Request for Applications

Specialty Crop Multi-State Program

Fiscal Year 2015 Request for Applications

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-AMS-SCMP-2015

Application Due Date: 11:59 PM Eastern Time on January 14, 2016

Program Solicitation Information
Funding Opportunity Title: Specialty Crop Multi-State Program (SCMP)

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-AMS-SCMP-2015

Announcement Type: Initial

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.170

Dates: Applications must be received by 11:59 pm Eastern time on January 14, 2016, through
www.Grants.gov . Applications received after this deadline will not be considered for funding.
State departments of agriculture must notify USDA by September 30, 2015, if they would like to
be designated as a Participating State department of agriculture. See section 1.4.2 for more
details.
Stakeholder Input: A Notice of Guidance Regarding the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Multi-State Project Competition was published in the Federal Register on October 23, 2014 (79
FR 63377). Interested persons were invited to submit written comments until November 24,
2014. Comments were received from a specialty crop organization, a sustainable agriculture
organization, a State department of agriculture, an association of State agriculture departments,
and one individual. The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) considered these comments during
the preparation of the fiscal year (FY) 2015 Request for Applications (RFA). The comments are
summarized and discussed at SCMP Summary of Comments Received.
Executive Summary: AMS requests applications for the FY 2015 SCMP to competitively award
funds to State departments of agriculture to solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty
crops by funding collaborative, multi-state projects that address the following regional or
national level specialty crop issues: food safety; plant pests and disease; research; crop-specific
projects addressing common issues; and marketing and promotion.
Approximately $3 million may be available to fund applications under this solicitation. The
funding amount available consists of $1 million not awarded in FY 2014 and $2 million allocated
for FY 2015. Funds not awarded will be rolled over into the next fiscal year.
This RFA identifies objectives for SCMP projects, the eligibility criteria for projects and applicants,
and the application forms and associated instructions needed to apply for a SCMP award.

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STAKEHOLDER INPUT: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) seeks your comments about this
RFA. We will consider the comments when we develop the next RFA for the program. Submit
written stakeholder comments by January 14, 2016, to: Janise Zygmont, Specialty Crop MultiState Program, Grants Division, Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA, STOP 0267; 1400
Independence Avenue, SW; Washington, DC 20250-0267; or via e-mail to:
[email protected]. In your comments, please state that you are responding to the
Specialty Crop Multi-State Program RFA.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 Funding Opportunity Description .......................................................................................................................................5
1.1 Legislative Authority ............................................................................................................................................................................ 5
1.2 Purpose ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
1.3 Project Types .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
1.4 Development of Proposals ..............................................................................................................................................................10
2.0 Award Information ............................................................................................................................................................. 14
2.1 Type of Federal Assistance ..............................................................................................................................................................14
2.2 Type of Applications...........................................................................................................................................................................14
2.3 Available Funding ................................................................................................................................................................................14
2.4 Federal Award Period Duration .....................................................................................................................................................14
2.5 Award Size .............................................................................................................................................................................................14
3.0 Eligibility Information ......................................................................................................................................................... 14
3.1 Eligible Applicants ...............................................................................................................................................................................14
3.2 Eligible Specialty Crops .....................................................................................................................................................................14
3.3 Cost Sharing and Matching ..............................................................................................................................................................15
3.4 Number of SCMP Applications that May Be Submitted to AMS ........................................................................................15
4.0 Application and Submission Information ....................................................................................................................... 15
4.1 Obtaining an Application Package ................................................................................................................................................15
4.2 Application Checklist..........................................................................................................................................................................15
4.3 Content and Form of Application Submission ..........................................................................................................................16
4.4 Disqualification of a Submitted Application ..............................................................................................................................27
4.5 Submission Date and Time ..............................................................................................................................................................27
4.6 Intergovernmental Review ..............................................................................................................................................................28
4.7 Funding Restrictions ..........................................................................................................................................................................28
4.8 Other Submission Requirements...................................................................................................................................................42
5.0 Application Review Information ...................................................................................................................................... 44
5.1 Project Evaluation Criteria ...............................................................................................................................................................44
5.2 Review and Selection Process ........................................................................................................................................................45
6.0 Award Administration Information ................................................................................................................................. 47
6.1 Award Notices ......................................................................................................................................................................................47
6.2 Unsuccessful Applicants ...................................................................................................................................................................48
6.3 Administrative and National Policy Requirements .................................................................................................................48
6.4 Reporting ...............................................................................................................................................................................................49
7.0 Agency Contact .................................................................................................................................................................... 50
8.0 Other Information ............................................................................................................................................................... 50
8.1 Equal Opportunity Statement ........................................................................................................................................................50
8.2 Freedom of Information Act Requests ........................................................................................................................................51
8.3 Summary of Public Comments Received ....................................................................................................................................52
8.4 Budget Spreadsheet Example .........................................................................................................................................................64

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1.0 FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION
1.1 LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY
Legislative authority is provided under section 101 of the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of
2004 (7 U.S.C. 1621 note), as amended under section 10010 of the Agricultural Act of 2014, Public
Law 113-79.
1.2 PURPOSE
The purpose of the SCMP is to competitively award funds to State departments of agriculture to
solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by funding collaborative, multi-state
projects that address the following regional or national level specialty crop issues:
•

Food safety

•

Plant pests and disease

•

Research

•

Crop-specific projects addressing common issues

•

Marketing and promotion

1.3 PROJECT TYPES
States are encouraged to develop projects that bring together multi-state teams to research and
develop solutions to practical problems that cross State boundaries and address the needs of
specialty crop growers in the areas of food safety, plant pests and disease, research, crop-specific
projects addressing common issues, and marketing and promotion. Eligible project types include
the following:
1.3.1 FOOD SAFETY PROJECTS THAT ADDRESS THE HANDLING, PREPARATION, AND STORAGE
OF SPECIALTY CROPS IN WAYS THAT REDUCE FOODBORNE THREATS

Projects may include, but are not limited to:
 Improve detection, monitoring, control, and response to potential food safety hazards in
the production, processing, and handling of specialty crops;
 Develop procedures and mechanisms and provide assistance/education in
implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP),
or Good Handling Practices (GHP) on a national or regional level. If providing
education/training opportunities, utilize the Produce Safety Alliance (PSA) or other FDArecognized curriculum and materials;

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 Conduct research focused on issues (such as die-off rates/survival rates of pathogens)
related to (1) water quality; or (2) use of biological soil amendments of animal origin, on
similar agro-ecological regions or localities.
The following Framework Document is suggested as a reference for developing projects
involving agricultural water:
o Harris, L.J., J. Bender, E.A. Bihn, T. Blessinton, M.D. Danyluk, P. Delaquis, L.
Goodridge, M. Ibekwe, S. Ilic, K. Kniel, J.T. Lejeune, D.W. Schaffner, D. Stoeckel,
and T.V. Suslow. December 2012. A framework for developing research protocols
for evaluation of microbial hazards and controls during production that pertain to
the quality of agricultural water contacting fresh produce that may be consumed
raw. See Journal of Food Protection. 75(12):2251-2273.
The following Framework Document is suggested as a reference for developing projects
involving biological soil amendments of animal origin:
o Harris, L.J., E. Berry, T. Blessington, M. Erickson, M. Jay-Russell, X. Jiang, K.
Killinger, F.C. Michel, P. Millner, K. Schneider, M. Sharma, T.V. Suslow, L. Wang,
R.W. Worobo. 2012. A framework for developing research protocols for
evaluation of microbial hazards and controls during production that pertain to the
use of untreated biological soil amendments of animal origin for produce that may
be consumed raw. See Journal of Food Protection. 76(6):1062-1084.
 Apply new or improved food processing technologies to prevent and reduce foodborne
pathogen loads in specialty crops;
 Strengthen national and regional traceback systems; promote an outbreak response
system that shortens the time between outbreak detection, resolution, and recovery; and
improve methods for communicating with consumers about traceback and foodborne
illness outbreaks; and/or
 Improve national support and coordination of food safety programs by conducting
national and regional conferences, building collaborative networks, and exchanging
information about integrated food safety.
1.3.2 PROJECTS THAT ADDRESS THREATS FROM PESTS AND DISEASES

May include, but are not limited to:
 Develop safe, effective, and economical pest and disease management solutions for
growers of specialty crops;
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 Develop monitoring systems to enhance capabilities to predict pest and disease
incidence, estimate damage, and identify valid action thresholds;
 Develop treatments for quarantine pests and diseases to maintain or open healthy
markets with U.S. trading partners;
 Develop diagnostic tools, particularly new ones, for plant pests and diseases and for
detection of pesticide resistance in pest populations, including weeds; and/or
 Develop delivery methods, particularly new methods, designed to expand the options for
integrated pest management (IPM) implementation.
1.3.3 RESEARCH PROJECTS

May include, but are not limited to:
 Conduct research in plant breeding, genetics, and genomics to improve crop
characteristics;
 Develop new innovations and technologies, including mechanization;
 Improve production, processing, storage, and distribution efficiencies for conventionally
or organically grown specialty crops;
 Reduce environmental impacts;
 Conduct research to determine consumer preferences, including studies of willingness to
pay, sensory evaluations, focus groups and other evaluative research methods that will
then be disseminated to specialty crop growers in multiple States.
1.3.4 CROP-SPECIFIC PROJECTS

Crop-specific projects involve collaborative efforts to address issues that affect a specific
specialty crop. An example of an acceptable project would involve a specific specialty crop that
is grown commercially in several distinct and widely dispersed geographic areas or regions of the
country.
1.3.5 MARKETING AND PROMOTION PROJECTS

Marketing and promotion projects focus efforts to sell, advertise, promote, market, generate
publicity, attract new customers, or raise customer awareness for specialty crops or a specialty
crop venue.
1.3.6 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT ELIGIBLE PROJECT TYPES

