FY2024 UAIP Competitive Grants Program FAQs

Urban Agriculture and Innovation Production (UAIP) competitive grants initiate or expand efforts of farmers, gardeners, citizens, government officials, schools, and other stakeholders in urban areas and suburbs. Projects may target areas of food access; education; business and start-up costs for new farmers; and development of policies related to zoning and other needs of urban production.

Summary Information

Q: Who is the federal awarding agency for this NFO?

A: U.S. Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service - Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP)

Q: What is the title of this opportunity?

A: Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (UAIP) Competitive Grants Program

Q: What is the Funding Opportunity Number for this NFO?

A: USDA-NRCS-UAIP-24-NOFO0001336

Q: What is the Federal Assistance Listing for this NFO?

A: 10.935, Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production

Q: What is SAM?

A: A web-based, government-wide application that collects, validates, stores, and disseminates business information about the federal government's trading partners in support of the contract awards, grants, and electronic payment processes.

Q: What are the Key Dates for this NFO?

A: Applicants must submit their applications via Grants.gov by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on April 9, 2024.

Q: Where can I find the YouTube Webinar link for the FY 24 NFO?

A: The FY2024 webinar for the UAIP Opportunity is located at this link: youtu.be/H6x0-qXDAtU

Q: What are the estimates dates of selections?

A: The agency anticipates making selections by June 30, 2024

Q: What is the expected funding amount for the FY 2024 UAIP grants?

A: The estimated funding floor for this opportunity is $75,000 and the estimated funding ceiling is $350,000. The funding floor means the minimum agreement funding amount for the Federal share per agreement awarded. The ceiling is the maximum agreement funding amount for the Federal share per agreement awarded. These numbers refer to the total agreement amount, not any specific budget period.

Q: Is there a mandatory training requirement for this opportunity?

A: No, but there is a Grants 101 Training that is highly recommended for those seeking knowledge about Federal financial assistance. The training is free and available to the public via www.cfo.gov/resources/federal-financial-assistance-training.

Q: What is this training covering?

It consists of five modules covering each of the following topics: 1) laws, regulations, and guidance; 2) financial assistance mechanisms; 3) uniform guidance administrative requirements; 4) cost principles; and 5) risk management and single audit. FPAC agencies also apply Federal financial assistance regulations to certain non-assistance awards (e.g., non-assistance cooperative agreements).

Q: How do I find the UAIP funding opportunity on Grants.gov?

A: You can find and download the Notice of Funding Opportunity and related documents by going directly to Grants.gov and either 1) conduct a keyword search for the program acronym “UAIP”; 2) enter the Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-NRCS-NHQ-UAIP-24- NOFO0001336 or 3) search the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.935.

Q: Is the UAIP Notice of Funding Opportunity available in Spanish?

A: No.

Q: Can I be an application reviewer?

A: USDA is not seeking external reviewers for this funding opportunity. Applications submitted to NRCS for the current fiscal year UAIP Competitive Grants Program will be evaluated by a panel of internal USDA reviewers to ensure that applicants receive full and uniform consideration, and that the selected proposals merit receipt of Federal funds.

Program Description

Q: What are the authorizing statutes and regulations for the UAIP program?

A: The Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (UAIP) Competitive Grants program is authorized by Section 222 of the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994, as added by Section 12302 of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, 7 U.S.C. 6923.

Q: What is the mission of OUAIP?

A: Our mission is to support the range of production from community gardens and urban farms to rooftop gardens; we work across agencies and offices to support the next generation of agriculture including, indoor farms and vertical technology farms, hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics. The Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (also referred to as OUAIP) is leading the way in the department to promote availability of programs for all sizes and types of operations to encourage and promote urban, indoor, and other emerging agricultural practices closing the gap to service the urban and innovative stakeholders.

Q: What is the purpose of this grant program?

A: The goals and objectives of this program include:

• to support the development of urban agriculture and innovative production to any of the eligible entities.
• to improve access to local foods in areas where access to fresh, healthy food is limited or unavailable through urban and/or innovative agricultural practices, including, but not limited to, community gardens, urban farms, rooftop farms, urban agroforests, food forests, orchards, outdoor vertical production, green walls, indoor farms, controlled environment agricultural production, greenhouses, high-tech vertical technology farms, and hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic farm facilities. Support multiple farmers or gardeners, impacting underserved areas that are lacking access to fresh, healthy foods, and promote urban and/or innovative agricultural practices with planning and implementation activities.

Q: What are Planning Activities for UAIP project?

A: Planning activities support developing assessments of community needs within the local food system or identifying how food is grown, distributed, or marketed and what existing needs related to food access, nutrition, education, conservation, and economic development can be addressed by urban agriculture and innovative production. Planning activities also contribute to the creation of partnerships to improve how food is grown, distributed, or marketed in the impacted area using urban agriculture and innovative production including business planning, feasibility studies, and other strategies, such as community resource development.

Planning activities also deliver local policy development on zoning laws supporting urban agriculture and innovative production. Planning activities can include the creation of educational materials and programs that will increase knowledge about food and agriculture and encourage careers in agriculture and innovative production. Planning activities can also develop recommendations on safe growing conditions, such as soil tests and environmental assessments. More information can be found at www.epa.gov/land-revitalization.

Q: What are Implementation Activities for UAIP project?

A: Implementation activities support eligible entities increasing food production, promoting agricultural businesses mentorship and job training, and providing resources to underserved populations in the local community. The implementation of best practices to address food access, zoning, compost, land access, soil health, emerging technologies, infrastructure needs (such as access to water and utilities) at varied levels to meet the needs of the community and local agricultural producers.

Implementation activities also support educating communities about food systems, nutrition, agriculture production, and environment impact. They also include operating community gardens or nonprofit farms that offer hands-on training in farming or gardening through virtual or web-based formats and may provide K-12 schools with educational resources or programs that increase student knowledge and access to locally grown foods.

Q: What does UAIP fund?

A: Project activities that may be funded under this grant include the following:

Production-related expenses such as materials, supplies and other costs related to community gardens and farms; rooftop farms, outdoor vertical production, and green walls; indoor farms, greenhouses, and high-tech vertical technology farms; hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic farm facilities; and other innovations in agricultural production.

