[Federal Register: April 18, 2007 (Volume 72, Number 74)]
[Notices]
[Page 19462-19468]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr18ap07-22]
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Business-Cooperative Service
Announcement of Rural Cooperative Development Grant Application
Deadlines and Funding Levels
AGENCY: Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA.
ACTION: Notice of solicitation of applications.
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SUMMARY: Rural Business-Cooperative Service programs are administered
through USDA Rural Development. USDA Rural Development announces the
availability of approximately $3.5 million in competitive grant funds
for the fiscal year (FY) 2007 Rural Cooperative Development Grant
(RCDG) Program. The intended effect of this notice is to solicit
applications for FY 2007 and award grants on or before September 14,
2007. The maximum award per grant is $200,000 and matching funds are
required.
DATES: Applications for grants must 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 June 8, 2007, to be eligible for FY 2007 grant
funding. Late applications are not eligible for FY 2007 grant funding.
Electronic copies must be received by June 8, 2007, to be eligible
for FY 2007 grant funding. Late applications are not eligible for FY
2007 grant funding.
ADDRESSES: Application materials for a RCDG may be obtained at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/rcdg/rcdg.htm
or by contacting the
applicant's USDA Rural Development State Office at (202) 720-4323 and
pressing ``1''.
Submit completed paper applications for a grant to Cooperative
Programs, Attn: RCDG Program, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Mail Stop
3250, Room 4016-South, Washington, DC 20250-3250. The phone number that
should be used for courier delivery is (202) 720-7558.
Submit electronic grant applications at http://www.grants.gov,
following the instructions found on this Web site.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Visit the program Web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/rcdg/rcdg.htm
for application assistance
or contact your USDA Rural Development State Office at (202) 720-4323
and press ``1'', or select the Contacts link at the above Web site.
Applicants are encouraged to contact their State Offices well in
advance of the deadline to discuss their projects and ask any questions
about the application process.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Overview
Federal Agency: Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS).
Funding Opportunity Title: Rural Cooperative Development Grant.
Announcement Type: Initial announcement.
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number: 10.771.
Dates: Application Deadline: Completed applications for grants 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 June 8, 2007, to be eligible for FY 2007 grant
funding. Late applications are not eligible for FY 2007 grant funding.
Electronic copies must be received by June 8, 2007, to be eligible
for FY 2007 grant funding. Late applications are not eligible for FY
2007 grant funding.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
RCDGs are authorized by section 310B(e) of the Consolidated Farm
and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1932(e)). Regulations are contained
in 7 CFR part 4284, subparts A and F. The primary objective of the RCDG
program is to improve the economic condition of rural areas through
cooperative development. Grant funds are provided for the establishment
and operation of Centers that have the expertise or who can contract
out for the expertise to assist individuals or entities in the startup,
expansion or operational improvement of cooperative businesses. The
program is administered through USDA Rural Development State Offices.
Definitions
The definitions published at 7 CFR 4284.3 and 4284.504 are
incorporated by reference.
II. Award Information
Type of Award: Grant.
Fiscal Year Funds: FY 2007.
Approximate Total Funding: $3.5 million.
Approximate Number of Awards: 18.
Approximate Average Award: $200,000.
Floor of Award Range: None.
Ceiling of Award Range: $200,000.
Anticipated Award Date: September 14, 2007.
Budget Period Length: 12 months.
Project Period Length: 12 months.
III. Eligibility Information
A. Eligible Applicants
Grants may be made to nonprofit corporations and institutions of
higher education. Grants may not be made to public bodies.
B. Cost Sharing or Matching
Matching funds are required. Applicants must verify in their
applications that all matching funds are available for the time period
of the grant. The matching fund requirement is 25 percent of the total
project cost (5 percent in the case of 1994 Institutions). Unless
provided by other authorizing legislation, other Federal grant funds
cannot be used as matching funds. However, matching funds may include
loan proceeds from Federal sources. Matching funds must be spent in
advance or as a pro-rata portion of grant funds being expended. All of
the matching funds must be provided by either the applicant or a third
party in the form of cash or in-kind contributions. All of the matching
funds must be spent on eligible expenses and must be from eligible
sources. The Center must be able to document and verify the number of
hours worked and the value associated with the in-kind contribution.