Priority Points in the Review Process

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AMS will give priority to proposals where the main project activities fall under the following
project types: food safety; plant pests and disease; and research as described in sections 1.3.1,
1.3.2 and 1.3.3.
Highly-Technical Proposals
AMS recognizes that it is often necessary to test out and prove new technologies or approaches
on a small scale in the laboratory before taking them into the field. Any technically-oriented
proposal submitted to SCMP must outline how, if proven successful in the laboratory, the
technology or approach will be tested in real-world conditions, and specifically how specialty crop
producers and processors may benefit.
Proposals Involving Food Safety Training or Education for Producers, Processors and/or
Handlers
State departments of agriculture and their partners or any other entity participating in the
project must utilize PSA or other FDA-recognized training and resources for producer and/or
processor training or education.
Training need not be restricted to the classroom. Training “in the field” can be beneficial and
effective. AMS will allow training conducted under a SCMP project to take place in alternate
venues provided that it follows PSA or other FDA-recognized curriculum, materials and
resources.
There may be situations where some additional unique training materials or information
specific to a particular region and/or to a particular specialty crop may be needed. Such specific
materials or information may be developed and used in a SCMP project provided that it is
presented in addition to, and not instead of, PSA or other FDA-recognized training, materials
and resources which must serve as the foundation.
Proposals Involving Consumer Food Safety Education
Consumers may benefit from educational materials and campaigns that convey messages
regarding safe handling, preparation and storage of specialty crops in the home. Educational
materials and campaigns targeted to consumers are acceptable under the SCMP provided that
the content is aligned with the PSA or other FDA-recognized source and that the focus is on
providing useful and practical information to help consumers avoid food contamination by using
practices that are under their control once they purchase a specialty crop.
Proposals Involving Other Types of Training and Education

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Training and education programs may be developed for producers, processors, handlers and
consumers relating to plant pests and diseases, research and crop-specific projects addressing
common issues.
1.3.7 TYPES OF PROJECTS ENCOURAGED BY USDA

USDA encourages proposals that will:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Improve producer and facility capacity to comply with the requirements of the Food Safety
Modernization Act.
Develop adaptation and mitigation strategies for farmers in drought-stricken regions of the
country.
Increase opportunities for new and beginning farmers.
Develop strong local and regional food systems.
Protect pollinator habitats and improving pollinator health.
Support the growth of organic specialty crops.
Benefit underserved communities and veterans
Involve contributions to the project by partners of cash and/or in-kind resources as
appropriate.

Note that, with the exception of proposals to improve producer and facility capacity to comply
with the requirements of the Food Safety Modernization Act, submission of proposals that
address the topics listed in this section does not convey any advantage, including priority points,
in terms of evaluation and scoring during the review process.
1.3.8 UNALLOWED PROJECT TYPES

The following types of projects are not allowed:
•

DUPLICATION OF MATERIALS – Projects that duplicate the content of food safety training
curricula or any resources or materials already developed by the Produce Safety Alliance.

•

DIRECT ASSISTANCE TO PRODUCERS - Projects that provide direct financial assistance to
producers or processors to offset the cost of GAP, GHP or GMP or to cost-share for
funding audits of such systems.

•

DISPARAGE THE WORK OF ANOTHER ORGANIZATION - Projects in which one organization
specifically attempts to disparage the mission, goals, and/or actions of another
organization.
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•

BENEFIT ONLY ONE ORGANIZATION, INSTITUTION OR INDIVIDUAL- Projects that solely
benefit a particular commercial product or provide a profit to a single organization,
institution, or individual. In addition, SCMP funds cannot be used to compete unfairly
with private companies that provide equivalent products or services.

•

SUPPLANTING - SCMP funds awarded must supplement rather than replace the
expenditure of State funds that support specialty crops grown in that State.
General Supplanting Definition. A State reduces State funds for an activity specifically
because Federal funds are available (or expected to be available) to fund that same
activity. Federal funds must be used to supplement existing State funds for program
activities and may not replace State funds that have been appropriated or allocated for
the same purpose. Additionally, Federal funding may not replace State funding that is
required by law. In those instances where a question of supplanting arises, the applicant
or recipient will be required to substantiate that the reduction in non-Federal resources
occurred for reasons other than the receipt or expected receipt of Federal funds.
•

Example: State funds are appropriated for a stated purpose and Federal funds
are awarded for that same purpose. (If a State has $50.00 budgeted for a
specialty crop initiative and is awarded $100.00 for the same initiative, the
total project must expend $150.00 – the original $50.00 cannot be removed
and used for something else).

Any discovery of supplanting will result in the immediate return of Federal funds related
to the expenditure and project. Supplanting puts all Federal funds at risk.
Documentation and Record Retention. If a question of supplanting arises, the State
department of agriculture awarded SCMP funds should retain whatever documentation
is produced during the ordinary course of government business that will help substantiate
that supplanting has not occurred. Depending on the circumstances, relevant documents
might include annual appropriations acts or executive orders directing broad reductions
of operating budgets.

1.4 DEVELOPMENT OF PROPOSALS
1.4.1 DEFINITION OF A MULTI-STATE PROJECT

SCMP applications must bring together a multi-state organizational team to develop solutions for
practical problems that cross State boundaries and address the needs of specialty crop growers.
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Projects should also lead to measurable benefits for specialty crop growers, encourage
partnerships among specialty crop organizations, and reduce duplication of effort among
participating organizations. A SCMP project:
(1) Addresses one or more national or regional (multiple-State) issues described in section 1.3
Project Types;
(2) Defines the geographic target area of impact of the project such as the specific States, or
foreign markets;
(3) Defines the specific specialty crops that are the focus of the project;
(4) Involves at least two partners located in different States. A Participating State department of
agriculture which will provide only administrative support for the project does not count as a
partner for the purposes of this section.
1.4.2 PARTICIPATING STATE DEPARTMENTS OF AGRICULTURE

AMS recognizes that not all State departments of agriculture have the resources to administer
SCMP projects. State departments of agriculture must notify AMS no later than September 30,
2015, if they would like to be designated as a Participating State department of agriculture.
A Participating State department of agriculture:
(1) Is the only entity that may submit SCMP proposals to AMS;
(2) Provides AMS a point of contact who will handle inquiries from the public about the
SCMP;
(3) Establishes a deadline for accepting SCMP applications and develops internal
procedures to screen any application from any source submitted to them to ensure it
meets both the definition of a multi-state project and the requirements outlined by the
RFA;
(4) Takes responsibility for submitting all applications they receive that meet both the
definition of a multi-state project and the requirements of the RFA;
(5) Upon request by AMS before the application deadline, submits an SF-424B Assurances – Non-Construction Program Form.
(6) Accepts administrative responsibility for any application they submitted to AMS that
is ultimately selected for funding under the SCMP; and
(7) If awarded, uses subagreements or subcontracts as needed to carry out the project in
order to maintain control of the project objectives, set policies, and ensure that the

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project is carried out in accordance with all applicable Federal statutes and regulations as
well as with the SCMP award terms and conditions.
It is not the responsibility of Participating State departments of agriculture to assist interested
partners in developing proposals or to give feedback to improve their proposals. Participating
State departments of agriculture are not responsible for finding partners for proposals they do
not develop themselves.
All SCMP proposals must have at least two partners with substantive involvement in the project,
and the partners must be located in different States. Participating and non-participating State
departments of agriculture may develop their own proposals if they intend to have a substantive
role in the project. In such cases, the State department of agriculture must recruit at least one
partner who is located in another State, and who will have a substantive role in the project.
Following are examples of acceptable partnerships:
•
•
•
•

A national level organization and a State department of agriculture
State level organizations from two different States
Two State departments of agriculture
Other combinations of partners listed in section 1.4.3

A Participating State department of agriculture that develops its own proposal will submit it
directly to AMS along with other proposals it has received that have been determined to meet
the RFA requirements. Non-participating State departments of agriculture must submit their
proposals to a Participating State department of agriculture which will submit the proposal to
AMS if it meets the RFA requirements.
An entity other than a State department of agriculture may develop a SCMP proposal, but only
a Participating State department of agriculture may submit the proposal to AMS. For proposals
developed by an entity other than a State department of agriculture, at least one partner must
be located in another State.
1.4.3 PARTNERSHIPS

Project partners bring specialized knowledge and expertise, research capability, and/or other
resources needed to conduct a successful project. Examples of project partners include but are
not limited to, the following:
•
•
•

Non-participating State departments of agriculture
Participating State departments of agriculture, but only if they have more than an
administrative role in the project
State agencies such as a State department of public health, a State department of natural
resources, etc.
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•
•
•
•
•

Tribes
Land grant or State universities or colleges
Specialty crop producer organizations
Non-profit organizations
Community-based organizations

1.4.4 CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING IF AN APPLICATION IS APPROPRIATE FOR SCMP

When evaluating a proposal to determine if it is appropriate for SCMP, Participating State
departments of agriculture must ensure that:
(1) The proposal fits into at least one of the project category types outlined in section 1.3
Project Types;
(2) The proposal meets the definition of a multi-state project as outlined in this section;
(3) The proposal differs from and/or supplements and does not duplicate projects currently
or previously funded by the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP), or another
Federal award program;
(4) Any partner named in a SCMP project that is a current or past recipient of SCBGP funds
does not, or did not have, any performance and compliance issues relating to the SCBGPfunded project. When developing proposals, designated State SCMP contacts should
communicate with each other to ensure there have been no past performance or
compliance issues with partners named in a proposal; and
(5) The proposal adheres to the requirements of section 1.3.6, if the proposal is highlytechnical, or involves food safety training or education for producers, processors and/or
handlers; consumer food safety education; or other types of training and education.
Participating State departments of agriculture that have questions about whether or not a
proposal fits within the scope of the SCMP should contact the SCMP Program Manager. Potential
partners that have questions about the SCMP should contact the individual or office designated
by one of the Participating State department of agriculture to handle SCMP applications. AMS
will post a list of Participating State departments of agriculture SCMP contacts on the SCMP
website after September 30, 2015.
1.4.5 OUTREACH

As the only entities eligible to apply directly for SCMP, Participating State departments of
agriculture have a unique role in disseminating information about the opportunity to potential
partners in their States and regions. However, all State departments of agriculture are
encouraged to publicize the SCMP opportunity to stakeholders and potential partners via their
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department website, the State’s SCBGP website, a press release, newsletters and other
mechanisms routinely used for disseminating information about grant opportunities.
2.0 AWARD INFORMATION
2.1 TYPE OF FEDERAL ASSISTANCE
SCMP will use a Grant Agreement to provide support to successful SCMP applications.
2.2 TYPE OF APPLICATIONS
New application. All new applications will be reviewed competitively using the evaluation
criteria and selection process described in section 5.0 Application Review Information.
2.3 AVAILABLE FUNDING
Approximately $3 million will be available to fund applications covered in the fiscal year (FY) 2015
RFA. AMS will award funds only for projects that meet the requirements of this RFA. Any funds
not awarded under the FY 2015 SCMP RFA will be applied to the next project award cycle.
2.4 FEDERAL AWARD PERIOD DURATION
SCMP projects must be completed within 3 years. It is acceptable to complete a project before
the scheduled ending date. The start date selected for a proposal should be no earlier than a
date in calendar year 2016. The ending date will be three years from that date.
2.5 AWARD SIZE
Minimum award is $250,000 and a maximum award is $1,000,000.
3.0 ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION
3.1 ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
State departments of agriculture in the 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth
of the Northern Mariana Islands are eligible to apply for funds. State department of agriculture
is defined as the agency, commission, or department of a State government responsible for
agriculture within the State. AMS will not accept an application submitted by an entity other
than a Participating State department of agriculture.
3.2 ELIGIBLE SPECIALTY CROPS
Specialty crops and processed products are defined at the SCBGP website. The list identifies
eligible specialty crops and ineligible commodities. Only specialty crops and processed products
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grown or produced in a State, territory or other entity listed under section 3.1 Eligible Applicants
are considered to be eligible specialty crops.
3.3 COST SHARING AND MATCHING
Although SCMP does not require cost share or match, AMS encourages partners to contribute
cash and/or in-kind resources to the project as appropriate. However, cost sharing and matching
contributions do not convey any advantage to the application in terms of evaluation and
scoring during the review process.
3.4 NUMBER OF SCMP APPLICATIONS THAT MAY BE SUBMITTED TO AMS

