Anatomy of a Request for Application (RFA)

1. Anatomy of a Request for Application (RFA)

2. Effie BaldwinTitle: SeniorPolicy SpecialistUnit: Policy and Oversight DivisionLocation: 2318 Waterfront CentrePhone: (202) 720 – 5070E-mail: ebaldwin@nifa.usda.gov

3. AGENDA • Why do we issue RFAs? • Does RFA guidance exist? • Are there different versions of RFA templates? • Is there a required format for RFAs? • How do we determine the RFA release date?

4. AGENDA continued • What recommendations do you have regarding RFA submission? • How do I locate RFAs? • Questions and answer session

5. Why do we issue RFAs? • RFAs are central to NIFA’s business operations • RFAs define our priorities, program goals, and objectives • RFAs facilitate equal access to federal funding • RFAs define the rules of the game: • Activities to be funded & funding limits • Institutional and applicant eligibility • Types of applications solicited • Deadlines for submission • Required elements of an application • Proposal evaluation criteria

6. Guidance • Policy Directive - 68 FR 37370, 6/23/2003 • Established government-wide format • Required for discretionary programs • Encouraged expansion of use • Included required and optional elements

7. Versions of Templates • Generic Competitive (long version) • Continuation • PD Transfer • Supplemental • OC-40 • Non-competitive line-items • Generic Non-competitive

8. Required Format • Overview • Funding Opportunity Description • Award Information • Eligibility • Application and Submission Information • Application Review Information • Award Administration Information • Agency Contacts • Other Information

9. Table of ContentsPART I—FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTIONA. Legislative Authority and BackgroundB. Purpose and Priorities C. Program Area Description PART II—AWARD INFORMATIONA. Available FundingB. Types of ApplicationsC. Project TypesPART III—ELIGIBILITY INFORMATIONA. Eligible ApplicantsB. Cost Sharing or Matching PART IV—APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATIONA. Electronic Application PackageB. Content and Form of Application SubmissionC. Submission Dates and TimesD. Funding RestrictionsE. Other Submission Requirements PART V—APPLICATION REVIEW REQUIREMENTSA. GeneralB. Evaluation CriteriaC. Conflicts of Interest and Confidentiality D. Organizational Management Information

10. PART VI—AWARD ADMINISTRATIONA. GeneralB. Award NoticeC. Administrative and National Policy Requirements D. Expected Program Outputs and Reporting RequirementsPART VII—AGENCY CONTACT PART VIII—OTHER INFORMATIONA. Access to Review InformationB. Use of Funds; ChangesC. Confidential Aspects of Applications and AwardsD. Regulatory InformationE. Definitions● Is not included in short version.

11. RFA Release Date • The timeline is built on many assumptions: • Federal budget is enacted on time • No problems with E-systems (Grants.gov, CREEMS, etc.) • No government shut-downs • No unplanned staffing issues e.g. leave due to illness or family emergencies

12. Recommendations for application submission • Start early, make the RFA a priority • Develop a realistic timeline • Do your homework, use key documents: • Know your legislation e.g. Farm bill • Know USDAs strategic plans • Be aware of Industry Reports • Foster a partnership approach to strengthen programs & resolve issues by engaging with: • Your peers • The RFA point-of-contact staff • The program support staff (program specialists/assistants)

13. Recommendations continued • Clarify program goals and objectives • Highlight how the program: • Addresses important stakeholder needs • Contributes to USDA and NIFA mission & priorities • Complies with the intent of Congress

28. Any Questions?