U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
U.S. Embassy Dhaka, Public Diplomacy Section
Request for Proposals

 

Funding Opportunity Title: U.S. Embassy Dhaka PDS Annual Program Statement
Funding Opportunity Number: PDS-DHAKA-NOFO-FY2023-01
Deadline for Applications: June 30, 2023
CFDA Numbers: 19:040- Public Diplomacy Programs
Total Amount Available: $500,000
Award Floor and Ceiling: $20,000- $75,000
Posted on: November 23, 2022

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The U.S. Embassy Dhaka Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) is pleased to announce an open competition for organizations to submit program proposals that strengthen, expand, and celebrate U.S.-Bangladesh people-to-people ties, institutional linkages, and bilateral cooperation of U.S.- Bangladesh diplomatic ties.  PDS invites organizations interested in potential funding to submit project proposals outlining program concepts that reflect these goals.  Upon review of the proposals, PDS will invite selected applicants to the merit review process.  Please carefully follow all instructions below.

PURPOSE

PDS Dhaka invites proposals for programs that strengthen cultural, educational, or professional ties between the people of Bangladesh and the United States.  Programs must highlight shared values and promote bilateral cooperation.  All programs must include an U.S. cultural element, or connection with an U.S. expert(s), organization(s), or institution(s) in a specific field that will promote increased understanding of U.S. policy and perspectives.  This can also include the involvement of Bangladeshi alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs.  Applicants are encouraged to review the U.S. Mission to Bangladesh Integrated Country Strategy to help develop strong proposals that align with the U.S. government’s priorities in Bangladesh.

Examples of PDS-funded programs include, but are not limited to:

• Academic and professional lectures, seminars, and speaker programs;
• Capacity-building workshops and training programs;
• Artistic and cultural workshops, joint performances, and exhibitions;
• Professional, cultural, and academic exchanges, partnerships, and programs including research collaboration; and
• English language programs.

Proposed programs should address one or more of the following objectives:

• Advancing democratic values through the promotion of human rights, civil society, freedom of expression, press freedom, disability rights, and good governance;
• Promoting inclusive economic growth through innovation and entrepreneurship, promote economic opportunities and empowerment of underserved communities and youth, and explore the benefits of expanded trading opportunities between the United States and Bangladesh;
• Increasing opportunities for Bangladeshi youth from historically marginalized communities (e.g., indigenous, LGBTQIA+, religious minorities, etc.); and
• Increasing resilience to disinformation and misinformation through media literacy, fact checking, professional and technical training, and innovative awareness campaigns.

Participants and target audiences include, but are not limited to:

• Youth and rising leaders (high school and university-level students and entry-level young professionals);
• Civil society leaders and non-governmental organizations including grassroots activists, organizers, and community-based and minority-serving organizations;
• Journalists, social media influencers, and bloggers;
• Business leaders and entrepreneurs;
• Established opinion leaders, including cultural and/or educational institution administrators, educators, and government officials; and
• Leaders and organizations supporting underserved communities living outside of Dhaka.

The following types of programs are NOT eligible for funding:

• Programs relating to partisan political activity;
• Charitable or development activities;
• Construction and infrastructure programs;
• Programs that support specific religious activities;
• Fundraising campaigns;
• Lobbying for specific legislation or programs
• Scientific research;
• Programs intended primarily for the growth or institutional development of the organization;
• Programs that duplicate existing programs;
• Projects consisting of a single meeting or brief conference;
• Projects or events that require participants pay for entrance or participation; and
• Projects or events benefitting a for-profit enterprise.

FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

Length of performance period: Up to 12 months

Number of awards anticipated: Multiple
Award amounts: Awards may range from a minimum of $20,000 to a maximum of $75,000.
Total expected available funding: $500,000
Type of Funding: Fiscal Year 2023 Public Diplomacy Funding
Anticipated programs start date: Between October 2023 to November 2023

This notice is subject to availability of funding.

Funding Instrument Type: Grant, Cooperative Agreement, or Fixed Amount Award. Cooperative Agreements are different from grants in that PDS staff are more actively involved in the grant implementation.  Should the government determine that a cooperative agreement is the appropriate mechanism for a selected project, the U.S. government’s responsibilities will be tailored to the selected project and defined in the pre-award process.

Program Performance Period: Proposed programs should be completed in 12 months or less. PDS will entertain applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State.

ELEGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants

The Public Diplomacy Section encourages applications from Bangladeshi, Bangladesh-based, and U.S. entities:

• Registered U.S. and Bangladeshi not-for-profit organizations, including civil society organizations, think tanks, and social, cultural, and educational institutions with programming experience;
• U.S. and Bangladeshi non-profit or governmental educational institutions;
• U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their IRS determination letter.  Non-U.S. based organizations should submit a copy of their certificate of registration from the appropriate government entity.

For-profit and commercial entities, even those that may fall into the categories listed above, are not eligible to apply for this funding opportunity. *For-profit or commercial entities are not eligible to apply.

2. Other Eligibility Requirements

• In order to be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) along with an active registration in SAM.gov. The UEI will be generated when the organization registers in SAM.gov. Please see pages 6-7 for information on how register in SAM.gov. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov.
• Applicants are only allowed to submit one proposal per organization. If more than one proposal is submitted from an organization, the submission received closest to and before the deadline will be reviewed.

APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. Requirements and Content of Application Submission

Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible.

Content of Application

Please ensure:

1. The proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity;
2. All documents are in English;
3. All budgets are in U.S. dollars;
4. All pages are numbered;
5. All documents are formatted to 8 ½ x 11 or A4 paper; and
6. All Microsoft Word documents are single-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font, with a minimum of 1-inch margins.

When submitting a proposal, applicants are required to include the following documents and information, as applicable:

The following documents are required:  

I) Mandatory application forms:  Standard Forms 424 are available, along with guidance for completing these forms, at:  http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html under the heading, “SF-424 Family”.

SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance – individuals and organizations)
SF424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs)
SF424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) 

II) Cover Letter:  Cover letter on the organization’s letterhead stating the applicant’s name and organization, proposal submission date, project title, specific priority area of focus, project performance period (including proposed start and end date), amount of funding sought, and primary purpose of the project.

III) Proposal:  The proposal should contain sufficient information so that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do.  Applicants must submit a complete proposal using either Option A or Option B including the items listed below.

Option A – Proposal Template:  This funding opportunity contains an attached proposal template that may be used to fulfill this requirement.  Completing the attached Proposal Template will ensure a thorough Proposal.  (Template-based proposals must comply with stated length restrictions in the template.)

or

Option B – Free Form Proposal:  Applicants are welcome to prepare a proposal in their own format.   (Free form proposals must not exceed 10 pages total.)

• Proposal Summary:  Brief narrative that outlines the proposed project and priority area of focus, including its objectives and how it advances at least one of the Embassy’s Integrated Country Strategy (ICS) goals, which can be found under South and Central Asia Region/Bangladesh at:  https://www.state.gov/integrated-country-strategies/#sca.  Project summary should be one to two pages maximum.
• Introduction to the Organization or Individual Applying:  A description of past and present operations.  Please include information on all previous grants from the U.S. Embassy, U.S. government agencies, and other international entities.
• Problem Statement:  Clear, concise, and well-supported statement of the problem to be addressed and why the proposed project is needed.
• Project Goals, Audience(s), and Objectives:

Project Goal: [General, broad, and immeasurable]:  Generally speaking, what is the desired end result?
Project Audience(s):  Who are the primary beneficiaries?  Who is primarily involved, or affected by this end result?  Possible audience characteristics:

– Gender – Geographic Location
– Age Group – Level of Education
– Social Class – Religious Practice
– Profession – Caste

• Project Objectives:  [Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely]:  What specific achievements does this APS envision, in order to move toward the Project Goal, i.e. the desired end result?  Example:  Train [number] of [beneficiaries] in [training content] within [number] months.
• Project Activities:  Specific activities related to the objectives that must be reached and the methods used to achieve the stated objectives.
• Program Methods and Design:  A description of how the project is expected to work and how it will solve or address the stated problem.
• Proposed Project Schedule and Timeline:  The proposed timeline for undertaking and completing the specific project activities.  Dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events should be included.
• Key Personnel:  Names, titles, roles, and experience/background on the key personnel to be involved in the project.  Applicants must submit the resumes of key personnel.