• Purchase, lease or rental of special purchase equipment, vehicles, land, and building space. Activities that encourage and promote urban, indoor, and other emerging agricultural practices.
• Construction such as building a permanent or a non-permanent, temporary, or moveable.
• Contractual costs including labor such as a consultant, architect, or other professional service.
• Personnel costs.

Q: What are the program priorities?

A: Priority will be given to organizations with proven capacity to carry out meaningful community-focused work in urban agriculture or innovative production. This capacity is measured by criteria factors including:

• Experience in agriculture or innovative production for 3 years or more or in serving underserved communities or where access to fresh foods is limited or unavailable.
• Demonstrated ability to implement a project, provide fiscal accountability, collect data, and prepare reports and other necessary documentation.
• Demonstrated willingness to share information with researchers, evaluators, practitioners, and other interested parties, including a plan for dissemination of results; and
• Collaboration with two or more partner organizations, including smaller farms or operations working in the same project target area to carry out the innovative or urban agricultural work described in your proposal.

Q: Can I submit a research proposal?

A: No, Research is defined as a systematic study directed toward fuller scientific knowledge or understanding of the subject studied. Research consists of systematic observations, measurement, and experimentation undertaken to discover or establish facts or principles, where variables are unknown and are subject to manipulation. RESEARCH PROPOSALS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED OR CONSIDERED.

Q: How would an eligible applicant receive higher consideration?

A: Priority will be given to organizations with proven capacity to carry out meaningful community-focused work in urban agriculture or innovative production. This capacity is measured by criteria factors including:

• Experience in agriculture or innovative production for 3 years or more or in serving underserved communities or where access to fresh foods is limited or unavailable.
• Demonstrated ability to implement a project, provide fiscal accountability, collect data, and prepare reports and other necessary documentation.
• Demonstrated willingness to share information with researchers, evaluators, practitioners, and other interested parties, including a plan for dissemination of results; and
• Collaboration with two or more partner organizations, including smaller farms or operations working in the same project target area to carry out the innovative or urban agricultural work described in your proposal.

Q: In terms of the higher consideration, does the level of experience apply only to the applicant or can it be collective experience of the group (applicant and partners)?

A: The four criteria for higher consideration listed above apply solely to the UAIP eligible entity application. Applicants that apply as “partnerships” or other similar groupings must clearly describe the relationship between the applicant and the “partner” parties experience.

Q: Does UAIP give preference to disabled individuals or veterans?

A: No. The Natural Resources Conservation Service has other programs that offer preference to veterans. More information is available on the NRCS Outreach & Advocacy website.

Q: Is higher consideration given to projects that scale versus projects focused on a single location?

A: No, the UAIP supports all kinds of projects from small scale or large scale in which activities are aligned to support the development of urban agriculture and innovative production to any of the eligible entities.

Q: Does this grant pertain to the landscape, ornamental or cut flower industry?

A: UAIP grants fund projects to support the development of urban agriculture and innovative production to any of the eligible entities. The UAIP does not discriminate against specialty crops or any other innovative agricultural production systems in urban, suburban, or rural environments.

Q: Is there a specific limitation on land use for implementation activities?

A: Yes, upon proposal submission, there needs to be clear details on when, where, who and what is being proposed with clear details on how the land will be used for and need to show direct relation with deliverables.

Q: What is the project location requirement for UAIP?

A: Projects should address their community and needs. The proposal must describe how limited access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food is an issue in this community. Proposals should, to the extent possible, describe limiters of fresh food access using data available in the USDA Food Access Research Atlas.

Q: Can a project be multistate?

A: Yes, for projects that will be operating in a city or state other than where the applicant is headquartered, at least one partner should be located where the project will be served.  The proposal must be clear on the communities that will be serving by the project and partnerships are in place to leverage resources within those communities.

Q: Would animal breeding activities be eligible under UAIP grants?

A: No, Activities under UAIP program are to encourage and promote urban, indoor, and other emerging agricultural practices and may include food production, outreach activities, hosting trainings and educational workshops, conducting assessments and surveys. This list is not exhaustive.

Q: Do you have examples of projects that have been funded under this grant?

A: Yes. Awarded projects from previous years are listed on the website at www.usda.gov/topics/urban

Q: What is Urban Agriculture?

A: Includes the cultivation, processing, and distribution of agricultural products in urban and suburban areas. Community gardens, rooftop farms, hydroponic, aeroponic and aquaponic facilities, and vertical production, are all examples of urban agriculture. Tribal communities and small towns may also be included.

Q: What is equity in Urban Agriculture?

A: Its defined as the consistent and systematic treatment of all individuals in a fair, just, and impartial manner, including individuals who belong to communities that have been denied such treatment, such as Black, Latino, Indigenous and Native American, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Island persons and other persons of color; members of religious minorities; women and girls; LGBTQI+ persons; persons with disabilities; persons who live in rural areas; persons who live in United States Territories; persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality; and individuals who belong to multiple such communities (Executive Order 14091)

Q: What is underserved communities?

A: Are defined as those populations, as well as geographic communities, that have been systematically denied the opportunity to participate fully in aspects of economic, social, and civic life, as exemplified by the preceding definition of “equity” (Executive Order 14091).

Q: What is Innovative Production?

A: a diverse and dynamic area of agriculture, including indoor controlled environment agriculture, rooftop farms, outdoor vertical production, green walls, high-tech vertical farms, greenhouses, and hydroponic, aeroponic, or aquaponic farms. These operations are creating new and better markets, enhancing the competitiveness of specialty crops, and creating economic opportunities for the next generation of agricultural producers. They also support climate resilient food systems by extending the growing season, conserving water, and providing local and regional food options.

Q: What is a limited resource farmer or rancher?

A: A farmer or rancher who has direct or indirect gross farm sales not more than the current indexed value in each of the previous two years (adjusted for inflation using Prices Paid by Farmer Index as compiled by National Agricultural Statistical Service), and who:

• has a total household income at or below the national poverty level for a family of four in each of the previous two years; or
• has a total household income less than 50 percent of county median household income in each of the previous two years.
• A legal entity or joint operation may qualify as limited resource if all individual members independently qualify under the definition.

Q: How do I determine if I qualify as a limited Resource Farmer of Rancher?