There is no limit on the number of applications a Participating State department of agriculture
may submit to the SCMP. However, submission of the same proposal by more than one
Participating State department of agriculture is prohibited. Any State department of agriculture
may serve as a partner and participant on an unlimited number of unique SCMP applications.
4.0 APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION
4.1 OBTAINING AN APPLICATION PACKAGE
Participating State departments of agriculture can apply for the SCMP at Grants.gov, and may
search for the SCMP funding opportunity using the SCBGP CFDA number “10.170,” or the SCMP
Funding Opportunity Number “USDA-AMS-SCMP-2015.”
4.2 APPLICATION CHECKLIST
SF-424 – APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE (REQUIRED)

Each project must be submitted by a Participating State department of agriculture as a separate
application with its own SF-424 – Application for Federal Assistance. DO NOT combine
applications under one SF-424 form. Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov separately.
The SF-424 form is available to applicants when accessing the SCMP opportunity at
www.Grants.gov.
APPLICATION PACKAGE (REQUIRED)

The following documents must be prepared and consolidated outside of Grants.gov, then
uploaded under SF-424 item #15. Click on “Add Attachments” and follow the instructions on
the form. Combine and submit the following items in one file in the order they appear below.
Narrative and Budget which consist of:
a) Cover Page
b) Table of Contents
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c) Abstract
d) Narrative (not to exceed 15 pages)
e) References, if applicable
f) Budget Spreadsheet and Budget Narrative
Other Required Elements:
a) Personnel Qualifications
b) A Letter of Commitment from Each Partner
c) 3 Letters of Support from Stakeholders or Beneficiaries
d) Areas Affected by Project (attachment from Block 14 of the SF-424)
4.3 CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION SUBMISSION
4.3.1 SF-424 APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE (REQUIRED)

Form SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance is available via the SCMP opportunity at
Grants.gov. Most information blocks on the required form are either self-explanatory or
adequately explained in the instructions. However, for SCMP applications, you must use the
following supplemental instructions associated with specific blocks on form SF-424.
Block
#1 Type of Submission
#2 Type of Application
#4 through #7
# 8c Organizational DUNS
#8d Address

Instruction
Application
New
Not required
Applicant DUNS# for the Organization submitting the application
See D&B Request a DUNS Number.
Enter the Organization street address as it appears in SAM.gov.
P.O. Boxes will not be accepted. Enter a 9-digit zip code.
AMS, USDA
Domestic 10.170

#10 Name of Federal Agency
#11 Catalog of Federal
Assistance Number
#12 Funding Opportunity Number
USDA-AMS-SCMP-2015.
#13Competition Identification Number Not applicable
#14 Areas Affected by Project
Enter cities, counties, states affected by project.
#15 Descriptive Title of Applicant’s Provide only project title, not to exceed 10 words.
Project
#16a
Congressional
Districts
for Enter the Congressional district where your main office is located.
Applicant
#16b
Congressional Districts for Enter the Congressional district where your project will be
Program/Project
implemented. Write “All” if the project will be implemented in
more than one location.

#17 Proposed Project Start Date and End All agreements will be established for 3 years. The start date
Date
selected should be no earlier than a date in calendar year 2016. The
ending date will be three years from that date.
#18 Estimated Funding
Total SCMP funds requested
#19 Is Applicant Subject to Review by This initiative is subject to intergovernmental review.
State Under Executive Order 12372
Process?

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4.3.2 APPLICATION PACKAGE (REQUIRED)

FORMAT
To ensure a fair and equitable competition, the required format is a single-spaced, 12-point
font with 1-inch margins. Number the pages in the right-hand bottom corner. The Narrative
may be in Word (.doc, .docx) or Adobe Acrobat (.pdf). Handwritten applications will not be
accepted. Ensure that before submitting your application to www.Grants.gov, your document
is in final form (e.g. if you used the “track changes” function, accept all changes before
submitting so that the mark-up is not visible on the version of the document submitted to
www.Grants.gov).
COVER PAGE
The Cover Page must be included at the beginning of the application package, and include:
•
•
•

Proposal Title of no more than 10 words
Name and contact information of the applicant
Names and contact information of the project leader and other principal partners

TABLE OF CONTENTS
All pages must be numbered. The Table of Contents indicates the page number for all
required sections of the application as well as for any attachments.
ABSTRACT
The Abstract must be a concise, stand-alone description of and justification for the project.
The maximum length is 250 words.
NARRATIVE
The Narrative must include the following sections in the order they appear below. The
Narrative may not exceed 15 pages. All sections of the Narrative must be in a paragraph
format. Do not present or combine sections into a spreadsheet or table. If you reference the
literature, see References for instructions.
(1) Project Purpose
This section must address the following:
•

What project type(s) is/are being addressed (see 1.3 Project Types)?

•
•

What is the specific geographic target area of impact of the project?
What specific specialty crop(s) is/are the focus of the project?
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•

What is the specific issue, problem or need that the project will address, or what is the
research question that will be answered? Include data and/or estimates that describe the
extent of the problem. Provide a literature review sufficient to demonstrate the current
state of knowledge about the topic and how the proposed work builds on it or addresses
any gaps.

•

Why is the project important and timely?

•

How will the completion of this project have a national or regional impact on the
competitiveness of specialty crops?

•

If the proposal is highly technical, indicate how, if it is proven successful in the laboratory,
will the technology or approach be tested in real-world conditions, and how may specialty
crop producers and processors benefit?

•

If some aspect of the proposal was previously funded by the SCBGP, how does the
proposal differ from and build upon the previous project’s efforts?

(2) Other Federal Award Programs
Indicate if the proposal has been or will be submitted to another Federal award program. If
so, identify the Federal award program. If the proposal is selected for funding by another
Federal award program after the proposal is submitted to SCMP, the applicant must inform
SCMP immediately and withdraw the SCMP proposal. If a partner currently has a SCBGP
award, indicate the name of the project, the fiscal year awarded, and the State agriculture
department which awarded the grant.
(3) Work Plan
The Work Plan describes the major project activities, who will do the work, and when.
Project activity. Describe the project activities that are necessary to accomplish the
objectives. Make sure to include a performance monitoring/data collection plan, if
applicable.
Who will do the work? Indicate the project participants who will do the work of each activity,
including subrecipients, and/or contractors. If funds are requested for personnel and
contractors, details must be included in the work plan to demonstrate the requested funding
is warranted. If you request funds for travel, these activities must also be included.
When will each activity be accomplished? Include a timeline that indicates when each
activity will occur (month and year).

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(4) Potential Impact
This section must show how the project potentially benefits the specialty crop industry
and/or the public in multiple States. The following questions should be answered:
•

Who are the specialty crop beneficiaries of the project?

•

How many specialty crop beneficiaries will the project benefit?

•

How will the project benefit the specialty crop beneficiaries?

•

What States and/or regions will benefit from this project?

•

What is the targeted/intended economic impact of the project?

(5) Expected Measureable Outcomes
Provide at least one distinct, quantifiable, measurable project outcome. If the outcome
measures are long-term and occur after the project’s completion, identify an intermediate
outcome that occurs before, and is expected to help lead to the fulfillment of long-term
outcomes.
FOOD SAFETY PROJECTS
The following are some suggested outcome measures for food safety projects, however if
these are not relevant to your project, you are required to develop at least one projectspecific outcome measure and one indicator which will be subject to approval by AMS if the
project is selected for funding.
Outcome: Enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through increasing the number of
viable technologies to improve food safety
Possible Indicators:
• Number of viable technologies developed or modified for the detection and
characterization of specialty crop supply contamination from foodborne threats.
• Number of viable prevention, control, and intervention strategies for all specialty crop
production scales for foodborne threats along the production continuum.
• Number of individuals who learn about prevention, detection, control, and intervention
food safety practices and the number of those individuals who increase their food safety
skills and knowledge.

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• Number of improved prevention, detection, control, and intervention technologies.
• Number of reported changes in prevention, detection, control, and intervention
strategies.
Outcome: Enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through increased understanding
of threats to food safety from microbial and chemical sources
Possible Indicators:
•

Number of projects focused on:
o Increased understanding of fecal indicators and pathogens.
o Increased safety of all inputs into the specialty crop chain.
o Increased understanding of the roles of humans, plants and animals as vectors.
o Increased understanding of preharvest and postharvest process impacts on
microbial and chemical threats.
• Number of growers or producers obtaining on-farm food safety certifications (such as
Good Agricultural Practices or Good Handling Practices).
PLANT PESTS AND DISEASE PROJECTS
The following are some suggested outcome measures for plant pests and disease projects,
however if these are not relevant to your project, you are required to develop at least one
project-specific outcome measure and one indicator which will be subject to approval by
AMS if the project is selected for funding.
Outcome: Enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through more sustainable,
diverse, and resilient specialty crop systems
Possible Indicators:
• Number of new or improved innovations models ((biological, economic, business,
management, etc.), technologies, networks, products, processes, etc.) developed for
specialty crop entities along the food supply chain: producers, processors, distributors, etc.
• Number of innovations adopted.
• Number of specialty crop growers/producers (and other members of the specialty crop
supply chain) that have increased revenue (expressed in dollars).
• Number of new diagnostic systems analyzing specialty crop pests and diseases.
[Diagnostic systems refer to, among other things: labs, networks, procedures, access points.]
• Number of new diagnostic technologies available for plant pests and diseases. [The intent
here is not to count individual pieces of equipment or devices, but to enumerate
technologies that add to the diagnostic capacity.]