Who will work on the project?

What responsibilities will they have?

What qualifications do they have?

What proportion of their time will be used in support of this project (e.g. total monthly/yearly salary at 5%)?

Please note if any of the key personnel are alumni of a U.S. government-funded exchange program.

• Project Partners:  List the names and type of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees.
• Project Monitoring and Evaluation:  The Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) should outline in detail how the proposal’s activities will advance the program’s goals and objectives.  The selected applicant(s) will be required to submit an M&E PMP before an award is signed.

NOTE:  If the proposal is selected, the applicant will be required to work with PAS to develop an M&E PMP that achieves an expected level of expertise.

An M&E PMP will include:

1. A schedule of when grant activities will occur (including overview planning and participant selection) and when the applicant will check the project’s progress to know how it is performing.  Results of those checks are expected to be reported in the quarterly reports.
2. Expected project outputs, including definitions and targets.  Outputs can include: number of meetings or conferences held; number of workshops implemented; number of outreach activities conducted.
3. Expected project outcomes, including definitions and targets.  Outcomes can include number of new network members who join as a result of participant outreach, number of new women’s social entrepreneurships created after and in response to project training, percentage of participants who, in a post-test, show increased knowledge of different religious traditions after an awareness-raising activity.
4. A plan to include the grantee’s reflection of how their project, as a whole, contributed to the program’s goals.  As applicable, a strong final report would be supported by success stories, behaviors changed, lessons learned, and results obtained, as well as the detailed feedback of project participants, including American and Bangladeshi trainers and other experts.

• Media/Communications Plan:  How will the applicant use traditional and social media to raise awareness about this project and its results?
• Future Funding or Sustainability:  Applicant’s plan for continuation beyond the grant period, or the availability of other resources, if applicable.

IV) Budget Justification Narrative:  Applicants must submit a detailed budget and budget narrative justification utilizing the template provided.  Line-item expenditures should be listed in the greatest possible detail.  Personnel salaries should define the percentage of time each position will allocate to the project and the rate of pay.  Budgets shall be submitted in U.S. dollars and final grant agreements will be conducted in U.S. dollars.

V) Organization Information

1. Applicant Organizational Information Sheet:  Applicants must complete and submit the attached Organizational Information Sheet. 
2. A copy of the organization’s registration should be provided with the proposal application.  U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their IRS determination letter.  Bangladesh-based organizations should submit a copy of their certificate of registration from the appropriate government organization.

VII) Attachments

1. 1-page CV or resume of key personnel who are proposed for the project.
2. Letters of support should be included for sub-awardees or other partners.  The letters must identify the type of relationship to be entered into (formal or informal), the roles and responsibilities of each partner in relation to the proposed project activities, and the expected result of the partnership.  The individual letters cannot exceed 1 page in length.
3. If your organization has a NICRA and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included as a PDF file.
4. Official permission letters, if required for project activities.

VII) COVID-19 Mitigation Plan: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its current impact on travel and operations, it is unclear when travel restrictions and in person programming may be impacted. Hence, proposals should include language that demonstrates maximum flexibility, creativity, and rapid response capability for program planning and implementation. Applicants should also ensure continuity of services and programs should the public health situation change. The applicant should present innovative options for virtual activities to augment, and/or substitute for, in-person engagement with all program stakeholders, if the public health situation does not permit for in-person activities.

2. Submission Dates and Times

Proposals will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received, with three intermediate deadlines:  December 31, 2022; March 31, 2023; and June 30, 2023.  Proposals are due no later than 11:59 pm (Bangladesh Standard Time) of each rolling deadlines.  Therefore, early submission is encouraged.  Please note that review may take up to 90 days.  No exceptions will be made for applications submitted after the third and final deadline.

3. Other Submission Requirements

All application materials must be submitted in English by email to DhakaGrants@state.gov by the stated deadline.

APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

1. Criteria: Each proposal will be evaluated and rated based on the evaluation criteria outlined below.

• Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea—50 points: The proposal is responsive to the proposed program framework. The idea is communicated well and is feasible in seeking to engage target audiences.
• Mission Priorities—35 points: The proposal should clearly articulate how project activities will advance or support the program goal and objectives and address the target audiences.
• Organizational Capacity and Record on Previous Grants—15 points: The proposal should demonstrate the organization’s expertise and previous experience in administering programs. This includes past performance with U.S. government funds.

2. Review and Selection Process

Proposals that do not meet the requirements outlined above, including providing proof of nonprofit status, will be deemed ineligible and will not be reviewed. A Grants Review committee will evaluate all eligible proposals. All eligible Proposals will be reviewed against the criteria listed above. Proposals are reviewed individually against the criteria and not against competing Proposals. For a balanced review all panelists will review the first page of the Proposal up to the two-page limit and no further. To be considered for funding, applicants must provide proof of non-profit status, which is not included in the two-page limit. The panel may provide conditions and/or recommendations on Proposals to enhance the proposed program.

      3. Required Registrations:

All organizations applying for grants (except individuals) must obtain these registrations. All are free of charge:

• An active SAM registration from www.SAM.gov (which will generate a UEI)
• NCAGE/CAGE code

Please note there is no cost associated with UEI or SAM.gov registration. The steps to register in SAM (which will generate a UEI) are outlined below.

Step 1: Foreign organizations should apply for an NCAGE code. U.S.-based organizations should proceed to Step 2.

NCAGE application: Application page here:
https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/scage/CageList.aspx
Instructions for the NCAGE application process:
https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/Docs/US%20Instructions%20for%20NSPA%20NCAGE.pdf

For NCAGE help from within the U.S., call 1-888-227-2423
For NCAGE help from outside the U.S., call 1-269-961-7766
Email NCAGE@dlis.dla.mil for any problems in getting an NCAGE code.

Step 2: Register in SAM.gov by logging onto: https://www.sam.gov. When the registration is complete the organization will be issued a SAM.gov-generated UEI. SAM registration must be renewed annually.

For U.S.-based organizations, registration in SAM.gov will generate both a UEI and a CAGE code.

NOTE: As of April 2022, a DUNS number is no longer required.

1. Any applicant listed on the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS) in the System for Award Management (SAM) is not eligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.” Additionally, no entity listed on the EPLS can participate in any activities under an award. All applicants are strongly encouraged to review the EPLS in SAM to ensure that no ineligible entity is included.

 FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

Administrative and National Policy Requirements

Terms and Conditions: Applicants should review all the terms and conditions and required certifications which will apply if a full proposal application is requested and awarded, to ensure that they will be able to comply. These include: 2 CFR 200, 2 CFR 600, and the Department of State Standard Terms and Conditions which are available at: https://www.state.gov/about-us-office-of-the-procurement-executive/

FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACT

If you have any question, please email to: DhakaGrants@state.gov

OTHER INFORMATION

 Guidelines for Budget Justification

Personnel and Fringe Benefits:  Describe the wages, salaries, and benefits of temporary or permanent staff who will be working directly for the applicant on the project, and the percentage of their time that will be spent on the project.

Travel:  Estimate the costs of travel and per diem for this project, for both program staff, consultants or speakers, and participants/beneficiaries.  If the project involves international travel, include a brief statement of justification for that travel.