Additionally, if the in-kind contributions are from board members for
their time, travel, incidentals, etc., the Center must have established
written policies explaining how these costs are normally reimbursed,
including rates. Otherwise, the in-kind contributions will not be
considered eligible expenses and may cause the application to be
determined ineligible for funding. In-kind contributions provided by
individuals, businesses, or cooperatives who are being assisted by the
Center can not be
[[Page 19463]]
provided for the benefit of their own projects as USDA Rural
Development considers this to be a conflict of interest or the
appearance of a conflict of interest.
C. Other Eligibility Requirements
Grant Period Eligibility: Applications should have a timeframe of
no more than 365 days with the time period beginning no earlier than
October 1, 2007 and no later than January 1, 2008. Projects must be
completed within the 1-year timeframe. The Agency will not approve
requests to extend the grant period.
Completeness Eligibility: Applications without sufficient
information to determine eligibility and scoring will be considered
ineligible. Applications that are non-responsive to this notice will be
considered ineligible.
Activity Eligibility: Applications must propose the development or
continuation of the cooperative development center concept or they will
not be considered for funding. Additionally, applications that focus
assistance to only one cooperative will not be considered for funding.
Applications requesting more than the maximum grant amount will not be
considered for funding. Applications that have ineligible costs that
equal more than 10 percent of the total project costs will be
determined ineligible, and not be considered for funding. If an
application has ineligible costs of 10 percent or less of total project
costs and is selected for funding, the applicant must remove all
ineligible costs from the budget and replace them with eligible
activities or the amount of the grant award will be reduced
accordingly.
IV. Application and Submission Information
A. Address To Request Application Package
The application package for applying on paper for this funding
opportunity can be obtained at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/rcdg/rcdg.htm.
Alternatively, applicants may contact their USDA Rural
Development State Office at (202) 720-4323 and press ``1''. For
electronic applications, applicants must visit http://www.grants.gov
and follow the instructions.
B. Content and Form of Submission
Applications must be submitted on paper or electronically. An
application guide may be viewed at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/rcdg/rcdg.htm.
It is recommended that applicants use the template
provided on the Web site. The template can be filled out electronically
and printed out for submission with the required forms for paper
submission or it can be filled out electronically and submitted as an
attachment through http://www.grants.gov.
If an application is submitted on paper, one signed original of the
complete application must be submitted in the following format:
Font size: 12 point unreduced.
Paper size: 8.5 by 11 inches.
Page margin size: 1 inch on the top, bottom, left, and
right.
Printed on only one side of each page.
Held together only by rubber bands or metal or plastic
clips; not bound in any other way.
Language: English, avoid jargon.
The submission must include all pages of the application. It is
recommended that the application be in black and white, not color.
Those evaluating the application will only receive black and white
images.
If the application is submitted electronically, the applicant must
follow the instructions given 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 they have obtained the
proper authentication and have sufficient computer resources to
complete the application.
Applicants must complete and submit the following elements. The
Agency will screen all applications for eligibility and to determine
whether the application is complete and sufficiently responsive to the
requirements set forth in this notice to allow for an informed review.
Information submitted as part of the application will be protected to
the extent permitted by law.
1. Form SF-424, ``Application for Federal Assistance.'' The form
must be completed, signed and submitted as part of the application
package.
Please note that applicants are required to have a DUNS number to
apply for a grant from USDA Rural Development. The DUNS number is a
nine-digit identification number, which uniquely identifies business
entities. There is no charge. To obtain a DUNS number, access http://www.dnb.com/us/
or call 866-705-5711. For more information, see the
RCDG Web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/rcdg/rcdg.htm or
contact the applicant's USDA Rural Development State Office at (202)
720-4323 and press ``1''.
2. Form SF-424A, ``Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs.''
This form must be completed and submitted as part of the
application package.
3. Form SF-424B, ``Assurances--Non-Construction Programs.'' This
form must be completed, signed, and submitted as part of the
application package.
4. Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants. The Agency
is required to make this survey available to all nonprofit applicants.
Submitting this form is voluntary.
5. Title Page. The Title Page, not to exceed one page, should
include the title of the project as well as any other relevant
identifying information.
6. Table of Contents. For ease of locating information, each
proposal must contain a detailed Table of Contents (TOC) immediately
following the Title Page. The TOC should include page numbers for each
component of the application.
7. Executive Summary. A summary of the proposal, not to exceed two
pages, must briefly describe the Center, including project goals and
tasks to be accomplished, the amount requested, how the work will be
performed (e.g., Center staff, consultants, or contractors) and the
percentage of work that will be performed among the parties.
8. Eligibility. The applicant must describe, not to exceed two
pages, how it meets the applicant, matching, grant period and activity
eligibility requirements.
9. Proposal Narrative. The proposal narrative is limited to a total
of 40 pages.
i. Project Title. The title of the proposed project must be brief,
not to exceed 75 characters, yet describe the essentials of the
project. If a title page was included under number 5 above, it is not
necessary to include an additional title page under this section.
ii. Information Sheet. A separate one-page information sheet
listing each of the evaluation criteria referenced in the RFP, followed
by the page numbers of all relevant material and documentation
contained in the proposal that address or support the criteria. If the
evaluation criteria are listed on the Table of Contents and
specifically and individually addressed in narrative form, then it is
not necessary to include an information sheet under this section.
iii. Goals of the Project. The applicant must include the following
statements in this section of the narrative to demonstrate that the
Center is following these statutory requirements:
1. A statement that substantiates that the Center will effectively
serve rural areas in the United States;
2. A statement that the primary objective of the Center will be to
[[Page 19464]]
improve the economic condition of rural areas through cooperative
development;
3. A description of the contributions that the proposed activities
are likely to make to the improvement of the economic conditions of the
rural areas for which the Center will provide services; and
4. A statement that the Center, in carrying out its activities,
will seek, where appropriate, the advice, participation, expertise, and
assistance of representatives of business, industry, educational
institutions, the Federal government, and State and local governments.
iv. Work Plan. Please see section V. A. 8. for specific
requirements on the work plan and budget. The work plan and budget
should be presented under proposal evaluation criterion number 8. It is
not necessary to include the work plan and budget under this section.
v. Performance Evaluation Criteria. The Agency has established
annual performance measures to evaluate the RCDG program. Applicants
must provide estimates on the following performance measures.
Number of groups who are not legal entities assisted.
Number of businesses that are not cooperatives assisted.
Number of cooperatives assisted.
Number of businesses incorporated that are not
cooperatives.
Number of cooperatives incorporated.
Total number of jobs created as a result of assistance.
Total number of jobs saved as a result of assistance.
Number of jobs created for the Center as a result of RCDG
funding.
Number of jobs saved for the Center as a result of RCDG
funding.
It is permissible to have a zero in a performance element. When
calculating jobs created, estimates should be based upon actual jobs to
be created by the Center as a result of the RCDG funding or actual jobs
to be created by businesses or cooperatives as a result of assistance
from the Center. When calculating jobs saved, estimates should be based
only on actual jobs that would have been lost if the Center did not
receive RCDG funding or actual jobs that would have been lost without
assistance from the Center. If the application is selected for funding,
the applicant will be required to report actual numbers for these
performance elements on a semi-annual basis and in the final
performance report. Additional information on post-award requirements
can be found in Section VI. Applicants may also suggest additional
performance criteria in the event the proposal receives grant funding.
The criteria are not binding on USDA, but should be specific,
measurable performance criteria. The inclusion of additional
performance criteria beyond the nine listed above is voluntary.
vi. Undertakings. The applicant must include the following
statements in this section of the narrative and expressly undertake to
do them.
