms and instructions will be mailed as quickly as
possible. When calling or e-mailing USDA Rural Development, please
indicate that you are requesting application forms and instructions for
the FY 2007 1890 REOD Initiative.
If an Institution plans to apply electronically, the forms must be
obtained from http://www.grants.gov.
2. Application Submission
Paper applications must be postmarked and mailed, shipped, or sent
overnight not later than July 30, 2007. Electronic copies must be
received by July 30, 2007. Late applications 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 USDA Rural Development. 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 workdays of the
submission deadline, please contact the program manager. If USDA Rural
Development 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. USDA Rural Development 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.
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 two copies must include all required forms,
certifications, assurances, project proposal documents, 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 USDA Rural Development, Attention: 1890 REOD Initiative,
Mail Stop 3250, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250. A
paper application submitted via a commercial carrier such as UPS,
FedEx, or similar delivery service must be addressed to USDA Rural
Development, Attention: 1890 Initiative, Room 4016, 1400 Independence
Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250. The telephone number to be used on
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 ensure 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
governmentwide 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 online 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. Applications that are missing any element or
contain an incomplete element will not be considered for funding.
(a) Completed forms.
(1) Form SF-424, ``Application for Federal Assistance.'' In order
for this form to be considered complete, it must contain the legal name
of the applicant, the applicant's DUNS number, the applicant's complete
mailing address, the name and telephone number of a contact person, the
employer identification number (EIN), the start and end dates of the
project, the Federal funds requested, other funds, including in-kind
funds, that will be used as matching funds, congressional districts, an
answer to the question, ``Is applicant delinquent on any Federal
debt?'', the name and signature of an authorized representative, the
telephone number of the authorized representative, and the date the
form was signed. Other information requested on the form may be
applicable, but the above-listed information is required for an
application to be considered complete.
(2) Form SF-424A, ``Budget Information--Non-Construction
[[Page 32612]]
Programs.'' In order for this form to be considered complete, the
applicant must fill out Sections A, B, C, and D. The applicant must
include both Federal and matching funds, including in-kind funds.
(3) Form SF-424B, ``Assurances--Non-Construction Programs.'' In
order for this form to be considered complete, the form must be signed
by an authorized official and include the title, name of applicant, and
date.
(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, must briefly describe the project, including
goals, tasks to be completed, and other relevant information that
provides a general overview of the project.
(e) Eligibility Discussion: A detailed discussion, not to exceed
four pages, will describe how the applicant meets the eligibility
requirements. In the event that more than four pages are submitted,
only the first four pages will be considered. The eligibility
discussion must address the following:
(1) Applicant Eligibility: The applicant must first confirm it is
an 1890 Institution. It must demonstrate that the personnel assigned to
the project have the expertise and experience necessary to fulfill the
tasks set forth in the project proposal, including the use of computer
technologies and technical assistance.
(2) Project Eligibility: The applicant must describe how the
project's eligible beneficiaries are located in a rural area as defined
in 7 U.S.C. 1991(a)(13)(A) with a demonstrated economic need and how
eligible beneficiaries are also located in communities that show
significant community support for the proposal. The applicant must show
how it is to provide matching funds equal to at least 25 percent of the
total project costs. The applicant must provide the address of the
Internet Web presence linked to the USDA Rural Development Web site or
demonstrate how such a link will be developed.
(f) 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 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,
educational attainment, etc.) for the project area that substantiates
the need for the initiative. Specify whether the target area includes a
Federally designated Empowerment Zone/Enterprise Community, Champion
Community, Federally-recognized Indian Reservation, or other Federally
declared economic disaster area. An applicant must address the
``Economic Need of Community'' evaluation criterion as described 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 as
described 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) Project Outcomes/Impacts: Describe and quantify the expected
outcomes/impacts of the proposed project, including the businesses
created, professionals trained, jobs created or assisted, conferences
and seminars to be conducted, and the expected 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 proposed USDA
Rural Development responsibilities for assisting and monitoring project
tasks;
(4) Budget Narrative: Provide a detailed budget justification,
showing both Federal and applicant's matching funds, including in-kind
contributions. Provide a budget to support the workplan, showing all
sources and uses of funds during the project period. Detail and
document both cash and in-kind funding 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 on a pro rata basis with
Federal funds. 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 Federal, State, private, and 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, communities, applicants,
and Rural Development. Describe plans for the management of the project
to ensure its proper and efficient administration. Discuss any steering
committees and/or Agreements developed to assist with managing the
project. Describe the proposed 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 as described in Section VII. 1.(f).