Equipment:  Describe any machinery, furniture, or other personal property that is required for the project, which has a useful life of more than one year (or a life longer than the duration of the project), and costs at least $5,000 per unit.

Supplies:  List and describe all the items and materials, including any computer devices, that are needed for the project. If an item costs more than $5,000 per unit, then put it in the budget under Equipment.

Contractual:  Describe goods and services that the applicant plans to acquire through a contract with a vendor.  Also describe any sub-awards to non-profit partners that will help carry out the project activities.

Other Direct Costs:  Describe other costs directly associated with the project, which do not fit in the other categories.  For example, shipping costs for materials and equipment or applicable taxes.  All “Other” or “Miscellaneous” expenses must be itemized and explained.

Indirect Costs:  These are costs that cannot be linked directly to the project activities, such as overhead costs needed to help keep the organization operating.  If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, attach a copy of your latest NICRA. Organizations that have never had a NICRA may request indirect costs of 10% of the modified total direct costs as defined in 2 CFR 200.68.

“Cost Sharing” refers to contributions from the organization or other entities other than the U.S. Embassy.  It also includes in-kind contributions such as volunteers’ time and donated venues.

Branding Requirements:  As a condition of receipt of a grant award, all materials produced pursuant to the award, including training materials, materials for recipients or materials to communicate or promote with foreign audiences a program, event, project, or some other activity under an agreement, including but not limited to invitations to events, press materials, and backdrops, podium signs, etc. must be marked appropriately with the standard, rectangular U.S. flag in a size and prominence equal to (or greater than) any other logo or identity.

NOTE:  Exceptions to the branding requirement are allowable under certain conditions.  If an applicant is notified that their award has been chosen for funding, the Grants Officer will determine, in consultation with the applicant, if an exception is applicable.

Copyrights and Proprietary Information

If any of the information contained in your application is proprietary, please note in the footer of the appropriate pages that the information is Confidential – Proprietary.  Applicants should also note what parts of the application, program, concept, etc. are covered by copyright(s), trademark(s), or any other intellectual property rights and provide copies of the relevant documentation to support these copyrights.

Inquiries

If you have any questions about the grants application process, please contact PDS at:  DhakaGrants@state.gov.

Embassy of the United States of America in Bangladesh
CULTURAL HERITAGE CENTER
BUREAU OF EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL AFFAIRS
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

 

U.S. AMBASSADORS FUND FOR CULTURAL
PRESERVATION
GRANTS PROGRAM

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
FISCAL YEAR 2023
(Submission deadline: Thursday, December 22, 2022)

 

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka is now accepting Concept Notes for the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) fiscal year 2023 competition.  The deadline for the announcement to submit the concept notes to the U.S. Embassy is 11:59 p.m. Bangladesh Standard Time on Thursday, December 22, 2022.  Submissions received after this date will not be considered.  Selected applicants will be asked to submit full project proposals shortly after.

AWARD INFORMATION:

• Funding Instrument Type: Grant, Cooperative Agreement (as appropriate)
• Length of Performance Period: 12 to 60 months
• CFDA Number: 19.025
• Ceiling on Amount of Awards:  $500,000 per project

The AFCP Grants Program supports the preservation of archaeological sites, historic buildings and monuments, museum collections, and forms of traditional cultural expression, such as indigenous languages and crafts.  Appropriate project activities may include:

• Anastylosis (reassembling a site from its original parts)
• Conservation (addressing damage or deterioration to an object or site)
• Consolidation (connecting or reconnecting elements of an object or site)
• Documentation (recording in analog or digital format the condition and salient features of an object, site, or tradition)
• Inventory (listing of objects, sites, or traditions by location, feature, age, or other unifying characteristic or state)
• Preventive Conservation (addressing conditions that threaten or damage a site, object, collection, or tradition)
• Restoration (replacing missing elements to recreate the original appearance of an object or site, usually appropriate only with fine arts, decorative arts, and historic buildings)

• Stabilization (reducing the physical disturbance of an object or site)

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING SITES AND OBJECTS THAT HAVE A RELIGIOUS CONNECTION:  The establishment clause of the U.S. Constitution permits the government to include religious objects and sites within an aid program under certain conditions.  For example, an item with a religious connection (including a place of worship) may be the subject of a cultural preservation grant if the item derives its primary significance and is nominated solely on the basis of architectural, artistic, historical, or other cultural (not religious) criteria.

ELIGIBLE PROJECT APPLICANTS:  The Cultural Heritage Center defines eligible project applicants as reputable and accountable non-commercial entities that can demonstrate they have the requisite capacity to manage projects to preserve cultural heritage.  Eligible implementers may include non-governmental organizations, museums, educational institutions, ministries of culture, or similar institutions and organizations, including U.S.-based education institutions and organizations subject to Section 501(c)(3) of the tax code.

INELIGIBLE PROJECT APPLICANTS:  The AFCP will not award grants to individuals, commercial entities, or past award recipients that have not fulfilled the objectives or reporting requirements of previous awards.

INELIGIBILE ACTIVITIES AND UNALLOWABLE COSTS:  AFCP will NOT support the following activities or costs, and applications involving any of the activities or costs below will be deemed ineligible:

1. Preservation or purchase of privately or commercially owned cultural objects, collections, or real property, including those whose transfer from private or commercial to public ownership is envisioned, planned, or in process but not complete at the time of proposal submission;
2. Preservation of natural heritage (physical, biological, and geological formations, paleontological collections, habitats of threatened species of animals and plants, fossils, etc.);
3. Preservation of hominid or human remains;
4. Preservation of news media (newspapers, newsreels, radio and TV programs, etc.);
5. Preservation of published materials available elsewhere (books, periodicals, etc.);
6. Development of curricula or educational materials for classroom use;
7. Archaeological excavations or exploratory surveys for research purposes;
8. Historical research, except in cases where the research is justifiable and integral to the success of the proposed project;
9. Acquisition or creation of new exhibits, objects, or collections for new or existing museums;
10. Construction of new buildings, building additions, or permanent coverings (over archaeological sites, for example);
11. Commissions of new works of art or architecture for commemorative or economic development purposes;
12. Creation of a new or modern adaptation of existing traditional dances, songs, chants, musical compositions, plays, or other performances;
13. Creation of replicas or conjectural reconstructions of cultural objects or sites that no longer exist;
14. Relocation of cultural sites from one physical location to another;
15. Removal of cultural objects or elements of cultural sites from the country for any reason;
16. Digitization of cultural objects or collections, unless part of a larger, clearly defined conservation or documentation effort;
17. Conservation plans or other studies, unless they are one component of a larger project to implement the results of those studies;
18. Cash reserves, endowments, or revolving funds (funds must be expended within the award period [up to five years] and may not be used to create an endowment or revolving fund);
19. Costs of fund-raising campaigns;
20. Contingency, unforeseen, or miscellaneous costs or fees;
21. Costs of work performed prior to announcement of the award unless allowable per 2 CFR 200.458 and approved by the Grants Officer;
22. International travel, except in cases where travel is justifiable and integral to the success of the proposed project or to provide project leaders with learning and exchange opportunities with cultural heritage experts;
23. Individual projects costing less than US $10,000 or more than $500,000;
24. Independent U.S. projects overseas.

APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

Important:  Concept notes must be received by the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka no later than 11:59 p.m. Thursday, December 22, 2022.  All concept notes must be submitted via e-mail to DhakaGrants@state.gov.   Only selected applicants will be asked to submit full applications in March 2022 via e-mail fromDhakaGrants@state.gov.  All documents must be in English.

Each concept note (not to exceed two typed pages and must be written in English) must include:

Project basics (including) – 

• Project title
• Anticipated project length (in months)
• Project location/site
• Project cost estimate in USD (This may be modified if a full proposal is requested.  The U.S. Embassy’s current exchange rate is USD 1 = BDT 103). Please note, considering the frequent fluctuations of exchange rate in Bangladesh, the mentioned rate might be revised before finalizing the award.