A: The USDA developed the self-determination tool to certify your eligibility as a Limited Resource Farmer/Rancher for a particular Federal fiscal year. lrftool.sc.egov.usda.gov

Q: What is the food access priority for UAIP?

A: Project actives must be designed to improve access to local foods in areas where access to fresh, healthy food is limited or unavailable through urban and/or innovative agricultural practices, including, but not limited to, community gardens, urban farms, rooftop farms, urban agroforests, food forests, orchards, outdoor vertical production, green walls, indoor farms, controlled environment agricultural production, greenhouses, high-tech vertical technology farms, and hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic farm facilities. Proposals must address in their Project Purpose section a description of the areas or communities being served and provide the zip codes for the areas being served. Also, detail must address how the need was determined, with at least one source of data supporting that access to fresh local food is an issue in the area or communities. to the extent possible, describe limiters of fresh food access using data available in the USDA Food Access Research Atlas.

Q: How do I identify areas where access to fresh foods is limited or unavailable?

A: Eligible applicants should have experience serving communities where access to fresh foods are limited or unavailable. The USDA Economic Research Service provides a definition for food access and tools like the USDA Food Access Research Atlas to measure food access.

Q: If we have other metrics to demonstrate food insecurity, may we use those in addition to or instead of USDA developed resources?

A: Yes. Applicants are not required to use tools developed by USDA’s Economic Research Service such as the USDA Food Access Research Atlas (Formerly referred to as the Food Desert Locator) or the Food Environment Atlas to measure access to fresh foods in the communities. However, these data and mapping tools are available and free to use online. You can go to www.ers.usda.gov or EPA Brownfields and Land Revitalizations for more information.

Q: How is “urban” or “suburbs” defined?

A: USDA is specifically not defining “urban agriculture,” “urban areas,” “suburbs,” “suburban areas,” and “urban clusters” to create broad parameters for UAIP grants.

Q: Are rural areas excluded from this grant program?

A: No. Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the FY 2024 Notice of Funding Opportunity Section C.1 and activities propose activities aligned with Program goals and objective as outlined in Section A of the NFO are eligible for participation be it in urban, rural or suburban environments.

Q: Can project activities take place outside of the United States?

A: No. Project activity must be within the 50 United States, the District of Columbia, the Caribbean Area (Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands), the Pacific Islands Area (Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).

Federal Award Information

Q: What is the available federal funding for this opportunity?

A: The Federal funding agency expects to award approximately $6,100,000 through this opportunity. However, the agency retains the discretion to award a larger or lesser amount.

Q: What does it imply that this NFO is being released prior to appropriation and/or apportionment of funds?

A: Enactment of additional continuing resolutions or an appropriations act may affect the availability or level of funding for this program.

Q: Will my application be funded at the amount requested?

A: As part of the technical review process, USDA will review applicants’ budgets to ensure that all costs are reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary. Applications selected and approved for funding with budgets that are realistic, well justified, and supported will likely be funded at the requested amounts.

Q: For how long is a UAIP project?

A: Projects must be 36 months in duration. Applications received with less than 36 months in duration will not be considered.

Q: What should I put as my project’s start and end date on the SF-424?

A: Applicants should plan their projects based on an estimated project start date of September 30, 2024.

Q: What should I put as my project’s end date on the SF-424?

A: Applicants should plan their projects for 36 months in duration after agreement execution or September 30, 2027.

Q: What is required at the end of the project?

A: All projects are expected to complete project deliverables and close out activities within 120 days of the end period of performance specified in the award.

Q: Is there any commitment to make a specific number of awards for FY 2024?

A: No, there is no commitment to make a specific number of awards.

Q: What type of awards are going to be executed for this NFO?

A: The agency plans to award a grant agreement pursuant to this opportunity.

Q: Is there substantial involvement by the agency?

A: No, there is no substantial involvement by the Government. See 31 U.S.C. 6302-6305.31.

Q: What is a supplemental application?

A: An application for supplementation of an existing project means an application to add components to an existing agreement so that it would meet the objectives and requirements in this NFO.

Q: Can I apply as a supplemental Project Application, if I don’t have an active UAIP award?

A: No, only eligible entities with an active UAIP grant can request a Supplemental Project Application.

Q: If I have an active UAIP grant, can I apply for a new award?

A: Yes, applications for supplementation of existing UAIP projects are eligible to compete with applications for new federal awards.

Q: If applying as supplemental application, if there any other requirement for application?

A: Applications for supplementation of existing projects should be accompanied by a summary of progress to date on the current project. This summary should be included as a supplementary attachment using the “Other Attachments” form in Grants.gov.

Q: Is there a limitation on supplemental applications?

A: Yes, Supplemental applications can only be requested one time during the period of performance of the initial award and are limited to 2 years in duration, not to exceed a total of 5 years for any single award.

Q: If we currently have an UAIP grant, are we able to apply for another one as well for another project?

A: Yes, Projects that have different objectives and different deliverables can be considered as a ‘new’ award. Having an active award does not decline you from competition.

Q: Can an organization who already has a UAIP grant apply again before the previous grant period ends?

A: Yes, Projects must be for different objectives and deliverables. Applicants interested in applying in response to this NFO must submit it via Grants.gov; the agency will not accept applications submitted via email or any other method.

Q: How do I submit a supplementary application?

A: Follow NFO guidelines for a complete application.

Q: If our organization has an active award or applied in the past, can we apply for this grant or is there a waiting period for organizations that have received it in the past?

A: No, there is no waiting period requirement.

Q: Does my current funding through the CFWR Cooperative Agreement make me ineligible to apply as it would be through the same entity?

A: No, having an active UAIP or CFWR award does not make you ineligible to apply.

Q: Would their application (and hypothetical funding award) make me ineligible to apply for further funding for my composting?

A: No, being a partner in multiple awards is not a disqualification.

Eligibility Information

Q: Who is eligible to apply?

A: Eligibility for this opportunity is limited to the following entity types:

• City or township governments
• County governments
• Independent school districts
• Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
• Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)
• Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS (other than institutions of higher education)
• Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS (other than institutions of higher education)
• Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities
• Special district governments

Q: Is a description of the eligible applicant types available?

A: The following terms for local government, nonprofit organization and Tribal government are from the Common Data Element Repository (CDER) Library. The CDER Library is the authoritative, Federal-wide source of financial and business terms, which is based on the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) Uniform Grants Guidance and the Digital Accountability and Transparency Act (DATA Act).