1. Take all practicable steps to develop continuing sources of
financial support for the Center, particularly from sources in the
private sectors;
2. Make arrangements for the Center's activities to be monitored
and evaluated; and
3. Provide an accounting for the money received by the grantee in
accordance with 7 CFR part 4284, subpart F.
vii. Delivery of Cooperative development assistance. Please see
section V. A. 7. for specific requirements on delivery of cooperative
development assistance. Delivery should be presented under proposal
evaluation criterion number 7. It is not necessary to include
discussion on delivery of cooperative development assistance under this
section.
viii. Qualifications of Personnel. Please see section V. A. 9. for
specific requirements on qualifications of personnel. Qualifications of
personnel should be presented under proposal evaluation criterion
number 9. It is not necessary to include discussion on qualifications
of personnel under this section.
ix. Support and commitments. Please see section V. A. 10. for
specific requirements on support and commitments. Support and
commitments should be presented under proposal evaluation criterion
number 10. It is not necessary to include discussion on support and
commitments under this section.
x. Future Support. Please see section V. A. 11. for specific
requirements on future support. Future support should be presented
under proposal evaluation criterion number 11. It is not necessary to
include discussion on future support under this section.
xi. Proposal Evaluation Criteria. Each of the evaluation criteria
referenced in this funding announcement must be specifically and
individually addressed in narrative form. Applications that do not
address all of the proposal evaluation criteria will be considered
ineligible. See Section V. A. for a description of the Proposal
Evaluation Criteria.
10. Certification of Judgment Owed to the United States. Applicants
must certify that the United States has not obtained a judgment against
them. No grant funds shall be used to pay a judgment obtained by the
United States. It is suggested that applicants use the following
language for the certification. ``[INSERT NAME OF APPLICANT] certifies
that the United States has not obtained a judgment against it.'' A
separate signature is not required.
11. Certification of Matching Funds. Applicants must certify that
matching funds will be available at the same time grant funds are
anticipated to be spent and that matching funds will be spent in
advance of grant funding, such that for every dollar of the total
project cost, not less than the required amount of matching funds will
have been expended prior to submitting the request for reimbursement.
Please note that this certification is a separate requirement from the
Verification of Matching Funds requirement. Applicants should include a
statement for this section that reads as follows: ``[INSERT NAME OF
APPLICANT] certifies that matching funds will be available at the same
time grant funds are anticipated to be spent and that matching funds
will be spent in advance of grant funding, such that for every dollar
of the total project cost, at least 25 cents (5 cents for 1994
Institutions) of matching funds will have been expended prior to
submitting the request for reimbursement.'' A separate signature is not
required.
12. Verification of Matching Funds. Applicants must provide
documentation of all proposed matching funds, both cash and in-kind.
The documentation must be included in Appendix A and will not count
towards the 40-page limitation.
If matching funds are to be provided by the applicant in cash,
there must be a statement that cash will be available, the amount of
the cash, and the source of the cash. Applicants should note that only
goods or services for which no expenditure is made can be considered
in-kind. If the applicant is paying for goods and services as part of
the matching funds contribution, the expenditure is considered a cash
match, and should be verified as such. If the matching funds are to be
provided by a third party in cash, the application must include a
signed letter from that third party verifying how much cash will be
donated and when it will be donated. Verification for funds donated
outside the proposed time period of the grant will not be accepted.
If the matching funds are to be provided by a third party in-kind
donation, the application must include a signed letter from the third
party
[[Page 19465]]
verifying the goods or services to be donated, when the goods and
services will be donated, and the value of the goods or services.
Verification for in-kind contributions donated outside the proposed
time period of the grant will not be accepted. Verification for in-kind
contributions that are over-valued will not be accepted. The valuation
process for in-kind funds does not need to be included in the
application. However, the applicant must be able to demonstrate how the
valuation was derived at the time of notification of tentative
selection for the grant award. If the applicant cannot satisfactorily
demonstrate how the valuation was determined, the grant award may be
withdrawn or the amount of the grant may be reduced.
If matching funds are in cash, they must be spent on goods and
services that are eligible expenditures for this grant program. If
matching funds are in-kind contributions, the donated goods or services
must be considered eligible expenditures for this grant program as well
as be used for eligible purposes. The matching funds must be spent or
donated during the grant period and the funds must be expended in
advance or as a pro-rata portion of grant funds being expended.