Name of lead applicant organization and any partner organizations, including government institutions.

Scope of work summarizing:

1. the preservation goals and the activities planned to achieve those goals; and
2. any broader host country or community goals and the activities planned to achieve those goals; (i.e., what it hopes to gain from the project beyond the preserved heritage and how it plans to get there; 2,000 characters maximum).

Five (5) high quality digital images (JPEGs) or audiovisual files that convey the nature and condition of the site, collection, or tradition and show the urgency or need for the proposed project (collapsing walls, water damage, etc.).

Embassy will only invite selected applicants to submit a full application which must include or address the following:

1. Project dates (maximum of 60 months [five years]).
2. Statement of importance highlighting the historical, architectural, artistic, or cultural (non-religious) values of the cultural heritage.
3. Revised/detailed scope of work with (1) clear preservation goals and activities for achieving those goals, and (2) the host country or community’s intended broader goals and activities for achieving those goals (Note: When describing and ordering the activities for (1) and (2) above, highlight any major milestones and target dates for achieving them. Each set of activities should clearly lead to their corresponding goals with no gaps. The overall presentation should make a compelling case that the implementer has a clear and comprehensive sense of how to achieve the preservation and other goals).
4. Proof of official permission to undertake the project from the office, agency, or organization that either owns or is otherwise responsible for the preservation and protection of the site or collection.
5. Implementer’s public awareness plan describing how the applicant intends to highlight and amplify AFCP-supported activities through print, electronic, social media, and other means.
6. Maintenance plan outlining the steps or measures that will be taken to maintain the site, object, or collection in good condition after the AFCP-supported project is complete; or, in the case of forms of traditional cultural expression, to preserve and disseminate the documentation, knowledge, or skills gained from the project.
7. Résumés or CVs of the proposed project director and key project participants.
8. Detailed project budget, demarcated in one-year budget periods (2022, 2023, 2024, etc.), that lists all costs in separate categories (Personnel, Fringe Benefits, Travel [including Per Diem], Equipment, Supplies, Contractual, Other Direct Costs, Indirect Costs); indicates funds from other sources; and gives a justification for any anticipated international travel costs.
9. Budget narrative explaining how the costs were estimated (quantity x unit cost, annual salary x percentage of time spent on project, etc.) and any large budget line items.
10. Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424), including Budget Information for Non-Construction Programs (SF-424A), Assurances for Non-Construction Programs (SF-424B), and, if applicable, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL).
11. Relevant supporting documentation, such as historic structure reports, restoration plans and studies, conservation needs assessments and recommendations, architectural and engineering records, etc., compiled in preparation for the proposed project.
12. As requested by the Center or as appropriate, additional high quality digital images (JPEGs) or audiovisual files that convey the nature and condition of the heritage and show the urgency or need for the proposed project (collapsing walls, extensive water damage, etc.).

COST SHARING AND OTHER FORMS OF COST PARTICIPATION:  There is no minimum or maximum percentage of cost participation required for this competition.  When cost sharing is offered, it is understood and agreed that the applicant must provide the amount of cost sharing as stipulated in its proposal and later included in an approved agreement.  The applicant will be responsible for tracking and reporting on any cost share or outside funding, which is subject to audit per 2 CFR 200.  Cost sharing may be in the form of allowable direct or indirect costs.

UEI and SAM Registration:  

All organizations applying for grants must obtain these registrations. All are free of charge:

• An active SAM registration from www.SAM.gov (which will generate a UEI)
• NCAGE/CAGE code

Please note there is no cost associated with UEI or SAM.gov registration. The steps to register in SAM (which will generate a UEI) are outlined below.

Step 1: Foreign organizations should apply for an NCAGE code. U.S.-based organizations should proceed to Step 2.

NCAGE application: Application page here: https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/scage/CageList.aspx

Instructions for the NCAGE application process: https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/Docs/US%20Instructions%20for%20NSPA%20NCAGE.pdf

For NCAGE help from within the U.S., call 1-888-227-2423

For NCAGE help from outside the U.S., call 1-269-961-7766

Email NCAGE@dlis.dla.mil for any problems in getting an NCAGE code.

Step 2: Register in SAM.gov by logging onto: https://www.sam.gov. When the registration is complete the organization will be issued a SAM.gov-generated UEI. SAM registration must be renewed annually.

For U.S.-based organizations, registration in SAM.gov will generate both a UEI and a CAGE code.

NOTE: As of April 2022, a DUNS number is no longer required.

APPLICATION REVIEW PROCESS

The Center will begin its formal review of concept notes in early 2023.  It will review and select Round 1 project concept notes and full project applications (Round 2) in consultation with the regional bureau PD offices and taking into consideration the program objectives, funding areas and priorities, and other application requirements.  The Center may deem concept notes and full applications ineligible if they do not fully adhere to AFCP 2023 Grants Program objectives, requirements, and other criteria stated herein.

Disclaimer:  Issuance of this funding opportunity does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the AFCP program or the U.S. government.  The Center reserves the right to waive program formalities and to reduce, revise, or increase project scopes and budgets in accordance with the needs of the program and the availability of funds.

CONTACT INFORMATION

For final submission of proposals, please mail all required documents to Dhaka Grants Committee at DhakaGrants@state.gov. 
For questions related to the application process, please reach out to Grants management team via email at DhakaGrants@state.gov
Learn more about AFCP on the web at http://exchanges.state.gov/heritage/afcp.html
We look forward to receiving your proposals.  Thank you.

Department of State Embassy of the United States in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)- CLOSED

 

Program Office: Public Diplomacy Section, U.S. Embassy Dhaka
Funding Opportunity Title: Operation and Management of the Edward M. Kennedy Center
Announcement Type: Cooperative Agreement
Funding Opportunity Number: PDS-DHAKA-NOFO-FY2022-01
Deadline for Applications: July 7, 2022 (11:59 p.m. Bangladesh Standard Time)
Assistance Listing Number(s): 19.040- Public Diplomacy Programs; 19.441- American Spaces
Total Amount Available:  $650,000

CONTACT INFORMATION

For assistance with the requirements of this solicitation, contact DhakaGrants@state.gov.

In order to be eligible to receive an award under this NOFO, organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov. Please begin the registration processes immediately to ensure the registrations are completed well in advance of the submission deadline.  The process can require several weeks for the registrations to be validated and confirmed.  See Section D: Submission Requirements for further details.

Due to the volume of applicants and inquiries, the Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) does not accept letters of intent, concept papers, or requests for meetings or phone calls prior to application.

It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application package has been received in its entirety. Incomplete applications will be considered ineligible. Applicants are urged to begin the application process well before the submission deadline. No exceptions will be made for organizations that have not completed the necessary steps.

1. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Executive Summary:

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka is pleased to announce an open competition for organizations to submit applications to oversee the administration and activities of the Edward M. Kennedy Center for Public Services and the Arts (EMK Center). The center is the U.S. Mission’s premier venue for cultural and educational programs, located in the artistic, cultural, and educational hub of Bangladesh’s capital. The EMK Center advances U.S. Public Diplomacy goals in seeking to provide Bangladeshi youth and young professionals with a platform to engage in open discussion, develop critical skills, engage in creative and innovative projects, and build bridges of understanding between the people of Bangladesh and the United States through the exchange of culture, ideas, and values.

The recipient organization will be responsible for staffing and operating the EMK Center in close cooperation with the Public Diplomacy Section of U.S. Embassy Dhaka (PDS).  Key program activities under this cooperative agreement include managing Bangladeshi staff with expertise in program management; implementing EducationUSA advising; conducting programs in STEM, videography, photography, and other relevant fields; purchasing and maintaining all technology, equipment, materials, and supplies needed to support in-person and virtual (remote) engagement with Bangladeshi audiences; developing and executing a flexible, dynamic, and diverse monthly program schedule in collaboration with PDS; and encouraging EMK Center visitors to regularly attend Embassy-sponsored activities.