Entity Type	Description
Local government	Any unit of government within a state, including a county; borough; municipality; city; town; township; parish; local public authority, including any public housing agency under the United States Housing Act of 1937 (50 Stat. 888 (P.L. 75—412); special district; school district; intrastate district; council of governments, whether or not incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under State law; and any other agency or instrumentality of a multi-state, regional, or intra-state or local government.
Nonprofit organization	Any corporation, trust, association, cooperative, or other organization, not including IHEs, that: (a) Is operated primarily for scientific, educational, service, charitable, or similar purposes in the public interest; (b) Is not organized primarily for profit; and (c) Uses net proceeds to maintain, improve, or expand the operations of the organization.
Tribal Government	Governing bodies or governmental agencies of any Indian tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or community (including any native village as defined in Section 3 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, 85 Stat. 688 (43 U.S.C. § 1602)) certified by the Secretary of the Interior as eligible for the special programs and services provided through the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Q: Are private, elementary schools eligible?

A: Yes, any school serving grades Kindergarten through grade 12 are eligible.

Q: Are soil and water conservation districts eligible for UAIP?

A: Yes, they are either considered “Special District Governments”.

Q: Who is not eligible to apply?

A: For profit organizations, private institutions of higher education, Public and State-controlled institutions of higher education, foreign entities, individuals, small businesses (for-profit), and state governments are not eligible to apply for this opportunity. It is important to note that non- eligible entities can be partners on a project.

Q: Can Individuals apply?

A: No. Individuals such as a farmer, gardener, etc. are not eligible to apply for the UAIP Competitive Grants Program. USDA offers a variety of funding opportunities to help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners finance their businesses. Please visit farmers.gov/loans for information about programs that individuals are eligible for.

Q: I'm an individual; however, I have my EIN and Universal Unity Identifier (UEI). Does that make me eligible?

A: No. Individuals are not eligible applicants for this opportunity. However, individuals can be a partner.

Q: I am a for-profit entity, am I eligible for this grant?

A: No. For-profit organizations and small businesses are not eligible to receive a UAIP grant. However, for-profit organizations and small businesses can be partners.

Q: Can Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) apply for this funding opportunity?

A: No. IHEs as defined at 20 U.S.C. 1001 are not eligible. However, IHEs can be a partner.

Q: Can a non-profit without a 501(c)(3) apply as a non-profit?

A: Yes, Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS (other than institutions of higher education) and Nonprofits that do not have a 501 (c)(3) status with the IRS (other than institutions of higher education) are eligible entities for award.

Q: If an institution of higher learning or extension program is considered a state or local agency; can they apply as a state or local agency?

A: No. IHEs as defined at 20 U.S.C. 1001 are not eligible. However, IHEs can be a partner.

Q: Is there a population threshold to apply for the UAIP grant?

A: No, organization are not excluded from participation based on geography or demographics, the OUAIP will accept proposal from eligible entities that conform to the context and structure of proposal narrative.

Q: Can project activities take place at homes? Would a private home be considered an eligible site?

A: No. Currently individuals are not eligible beneficiaries under this program. Proposals for both types of projects must be designed to support multiple farmers or gardeners, target historically underserved areas lacking access to fresh, healthy foods, and promote urban and/or innovative agricultural practices.

Q: What is the partnership requirement for UAIP?

A: Eligible entities should collaborate with two or more partner organizations to achieve project goals within the target area(s). Partners may be eligible and/or non-eligible entities.

Q: Do I need to partner with others?

A: Applicants who partner with two or more partner organizations working in the project target area(s) will be given higher consideration during evaluation.

Q: Who can be a partner?

A: Applicants are encouraged to seek and create partnerships with public or private, nonprofit or for- profit entities including farms, institutions of higher education (IHEs), academic institutions (including minority-serving colleges and universities), cooperative extension, public and private schools, and/or other appropriate professionals, community-based organizations, and Federal, state, local and Tribal government entities to achieve project objectives and outcomes. Only the applicant must meet the eligibility requirements for a UAIP grant. Eligible and non-eligible entities may be partners on a project.

Q: Can you clarify how “partnership” is defined?

A: The eligible entity that submits the application to the Natural Resources Conservation Service is responsible for receiving and managing the award, if selected. Applicants that apply as “partnerships” or other similar groupings must clearly describe the relationship between the applicant and the “partner” parties in the Project Narrative. Each award will ONLY be made to a single entity.

Q: What documentation does NRCS need about the Partnership?

A: Applicants must include information about project partner(s) within the narrative of their Project Narrative. The Notice of Funding Opportunity includes the required headings, supporting narrative required content, and format including page limits, structure, font type, and font size of the Project Narrative. More detailed information about this requirement is included in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on Grants.gov.

Q: In addition to the narrative, is an MOU or other documentation required to verify the partnership?

A: No. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the applicant and partner(s) is not required. Letters of intent or support from partners are not required either. However, if an applicant wishes to include them, simply attach the MOU or letters to the application in Grants.gov. There is no competitive advantage for an applicant to provide supporting documentation from partners. This documentation is considered voluntary, does not count towards page limits, and does not need to follow a specific format or structure.

Q: If I would like to include a letter, who should the letters of intent or support be addressed to?

A: Letters of support are neither required nor sought and will not be considered if included. Given that they will not be considered, letters of support should not be sent, whether electronically or through the mail.

Q: Is there a limit to the number of partners that can collaborate on a project?

A: There is no limit. Priority will be given to an applicant that collaborates with two or more partners on their UAIP grant. The number of partners (whether two or 10) does not constitute a competitive advantage.

Q: How might I find others to partner with?

A: USDA recommends reaching out to public or private, nonprofit or for-profit entities, including academic institutions and/or other appropriate professionals, community-based organizations, and government entities in your area of the United States. The USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement may have useful tools and information to assist with partnership development. You can find more information at www.usda.gov/partnerships.

Q: Can a partner or sponsor apply on behalf of the fiscal agent?

A: No, the fiscal agent or sponsor would need to be an eligible entity applying for and receive UAIP grant funds as defined by authorizing legislative language and an active participant/partner on project activities. The fiscal agent or sponsor cannot provide a pass-through subawards to a non- eligible entity.