Examples of unacceptable matching funds are in-kind contributions from
individuals, businesses, or cooperatives being assisted by the Center
to benefit their own project, donations of fixed equipment and
buildings, and the preparation of the RCDG application package.
Expected program income may not be used to fulfill the matching
funds requirement at the time of application. If program income is
earned during the time period of the grant, it is subject to the
requirements of 7 CFR part 3015, subpart F and 7 CFR part 3019.24 and
any provisions in the Grant Agreement.
C. Submission Dates and Times
Application Deadline Date: June 8, 2007
Explanation of Deadlines: Paper applications must be postmarked by
the deadline date (see Section IV.F for the address). Electronic
applications must be received by http://www.grants.gov by the deadline
date. If the application does not meet the deadline above, it will not
be considered for funding. The applicant will be notified if the
application does not meet the submission requirements. The applicant
will also be notified by mail or by e-mail if the application is
received on time.
D. Intergovernmental Review of Applications
Executive Order 12372, Intergovernmental review of Federal
programs, applies to this program. This EO requires that Federal
agencies provide opportunities for consultation on proposed assistance
with State and local governments. Many states have established a Single
Point of Contact (SPOC) to facilitate this consultation. For a list of
states that maintain an SPOC, please see the White House Web site:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html. If an applicant's state
has an SPOC, the applicant may submit a copy the application directly
for review. Any comments obtained through the SPOC must be provided to
USDA Rural Development for consideration as part of the application. If
the applicant's state has not established an SPOC, or the applicant
does not want to submit a copy of the application, USDA Rural
Development will submit the application to the SPOC or other
appropriate agency or agencies.
Applicants are also encouraged to contact the USDA Rural
Development State Office for assistance and questions on this process.
The USDA Rural Development State Office can be reached at (202) 720-
4323 and selecting option ``1'' or by viewing the following Web site:
http://www.rurdev.usda/.
E. Funding Restrictions
Funding restrictions apply to both grant funds and matching funds.
Grant funds may be used to pay up to 75 percent (95 percent where the
grantee is a 1994 Institution) of the total project cost.
1. Grant funds and matching funds may be used for, but are not
limited to, providing the following to individuals, cooperatives, small
businesses and other similar entities in rural areas served by the
Center:
i. Applied research, feasibility, environmental and other studies
that may be useful for the purpose of cooperative development.
ii. Collection, interpretation and dissemination of principles,
facts, technical knowledge, or other information for the purpose of
cooperative development.
iii. Training and instruction for the purpose of cooperative
development.
iv. Loans and grants for the purpose of cooperative development in
accordance with this notice and applicable regulations.
v. Technical assistance, research services and advisory services
for the purpose of cooperative development.
2. No funds made available under this solicitation shall be used
for any of the following activities:
i. To duplicate current services or replace or substitute support
previously provided. If the current service is inadequate, however,
grant funds may be used to expand the level of effort or services
beyond that which is currently being provided;
ii. To pay costs of preparing the application package for funding
under this program;
iii. To pay costs of the project incurred prior to the date of
grant approval;
iv. To fund political activities;
v. To pay for assistance to any private business enterprise that
does not have at least 51 percent ownership by those who are either
citizens of the United States or reside in the United States after
being legally admitted for permanent residence;
vi. To pay any judgment or debt owed to the United States;
vii. To plan, repair, rehabilitate, acquire, or construct a
building or facility, including a processing facility;
viii. To purchase, rent, or install fixed equipment, including
laboratory equipment or processing machinery;
ix. To pay for the repair of privately owned vehicles;
x. To fund research and development;
xi. To pay costs of the project where a conflict of interest
exists; or
xii. To fund any activities prohibited by 7 CFR parts 3015 or 3019.
F. Other Submission Requirements
A paper application for a grant must be submitted to Cooperative
Programs, Attn: RCDG Program, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Mail Stop
3250, Room 4016-South, Washington, DC 20250-3250. The phone number that
should be used for courier delivery is (202) 720-7558. Electronically
submitted applications must apply using the following internet address:
http://www.grants.gov. Applications may not be submitted by electronic
mail, facsimile, or by hand-delivery. Each application submission must
contain all required documents in one envelope, if by mail or courier
delivery service.