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• Number of first responders trained in early detection and rapid response to combat plant
pests and diseases.
• Number of viable technologies/processes developed or modified that will increase
specialty crop distribution and/or production.
• Number of growers/producers that gained knowledge about science-based tools through
outreach and education programs.
RESEARCH PROJECTS
The following are some suggested outcome measures for research projects, however if these
are not relevant to your project, you are required to develop at least one project-specific
outcome measure and one indicator which will be subject to approval by AMS if the project
is selected for funding.
Outcome: Enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops though greater capacity of
sustainable practices of specialty crop production resulting in increased yield, reduced inputs,
increased efficiency, increased economic return, and/or conservation of resources.
Possible Indicators:
• Numbers of plant/seed releases (i.e. cultivars, drought-tolerant plants, organic,
enhanced nutritional composition, etc.er )
• Adoption of best practices and technologies resulting in increased yields, reduced
inputs, increased efficiency, increased economic return, and conservation of resources.

•

o Number of growers/producers indicating adoption of recommended practices.
o Number of growers/producers reporting reduction in pesticides, fertilizer, water
used/acre.
o Number of producers reporting increased dollar returns per acre or reduced costs
per acre.
o Number acres in conservation tillage or other best management practice.
Number of acres of pollinator habitat established and maintained for the primary benefit
of specialty crops.

CROP SPECIFIC PROJECTS ADDRESSING COMMON ISSUES
Applicants must develop at least one appropriate outcome measure and one indicator which
will be subject to approval by AMS if the project is selected for funding.
MARKETING AND PROMOTION PROJECTS
Marketing and promotion projects focus efforts to sell, advertise, promote, market, and
generate publicity, attract new customers, or raise customer awareness for specialty crops or
a specialty crop venue.
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The following is a suggested outcome measure for marketing and promotion projects.
However if it is not relevant to your project, you must develop at least one appropriate
outcome measure and one indicator which will be subject to approval by AMS if the project
is selected for funding.
Outcome: To enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through increased sales.
The specific measure must be expressed as a dollar value and percentage change in sales
of one or more specialty crops in one or more States or foreign markets as a result of
marketing and/or promotion activities. For example, an expected outcome of growth in
sales from 5% to 10% is not acceptable by itself, but in combination with an increase in
sales of $1 million to $2 million, it is acceptable. This requirement means that an
established baseline of sales in dollars must already exist at the time of application. For
projects that do not already have a baseline of sales in dollars, one of the objectives of
the project must be to determine such a baseline in order to meet the requirement to
document the value of sales increases by the end of the project.
Indicator: Sales increased from $________ to $_________, and by ______ percent, as a
result of marketing and/or promotion activities.
AMS understands that sales can be impacted by a host of unrelated issues including trade
disputes, phytosanitary issues, export conditions, weather, and other factors affecting the
farmer, supply chain, retailers, wholesalers and/or consumers. The above factors
demonstrate that even a perfectly executed marketing campaign can result in sales
remaining constant or even declining. These factors and events that either positively or
negatively impacted the sales of a project can be explained in the performance report.
(6) Project Deliverables
List any expected deliverables that will result from the project in addition to the required final
report. Examples of project deliverables include professional journal or farm press articles,
Extension bulletins, and manuals.
(7) Outreach Plan
Describe how the project results will be shared with and disseminated to the target
audience(s), stakeholders and other interested parties (i.e., beyond those directly involved in
the project). Examples of such activities include presentations at professional conferences or
producer meetings, publication of articles in professional journals or the agricultural press,
educational brochures, slides, survey instruments, and websites. Web pages devoted to the
project must also include this information in a prominent location. All materials must be
made available electronically and disseminated via appropriate websites.

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REFERENCES
Do not use footnotes. If applicable, cite the literature referenced in the text and attach a
separate page called “References” with the detailed literature citations. Reference pages do
not count toward the 15-page Narrative maximum.
BUDGET SPREADSHEET AND BUDGET NARRATIVE
The Budget Spreadsheet and Budget Narrative do not count toward the 15-page Narrative
maximum.
Please see the Budget Spreadsheet Example on page 64. The Budget Spreadsheet must show
a separate budget for each year as well as a cumulative budget.
The Budget Narrative must explain how the dollar amounts for each expense category shown
on the Budget Spreadsheet were derived and what expenses they cover. Applicants should
review section 4.7.2 for a full listing of allowable and unallowable costs when developing the
budget narrative.
Personnel - List all employees whose time and effort can be specifically identified and easily
and accurately traced to project activities. See section 4.7.2 for Salaries and Wages for
Allowable Costs and Activities and Presenting Direct and Indirect Costs Consistently for
further guidance. For each employee paid with SCMP grant funds, provide the following:
•

Name and title

•

Level of effort (number of hours and hourly rate or % FTE)

•

Total funds requested for each employee

•

A subtotal for all SCMP-funded Personnel costs.

If a third party will be hired after SCMP funds are awarded, but has not yet been identified,
indicate the type of wages to be paid (e.g. hourly, salaried, or graduate assistantship). Rates
must be reasonable and consistent with locality pay for similar jobs. See 2 CFR part 200.430
and 2 CFR part 200.431.
Fringe Benefits - Provide the fringe benefit rates for each of the project’s salaried employees
described in the Personnel section that will be paid with SCMP funds. This section must
include the following:
•

Name and title

•

Fringe benefit rate

•

Corresponding funds requested for each person

23 | P a g e

•

A subtotal for all SCMP-funded Fringe benefit costs.

Travel - Explain the purpose for each trip request. Note that travel costs are limited to those
allowed by formal organizational policy; in the case of air travel, project participants must use
the lowest reasonable commercial airfares. For recipient organizations that have no formal
travel policy and for-profit recipients, allowable travel costs may not exceed those
established by the Federal Travel Regulation issued by GSA, including the maximum per diem
and subsistence rates prescribed in those regulations. This information is available at
http://www.gsa.gov. See Travel and Foreign Travel for further guidance and See 2 CFR part
200.474. Provide the following information for each trip:
•

Trip destination

•

Purpose of trip

•

Type of expense (airfare, car rental, hotel, meals, mileage, etc.)

•

Number of days traveling

•

Estimated number of miles and mileage rate

•

Estimated ground transportation costs

•

Estimated lodging and meal costs

•

Number of travelers claiming expense

•

Total funds requested for each expense

•

Additional justification of travel expenses, as needed

•

Subtotal for all SCMP-funded travel costs.

Special Purpose Equipment - Describe any special purpose equipment to be purchased or
rented under the grant. ‘‘Special purpose equipment’’ is tangible, nonexpendable, personal
property having a useful life of more than 1 year and an acquisition cost that equals or
exceeds $5,000 per unit and is used only for research, medical, scientific, or other technical
activities. “Acquisition cost” means the cost of the asset, whether funded wholly or in part
by SCMP, including the cost to put it in place. See Equipment for allowable costs and
activities.
Rental of "general purpose equipment’’ must also be described in this section. Purchase of
general purpose equipment is not allowable under this grant. See Equipment for definitions.
This section must include the following:
•

Description of equipment item

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•

Justification for each item

•

Indication if each item is rented or purchased

•

Total funds requested for each item.

•

Subtotal for all SCMP-funded equipment costs.

Supplies - List the materials, supplies, and fabricated parts costing less than $5,000 per unit
and describe how they will support the purpose and goal of the proposal and solely enhance
the competitiveness of specialty crops. See Supplies and Materials, Including Costs of
Computing Devices for further information. This section must include the following:
•

Description of each supply item

•

Justification for each item

•

Per-unit cost of each supply

•

Number of units/pieces purchased

•

Total funds requested for each supply

•

Subtotal for all SCMP-funded supply costs.

Contracts/Consultants – Contractual/consultant costs are the expenses associated with
purchasing goods and procuring services performed by an individual or organization other
than the applicant, including consultants, in the form of a procurement relationship. If there
is more than one contractor or consultant, each must be described separately.
•

If the contractor/consultant has already been selected, the applicant must follow the
same policies and procedures it uses for procurements from its non-Federal sources.

•

If a contractor/consultant has not yet been selected, the applicant must provide an
acknowledgement that the procurement processes have not yet been conducted and
assurance that the same policies and procedures it uses for procurements from its nonFederal sources will be followed.

•

Provide an itemized budget (personnel, fringe, travel, equipment, supplies, other, etc.)
with appropriate justification. If indirect costs are/will be included in the contract, include
the indirect cost rate used. Please note that any statutory limitations on indirect costs
also apply to contractors and consultants.

•

Include a subtotal for all SCMP-funded contractual/consultant costs.

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Other - Include any expenses not covered in any of the previous budget categories. Be
sure to break down costs into cost/unit. Expenses in this section include, but are not
limited to, meetings and conferences, communications, rental expenses, advertisements,
publication costs, and data collection. If you budget meal costs for reasons other than
meals associated with travel per diem, provide an adequate justification to support that
these costs are not entertainment costs. See Meals for further guidance. For data
collection expenses, provide the estimated cost of collecting performance data necessary
to measure the project outcomes and impact. This section must include the following:
•

A description of the item

•

Justification for the expense

•

Per-unit cost of each item

•

Number of units

•

Total funds requested for each item

•

Subtotal for all SCMP-funded other costs

Indirect Costs - The indirect cost rate must not exceed the rate established by the State
department of agriculture and cannot exceed the limit of eight [8] percent of the project’s
budget (see section 4.7.1). Indirect costs are any costs that are incurred for common or
joint objectives that therefore cannot be readily identified with an individual project,
program, or organizational activity. They generally include facilities operation and
maintenance costs, depreciation, and administrative expenses. The indirect costs section
must include the indirect cost rate and the total indirect costs requested.
Program Income - Program income is gross income—earned by a recipient or subrecipient
under an award—directly generated by the award-supported activity, or earned only
because of the grant agreement during the period of performance. Program income
includes, but is not limited to, income from fees for services performed; the sale of
commodities or items fabricated under an award (this includes items sold at cost if the
cost of producing the item was funded in whole or partially with award funds);
registration fees for conferences, etc.
This section must include the source/nature of program income; a description of how you
will reinvest the program income back into the project or program to solely enhance the
competitiveness of specialty crops; and the estimated amount of program income.