Q: Can I apply for more than one type of grant in the same funding cycle?

A: An applicant organization may submit more than one application for different projects or proposing different approaches. In the case of applications submitted as revisions or corrections to a previously submitted application under this FY 24 NFO, the agency will consider the last application submitted prior to the established deadline. In the case of duplicate or substantially similar proposals for the same project, the agency will consider the last submission of the “revised” and final copy for review purposes.

Q: Is there a limit to how many projects my organization can be awarded or participate in?

A: There is no limit. Priority will be given to an applicant that collaborates with two or more partners on their UAIP grant. The number of partners (whether two or 10) does not constitute a competitive advantage.

Q: Can I use grant funds to purchase food?

A: The goal of funded projects should be to increase access to fresh foods; however, the purchasing local food is not the primary purpose for the use of grant funds. Food purchases should be limited to costs related to incidental activity/workshop or training related for participants.

Q: Are matching funds required?

A: There is no match requirement for this opportunity.

Q: While there are no cost sharing requirements, is preference given to proposals who can and are willing to provide a match?

A: No, there is no preference to proposals that voluntarily provide a match and matching of funds. There is no competitive advantage to applicants who voluntarily provide a match, therefore any cost sharing or matching should not be included in your application, if included, it will not be considered.

Q: Can I apply for a UAIP grant and a grant from a different USDA agency and/or Federal agency?

A: Yes. If the projects have specifically different objectives, you may apply for and receive both a UAIP grant and a grant from a different USDA agency or other Federal agency. Please check with the other Federal programs to ensure that you are not violating their terms and conditions.

Q: May a school district propose a project that serves multiple schools?

A: Yes. An eligible entity like a school district could apply with a project that operates at various schools or sites where limited access to heathy affordable food is an issue.

Q: If the project is geared towards an urban community, can you work with a non- profit or farm partner in a rural community?

A: Yes. A project partner does not have to be an eligible entity and can be in a rural, suburban, or urban area.

Q: Can I subaward to another entity?

A: Per 2 CFR 200.92, “Subaward means an award provided by a pass-through entity to a subrecipient for the subrecipient to carry out part of a Federal award received by the pass-through entity. It does not include payments to a contractor or payments to an individual that is a beneficiary of a Federal program. A subaward may be provided through any form of legal agreement, including an agreement that the pass-through entity considers a contract.”

Q: Can I subaward to a partner?

A: Partner that are essential to the proposed project may be included in an applicant’s budget as a line item under Contractual on the form SF-424A or receive a stipend in an applicant’s budget as a line item under Other on the form SF-424A. Remember to include details about the contractor and/or stipend budget and scope in the Budget Narrative. USDA will review applicant’s budgets to ensure that all costs are reasonable, allowable, and allocable, and necessary.

Q: Is there a population threshold to apply for the UAIP grant?

A: No, organization are not excluded from participation based on geography or demographics, the OUAIP will accept proposal from eligible entities that conform to the context and structure of proposal narrative.

Application and Submission Information

Q: What is the timeline of the Urban Agriculture and Innovation Production Grant Program?

A: USDA will accept applications on Grants.gov until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Standard Time on April 9, 2024. The agency anticipates making selections by June 30, 2024, and expects to execute awards by September 30, 2024. These dates are estimates and are subject to change.

Q: Do I have to register with Grants.gov before submitting an application through Grants.gov?

A: Yes. Carefully review the registration steps and gather information requested before beginning the registration process to avoid last minute searches for required information. For assistance with the registration process, contact Grants.gov Applicant Support at 1-800-518-4726 or support@grants.gov. Organizations must complete all steps to register (see steps i. through v. below). Complete organization registration instructions are included on Grants.gov at www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration.html.

Q: What is involved in the Grants.gov registration process?

A: More detailed information is included on the Grants.gov registration page and the Grants.gov On-line User Guide. The following information is a general overview.

1. Obtain a TIN/EIN from the IRS (if your organization does not have one).
2. Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number (if your organization does not have one).
3. Register with SAM.gov (if your organization does not have an active account)
4. Create a Grants.gov username and password. You will need to create a Grants.gov user profile by visiting the Get Registered section of the website.
5. The E-Business Point of Contact (POC) at your organization must respond to the registration email from Grants.gov and login at Grants.gov to authorize you as an Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Note there can be more than one AOR for an organization.
6. At any time, you can track your AOR status by going to the Applicant Login with your username and password.

Important Note: These steps are a general overview and include the main steps a new organization or organizations that have never applied for a Federal grant before must complete outside of Grants.gov prior to submitting an application through Grants.gov.

Q: Why does my organization need to register with SAM.gov?

A: Registering with the System for Award Management (SAM) is a required step for your organization to be able to apply for Federal grants. The registration process is free. To register for a SAM account, you must have either EIN or TIN to obtain a UIE.  If you don't have a UEI, you cannot register in SAM. If your organization previously registered in SAM and has received Federal grants in the past, check to make sure your organization’s SAM account is active.

Q: What website is free for the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)?

A: A UEI can be obtained through SAM.gov: SAM.gov |Home

Q: What support will USDA be able to offer applicants during the application process?

A: USDA is happy to field any general, high-level inquiries that grantees may have regarding the application process. However, USDA is unable to offer specific guidance or advice on how to craft, structure or write one’s proposal. To provide unbiased support to all those interested in the funding opportunity, USDA will refrain from providing advice that cannot otherwise be obtained through the resources that have been made publicly available through the funding opportunity on Grants.gov.

Q: Will all the specifics for submitting a UAIP grant application be on the website?

A: All instructions and requirements for this funding opportunity are posted on Grants.gov under the Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-NRCS-NHQ-UAIP-24-NOFO0001336. Once you click on the opportunity, there are four tabs. The very first tab on the left is the “Synopsis” tab, which is an overall view and summary of the grant opportunity. The main information is located under the “Related Documents” tab – where you can find and download the full Notice of Funding Opportunity with details and instructions along with the Frequently Asked Questions (PDF), General Terms and Conditions, supporting documents and forms, and other instructions. When ready to apply, select the “Package” tab and click on apply.

Q: Is the application downloadable before logging into Grants.gov?

A: Yes. You do not need to be logged into Grants.gov to find and download the Notice of Funding Opportunity and related documents.