V. Application Review Information
A. Proposal Evaluation Criteria
All eligible and complete applications will be evaluated based on
the following criteria. Evaluators will base scores only on the
information provided or cross-referenced in each individual evaluation
criterion. The maximum amount of points available is 65.
[[Page 19466]]
1. Administrative capabilities. (0-7 points) The application will
be evaluated to determine whether the subject Center has a track record
of administering a Nationally-coordinated, regional or State-wide
operated project. Centers that have capable financial systems and audit
controls, personnel and program administration performance measures and
clear rules of governance will receive more points than those not
evidencing this capacity. Points will be awarded as follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
weakness in all areas of the criterion.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that they meet part, but not all, of the criterion.
5-6 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong.
7 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that the Center has a track record of administering project(s) and
their financial systems and audit controls, personnel and program
administration performance measures and clear rules of governance are
outstanding and could not be improved.
2. Technical assistance and other services. (0-7 points) The Agency
will evaluate the applicant's demonstrated expertise in providing
technical assistance in rural areas. Points will be awarded as follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
weakness in providing technical assistance in rural areas.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that their expertise in providing technical assistance in rural areas
is adequate.
5-6 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that their expertise in providing technical assistance in rural areas
is above average.
7 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that their expertise in providing technical assistance in rural areas
is outstanding and could not be improved.
3. Economic development. (0-7 points) The Agency will evaluate the
applicant's demonstrated ability to assist in the retention of
businesses, facilitate the establishment of cooperatives and new
cooperative approaches and generate employment opportunities that will
improve the economic conditions of rural areas. Points will be awarded
as follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
weakness in all areas of the criterion.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that they meet part, but not all, of the criterion.
5-6 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong.
7 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
outstanding ability to assist in improvements to the economic
conditions of rural areas.
4. Linkages. (0-7 points) The Agency will evaluate the applicant's
demonstrated ability to create horizontal linkages among businesses
within and among various sectors in rural areas of the United States
and vertical linkages to domestic and international markets. Points
will be awarded as follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
weakness in all areas of the criterion.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that they meet part, but not all, of the criterion.
5-6 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong.
7 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
outstanding ability to create horizontal and vertical linkages.
5. Commitment. (0-7 points) The Agency will evaluate the
applicant's commitment to providing technical assistance and other
services to underserved and economically distressed areas in rural
areas of the United States. Points will be awarded as follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
weakness in all areas of the criterion.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that they meet part, but not all, of the criterion.
5-6 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong.
7 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
outstanding commitment to underserved and economically distressed areas
in rural areas.
6. Matching Funds. (3 or 5 points) All applicants must demonstrate
matching funds equal to at least 25 percent (5 percent for 1994
Institutions) of total project costs. Applications exceeding these
minimum commitment levels will receive more points. If the applicant
provides eligible matching funds of 26 to 50 percent, 3 points will be
awarded; or greater than 50 percent, 5 points will be awarded. If the
applicant is a 1994 Institution and provides eligible matching funds of
6 to 20 percent, 3 points will be awarded; or greater than 20 percent,
5 points will be awarded.
7. Delivery. (0-5 points) The Agency will evaluate whether the
Center has a track record of providing technical assistance in rural
areas and accomplishing effective outcomes in cooperative development.
The Center's potential for delivering effective cooperative development
assistance, the expected effects of that assistance, the sustainability
of cooperative organizations receiving the assistance, and the
transferability of the Center's cooperative development strategy and
focus to other States will also be assessed. Points will be awarded as
follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that they meet part, but not all, of the criterion.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong.
5 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are outstanding and could not be
improved.