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OTHER REQUIRED ELEMENTS
(1) Personnel Qualifications
Provide a one- to two-page resume of relevant experience and/or qualifications of the
principal investigator(s) and for each of the other major project participants.
(2) A Letter of Commitment from Each Partner
Each partner must provide a letter of commitment outlining their role in the project. The
letter must include the name and title of the letter writer, organization name, address,
telephone number and email address. Include a description of who will work on the
project and what they will be responsible for. The letter should be addressed to the State
department of agriculture that will apply for the SCMP grant.
(3) Letter(s) of Support from Stakeholders or Beneficiaries
Three (3) signed letters from specialty crop producer organizations and/or other
stakeholders are required. The letters should describe why they endorse the project.
Letters should be addressed to the State department of agriculture that will apply for the
SCMP grant. Form letters are discouraged. Congressional letters of support do not meet
this requirement.
(4) Areas Affected by Project (Cities, counties, States, etc.)
Complete Block 14 on the SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance and submit as a
separate attachment.
4.4 DISQUALIFICATION OF A SUBMITTED APPLICATION
Your application will be disqualified if:
•
•
•
•

You are not an eligible entity.
The application is received after the deadline.
The application is submitted via any method other than through www.Grants.gov .
The topic and/or approach of the application are outside the SCMP program scope.

4.5 SUBMISSION DATE AND TIME
The deadline for submitting FY 2015 applications is 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on January 14, 2016.
Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov. If you will submit more than
one application, each application must be submitted separately via Grants.gov.
Ensure that all components of the application are complete before submitting them to
Grants.gov. It may take more than one try before your application is successfully submitted so
27 | P a g e

plan ahead to leave enough time for the application process. The application will meet the
deadline if it is validated by Grants.gov no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on January 14,
2016.
4.6 INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW
SCMP is subject to intergovernmental review which requires intergovernmental consultation
with State and local officials.
4.7 FUNDING RESTRICTIONS
4.7.1 LIMIT ON ADMINISTRATION COSTS

Administration costs are defined as indirect costs and are limited to eight [8] percent of the total
Federal funds provided under the award per Section 10010 (k) of the Agricultural Act of 2014,
Public Law 110-246. The State department of agriculture must notify their project partner(s) of
the limit on indirect costs so that indirect costs requested by subrecipients, plus indirect
administration costs requested by the State department of agriculture, do not exceed eight [8]
percent of the total direct cost of the project. See the information below on presenting direct
and indirect costs consistently.
PRESENTING DIRECT AND INDIRECT COSTS CONSISTENTLY

Applicants and subapplicants are responsible for presenting costs direct costs and indirect costs
appropriately and consistently and must not include costs associated with their organization’s
indirect cost rate agreement as direct costs. In addition, a cost may not be allocated as an indirect
cost if it is also incurred as a direct cost for the same purpose and vice versa.
Direct costs are costs that can be identified specifically with a particular award, project or
program, service, or other organizational activity or that can be directly assigned to such
an activity relatively easily with a high degree of accuracy. Typically direct costs include,
but are not limited to, compensation of employees who work directly on the award to
include salaries and fringe benefits, travel, equipment, and supplies directly benefiting
the grant-supported project or program.
Indirect costs (also known as “facilities and administrative costs”) defined at 2 CFR part
200.56 are costs incurred for a common or joint purpose benefitting more than one cost
objective, and not readily assignable to the cost objectives specifically benefitted without
effort disproportionate to the results achieved. Refer to 2 CFR parts 200.413 and 414 for
additional information on determining if costs charged to the award are direct or indirect.
The salaries of administrative and clerical staff should typically be treated as indirect costs. Direct
charging of these costs may be appropriate where all of the following conditions are met:
28 | P a g e

(1) Administrative or clerical services are integral to a project or activity;
(2) Individuals involved can be specifically identified with the project or activity;
(3) Such costs are explicitly included in the budget or have the prior written approval of the
Federal awarding agency; and
(4) The costs are not also recovered as indirect costs.
Typical Indirect Costs by Organization Type
Type of Organization
Typical Indirect Costs
Non-Profits
General administration and general expenses, such as the
salaries and expenses of executive officers, personnel
administration, and accounting, depreciation or use allowances
on buildings and equipment, and the costs of operating and
maintaining facilities.
Colleges and Universities

State and Local
Governments

Equipment and capital improvements, operation and
maintenance expenses, library expenses, general administration
and general expenses, departmental administration, sponsored
projects administration, student administration and services,
depreciation and use allowances, and interest on debt associated
with certain buildings.
State/local-wide central service costs, general administration of
the recipient department or agency, accounting and personnel
services performed within the recipient department or agency,
depreciation or use allowances on buildings and equipment, and
the costs of operating and maintaining facilities.

4.7.2 ALLOWABLE AND UNALLOWABLE COSTS AND ACTIVITIES

Item

Description

Alcoholic Beverages

Unallowable except when the costs are associated with enhancing the
competitiveness of a processed product. A processed product is defined
as a product that constitutes greater than 50% of the specialty crop by
weight, exclusive of added water.

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Item

Description

Aquaponics

Allowable as a topic of study provided the crops grown are eligible
specialty crops, and the focus of the project is on the specialty crops and
not the fish.
For more information on constructing or purchasing an aquaponics
system, see Equipment.

Advisory Councils

Unallowable for costs incurred by advisory councils or committees.

Buildings and Land Construction

A building is any permanent structure designed or intended for support,
enclosure, shelter or protection of people, animals or property having a
permanent roof supported by columns or walls.
Unallowable for the acquisition of buildings, facilities, or land or to make
additions, improvements, modifications, replacements, rearrangements,
reinstallations, renovations or alterations of an existing building or facility
(including site grading and improvement, and architecture fees). This also
includes construction and construction-related materials, which may
include, but are not limited to the purchase of building materials such as
wood, nails, concrete, asphalt, roofing, gravel, sand, paint, insulation,
drywall, or plumbing.
Allowable for rental costs of land with prior approval.

Conferences

A conference is defined as a meeting, retreat, seminar, symposium,
workshop or event whose primary purpose is the dissemination of
technical information beyond the non-Federal entity and is necessary and
reasonable for successful performance under the Federal award.
Unallowable if the project solely consists of conference or workshop.
Allowable if a conference or workshop is part of a larger project. The
applicant must clearly indicate the purpose and target audience for the
conference or workshop, and explain how the activity will be paid for. Also
indicate if registration fees will be collected and if applicable, show the
fees as program income on the Budget spreadsheet and provide an
explanation in the Budget Narrative. If funds are requested to pay for food
or refreshments, provide an estimate.

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Item

Description
Allowable to rent a building or room for training, however, where
appropriate, SCMP encourages the use of technologies such as webinars,
teleconferencing, or videoconferencing as an alternative to renting a
building or a room. If renting a building or a room is necessary, the most
cost-effective facilities such as State government conference rooms
should be utilized.
Unallowable for meal costs (breakfast, lunch and dinner) unless the
applicant justifies that to do so would otherwise impose arduous
conditions on the continuity of a meeting and its participants. Breakfasts
for conference attendees are usually considered unallowable as it is
expected that individuals will have sufficient time to dine on their own
before the conference begins.
Allowable for meals consumed while in official travel status. They are
considered per diem expenses and should be reimbursed in accordance
with the organization’s established written travel policies.

Contributions and
Donations

Unallowable for contributions or donations, including cash, property, and
services, from the recipient or subrecipient to other entities (also referred
to as “regranting of funds”).
Unallowable to use SCMP funds to conduct a competitive subgrant
program.

Entertainment
Costs

Equipment

Unallowable for entertainment costs including amusement, diversion, and
social activities and any costs directly associated with such costs such as,
tickets to shows or sports events, meals, lodging, rentals, transportation,
and gratuities regardless of their apparent relationship to project
objectives.
Unallowable for acquisition costs of general purpose equipment.
Allowable for rental costs of general purpose equipment. For equipment
leases or rentals with an acquisition cost that equals or exceeds $5,000,
rates should be in light of such factors as: rental costs of comparable
equipment, if any; market conditions in the area; alternatives available;
and the type, life expectancy, condition, and value of the equipment
leased.

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Item

Description
Allowable for acquisition costs and rental costs of special purpose
equipment provided the following criteria are met:
1) Necessary for the research, scientific, or other technical activities
of the grant award;
2) Not otherwise reasonably available and accessible;
3) The type of equipment is normally charged as a direct cost by the
organization;
4) Acquired in accordance with organizational practices;
5) Must only be used to solely meet the legislative purpose of the
grant program and objectives of the grant award;
6) More than one single commercial organization, commercial
product, or individual must benefit from the use of the equipment;
7) Must not use special purpose equipment acquired with grant funds
to provide services for a fee to compete unfairly with private
companies that provide equivalent services; and
8) Equipment is subject to the full range of acquisition, use,
management, and disposition requirements under 2 CFR part
200.313 as applicable.
Equipment Definitions
Equipment is defined as tangible personal property (including information
technology systems) having a useful life of more than one year and a perunit acquisition cost which equals or exceeds the lesser of the
capitalization level established by the non-Federal entity for financial
statement purposes, or $5,000. Recipients and subrecipients purchasing
equipment are encouraged to use funds to purchase only American-made
equipment or products.
Acquisition cost means the cost of the asset including the cost to ready
the asset for its intended use. Acquisition cost for equipment, for example,
means the net invoice price of the equipment, including the cost of any
modifications, attachments, accessories, or auxiliary apparatus necessary
to make it usable for the purpose for which it is acquired.
General Purpose Equipment means equipment that is not limited to
technical activities. Examples include office equipment and furnishings,
modular offices, telephone networks, information technology equipment
and systems, air conditioning equipment, reproduction and printing
equipment, and motor vehicles.

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Item

Description
Special Purpose Equipment is equipment used only for research or
technical activities. Examples include grape harvesters, vegetable washing
machines, fruit or vegetable processing equipment, etc.

Fines, Penalties,
Damages and Other
Settlements

Unallowable for costs resulting from violations of, alleged violations of, or
failure to comply with, Federal, State, tribal, local or foreign laws and
regulations.

Fixed Amount
Subawards

Allowable with prior written approval from AMS, a pass-through entity
may provide subawards based on fixed amounts up to the Simplified
Acquisition Threshold, provided that the subawards meet the
requirements for fixed amount awards in 2 CFR part 200.201.

Foreign Travel

For purposes of this provision, ‘‘foreign travel’’ includes any travel outside
Canada, Mexico, the United States, and any United States territories and
possessions. However, the term ‘‘foreign travel’’ for a governmental unit
located in a foreign country means travel outside that country. See Travel
in this table for more information on travel costs.