Background:

The EMK Center is one of more than 600 American Spaces across the world supported by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) at the U.S. Department of State. American Spaces serve to build bridges between the people of the United States and other countries through various programs and events. All American Spaces support five core programs: English language programs, alumni engagement, educational advising on U.S. higher education, cultural programming, and access to information about the United States. The spaces exemplify the U.S. commitment to a core tenet of democracy: the citizen’s right to free access to information.

As the largest American Space in South Asia, the EMK Center conducts robust programming aimed at engaging Bangladeshi youth on a wide array of topics, including U.S. history and culture, English language learning, STEM and entrepreneurship, U.S. higher education opportunities, and Department of State exchange programs. Established in September 2012, the EMK Center has been engaging, inspiring, connecting, and empowering Bangladeshi citizens of all ages to better themselves, their communities, and our world.

The EMK Center engages and connects both young and established leaders to encourage positive change through public service and volunteerism. The annual programs and activities are designed by the Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) and EMK Center, reflecting both countries’ broader mission in establishing an equal and empowered society. Annually, the EMK Center organizes an average of over 500 programs and/or events on topics such as democratic governance, human rights, inclusive entrepreneurship, gender equality, preservation of arts and culture, and STEM education—all while engaging diverse audiences from throughout the country. Each year, the center also oversees a series of thematic campaigns focused on topics such as promoting diversity and inclusion, gender equality, and promoting STEM education. All services and events are free to the public.

Project Goal:

To build bridges of understanding between the people of Bangladesh and the United States through the exchange of culture, ideas, and values.

Project Objectives:

3. Plan, develop, and deliver at least 500 programs per year, in close coordination with the Public Diplomacy Section (PDS).
4. Provide Bangladeshi youth with a platform to engage in open discussion, develop critical skills, engage in creative and innovative projects, and build bridges of understanding between the people of Bangladesh and the United States.
5. Execute a small grants program (providing four to ten projects with funding support ranging from $5,000-$10,000) to support PDS policy priorities.
6. Execute all staffing, administrative, logistical, and procurement actions necessary to ensure the smooth operation of the EMK Center to include purchasing and maintaining supplies and equipment, providing IT support, rent for the center, utilities, etc.

Project Audiences:

EMK Center organizes programs seeking to engage diverse audiences (ranging from high school students to mid-career professionals) to promote STEM education, democratic values, human rights, entrepreneurship, English language skills, and other contemporary global issues. As an American Space, the center seeks to engage diverse segments of Bangladeshi society by prioritizing engagement with youth, women and girls, historically underrepresented groups (e.g., indigenous, LGBTQIA+, persons with disabilities, religious minority groups), and socio-economically disadvantaged communities.

Program Structure:

American Spaces are overseen by the Public Diplomacy Staff at U.S. Embassies and Consulates where they are located.  The recipient organization should be able to administer the daily operation of the EMK Center without direct supervision of, but in close coordination with the U.S. Embassy Dhaka.

Pending funds availability, this funding opportunity will provide support for one year of activity. The Department of State will entertain proposals for cost and time amendments of any resulting awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State.

Program Activities:

1. Plan, Develop, and Implement Programs

The recipient will plan, develop, and implement EMK programs in consultation with the Public Diplomacy Section.  Program themes and format must align with U.S. Embassy Dhaka’s priorities and are subject to PDS approval.

The recipient will execute an average of over 500 programs and/or events annually on topics such as democratic governance, human rights, inclusive entrepreneurship, gender equality, preservation of arts and culture, and STEM education— all while engaging diverse audiences from throughout the country.  Each year, the recipient will also oversee a series of thematic campaigns focused on topics such as promoting diversity and inclusion, gender equality, and promoting STEM education. All services and events should be free to the public.  The grantee will be expected to maintain a high level of professionalism to ensure customer satisfaction.

The proposal should include examples of potential program activities that will be supported by funds through the cooperative agreements.  These may include but are not limited to: virtual lectures and discussions with Americans, translation support, dialogue programs with exchange program alumni, master classes in the arts, performances, presentations from representatives of U.S. universities, training workshops on relevant topics, massive open online courses (MOOCs), and honoraria for local guest speakers.  Approximately 40% of funding should be used for program activities.  The proposal should also outline how the applicant will work with PDS to ensure programming advances Embassy Dhaka’s priority themes and topics.

The Public Diplomacy Section and other Mission’s sections, also provides other programming opportunities at the EMK Center.  All activities of this kind organized or sponsored by the U.S. Embassy will be integrated into the activities of the center, when appropriate.  Therefore, programs implemented by the recipient are only some of the range of programming that ultimately will be provided at the American Space.

2. Provide additional services to the public at the EMK Center

In addition to implementing the programs outlined above, the recipient will provide the public with access to state-of-the-art Maker lab, recording studio, cafeteria, EducationUSA advising library, Virtual Reality studio, and internet via a computer lab. The center should be open to the public six days per week, a minimum of 55 hours per week.

The recipient should expect to host at least 5,000 attendees per month.  During the first year of the awards, the center should serve a minimum of 10,000 members and receive an average of 200 new user applications per month.

3. Execute a small grants program to advance PDS policy priorities.

The recipient will execute an annual small grants program aimed at encouraging the submission of innovative projects related to U.S. Embassy Dhaka priorities areas to promote entrepreneurship, economic growth, and women’s empowerment.  The recipient will be expected to issue four to ten small grants per year with budgets between $5,000 and $10,000. The final selection of the small grant recipients will be made in consultation with PDS Dhaka.

4. Execute all staffing, administrative, logistical, and procurement actions necessary to ensure the smooth operation of the EMK Center

The recipient will be expected to manage and operate the center at the existing EMK space located at the Midas Center.  Rent and utilities for the center should be included in the applicant’s budget.  The recipient will be responsible for maintaining the center and the smooth operation of its services and activities.  This includes but is not limited to providing/securing IT support, IT software, hardware repair and replacement, supplies and equipment, security provisions, etc.

The recipient will be responsible for tracking individuals that use center services, including use of the internet or library, as well as attendance at program events.  This information will be reported to PDS to allow for better targeted programs, and identifying individuals interested in future programming ideas.

Applicants should propose staffing levels they deem necessary to carry out the requirements of this NOFO.  Currently, approximately 15+ full-time and 3+ part-time staff support operations and programming at the EMK Center.  Proposals should highlight proposed staff qualifications as they relate to the requirements of this NOFO.

For the purpose of this project, the recipient organization will act as the employer of all locally hired, full-time and temporary staff. The award recipient will be responsible for establishing transparent and fair employment practices. All policies are subject to review by the U.S. Embassy Dhaka. It is the responsibility of the award recipient to ensure that labor agreements are prepared and signed with each employee in full accordance with current Bangladeshi law, and all social security and tax deductions are accurately and timely performed by the employer.

1. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION

Length of performance period: 12 months (with possibility of up to two,12-month extensions based on performance and funds availability)

Number of awards anticipated: Two; PDS anticipates awarding two awards from this NOFO to one applicant.  The anticipated total of the two awards is reflected in the award floor and award ceiling below.  PDS will work with the selected applicant pre-award to divide costs into two budgets for the two awards.  The successful applicant will be required to manage two awards to execute the project outlined in this NOFO.

Award Floor: $500,000

Award Ceiling:   $650,000

Type of Funding:  Fiscal Year 2022 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy and Fiscal Year 2022 Educational and Cultural Exchange Fulbright Hays funding

Anticipated program start date:  October 1, 2022

This notice is subject to availability of funding.

Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement. Cooperative Agreement is different from grants in that U.S. Embassy Dhaka PDS staff are more actively involved in the program implementation.  PDS will be involved in providing strategic guidance for daily operations and programs.

Program Performance Period: PDS intends to issue two awards for a period of 12 months (base period). The Department of State will entertain applications for continuation of projects funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State.

The Public Diplomacy Section reserves the right to award less or more than the funds described under circumstances deemed to be in the best interest of the U.S. government, pending the availability of funds and approval of the designated grants officer.

1. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants

Eligible entities include non-profit organizations, foundations, trusts, community-based organizations, and educational institutions that have legal standing in Bangladesh and/or in the United States, and the appropriate registrations as per the local regulatory requirements. For-profit entities, even those that may fall into the categories listed above, are not eligible to apply for this funding opportunity.  Commercial firms and for-profit entities are not eligible to apply for this funding opportunity. Individuals are not eligible to apply for this opportunity.

Submissions are encouraged from local and international organizations with relevant program experience. Experience should be documented in the proposal. Non-U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their certificate of registration from the appropriate government entity.

1. Cost Sharing or Matching

Cost sharing or matching is not required for this funding opportunity.

1. Other Eligibility Requirements

In order to be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). The UEI will be generated when the organization registers in SAM.gov. Please see pages 10-11 for information on how to register in SAM.gov.  Sam.gov is experiencing delays as of April 2022. Organizations having issues registering with Sam.gov should notify DhakaGrants@state.gov as soon as possible.

NOTE: As of April 2022, a DUNS number is no longer required to apply for a federal assistance award.

Applicants are only allowed to submit one proposal per organization. If more than one proposal is received from an organization only the submission received closest to and before the deadline will be reviewed.

1. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION
2. Content and Form of Application Submission

Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible.

Applicants must ensure:

1. Proposal clearly addresses the goals, audiences, and objectives of this notice.
2. All documents must be in English.
3. All budgets must be in U.S. dollars.
4. All pages must be numbered.
5. All applicant authorized signatures are provided where indicated on the various, required forms.

The following documents and components are required and must be included in the applicant’s submission: 

Section 1. Mandatory application forms

• SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance – organizations)
• SF-424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs)
• SF-424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) (note: the SF-424B is only required for organizations not registered in SAM.gov)

All submissions must include the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance and the SF-424A Budget Information—Non-Construction. These forms and the instructions for completing them are available at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/forms.html under the heading “SF-424 Family.”  NOTE: The SF-424B is required only for those applicants who have not registered in SAM.gov.  An authorized signature by the applicant must be provided on this form.

Section 2. Technical Proposal (20 pages maximum): The proposal should contain sufficient information that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do. You may use your own proposal format, but it must include all the items below.

• Proposal Summary: Short narrative that outlines the proposed program, including program objectives and anticipated impact.
• Organizational Description and Capacity: A description of past and present operations, showing ability to carry out the program, including information on all previous grants from the U.S. Embassy and/or U.S. government agencies as well as experience with and expertise in areas related to those described in the NOFO.
• Program Methods, Design, Activities, and Deliverables: A description of how the program is expected to work to solve the stated problem and achieve the goal. Describe the program activities and how they will help achieve the objectives.
• Key Personnel: Names, titles, roles and experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program. Include the proportion of their time that will be used in support of this program.
• Program Partners: List the names and type of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees, if applicable.
• Monitoring & Evaluation: Proposals must include a draft Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP). The M&E PMP should show how applicants intend to measure and demonstrate progress towards the project’s objectives and goals.

The key components to the PMP are as follows:

1. Monitoring and Evaluation Narrative: In narrative form, applicants should describe how they intend to monitor and evaluate the activities of their award and collect data that tracks award performance. In addition, the applicant should describe any M&E processes, including key personnel, management structure (where M&E fits into the overall program’s staff structure), technology, and as well provide a brief budget narrative explaining any line-item expenditures for M&E listed in the program’s budget. Submission should demonstrate an ability to adjust project activities based on new information. If the proposal is from a prior grantee, the proposal discusses how the grantee has adapted, improved or otherwise modified their approach based on learning from previous experience. This narrative is limited to two pages.  Attachment 1 includes a suggested format for this requirement.

1. Theory of Change Diagram: Applicants must submit either a Theory of Change diagram or an If-Then Statement that illustrates how project activities will lead to intended outcomes. Attachment 1 includes a suggested format for this requirement.
2. Monitoring and Evaluation Datasheet: The applicant must include their proposed activities and their expected outputs and outcomes as well as the goals and objectives as written in the NOFO. The datasheet’s purpose is to explicitly illustrate how a project’s activities lead to tangible results (such as increased beneficiary skills, knowledge, or attitudes) that ultimately address a PDS objective. Attachment 1 includes a suggested format for this requirement. For more information, please see Attachment 2: Instructions.

The selected applicant’s M&E PMP is subject to review and approval before any award will be issued under this NOFO.  The selected applicant will be required to work with PDS to ensure the applicant’s M&E PMP achieves an expected level of expertise and meets PDS objectives.

Section 3. — Detailed Budget and Budget Narrative:

• Detailed Budget – Applicants must submit a detailed line-item budget. Line item expenditures should be listed in the greatest possible detail. The budget must identify the total amount of funding requested, with a breakdown of amounts to be spent in the following budget categories: personnel; fringe benefits; travel; equipment; supplies; consultants/contracts; other direct costs; and indirect costs. See Section I for a description of the types of costs that should be included in each category. Personnel salaries should include the level of effort and the rate of pay, which should cover the percentage of time each staff member will dedicate to grant-based activities. If an organization is charging an indirect cost rate without a NICRA, it must apply it to the modified total budget costs (MTDC), refer to 2CFR§200.68.  Budgets shall be submitted in U.S. dollars and final grant agreements will be conducted in U.S. dollars.

• Budget Justification Narrative – Applicants must submit a budget justification narrative to accompany the detailed line-item budget. The purpose of the budget justification narrative is to supplement the information provided in the detailed budget spreadsheet by justifying how the budget cost elements are necessary to implement project objectives and accomplish the project goals. The budget justification narrative is a tool to help PDS staff fully understand the budgetary needs of the applicant and is an opportunity to provide descriptive information about the requested costs beyond the constraints of the budget template. Together, the detailed budget spreadsheet, the budget justification narrative, and the SF-424A should provide a complete financial and qualitative description that supports the proposed project plan and should be directly relatable to the specific project components described in the applicant’s proposal.

Additional Budget Notes:

• Audit Requirements: Please note the audit requirements for Department of State awards in the Standard Terms and Conditions https://www.state.gov/m/a/ope/index.htm and 2CFR200, Subpart F – Audit Requirements.  The cost of the required audits may be charged either as an allowable direct cost to the award OR included in the organization’s established indirect costs in the award’s detailed budget.

Section 4. – Required Attachments:

1. Key Personnel Resumes: A résumé, not to exceed one page in length, must be included for the proposed key staff persons as well as any speakers or trainers (if applicable).  If an individual for this type of position has not been identified, the applicant may submit a 1-page position description, identifying the qualifications and skills required for that position, in lieu of a résumé.
2. Letters of support from program partners: Letters of support should be included for sub-recipients or other partners. The letters must identify the type of relationship to be entered into (formal or informal), the roles and responsibilities of each partner in relation to the proposed project activities, and the expected result of the partnership.  The individual letters cannot exceed 1 page in length.
3. If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included in the application submission.
4. Proof of Non-profit Status –Documentation to demonstrate the applicant’s non-profit status (e.g., non-U.S. organizations should provide evidence of non-profit status issued by a government entity).
5. Proof of Registration: A copy of the organization’s registration should be provided with the proposal application. U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their IRS determination letter. Bangladesh-based organizations should submit a copy of their certificate of registration from the appropriate government organization.