(9) Key Personnel Support: The roles and responsibilities of key
personnel used to carry out the goals and objectives of the proposal
should be clearly described. An abbreviated curriculum vitae should be
provided for all key personnel.
(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
[[Page 32613]]
outreach and development accomplishments, including success stories
from previous years for projects funded by USDA Rural Development or
similar outreach or development experiences. First-time applicants
should discuss previous similar outreach accomplishments. Address the
``Previous Accomplishments'' evaluation criterion as described 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 input
to the proposal or other involvement. Identify and discuss tangible
support contained in the letters. Evaluation points will be based on
the quality (tanagible support) of the letters, not quantity.
(13) Additional information: Provide any additional information
that demonstrates commitment for tangible resources and/or that
supports the proposal. Additionally, the applicant is 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 (EO) 12372 does not apply to this program.
VI. Funding Restrictions
Public Law 109-97, Sec. 708, states ``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.'' Indirect costs in excess of 10 percent of the direct cost,
therefore, will be ineligible for funding. Cooperative agreement funds
may not be used to:
1. Plan, repair, rehabilitate, acquire, or construct a building or
facility including a processing facility;
2. To purchase, rent or install fixed equipment;
3. Repair or maintain privately owned vehicles;
4. Pay for the preparation of the application;
5. Fund political activities;
6. Pay costs incurred prior to receiving this agreement; or
7. Fund any activities prohibited in 7 CFR parts 3015 and 3019, as
applicable.
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, and
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 nonprofit 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 in support of
this project. Evidence of matching funds availability must be provided.
Funds or equivalent in-kind funding 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): Federally designated Empowerment Zones, Enterprise
Communities, Champion Communities, Federally-recognized Indian
Reservations, and other Federally declared economically 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 10 additional points may be awarded based upon
the applicant's ability to identify and demonstrate other economic
factors that would cause these communities to be targeted for special
economic and community development, such as, but not limited to,
unemployment rates, poverty rates, education levels, and job
availability. These and other factors will be evaluated and compared to
the respective State rates. 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. Satisfactorily completing the cooperative agreement includes,
completing all objectives in the workplan, submitting all required
program and financial reports in a timely manner, and within budget for
the project. 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 other
projects with cooperative and business development and outreach
objectives. The applicant
[[Page 32614]]
should discuss the potential impact of the 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 to applicants
who demonstrate that the project's technical assistance resulted in the
creation of a business(s) in an economically challenged community or
that its educational programs 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 35 points): This criterion evaluates
the degree to which the proposed project addresses the major purposes
for the 1890 REOD Initiative. Points will be awarded according to the
degree to which the Statement of Work reflects: (1) Innovative
strategies for providing technical assistance for business creation in
economically challenged rural communities, (2) educational programs
that develop and improve the professional skills of rural
entrepreneurs, and (3) outreach and promotion of USDA Rural Development
programs.
Up to a maximum of 15 points will be awarded to proposed projects
that have a clearly and concisely stated workplan 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 10 additional points will be awarded to proposed
projects that have a clearly and concisely stated workplan detailing
goals and objectives, timetables, expected results, and measurable
outcomes for educational programs to develop and improve 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 10 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 10 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
disproportionately low. The Web site should be operational with a link
to the USDA Rural Development Web site and populated with success
stories and economic development information.
(g) Coordination and Management of the Project (Up to 10 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 a broad and collaborative
involvement with the 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 input in and review of the applicant's
proposal, (2) a detailed plan for the USDA Rural Development 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.
Up to a maximum of 5 additional points will be awarded based upon
applicant's demonstrated ability for overall management of the project,
which include submitting timely program and financial reports, and
completing workplan goals/objectives as stated in the proposal.
Applicants must document in the proposal that all required reports have
been submitted.
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 set forth in Section III. All
applicants determined 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 three expert reviewers. The individual scores for
each application will be tallied, and applications receiving the
highest scores will be recommended to the Administrator or Acting
Administrator, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, for award. The
Administrator or Acting 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 selected 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 the 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.