Fundraising

Unallowable for organized fundraising, including financial campaigns,
solicitation of gifts and bequests, and similar expenses incurred to raise
capital or obtain contributions, regardless of the purpose for which the
funds will be used. This includes salaries of personnel involved in activities
to raise capital.

General Costs of
Government

Unallowable for:
1) Salaries and expenses of the Office of the Governor of a State or
the chief executive of a local government or the chief executive of
an Indian tribe;
2) Salaries and other expenses of a State legislature, tribal council, or
similar local governmental body, such as a county supervisor, city
council, school board, etc., whether incurred for purposes of
legislation or executive direction;
3) Costs of the judicial branch of a government;

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Item

Description
4) Costs of prosecutorial activities unless treated as a direct cost to a
specific program if authorized by statute or regulation (however,
this does not preclude the allowability of other legal activities of
the Attorney General as described in §200.435 Defense and
prosecution of criminal and civil proceedings, claims, appeals and
patent infringements); and
5) Costs of other general types of government services normally
provided to the general public, such as fire and police, unless
provided for as a direct cost under a program statute or regulation.

Goods or Services
for Personal Use

Unallowable for costs of goods or services for personal use of the
recipient’s or subrecipient’s employees regardless of whether the cost is
reported as taxable income to the employees.

Health and
Allowable when health and nutrition information complies with
Nutrition Messaging regulations and policies of the:
Federal Trade Commission
http://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumerprotection
AND
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
http://www.fda.gov/Food/IngredientsPackagingLabeling/LabelingNut
rition/default.htm.
Nutrition and health claims must be truthful, not misleading or deceptive,
and include adequate disclaimers if appropriate.
Information
Unallowable for information technology systems having a useful life of
Technology Systems more than one year and a per-unit acquisition cost which equals or
exceeds the lesser of the capitalization level established in accordance by
generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) by the non-Federal
recipient or subrecipient for financial statement purposes or $5,000.
Acquisition cost means the cost of the asset including the cost to ready the
asset for its intended use. Acquisition costs for software includes those
development costs capitalized in accordance with GAAP.

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Item

Description
Information technology systems include computing devices, ancillary
equipment, software, firmware, and similar procedures, services
(including support services), and related resources. Computing devices
means machines used to acquire, store, analyze, process, and publish data
and other information electronically, including accessories (or
“peripherals”) for printing, transmitting and receiving, or storing electronic
information. Examples of unallowable information technology systems
include service contracts, operating systems, printers, and computers that
have an acquisition cost of $5,000 or more.
Allowable for website development, mobile apps, etc.

Insurance and
Indemnification

Allowable as indirect costs for insurance and indemnification.

Lobbying

The recipient should obtain an advance understanding with the SCMP if it
intends to engage in certain activities intended to influence Federal, State
or local government entities.
Unallowable for:
(1) Attempts to influence the outcomes of any Federal, State, or local
election, referendum, initiative, or similar procedure, through in-kind or
cash contributions, endorsements, publicity, or similar activity;
(2) Establishing, administering, contributing to, or paying the expenses of
a political party, campaign, political action committee, or other
organization established for the purpose of influencing the outcomes of
elections in the United States;
(3) Any attempt to influence:
a)The introduction of Federal or State legislation;
b) The enactment or modification of any pending Federal or State
legislation through communication with any member or employee
of the Congress or State legislature (including efforts to influence
State or local officials to engage in similar lobbying activity);
c) The enactment or modification of any pending Federal or State
legislation by preparing, distributing, or using publicity or
propaganda, or by urging members of the general public, or any
35 | P a g e

Item

Description
segment thereof, to contribute to or participate in any mass
demonstration, march, rally, fund raising drive, lobbying campaign
or letter writing or telephone campaign; or
d) Any government official or employee in connection with a
decision to sign or veto enrolled legislation;
(5) Legislative liaison activities, including attendance at legislative sessions
or committee hearings, gathering information regarding legislation, and
analyzing the effect of legislation, when such activities are carried on in
support of or in knowing preparation for an effort to engage in
unallowable lobbying.
Allowable activities directly related to the performance of a grant include:
(1) Technical and factual presentations on topics directly related to the
performance of a grant, contract, or other agreement (through hearing
testimony, statements, or letters to the Congress or a State legislature, or
subdivision, member, or cognizant staff member thereof), in response to
a documented request (including a Congressional Record notice
requesting testimony or statements for the record at a regularly scheduled
hearing) made by the non-Federal entity's member of congress, legislative
body or a subdivision, or a cognizant staff member thereof, provided such
information is readily obtainable and can be readily put in deliverable
form, and further provided that costs under this section for travel, lodging
or meals are unallowable unless incurred to offer testimony at a regularly
scheduled Congressional hearing pursuant to a written request for such
presentation made by the Chairman or Ranking Minority Member of the
Committee or Subcommittee conducting such hearings;
(2) Any lobbying made unallowable by paragraph (c)(1)(iii) of 2 CFR part
200.450 to influence State legislation in order to directly reduce the cost,
or to avoid material impairment of the non-Federal entity's authority to
perform the grant, contract, or other agreement; or
(3) Any activity specifically authorized by statute to be undertaken with
funds from the Federal award.
(4) Any activity excepted from the definitions of “lobbying” or “influencing
legislation” by the Internal Revenue Code provisions that require nonprofit
organizations to limit their participation in direct and “grass roots”
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Item

Description
lobbying activities in order to retain their charitable deduction status and
avoid punitive excise taxes, I.R.C. §§501(c)(3), 501(h), 4911(a), including:
a) Nonpartisan analysis, study, or research reports;
b) Examinations and discussions of broad social, economic, and
similar problems; and
c) Information provided upon request by a legislator for technical advice
and assistance, as defined by I.R.C. §4911(d)(2) and 26 CFR 56.49112(c)(1)-(c)(3).

Meals

Unallowable for business meals when individuals decide to go to lunch or
dinner together when no need exists for continuity of a meeting. Such
activity is considered an entertainment cost.
Unallowable for breakfasts for conference attendees because it is
expected these individuals will have sufficient time to obtain this meal on
their own before the conference begins in the morning.
Unallowable for meal costs that are duplicated in meeting participant’s per
diem or subsistence allowances.
Allowable for lunch or dinner meals if the costs are reasonable and a
justification is provided that such activity maintains the continuity of the
meeting and to do otherwise will impose arduous conditions on the
meeting participants.
Allowable for meals consumed while in official travel status. They are
considered per diem expenses and should be reimbursed in accordance
with the organization’s established written travel policies.

Memberships,
Subscriptions, and
Professional
Activity Costs

Unallowable for costs of membership in any civic or community
organization.

Organization Costs

Allowable with prior approval for organization costs per 2 CFR part
200.455.

Allowable for costs of membership in business, technical, and professional
organizations.

37 | P a g e

Item

Description
Unallowable for costs of investment counsel and staff and similar expenses
incurred to enhance income from investments.

Participant Support
Costs

Allowable with prior approval for such items as stipends or subsistence
allowances, and registration fees paid to or on behalf of participants or
trainees (but not employees) in connection with approved conferences,
training projects, and focus groups.

Pre-Award (PreAgreement Costs)

Allowable, if such costs are necessary to conduct the project or program,
and would be allowable under the grant, if awarded.
A recipient may incur pre-award costs 90 calendar days before SCMP
makes the award without prior approval from SCMP. Expenses more than
90 calendar days pre-award require SCMP prior approval. All costs
incurred before SCMP makes the award are at the recipient’s risk. The
incurrence of pre-award costs in anticipation of an award imposes no
obligation on SCMP to award funds for such costs.

Printing and
Publications

Allowable to pay the cost or preparing informational leaflets, reports,
manuals, and publications relating to the project, however the printing of
hard copies is discouraged.

Rearrangement and
Reconversion Costs

Allowable as indirect costs incurred for ordinary and normal
rearrangement and alteration of facilities.

Salaries and Wages

Allowable as part of employee compensation for personnel services in
proportion to the amount of time or effort an employee devotes to the
grant-supported project or program during the period of performance
under the Federal award, including salaries, wages, and fringe benefits.
Such costs must be incurred under formally established policies of the
organization, be consistently applied, be reasonable for the services
rendered, and be supported with adequate documentation.
Salary and wage amounts charged to grant-supported projects or
programs for personnel services must be based on an adequate payroll
distribution system that documents such distribution in accordance with
generally accepted practices of like organizations. Standards for payroll
distribution systems are contained in the applicable cost principles (other
than those for for-profit organizations).
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Item

Description

Selling and
Marketing Costs

Allowable if the primary purpose is to promote the sale of an eligible
specialty crop by either stimulating interest in a particular specialty crop
or disseminating technical information or messages for the purpose of
increasing market share for the specialty crops.

Selling and
Marketing Costs –
Promotion of an
Organization’s
Image, Logo, or
Brand Name

Unallowable for costs designed solely to promote the image of an
organization, general logo, or general brand rather than eligible specialty
crops.
•
•
•

A promotional campaign to increase sales of “XYZ Grown”
Watermelon is acceptable while increasing brand awareness of
“XYZ Grown” generically is not.
Promoting tomatoes while including an organization’s logo in the
promotion is acceptable, while generally promoting an
organization’s logo is not.
Promotional items could say “Buy XYZ Grown Apples” but not “XYZ
Grown”, which promotes XYZ generically.

A promotional campaign to increase producer sales of “XYZ Grown fruits
and vegetables” is acceptable while increasing membership in “XYZ
Grown” generally is not.
Selling and
Marketing Costs –
Promotion of NonSpecialty Crop
Activities

Unallowable for costs for promotion at non-specialty crop specific venues,
tradeshows, events, meetings, programs, conventions, symposia,
seminars, etc.
•

Advertisements could say “Buy Sweet Corn! It is the Best!” but not
“Buy Local!”

Advertising educational sessions at a conference that solely benefits
specialty crop growers are acceptable, while advertising a non-specialty
crop specific local food conference is not.
Selling and
Marketing Costs –
Promotional Items,
Gifts, Prizes, etc.

Unallowable for promotional items, swag, gifts, prizes, memorabilia, and
souvenirs.

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Item

Description

Selling and
Marketing Costs –
Sponsorships

Unallowable for costs associated with sponsorships. A sponsorship is a
form of advertising in which an organization uses grant funds to have its
name and/or logo associated with certain events and where the
organization does not necessarily know how the funds associated with
sponsorship costs will be used. These costs are considered a contribution
or donation and only benefit the organization offering funding. This limits
the beneficiaries to the sponsor organization, which conflicts with the
restriction that projects affect and produce measurable outcomes for the
specialty crop industry and/or the public rather than a single organization,
institution, or individual.