Q: Can you start the application, save and go back in to work on it in Grants.gov?

A: Yes. You can start the application at Grants.gov and return to work on it within the workspace feature.

Q: Can you get an EIN within minutes through IRS.gov?

A: Please send issues or questions regarding an Employer Identification Number (EIN) also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number (TIN) to the Internal Revenue Service.

Q: Is there a cost to use the System for Award Management (SAM)?

A: No. SAM.gov is an official website of the U.S. government. There is no cost to use SAM. You can use the site for free to register to do business with the U.S. government; update or renew your entity registration; check status of an entity registration; and search for entity registration and exclusion records. More detailed information on how to use SAM is included on the SAM.gov Help page.

Q: What do I need to include in my grant application?

A: Please refer to the Notice of Funding Opportunity under the “Related Documents” tab in the Notice of Funding Opportunity at Grants.gov.

Q: Does USDA have any helpful tips when seeking assistance on registration steps?

A: Begin the application process early. Don’t wait until the last minute to apply at Grants.gov. Keep a record of any correspondence with Grants.gov or other helpdesks, including any ID or case numbers provided.

Q: How long does the registration process take?

A: The time it takes to complete each step varies. Don’t wait until the last minute to complete the steps listed above. The Grants.gov registration process must be completed prior to submission of an application. You should allow two full weeks to register with Grants.gov, but additional time may be required.

Q: Where can I find instructions for the Project Narrative?

A: Please refer to Section D. Application and Submission Information of the Notice of Funding Opportunity in Grants.gov for the content and format of the application submission, which includes page limits, fonts, structure, and the project narrative headings.

Q: Can I apply through the mail instead of electronically?

A: No. Only applications submitted through the electronic Grants.gov system will be considered.

Q: Will applications submitted after the deadline be reviewed?

A: No. Applications must be received by 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time on April 9, 2024 through Grants.gov. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered for funding. Late submissions will not be reviewed or considered.

Q: How will the agency know if my application was submitted on time?

A: NRCS will rely on system generated date and time receipt documentation to determine whether applications meet the submission deadline. Grants.gov provides an automatic acknowledgement when applications are received.

Q: Does the grant require specific headings in the Project Narrative?

A: Yes. Please refer to Section D-3. Content and Form of Application Submission of the Notice of Funding Opportunity for the content and format of the Project Narrative, which includes headings for UAIP Projects. Project Narrative must not be more than 15 pages and have the following titles:

• Project Purpose
• Project Objectives
• The Organizations and Partners Involved
• Expected Accomplishments, Deliverables, and Timeline

Q: Is there a Project Narrative template required or provided?

A: No, A template is not provided or required. Applicants should follow the guidance in the NFO.

Q: What is the typeface and margin requirement for the Project Proposal?

A: Each page must be numbered and have one-inch margins. The text of the project narrative must be single spaced and typed in a standard typeface (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial, Courier) with no smaller than 12-point font.

Q: Can I send footnotes and graphs to the proposal?

A: The project narrative must not exceed 15 pages. This page limitation applies to the project narrative only. Graphs and Tables are not a requirement for a successful proposal.

Q: Will NRCS accept applications that do not follow the required format?

A: No. Proposals that fail to comply with the required content and format will not be considered for funding. Material exceeding stated page limits and/or formatting structure will not be considered. Incomplete and/or noncompliant proposals will not be considered.

Application Review Information

Q: What happens after I submit my application?

A: Merit/technical reviews will be conducted by a technical review board nominated by the approving official. Risk reviews will be conducted by the FPAC Business Center, Grants and Agreements Division. Applications meeting formatting criteria and are found complete and in compliance with the provision of this notice will be reviewed by a technical review panel organized by the OUAIP Grants and Agreements Team with USDA employee-volunteers. The technical review panel will review each application against a rubric that will provide a score of weight.

Q: How will my application be reviewed?

A: After initial screening, applications that meet the administrative review requirements will be technically evaluated by a review panel. Appropriate members of NRCS and other USDA agencies will review all applications submitted, and where necessary, also may seek the opinions of others who are qualified to give expert advice on that specific topic. Reviews will be conducted by teams comprised of three USDA employee who represent different agencies, subject areas, and geographic locations.

Q: Can you elaborate on the specific weights and scoring of the evaluation criteria?

A: Applications will be evaluated on a 100-point scoring scale based on information provided in your application. Refer to the Notice of Funding Opportunity under Section E.2. for the specific weights and evaluation criteria:

• Project Consistent with UAIP Purpose and Priorities (30 points)
• Internal Organization Support and Partnerships (20 points)
• Project Workplan (20 points)
• Budget (25 points)
• Data and Information Sharing (5 points)

Q: How will applications be selected for funding?

A: The Notice of Funding Opportunity contains the specific weights and evaluation criteria that reviewers will be considering when evaluating each proposal. Be sure to review the five criteria yourself so that you can understand what you should address in your project and budget narratives. After reviews have been completed, projects recommended for funding will be submitted to the approving official – who is the Chief of USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service – to make the final award decisions.

Q: What can I include in my budget?

A: Budget expenses can include personnel and fringe benefits, travel, equipment, supplies, contractors, construction, other (direct costs), and indirect charges.

Q: Is the purchase of water shares or water rights an allowable cost under UAIP?

A: Yes. A contract is for the purpose of obtaining goods and services for the eligible entity use and creates a procurement relationship with the contractor.

Q: What should I include in the Budget Narrative?

A: In a separate narrative titled Budget Narrative justify all budget items and costs. Detail how the totals on the form SF 424A and SF 424C (if applicable) were determined and provide a description for every allowable cost line item. Descriptions should demonstrate a clear connection between the costs and the proposed project. For example, the narrative should describe the positions, related duties, rates, and the percentage of time to be spent on the project, the number of travel trips, rates, and the average cost per trip, the types of supplies to be purchased, the specific equipment to be purchased, contractor tasks, etc. This is described in greater detail in the NFO.

Q: Does the Budget Narrative have a specific page length?

A: No. The Notice of Funding Opportunity does not have a length for the Budget Narrative. The pages included as the budget narrative do not have a page limit.

Q: Does the page limit also include the Budget Narrative?