Other items NOT required/requested with the application submission, but which may be requested if your application is approved to move forward in the review process include:

1. Copies of an organization or program audit within the last two (2) years
2. Copies of relevant human resources, financial, or procurement policies
3. Copies of other relevant organizational policies or documentation that would help the Department determine your organization’s capacity to manage a federal grant award overseas.
4. Information to determine what financial controls and standard operating procedures an organization uses to procure goods and services, hire staff and track time and attendance, pay for grant-related travel, and identify other financial transactions that may be necessary to undertake the project activities.
5. The Embassy reserves the right to request any additional programmatic and/or financial information regarding the proposal.

2. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov)

Required Registrations:  All organizations applying for grants (except individuals) must obtain these registrations.  All are free of charge:

• SAM.gov registration which will generate a UEI
• NCAGE/CAGE code

Any applicant with an exclusion in the System for Award Management (SAM) is not eligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.”

The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-282, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards.  SAM.gov is the Federal government’s primary database for complying with FFATA reporting requirements.  OMB designated SAM.gov as the central repository to facilitate applicant and recipient use of a single public website that consolidates data on all federal financial assistance.  Under the law, it is mandatory to register in SAM.gov.

Starting April 2022, the UEI will be assigned when an organization registers or renews it’s registration in SAM.gov at www.SAM.gov.  To access SAM.gov an organization is required to have a Login.gov account. Organization can create an account at https://login.gov/.   As a reminder, organizations need to renew its sam.gov registration annually.

US-based organizations: A CAGE code will be automatically assigned when the U.S. organizations registers in www.sam.gov.  CAGE must be renewed every 5 years.  Site for CAGE: https://cage.dla.mil/Home/UsageAgree. Grantees may be asked for more information to finalized and must comply.

Foreign-based organizations: Must apply for a NCAGE code before registering in SAM.gov. Go to: https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/CageTool/home to apply for a NCAGE code.  NCAGE codes must be renewed every 5 years.

It is in the organization’s best interest to check if their CAGE/or NCAGE codes are active.  Organizations are required to register/or renew their CAGE or NCAGE codes prior to registering or renewing www.sam.gov .  Both registration and renewals for both CAGE and NCAGE can take up to 10 days.  Organization’s legal address in NCAGE/CAGE must mirror www. sam.gov.

www.sam.gov requires all entities to renew their registration once a year in order to maintain an active registration status in SAM.gov.  It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure it has an active registration in SAM.gov.

If an organization plans to issue a sub-contract or sub-award, those sub-awardees must also have a unique entity identifier (UEI number).  Those entities can register for a UEI only at SAM.gov.

All organizations applying for grants (except individuals) must obtain these registrations, they are free of charge.  Sam.gov is experiencing delays as of April 7^th, 2022. Organizations having issues registering with Sam.gov should contact DhakaGrants@state.gov. as soon as possible.

Note: As of April 2022, a DUNS number is no longer required.

3. Submission Dates and Times

All application materials must be submitted by July 7, 2022 (11:59 p.m. Bangladesh Standard time) to DhakaGrants@state.gov or electronically through www.Grants.gov. No exceptions will be made for applications submitted after the deadline.

Submission Deadline: All applications must be received by July 7, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. (Bangladesh Standard time). If an organization fails to meet the deadline its application will be considered ineligible and will not be considered for funding.

4. Funding Restrictions

Pre-award costs are not an allowable expense for this funding opportunity.

5. Other Submission Requirements

Applicants must acquire all required registrations and rights in the United States and Bangladesh. All intellectual property considerations and rights must be fully met in the United States and Bangladesh.

Any sub-recipient organization must also meet all the U.S. and Bangladeshi requirements described above.

1. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
2. Evaluation Criteria: Each application submitted under this announcement will be evaluated and rated on the basis of the criteria enumerated below. The criteria are designed to assess the quality of the proposed project, and to determine the likelihood of its success.
3. Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea—25 points: The proposal is responsive to the program framework. The idea is communicated well and is feasible in seeking to engage target audiences.
4. Organizational Capacity and Record on Previous Grants—25 points: The proposal should demonstrate the organization’s expertise and previous experience in administering programs. This includes past performance with U.S. government funds.
5. Project Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives—20 points: The proposal should clearly articulate the proposed project activities and expected results toward achieving strategic goals and objectives.
6. Budget—20 points: The budget and narrative justification are sufficiently detailed. The budget demonstrates that the organization has devoted time to accurately determine expenses associated with the project instead of providing rough estimates. Costs are reasonable in relation to the proposed activities and anticipated results. The results and proposed outcomes justify the total cost of the project. Budget items are reasonable, allowable, and allocable.
7. Monitoring and Evaluation—10 points: There is a complete and thorough draft submission of a M&E Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP). This will include a list of proposed project activities, corresponding milestone, output, and outcome indicators, a description of data collection methods, and a timeline for collecting such information. The proposal presents a clear theory of change on how the program will address that problem. Further, if the project requires selecting participants, or beneficiaries, the proposal should articulate how the selection will be done in an equitable way. Use of the suggested template (Attachment 1) will satisfy these requirements. Funded projects will have their plans finalized during the negotiation phase, and monitoring plans may be subject to periodic updates throughout the life of the project.
8. Review and Selection Process
9. Acknowledgement of receipt. Applicants will receive acknowledgement of receipt of the proposal.
10. All submissions are screened for technical eligibility. If a submission is missing any required forms/documents listed above in section D, it will be considered ineligible and will not be reviewed by the grants review committee. A technical review panel will review eligible proposals based upon the criteria noted in this NOFO.
11. Follow up notification. Applicants will generally be notified within 120 days after the NOFO deadline regarding the results of the review panel.
12. Federal Awardee Performance & Integrity Information System (FAPIIS)

For any Federal award under a notice of funding opportunity, if the Federal awarding agency anticipates that the total Federal share will be greater than the simplified acquisition threshold on any Federal award under a notice of funding opportunity may include, over the period of performance (see §200.88 Simplified Acquisition Threshold), this section must also inform applicants:

1. That the Federal awarding agency, prior to making a Federal award with a total amount of Federal share greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, is required to review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM (currently FAPIIS) (see 41 U.S.C. 2313);
2. That an applicant, at its option, may review information in the designated integrity and performance systems accessible through SAM and comment on any information about itself that a Federal awarding agency previously entered and is currently in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM;
3. That the Federal awarding agency will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to the other information in the designated integrity and performance system, in making a judgment about the applicant’s integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under Federal awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as described in §200.206 Federal awarding agency review of risk posed by applicants.

1. FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

The grant award or cooperative agreement will be written, signed, awarded, and administered by the Grants Officer. The assistance award agreement is the authorizing document and it will be provided to the recipient for review and signature by email. The recipient may only start incurring project expenses beginning on the start date shown on the grant award document signed by the Grants Officer.

If a proposal is selected for funding, the Department of State has no obligation to provide any additional future funding. Renewal of an award to increase funding or extend the period of performance is at the discretion of the Department of State.

The Federal government is not obligated to make any Federal award as a result of the announcement. Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of proposals. Further, the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received. The U.S. government also reserves the right to make an award in excess of the award ceiling.

Administrative and National Policy Requirements

Terms and Conditions:

Before submitting an application, applicants should review all the terms and conditions and required certifications which will apply to this award, to ensure that they will be able to comply.