Selling and
Marketing Costs –
Coupons, Incentives
or Other Price
Discounts

Unallowable for costs of coupon/incentive redemptions or price discounts.
Costs associated with printing, distribution, or promotion of
coupons/tokens or price discounts (i.e., a print advertisement that
contains a clip-out coupon) are allowable only if they solely promote the
specialty crop rather than promote or benefit a program or single
organization.
See also Participant Support Costs.

Selling and
Marketing Costs –
Use of Meeting
Rooms, Space,
Exhibits for NonSpecialty Crop
Activities

Unallowable for costs associated with the use of trade shows, meeting
rooms, displays, demonstrations, exhibits, and the rental of space for
activities that do not solely promote specialty crops.
•

Supporting the participation of raspberry and blueberry producers
at a non-specialty crop specific international trade show to
promote berries to an international audience is allowable, while
renting a booth space for berry producers as well as wheat
producers at an international trade show is not allowable.

•

Supporting the participation of farmers’ market managers at a
national conference that is not specific to specialty crops is not
allowable.

•

Supporting a portion of a national conference that is not specific to
specialty crops is not allowable, while supporting a session on
specialty crops at a national conference that is not specific to
specialty crops is allowable.

40 | P a g e

Item

Description
Funding an “XYZ State Grown” booth at a specialty crop-specific venue
where all exhibitors in the booth are specialty crop producers is allowable,
but funding an “XYZ Grown” booth at a non-specialty crop specific venue
is not allowable.

Selling and
Marketing Costs –
Cookbooks, Cooking
Demonstrations,
Recipe Cards, Food
Pairings

Supplies and
Materials, Including
Costs of Computing
Devices

Allowable for costs promoting the specialty crops in processed products
(products prepared or created for the purposes of promoting a specialty
crop but that require other ingredients are considered a processed
product). A processed product is defined as a product that constitutes
greater than 50% of the specialty crop by weight, exclusive of added water.
Unallowable for costs of separate complementary non-specialty crop
products. A separate complementary non-specialty crop product means a
product closely associated with a specialty crop product, the purchase of
one encouraging consumers to buy the other (i.e., cheese and wine).
Allowable for costs incurred for materials, supplies, and fabricated parts
necessary to carry out a Federal award. Purchased materials and supplies
must be charged at their actual prices, net of applicable credits.
Withdrawals from general stores or stockrooms should be charged at their
actual net cost under any recognized method of pricing inventory
withdrawals, consistently applied. Incoming transportation charges are a
proper part of materials and supplies costs. Only materials and supplies
actually used for the performance of a Federal award may be charged as
direct costs.
A computing device is a supply if the acquisition cost is less than the lesser
of the capitalization level established by the recipient or subrecipient for
financial statement purposes or $5,000, regardless of the length of its
useful life. In the specific case of computing devices, charging as direct
cost is allowable for devices that are essential and allocable, but not solely
dedicated, to the performance of a Federal award. Where Federallydonated or furnished materials are used in performing the Federal award,
such materials will be used without charge.

Training

Allowable for the State department of agriculture recipient when training
is directly related to Federal grants management in proportion to the
amount of time and effort expended by the trainee on the grant program.
41 | P a g e

Item

Description
Allowable when the training is required to meet the objectives of the
project or program.

Travel Costs

Allowable when travel costs are limited to those allowed by formal
organizational policy; in the case of air travel, the lowest reasonable
commercial airfares must be used.
Unallowable for travel costs of government officials per 2 CFR part
200.444.
Recipients and subrecipients that do not have formal travel policies and
for-profit subrecipients’ allowable travel costs may not exceed those
established by the Federal Travel Regulation, issued by GSA, including the
maximum per diem and subsistence rates prescribed in those regulations.
This information is available at http://www.gsa.gov. If a recipient or
subrecipient organization has no formal travel policy, those regulations
will be used to determine the amount that may be charged for travel costs.
Recipients and subrecipients are strongly encouraged to take advantage
of discount fares for airline travel through advance purchase of tickets if
travel schedules can be planned in advance.
Consideration should be given to the use of alternative technologies such
as teleconferencing or videoconferencing if they are available, appropriate
for the project, and less costly.
Allowable for domestic and international travel of individuals for activities
directly related to the project objectives. Examples of personnel whose
travel may be covered: State agency personnel working directly on the
project, technical experts, producer representatives who have unique
knowledge about one or more specialty crops, and individuals whose
presence on an international trip will make a direct contribution to the
goals of the project.

4.8 OTHER SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
SCMP requires State departments of agriculture to submit applications electronically through the
central Federal grants website, www.Grants.gov.

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(A)

Data Universal Number System (DUNS) Number Requirement: Applicants must have a
DUNS number at the time of application submission. A DUNS number may be acquired at
no cost online at http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform. To acquire a DUNS number by phone,
contact the D&B Government Customer Response Center:
URL: http://www.dnb.com/get-a-duns-number.html
Hours: Monday – Friday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., CST
US Calls and U.S. Virgin Islands: 866-705-5711
Alaska and Puerto Rico: 800-234-3867 (Select option 2, then option 1)

(B)

Registration Requirement www.SAM.gov: Applicants must be registered with
http://www.SAM.gov prior to submitting a completed application package. Should your
organization be selected for a Federal award, your funding will be disbursed via Electronic
Funds Transfer to the bank account registered in this system. The registration processes
can take at least 5 weeks.
For SAM Customer Service, contact the Federal Service Desk:
URL: www.fsd.gov
Hours: 8am - 8pm (Eastern Time)
US Calls: 866-606-8220

(C)

Registration and Submission www.Grants.gov. For information on how to apply
electronically via Grants.gov, consult the Grants.gov Get Registered webpage. Applicants
experiencing problems in electronic preparation or submission of documentation should
contact, the Grants.gov Contact Center at:
URL: www.Grants.gov
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Eastern Time; closed on Federal Holidays.
US Calls: 800-518-4726
If you are experiencing submission issues, keep a record of any correspondence with
Grants.gov, including any ID or case number provided.

How Do I Know If My Grant Has Been Submitted? Grants.gov will send the following
communications to applicants upon final submission. If you do not receive these confirmations,
contact Grants.gov to check the status of your application.
1. Submission Receipt Email (with "Track My Application" link): Within two business days
after the application package has been received by Grants.gov, applicants will receive a
43 | P a g e

submission receipt email which indicates that the submission has entered the
Grants.gov system and is ready for validation. This email contains a tracking number for
use while tracking the status of the submission as well as a "Track My Application" link,
to use to see the progress of the submission.
2. Submission Validation (or Rejection with Errors): Grants.gov checks for technical errors
within the submitted application package, but it does not review application content for
award determination. After applicants receive the submission receipt email, the next
email will be a message either validating the submitted application package or rejecting
the submitted application package with errors. If an applicant does not receive both a
receipt confirmation AND either a validation confirmation or a rejection email message
within two business days, Grants.gov should be contacted as soon as possible.
3. AMS Retrieval Email: Once the application package has passed validation, it is delivered
to SCMP. After SCMP confirms receipt of the application, a third email will be sent from
Grants.gov.
5.0 APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
5.1 PROJECT EVALUATION CRITERIA
Each application will be reviewed competitively using the following criteria and scoring:
(1) PURPOSE (20 points) – The proposal is well-justified, addresses at least one of the SCMP
project types described in section 1.3, and contains a problem/issue statement which concisely
outlines the issue to be studied or the activities to be completed. The project aligns well with
SCMP legislative and program goals. If the proposal involves technical research, the proposal
includes a literature review which supports the need for the research, and outlines how--if
proven successful in the laboratory or under test conditions--the technical research will be tested
in real-world conditions.
(2) APPROACH (25 points) – The goals, objectives, and work plan are logical and clearly
explained. The individuals who will work directly on the project have the appropriate
qualifications, knowledge and experience necessary to conduct a successful project.
Partnerships are appropriate and documented with letters of support. The roles and
responsibilities of each partner, including the State department of agriculture submitting the
proposal, are described. The proposal includes a timeline. In addition:
•

If the proposal involves technical research, the research methodology is described and it
is appropriate to answer the research questions.
44 | P a g e

•

If the proposal involves food safety training or education for producers, processors
and/or consumers, the proposal identifies the FDA-recognized resources that will be
used. If additional unique food safety training materials or information specific to a
particular region and/or to a particular specialty crop will be developed, the proposal
describes them and includes a justification. For all training and education proposals, the
proposal describes where the training sessions will be held—in the classroom, at a
production or processing facility and/or at another site.

(3) IMPACT (20 points) – The proposal describes the potential impact it will have on specialty
crop producers, the specialty crop industry, and the potential for the proposal to provide new
knowledge, and lessons learned that could be applied in other States, regions of the country or
nationally. If applicable, the proposal describes the estimated economic impact and supports
the estimates with relevant data. For long-term projects, the proposal includes a feasibility plan
for the project to become self-sustaining in the post-grant period and not indefinitely
dependent on grant funds. The proposal includes at least one quantitative metric to
demonstrate impact.
(4) BUDGET (20 points) - All budget items are allowable, reasonable, fully described, and
adequately support the project objective(s). Elements of this criterion include:
• The necessity and reasonableness of costs to carry out project activities and achieve
project objectives;
•

The appropriateness of budget allocations between the applicant and partner(s); and

•

The adequacy of funds assigned to effectively evaluate the outcome measures and
disseminate the results of the project.

(5) OUTREACH (15 points) – The proposal outlines a plan to disseminate project results
electronically and in-person to the target audience, stakeholders, and interested parties beyond
those directly served by the project. A means of collecting feedback on the results is included.
Outreach can be expected to continue beyond the term of the project.
(6) PRIORITY POINTS
AMS will award 5 priority points to proposals where the main project activities fall under the
following project types: food safety; plant pests and disease; and research as described in
sections 1.3.1, 1.3.2 and 1.3.3.
5.2 REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS
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Step 1: Initial Screening
Each application will be screened by SCMP to determine if all required components of the
application have been submitted and that the project is within the SCMP scope. Applications
that pass Step 1 will proceed to Step 2: Technical Review. Incomplete applications and
applications that are not responsive to the eligibility criteria will not advance through the review
process (see section 4.4). Applicants will be notified if their application did not meet submission
requirements.
Step 2: Technical Review
Proposals will be reviewed and evaluated by subject matter specialists from USDA, other
Federal agencies, if appropriate, and from academia. State department of agriculture
personnel may also participate in the review unless their State department of agriculture:
•
•

Has submitted a FY 2015 SCMP proposal; and/or
Is named as a partner on a SCMP proposal submitted by another State department of
agriculture.