A: No. NRCS includes instructions for completing the Budget Narrative in the funding opportunity under the “Related Documents” tab in Grants.gov.

Q: If the project includes construction costs such as the building of a greenhouse, should we submit both the form SF-424A and form SF-424C?

A: Construction-Related Projects are to include construction costs in Section B. line 6.g. of the SF-424A. In addition, the applicant must submit an itemized breakdown of that amount in a construction budget with engineering, architectural and/or site work type costs using the form SF424C, Budget Information – Construction Programs. See Instructions for Completing SF- 424C located in the Related Documents on Grants.gov.

Q: Can a project budget include equipment like a tractor or greenhouse? Is there a maximum allowable amount for equipment?

A: Yes. The purchase, lease or rental of special-purpose equipment is allowable and there is no maximum threshold. The purchase, lease or rental of general-purpose equipment is unallowable.

Q: What type of equipment is considered “general purpose equipment”?

Q: How is "special purpose equipment" defined?

A: Special purpose equipment is defined as equipment that is used only for research, medical, scientific, or other technical activity under 2 CFR § 200.89.

Q: Can land or building space be purchased under a UAIP grant?

A: Yes. However, a cost benefit analysis must be submitted in the budget narrative in which will detail the cost for rental/lease during the length of the grant or purchase building space.

Q: Is it true that equipment must be leased or rented and not purchased?

A: No. An applicant may include the purchase of special purpose equipment in their project budget.

Q: Can an applicant rent equipment and lease land from a project partner?

A: Yes. An applicant can rent or lease equipment, building space, greenhouses, or land from project partner and/or other. The cost of rental or lease can be included in an applicant’s budget as a line item under Contractual.

Q: Can this grant cover insurance expenses as a part of the budget?

A: Yes. According to 2 CFR 200.447 (Insurance ad Indemnification) The cost of insurance can be included in an applicant’s budget as a line item under Indirect Costs.

Q: Is construction an allowable cost?

A: Yes. Grant funds may be used to alter or repair (including dredging, excavating, and painting) of buildings, structures, or other real property. Erecting a building or making substantial changes to the footprint of a building would be considered a construction project. All construction activities need to be in direct relation to the project purpose and expected deliverables.

Q: Is building a greenhouse or permanent structure an allowable cost?

A: Building a non-permanent, temporary, or movable structure is an allowable cost. Building a permanent structure, which may include, but not limited to, pouring concrete, laying asphalt, or installing plumbing is also an allowable cost. All construction activities need to be in direct relation to the project purpose and expected deliverables.

Q: Is revitalizing a greenhouse an allowable cost?

A: UAIP funds can be used to expand or improve current operations of an existing greenhouse.

Q: Does this grant allow for funding of an architect or consulting firm for a Planning Project?

A: Yes. Contractual costs such as hiring a consultant or labor can be included in an applicant’s budget as a line item under Contractual. Contractual costs are expenses associated with purchasing goods and/or procuring services performed by an individual or organization other than the applicant in the form of a procurement relationship.

Q: Would the UAIP funds provide funding for personnel for nutrition, education, or cooking classes that encourage or teach the use of foods grown in an urban garden?

A: Yes. It is allowable to fund personnel whose time and effort can be specifically identified and easily and accurately traced to project activities.

Q: Is the creation of a new position for project coordination an allowable cost?

A: Grant funds may be used for personnel whose time and effort can be specifically identified and easily and accurately traced to project activities.

Q: How do I determine where to input salary costs on the SF-424A?

A: Salaries for personnel that are employed by the applicant would go on the Personnel line and all other labor costs from sources outside the organization would go under the Contractual section. Any associated fringe benefits should be separated from personnel costs on the SF- 424A.

Q: What rate should I use for indirect costs?

A: To be eligible to recover any indirect cost under a Federal award, recipients must either 1) have a current Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) with a Federal agency that has not expired; 2) have an existing De Minimis Agreement; or 3) qualify for use of the De Minimis rate authorized by 2 CFR 200.414(f). If requesting indirect costs, use the rate and base specified in your organization’s NICRA or existing De Minimis Agreement. The NICRA or De Minimis Agreement must be in PDF format and attached to the Grants.gov application package.

Q: What rate should I use if I don’t have a NICRA?

A: Applicants requesting indirect costs who do not have a NICRA or De Minimis Agreement can use an indirect cost rate of 10% with a base of Modified Total Direct Costs (MTDC). Such applicants selected for an award will be required to execute the 10% De Minimis Agreement with NRCS, which constitutes establishing an approved rate.

Q: Can I request Indirect Cost if I don’t request it?

A: Recipients who do not request indirect costs are prohibited from charging indirect costs to a federal award.

Q: Can we earn Program Income?

A: Yes. Program income is the gross revenue generated by a Federally funded activity earned during the length of the award. Any Expected Profit or Farm Production Income is not considered UAIP Program Income. Program income may be earned by recipients from fees charged for conference or workshop attendance, from rental fees earned from real property or equipment acquired with Federal funds, or from the sale of commodities or items.

Q: How do I use Program Income if generated?

A: Any program income generated during the grant period must be used to further the objectives of the project. All program income must be recorded on the Federal Financial Report (SF-425) for the period in which it was earned. Recipients are not accountable for program income earned after the grant period.

Q: Can we use funds for Travel activities?

A: Travel Funds for conferences, educational events, networking, and/or partnership opportunities are available and highly encouraged that are directly related to project objectives. Organizations may build in costs within their proposal for travel expenses that could support their project’s capacity or advance shared technical knowledge and skills.

Q: Will Projects that include the lease or rental of vehicles, land, building space, and special purchase equipment receive higher consideration?

A: No, each project proposal will be evaluated on its fiscal plan and resources. As part of the administrative review process, USDA will review applicants’ budgets to ensure that all costs are reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary. The weights and evaluation criteria as posted in the Notice of Funding Opportunity will be used in reviewing applications.

Q: Will a project be negatively scored if it does not include the rental or purchase of vehicles, land, building space, and special purchase equipment in its budget?

A: No. Projects that do not include the purchase of or lease or rental of special purpose equipment, land, building space, or vehicles will not weigh lower under the Application Review Information section of the Notice of Funding Opportunity.

Q: Are there any mandatory costs not mentioned in the Notice of Funding Opportunity that should be added to the project proposal such as mandatory grantee training or gatherings?