8. Work Plan/Budget. (0-5 points) The work plan will be reviewed
for detailed actions and an accompanying timetable for implementing the
proposal. Clear, logical, realistic and efficient plans will result in
a higher score. Budgets will be reviewed for completeness and the
quality of non-Federal funding commitments. Applicants must discuss the
specific tasks (whether it be by type of service or specific project)
to be completed using grant and matching funds. The work plan should
show how customers will be identified, key personnel to be involved,
and the evaluation methods to be used to determine the success of
specific tasks and overall objectives of Center operations. The budget
must present a breakdown of the estimated costs associated with
cooperative development activities as well as the operation of the
Center and allocate these costs to each of the tasks to be undertaken.
Matching funds as well as grant funds must be accounted for in the
[[Page 19467]]
budget. Points will be awarded as follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that they meet part, but not all, of the criterion.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong.
5 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are outstanding and could not be
improved.
9. Qualifications of those Performing the Tasks. (0-5 points) The
application will be evaluated to determine if the personnel expected to
perform key center tasks have a track record of positive solutions for
complex cooperative development or marketing problems, or a successful
record of conducting accurate feasibility studies, business plans,
marketing analysis, or other activities relevant to Cooperative
development center success. The applicant must also identify whether
the personnel expected to perform tasks are full/part-time Center
employees or contract personnel. Points will be awarded as follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that they meet part, but not all, of the criterion.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong.
5 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are outstanding and could not be
improved.
10. Local support. (0-5 points) Applications will be reviewed for
previous and expected local support for the Center, plans for
coordinating with other developmental organizations in the proposed
service area, and coordination with State and local institutions.
Support documentation should include recognition of rural values that
balance employment opportunities with environmental stewardship and
other positive rural amenities. Centers that demonstrate strong support
from potential beneficiaries and formal evidence of the Center's intent
to coordinate with other developmental organizations will receive more
points than those not evidencing such support and formal intent.
Support should be discussed directly within the response to this
criterion. The applicant may submit a maximum of 10 letters of support
or intent to coordinate with the application. These letters should be
included in Appendix B of the application and will not count against
the 40-page limit for the narrative. Points will be awarded as follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that they meet part, but not all, of the criterion.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong.
5 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong and the support from
potential beneficiaries and formal evidence of the Center's intent to
coordinate with other developmental organizations are outstanding and
could not be improved.
11. Future support. (0-5 points) Applicants should describe their
vision for Center operations in future years, including issues such as
sources and uses of alternative funding; reliance on Federal, State,
and local grants; and the use of in-house personnel for providing
services versus contracting out for that expertise. To the extent
possible, applicants should document future funding sources that will
help achieve long-term sustainability of the Center. Applications that
demonstrate their vision for funding center operations for future
years, including diversification of funding sources and building in-
house technical assistance capacity, will receive more points for this
criterion. Points will be awarded as follows:
0 points will be awarded if the applicant does not
substantively address the criterion.
1-2 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that they meet part, but not all, of the criterion.
3-4 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong.
5 points will be awarded if the applicant demonstrates
that all areas of the criterion are strong and their diversification of
funding sources and ability to build in-house technical assistance
capacity are outstanding and could not be improved.
B. Review and Selection Process
The Agency will screen all of the proposals to determine whether
the application is eligible and sufficiently responsive to the
requirements set forth in this notice to allow for an informed review.
The Agency will evaluate applications using a panel of qualified
reviewers who will score the applications in accordance with the point
allocation specified in this notice. Applications will be submitted to
the Administrator in rank order, together with funding level
recommendations.
C. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates
Award Date: The announcement of award selections is expected to
occur on or about September 14, 2007.
VI. Award Administration Information
A. Award Notices
Successful applicants will receive a notification of tentative
selection for funding from USDA Rural Development. Applicants must
comply with all applicable statutes and regulations before the grant
award will be approved. Unsuccessful applicants will receive
notification by mail.
B. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
7 CFR parts 3015, 3019, and 4284. To view these regulations, please
see the following Internet address: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/cfr-table-search.html
.
The following additional requirements apply to grantees selected
for this program:
Grant Agreement.
Letter of Conditions.
Form RD 1940-1, ``Request for Obligation of Funds.''
Form RD 1942-46, ``Letter of Intent to Meet Conditions.''