3. Project Reviews
USDA Rural Development State Office representatives will conduct
semiannual 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
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Offices. The report should also include a summary at the end of the
report with the following elements to assist in documenting the annual
performance measures of the 1890 program:
(a) Number of businesses/cooperatives started/expanded in the
targeted areas;
(b) Number of currently active businesses/cooperatives in the
targeted areas that were assisted;
(c) Number of individuals/businesses/cooperatives/organizations
assisted (training, technical assistance, feasibility studies, etc.);
and
(d) Number of individuals/businesses/cooperatives/organizations
assisted with USDA Rural Development loan or grant programs or other
similar programs.
Quarterly reports must be submitted on or prior to January 31,
April 30, July 31, and October 31, 2008. 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 current award
and/or result in making your institution ineligible for future awards
from this program.
Upon the request of USDA Rural Development, the award recipient
will submit manuscripts, videotapes, software, or other media
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 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 contribution in
support of the project, at least to the level agreed to in the accepted
proposal.
(f) Participating in the annual or biannual USDA Rural Development
Entrepreneurship and Information conferences/workshops when planned.
(g) Developing a program of cooperative and business startup and
technical assistance, in cooperation with local businesses, that will
assist with new company development, business planning, new enterprise,
franchise startup and consulting, business expansion studies, marketing
analysis, cash flow management, and seminars and workshops for
cooperatives and small businesses.
(h) Providing office space, equipment, and supplies for all
personnel assigned to the project.
(i) Developing management and technical assistance plans in
cooperation with the 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) Provide technical assistance and training, in cooperation with
the USDA Rural Development State Office, for customer relations,
product development, and business planning and development.
(j) Assess 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.
(k) Provide community leaders with advice and recommendations, in
cooperation with the USDA Rural Development State Office, regarding
best practices in community economic development stimulus programs for
their communities.
(l) Develop digital technology outreach and establish and maintain
an Internet Web site to link community leaders and residents to
available economic development information. USDA Rural Development must
be included in the link to economic development information.
(m) Assure and certify 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.
(n) Use 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.
(o) Not commingle or use program funds for administrative expenses
to operate an intermediary relending program (IRP).
(p) Submit to USDA Rural Development National Office, in writing,
any request for revising the project work plan, including key personnel
changes, budget reallocations, or requesting a no-cost extension
amending the cooperative agreement.
(q) Assist the USDA Rural Development State Office in conducting a
semiannual on-site review of the recipient's project.
(r) Collaborate, 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 the Agency to fulfill its responsibilities in the
agreement.
(s) Sign an Agency approved Cooperative Agreement.
USDA Rural Development is responsible for:
(a) 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.
(b) Terminating activity, after written notice, if tasks are not
met.
(c) Reviewing and approving changes to key personnel.
(d) Providing technical assistance as needed.
(e) Approving the final plans for any community business workshops;
cooperative, business, and economic development sessions; and training
workshops to be conducted by the recipient.
(f) Providing reference assistance, as needed, to the recipient for
technical assistance given on a one-on-one basis to entrepreneurs and
startup businesses.
(g) Reviewing and commenting on strategic plans developed by
recipients for targeted areas.
(h) Reviewing economic assessments made by the recipient for
targeted counties, enabling USDA Rural Development to determine the
extent to which its programs are beneficial.
(i) Carefully screening projects to prevent First Amendment
violations.
(j) Monitoring the program to ensure that a Web site link to USDA
Rural Development is established and maintained.
(k) Ensuring that USDA Rural Development State Offices conduct
semiannual on-site reviews and submit written reports to the National
Office.
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(l) Participating in 1890 outreach and development program
workshops, seminars, and conferences as needed.
(m) Providing any other work agreed to by USDA Rural Development in
the Cooperative Agreement.
IX. Agency Contact
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Edgar L. Lewis, Program Manager, USDA
Rural Development, Cooperative Programs, Stop 3252, Room 4204, 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: June 7, 2007.
Jackie J. Gleason,
Administrator, Rural Business-Cooperative Service.
[FR Doc. E7-11408 Filed 6-12-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-XY-P