A: No. There are no mandatory costs for UAIP program.

Q: Are pre-award costs allowable such as paying for a grant writer?

A: No. The agency will provide notice that an application has been selected before it makes the federal award. As such, the selection notification is not an authorization to begin performance. Any pre-award costs incurred by the awardee will not be reimbursed.

Q: Can you provide examples of allowable supplies?

A: Yes, Production-related supplies such as soil, plants, seeds, shovels, gardening tools, tillers, fish, livestock, bees, hoop houses, irrigation, fencing, greenhouse covering, growing containers, walk- in cooler, wash station, or other items necessary to grow, harvest and store food are allowable. Supplies and materials needed to host a workshop or training including nutrition education or cooking classes are allowable. This list is not exhaustive.

Q: What is the maximum allowable amount for supplies?

A: The per unit cost of each supply item requested in the project budget must be below $5,000 dollars per item.

Q: What if the item is more than $5,000 dollars?

A: Any item with a per unit cost of $5,000 dollars or above is considered equipment under 2 CFR § 200.33 and not a supply.

Q: Are contracts allowed?

A: Yes, A contractor (versus a subrecipient) provides goods and services within normal business operations. These goods and services are ancillary to the operation of the federal program. A contractor generally provides similar goods or services to many different purchasers, and normally operates in a competitive environment.

Q: If we are to rent a facility, equipment, etc. are we expected to terminate those contracts when the grant is over?

A: Yes. On The lease or rental agreement must terminate at the end of the award period.

Q: If UAIP is awarded to a local government agency, can other local government agencies in that city be awarded subawards?

A: Yes. Subawards should be included in the Other Category Include a similar level of detail in your sub awardee budget narratives as you do for your primary awardee, including all relevant cost categories discussed. See subaward section in Section B of this document.

Q: What rules apply to subawards?

A: NRCS does not require subawards to be awarded through a competitive process. Subawards must be managed in accordance with 2 CFR 200.331 (Subrecipient and contractor determinations).

Federal Award Administration

Q: How will I find out if my application was selected?

A: Both successful and unsuccessful applicants will be notified of the award decision via email to the administrative point of contact identified on the SF 424.

Q: What is the Code Federal Regulation that this award will use?

A: All project funds will be used in accordance with 2 CFR Part 200 and the General Terms and Conditions

Q: Where can I find a copy of the General Terms and Conditions?

A: Award Terms and Conditions

Q: Is a NEPA required for All UAIP grants?

A: No, but Projects performed pursuant to this opportunity may be subject to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) if there are ground-disturbance activities.

Q: What if there are ground-disturbance activities?

A: In that case, prior to any ground-disturbing activities related to NRCS funding, the awardee must work with NRCS staff to complete an environmental evaluation (EE) related to those activities.

Q: Is the agency covering pre-approval cost?

A: No, any cost in relation to prepare or pay for preparation of an environmental assessment (EA) or environmental impact statement (EIS), should any environmental review find that an EA or EIS is required is responsibility of the recipient or applicant.

Q: What type of financial and progress reporting is required by awardees?

A: Submission of interim and final reports are required to demonstrate the progress made toward the completion of project goals, objectives, and outcomes, as well as the grant agreement’s overall financial status. SF-425, “Federal Financial Report,” are due with each performance report to account for financial expenditures during that reporting period. Performance reports and SF-425 are due annually no later than 90 calendar days after each annual performance reporting period end date. A final performance report and SF-425 must be submitted no later than 120 calendar days after the performance period end date.

Q: As a non-profit applying for a UAIP grant, do I have to have an audited financial statement?

A: No. If the federal share of any agreement awarded under this opportunity notice does not include more than $500,000 over the period of performance, recipients must also comply with the post-award reporting requirements reflected in appendix XII of 2 CFR Part 200, “Award Term and Condition for Recipient Integrity and Performance Matters.”

Q: My non-profit has never been audited; are we eligible to apply as the lead organization?

A: Yes, Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS (other than institutions of higher education) and Nonprofits that do not have a 501 (c)(3) status with the IRS (other than institutions of higher education) are eligible entities for award.

Q: If we have received an audit, do we need to attach our Single Audit report to the application or provide documentation that it has been uploaded into the Federal Audit Clearinghouse?

A: No, audit reports are not required as part of the application package.

Q: Will grant funds be provided to awardees as a lump sum, or will they be reimbursed?

A: Recipients will either receive reimbursement or advances using a properly completed and executed SF-270, submitted with supporting documentation to either the ezFedGrants system or to the e-mail address specified in the grant agreement.

Federal Award Administration Information

Q: Who can I contact for more details about this opportunity?

A: Review Section G. Grants Management Specialist from the FPAC Business Center

Q: Is there an email contact?

A: All email communication should be sent to the GMS on Section G with copy to NFO.FPAC@usda.gov

Q: Can someone from the USDA help me to develop my proposal?

A: The USDA staff is unable to offer specific guidance on how to craft, structure or write one’s proposal.

Q: Who can I contact from the OUAIP for support with my application?

A: Any questions can be sent to the OUAIP inbox at urbanagriculture@usda.gov

Point of Contacts

Q: Where can I get more help if I still have questions about the Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (UAIP) Competitive Grants program or application?

A: Questions can be submitted to jose.berna@usda.gov with a copy to FPAC.BC.GAD@usda.gov.

Q: If I have problems with Grants.gov, will USDA staff help me submit or accept my application package?

A: No. USDA cannot support applicants regarding Grants.gov accounts or provide applicants technical assistance with the Grants.gov system. The Grants.gov technical support center can be reached at 1-800-518-4726 or support@Grants.gov.

Q: Who should I contact for help if I need assistance or have technical difficulties while trying to complete any of the registration steps?

A: These systems are not owned or managed by USDA. You must contact the applications directly for assistance.

• IRS TIN/EIN issues or questions: Businesses: 1-800-829-4933 and Non-profit taxes: 1-877- 829-5500
• DUNS Number issues or questions: 1-866-705-5711 (U.S. Only) or SAMHelp@dnb.com
• SAM.gov assistance and user guides: Go to the Help tab on the SAM.gov website.
• Grants.gov support: 1-800-518-4726 or support@Grants.gov