These include:

•  2 CFR 25 – UNIVERSAL IDENTIFIER AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT
• 2 CFR 170 – REPORTING SUBAWARD AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION INFORMATION
• 2 CFR 175 – AWARD TERM FOR TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS
• 2 CFR 182 – GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE)
•  2 CFR 183 – NEVER CONTRACT WITH THE ENEMY
• 2 CFR 600 – DEPARTMENT OF STATE REQUIREMENTS
• S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS

In accordance with the Office of Management and Budget’s guidance located at 2 CFR part 200, all applicable Federal laws, and relevant Executive guidance, the Department of State will review and consider applications for funding, as applicable to specific programs, pursuant to this notice of funding opportunity in accordance with the following:  NOTE:

• Guidance for Grants and Agreements in Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR), as updated in the Federal Register’s 85 FR 49506 on August 13, 2020, particularly on:
  • Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering results based on the program objectives through an objective process of evaluating Federal award applications (2 CFR part 200.205),
  • Prohibiting the purchase of certain telecommunication and video surveillance services or equipment in alignment with section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2019 (Pub. L. No. 115—232) (2 CFR part 200.216),
  • Promoting the freedom of speech and religious liberty in alignment with Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty (E.O. 13798) and Improving Free Inquiry, Transparency, and Accountability at Colleges and Universities (E.O. 13864) (§§ 200.300, 200.303, 200.339, and 200.341),
  • Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to maximize use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United States (2 CFR part 200.322), and
  • Terminating agreements in whole or in part to the greatest extent authorized by law, if an award no longer effectuates the program goals or agency priorities (2 CFR part 200.340).

Reporting

Recipients are required to submit quarterly program progress and financial reports throughout the project period. Progress and financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final certified programmatic and financial reports are due 120 days after the close of the project period.

All reports are to be submitted electronically.

Awardees that are deemed to be high risk may be required to submit more extensive and frequent reports until their high-risk designation has been removed.

The Awardee must also provide the Embassy on an annual basis an inventory of all the U.S. government provided equipment using the SF428 form.

Applicants should be aware of the post award reporting requirements reflected in 2 CFR 200 Appendix XII—Award Term and Condition for Recipient Integrity and Performance Matters.

Foreign Assistance Data Review: As required by Congress, the Department of State must make progress in its efforts to improve tracking and reporting of foreign assistance data through the Foreign Assistance Data Review (FADR). The FADR requires tracking of foreign assistance activity data from budgeting, planning, and allocation through obligation and disbursement.  Successful applicants will be required to report and draw down federal funding based on the appropriate FADR Data Elements, indicated within their award documentation.  In cases of more than one FADR Data Element, typically program or sector and/or regions or country, the successful applicant will be required to maintain separate accounting records.

1. FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACTS

If you have any questions about this funding opportunity or the grant application process, please contact: DhakaGrants@state.gov.  A live, Question & Answer session will be scheduled for applicants to attend on June 12.

Question Deadline: For questions on this solicitation, please submit them electronically to DhakaGrants@state.gov.

Questions must be received on or before June 15, 2022. Applicants should not expect an email response to questions, as questions received before the deadline will be answered in a question and answer document and posted at http://www.grants.gov and https://bd.usembassy.gov/.

1. OTHER INFORMATION

Guidelines for Budget Justification

Personnel and Fringe Benefits: Describe the wages, salaries, and benefits of temporary or permanent staff who will be working directly for the applicant on the program, and the percentage of their time that will be spent on the program.

Travel: Estimate the costs of travel and per diem for this program, for program staff, consultants or speakers, and participants/beneficiaries. If the program involves international travel, include a brief statement of justification for that travel.

Equipment: Describe any machinery, furniture, or other personal property that is required for the program, which has a useful life of more than one year (or a life longer than the duration of the program), and costs at least $5,000 per unit.

Supplies: List and describe all the items and materials, including any computer devices, that are needed for the program. If an item costs more than $5,000 per unit, then put it in the budget under Equipment.

Contractual: Describe goods and services that the applicant plans to acquire through a contract with a vendor.  Also describe any sub-awards to non-profit partners that will help carry out the program activities.

Other Direct Costs: Describe other costs directly associated with the program, which do not fit in the other categories. For example, shipping costs for materials and equipment or applicable taxes. All “Other” or “Miscellaneous” expenses must be itemized and explained.

Indirect Costs:  These are costs that cannot be linked directly to the program activities, such as overhead costs needed to help keep the organization operating.  If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate (NICRA) and includes NICRA charges in the budget, attach a copy of your latest NICRA. Organizations that have never had a NICRA may request indirect costs of 10% of the modified total direct costs as defined in 2 CFR 200.68.

“Cost Sharing” refers to contributions from the organization or other entities other than the U.S. Embassy.   It also includes in-kind contributions such as volunteers’ time and donated venues.

Alcoholic Beverages:  Please note that award funds cannot be used for alcoholic beverages.

Branding Requirements

As a condition of receipt of a grant award, all materials produced pursuant to the award, including training materials, materials for recipients or materials to communicate or promote with foreign audiences a program, event, project, or some other activity under an agreement, including but not limited to invitations to events, press materials, and backdrops, podium signs, etc. must be marked appropriately with the standard, rectangular U.S. flag in a size and prominence equal to (or greater than) any other logo or identity. Note: Exceptions to the branding requirement are allowable under certain conditions. If an applicant is notified that their award has been chosen for funding, the Grants Officer will determine, in consultation with the applicant, if an exception is applicable.

Copyrights and Proprietary Information

If any of the information contained in your application is proprietary, please note in the footer of the appropriate pages that the information is Confidential – Proprietary. Applicants should also note what parts of the application, program, concept, etc. are covered by copyright(s), trademark(s), or any other intellectual property rights and provide copies of the relevant documentation to support these copyrights.

Attachments

1. M&E Performance Monitoring Plan Template (DOCX 76KB)
2. M&E Performance Monitoring Plan Instructions (DOCX 41KB)

Notice of Funding Opportunity – CLOSED

Funding Opportunity Title:             2021 Fiscal Transparency Innovation Fund in Bangladesh
Funding Opportunity Number:      PE-DHAKA-FY2020-0601

The U.S. Embassy Dhaka and the Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs at the U.S. Department of State (DOS), announces a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the 2021 Fiscal Transparency Innovation Fund.  A cooperative agreement for up to $247,500 U.S. Dollars (USD) in FY 2020 Economic Support Funds will be awarded (pending availability of funds) for work that will support increasing accountability and transparency of state-owned enterprises in Bangladesh.  The period of performance is 24 months.

This opportunity is designed to address recommendations laid out in the Bangladesh chapter of the U.S. Department of State’s global Fiscal Transparency Report: ensuring Bangladeshi SOEs have publicly available audited financial statements, eliminating off-budget accounts or subjecting them to publicly available audits, preparing budget documents according to internationally accepted principles, making audit reports by the supreme audit institution publicly available within a reasonable period of time, and making basic information about natural resource extraction awards publicly and consistently available.

Deadline:  Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by 11:59PM EDT on July 26, 2021.

More Information/Application Instructions: Please visit the full listing at Grants.gov by searching for PE-DHAKA-FY2020-0601 or clicking this link.

Contact Person: For questions on the application and technical content please contact Grants Officer Representative, Justin Halpern, HalpernJ@state.gov.  All questions must be submitted by 11:59PM EDT on July 19, 2021.

EMK Small Grant 2023

 

Embassy of the United States of America, Dhaka, Bangladesh takes pleasure to invite your price offer for the following item. Your price quotation should reach our office through E-mail at DhakaProc@state.gov.

Solicitation Package 1: 19BG3023R0004
Date Issued: May 10, 2023
Due Date: May 21, 2023
Description of Goods: Solicitation (19BG3023R0004) for Travel Management Contract for U. S. Mission Dhaka (Domestic Support) (15 MB)

Solicitation Package 2: 19BG3023Q1053
Date Issued: May 23, 2023
Due Date: June 07, 2023
Description of Goods: PACOM Maid Services Contract (PDF 13 MB)