Form AD-1047, ``Certification Regarding Debarment,
Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters--Primary Covered
Transactions.''
Form AD-1048, ``Certification Regarding Debarment,
Suspension, Ineligibility and Voluntary Exclusion--Lower Tier Covered
Transactions.''
Form AD-1049, ``Certification Regarding Drug-Free
Workplace Requirements (Grants).''
Form RD 400-4, ``Assurance Agreement.''
RD Instruction 1940-Q, Exhibit A-1, ``Certification for
Contracts, Grants and Loans.''
Form RD 2006-38, ``Civil Rights Impact Analysis.'' Prior
to approval of all grants, a Civil Rights Impact Analysis will be
conducted.
Additional information on these requirements can be found at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/rcdg/rcdg.htm
.
Reporting Requirements: Grantees must provide USDA Rural
Development with an original or electronic copy that includes all
required signatures of the following reports. The reports should be
submitted to the Agency contact listed
[[Page 19468]]
on the Grant Agreement and Letter of Conditions. Failure to submit
satisfactory reports on time may result in suspension or termination of
the grant.
1. Form SF-269 or SF-269A. A ``Financial Status Report'' listing
expenditures according to agreed upon budget categories, on a semi-
annual basis. Reporting periods end each March 31 and September 30.
Reports are due 30 days after the reporting period ends.
2. Semi-annual performance reports that compare accomplishments to
the objectives stated in the proposal. Identify all tasks completed to
date and provide documentation supporting the reported results. If the
original schedule provided in the work plan is not being met, the
report should discuss the problems or delays that may affect completion
of the project. Objectives for the next reporting period should be
listed. Compliance with any special conditions on the use of award
funds should be discussed. The report should also include a summary at
the end of the report with the following elements to assist in
documenting the annual performance goals of the RCDG program for
Congress.
Number of groups who are not legal entities assisted.
Number of businesses that are not cooperatives assisted.
Number of cooperatives assisted.
Number of businesses incorporated that are not
cooperatives.
Number of cooperatives incorporated.
Total number of jobs created as a result of assistance.
Total number of jobs saved as a result of assistance.
Number of jobs created for the Center as a result of RCDG
funding.
Number of jobs saved for the Center as a result of RCDG
funding.
Reports are due as provided in paragraph 1 of this section.
Supporting documentation must also be submitted for completed tasks.
The supporting documentation for completed tasks includes, but is not
limited to: feasibility studies, marketing plans, business plans,
publication quality success stories, applied research reports, copies
of surveys conducted, articles of incorporation and bylaws and an
accounting of how outreach, training, and other funds were expended.
3. Final project performance reports. These reports shall include
all of the requirements of the semi-annual performance reports and
responses to the following:
i. What have been the most challenging or unexpected aspects of
this program?
ii. What advice would the Grantee give to other organizations
planning a similar program? These should include strengths and
limitations of the program. If the Grantee had the opportunity, what
would they have done differently?
iii. If an innovative approach was used successfully, the Grantee
should describe their program in detail so that other organizations
might consider replication in their areas.
The final performance report is due within 90 days of the
completion of the project.
VII. Agency Contacts
For general questions about this announcement and for program
technical assistance, applicants should contact their USDA Rural
Development State Office at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/rcdg/Contacts.htm.
The State Office can be reached by calling (202) 720-4323
and pressing ``1''. If an applicant is unable to contact their State
Office, please contact a nearby State Office or the USDA Rural
Development National Office at 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Mail Stop
3250, Rm. 4016-South, Washington, DC 20250-3250, telephone: (202) 720-
7558, e-mail: cpgrants@wdc.usda.gov.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination
in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color,
national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital
status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation,
genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or
part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance
program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with
disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program
information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact
USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a
complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil
Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-9410, or
call (866) 632-9992 (voice) or (202) 401-0216 (TDD). USDA is an equal
opportunity provider and employer.
Dated: April 11, 2007.
Jackie J. Gleason,
Administrator, Rural Business-Cooperative Service.
[FR Doc. E7-7370 Filed 4-17-07; 8:45 am]
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