Proposals will be evaluated using instructions prepared by SCMP in consultation with AMS
officials. Individual reviewers will evaluate and score their assigned proposals and then confer
with other team members to derive a consensus score which will serve as the basis for
awarding and allocating SCMP funds. The consensus review will focus on strengths,
weaknesses and suggestions, which will be shared with unsuccessful applicants after the
awards have been announced.
Proposals will be evaluated using the criteria listed in section 5.1. The text under each heading
is provided to help applicants understand generally what aspects of their proposals will be
evaluated, but it is not meant to be a checklist or to indicate how scores within the individual
evaluation categories will be weighted.
Step 3: Administrative Review
Top applications that qualify for Step 3 of the review process will be evaluated to ensure the
application is consistent with the appropriate Federal Assistance Regulations.
AMS selections are made based on the review panel’s top rankings and recommendations,
Agency clearances and priorities, review of potential award project and budget (below), and
available funding.
In consideration for an award, potential awarded projects and budgets may be revised by SCMP
based on allowable, allocable, and reasonable costs; fulfillment of Agency’s funding,
authorization and mission priorities; and quantitative evaluation of project outputs, outcomes,
46 | P a g e

and performance metrics. Depending upon the timelines of award determination, the applicant
may be contacted to negotiate these revisions, or the SCMP award may be rejected upon receipt.
AMS will also assess your organization’s ability to account for the use of Federal funds and
monitor the performance associated with these monies. This assessment will consider your
organization’s:
(1) Financial stability;
(2) Quality of management systems and ability to meet the management standards
prescribed in 2 CFR part 200;
(3) History of performance. Your record in managing Federal awards if you have previously
received them including timeliness of compliance with applicable reporting
requirements, conformance to the terms and conditions of previous Federal awards,
and if applicable, the extent to which any previously awarded amounts will be expended
prior to future awards;
(4) Reports and findings from audits performed under Subpart F—Audit Requirements of 2
CFR part 200 or the reports and findings of any other available audits; and
(5) Ability to effectively implement statutory, regulatory, or other requirements imposed on
your organization.
AMS will award funds only for projects that meet the requirements of this RFA. Any funds not
awarded under the FY 2015 SCMP RFA will be applied to the next project award cycle.
6.0 AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION
6.1 AWARD NOTICES
Upon announcement of the Federal awards, SCMP will prepare and send a Grant Agreement to
each recipient for signature by the appropriate official. Grant Agreements consist of a 1-page
Agreement Face Sheet (AMS-33) that will be signed by AMS and the appropriate recipient official.
The Grant Agreement sets forth pertinent information about the award, including, but not limited
to, the following:
•

Federal Agreement Identification Number (FAIN) or “agreement number;”

•

Statutory authority for the award and any applicable program regulations;

•

Name of Recipient organization;

•

Name of Recipient Project Coordinator;

•

Approved period of performance start and end dates;

•

Amount of Federal funds authorized for obligation by the recipient;

47 | P a g e

•

Name of the Federal Agency Project Manager; and

•

General Terms and Conditions of Award, by either reference or inclusion.

6.2 UNSUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS
Unsuccessful applicants will be contacted by SCMP via email as soon as possible after the SCMP
awards are announced to inform them of the results. SCMP will email unsuccessful applicants
the anonymous review panel consensus comments about their proposals to provide feedback.
6.3 ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS
Several Federal statutes and regulations apply to grant applications considered for review and to
project grants awarded under this program. These include, but are not limited to the ones listed
below.
2 CFR part 25 – System for Award Management and Universal Identifier Requirements
2 CFR part 170 – Reporting Subaward and Executive Compensation Information
2 CFR part 175 – Award Term for Trafficking in Persons, which is the implementation of the
Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, as amended (22 U.S.C. 7104(g))
2 CFR part 180 and part 417 – OMB Guidelines to Agencies on Government-Wide Debarment and
Suspension (Nonprocurement) and USDA Nonprocurement Debarment and Suspension
2 CFR part 200 – Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements
for Federal Awards
2 CFR part 400 – USDA implementation of 2 CFR part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements,
Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards
2 CFR part 415 – USDA General Program Administrative Regulations
2 CFR part 416 – USDA General Program Administrative Requirements for Grants and Cooperative
Agreements to State and Local Governments
2 CFR part 418 – USDA implementation of Restrictions on Lobbying
Imposes prohibitions and requirements for disclosure and certification related to lobbying on
recipients of Federal contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and loans.
2 CFR part 421 – USDA Implementation of Government-wide Requirements for Drug-Free
Workplace (Financial Assistance)
7 CFR part 1, subpart A – USDA implementation of the Freedom of Information Act
7 CFR part 1b – USDA procedures to implement the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969,
as amended
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7 CFR part 3 – USDA implementation of OMB Circular No. A-129 regarding debt collection
7 CFR part 15, subpart A – USDA implementation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as
amended
7 CFR part 331 and 9 CFR part 121—USDA implementation of the Agricultural Bioterrorism
Protection Act of 2002
37 CFR part 401 – Rights to Inventions made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms
under Government Grants, Contracts, and Cooperative Agreements
The implementation of the Bayh Dole Act (35 U.S.C. 200 et seq.) controlling allocation of rights
to inventions made by employees of small business firms and domestic nonprofit organizations,
including universities, in Federally-assisted programs (implementing regulations are contained
in).
41 CFR part 301-10.131 to 301-10.143 – Use of United States Flag Air Carriers, which implements
the Fly America Act (49 U.S.C. 40118)
48 CFR part 25 – Foreign Acquisition, which implements the Buy American Act (41 U.S.C. Ch. 83)
48 CFR subpart 31.2 – Contracts with Commercial Organizations
44 U.S.C. 3541 et seq. (Pub. L. 107-347) – Federal Information System Security Management Act
of 2002 (FISMA)
An Act designed to improve computer and network security within the Federal Government.
Applies to awardees if it will collect, store, process, transmit, or use information on behalf of
AMS.
Motor Vehicle Safety – Highway Safety Act of 1966, as amended (23 U.S.C. 402 & 403);
Government Organization and Employees Act, as amended (5 U.S.C. 7902 (c)); Occupational
Safety and Health Act of 1970, as amended (29 U.S.C. 668); Federal Property and Administrative
Services Act of 1949, as amended (40 U.S.C. 101, et seq.); Increasing Seat Belt Use in the United
States (EO 13043); Federal Leadership on Reducing Text Messaging While Driving (EO 13513)
Federal statutes and regulations found on the SF-424B “Assurances –Non-Construction
Programs” (this form is submitted to AMS before the application deadline)
2 CFR part 422 – Research Institutions Conducting USDA-Funded Extramural Research; Research
6.4 REPORTING
State department of agriculture recipients are required to submit annual performance reports
and Federal Financial Reports (SF-425) within 90 calendar days after the award’s anniversary date
(i.e. one year following the month and day on which the grant agreement period of performance
begins and each year thereafter up until a Final Performance Report is required).
49 | P a g e

The following reports are due within 90 days following the grant ending date:
1)
2)
3)
4)

Final Performance Report
Final Payment Request (SF-270), if applicable
Final SF-425, “Federal Financial Report” and if applicable, payment of unobligated balance
Tangible Personal Property Report, if applicable

The recipient should submit the reports to the SCMP electronically via email as required in the
SCMP General Award Terms and Conditions.
7.0 AGENCY CONTACT
Applicants and other interested parties are encouraged
[email protected] or by phone 202-720-5024.

to

contact

SCMP

SCMP Program Manager
Janise Zygmont
Mailing Address
SCMP
USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service
1400 Independence Avenue SW
Room 4549-South Building
Stop 0267
Washington, D.C. 20250-0267
8.0 OTHER INFORMATION
8.1 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
The USDA prohibits discrimination in all of its programs and activities on the basis of race, color,
national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, political beliefs, genetic information, reprisal, or because all
or part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all
prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means
for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact
USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).
To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of
the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Stop 9410,
Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call toll-free at (866) 632-9992 (English) or (800) 877-8339
(TDD) or (866) 377-8642 (English Federal-relay) or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish Federal-relay). USDA
is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
8.2 FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REQUESTS
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) of 1966 (5 U.S.C. 552) and the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C.
552a), as implemented by USDA’s regulations (7 CFR part 1, Subpart A) govern the release or
withholding of information to the public in connection with this Federal award. The release of
information under these laws and regulations applies only to records held by AMS and imposes
no requirement on the recipient or any subrecipient to permit or deny public access to their
records.
FOIA requests for records relating to this Federal award may be directed to:
USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service
FOIA/PA Officer
Room 3521-S, Mail Stop 0202
1400 Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20250-0202
Telephone: (202) 720-2498
Fax:

(202) 690-3767

E-mail: [email protected]

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8.3 SUMMARY OF PUBLIC COMMENTS RECEIVED
USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) published A Notice of Guidance Regarding the
Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Multi-State Project Competition (Guidance) in the Federal
Register on October 23, 2014 (79 FR 63377), inviting interested persons to submit written
comments until November 24, 2014. AMS received comments from a specialty crop
organization, a sustainable agriculture organization, a State department of agriculture, an
association of State agriculture departments, and one individual. We considered these
comments during the preparation of the 2015 Specialty Crop Multi-State Program (SCMP)
Request for Applications (RFA). Comments received on specific sections of the Guidance are
summarized and discussed below.
Section 2.0 Background
COMMENT: The Background included a sentence that said: “The Farm Bill also proposes a new
multi-State project set-aside for projects that solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty
crops involving food safety, plant pests and disease, research, crop-specific projects addressing
common issues, and any other area as determined by the Secretary.” One commenter
requested clarification of the term “common issues,” asking whether it referred to the specialty
crop, the region, or the United States.
RESPONSE: The term “common issues” was included in the section of the enabling legislation
describing the purpose of the SCMP. The concept is expanded upon in the priority areas listed
in the RFA.
Section 3.2 Priority Areas
3.2.1 Bullet #1—Improve detection monitoring, control and response to potential food safety
hazards in the production, processing, and handling of specialty crops;
COMMENT: One commenter stated that “these are current practices that are already being
extensively explored. Sampling is the biggest obstacle to improving detection.”
RESPONSE: Although current studies may address the issues listed in 3.2.1 Bullet #1, we believe
the call for additional studies is valid and necessary to ensure, and continually improve, the
safety of specialty crops throughout the supply chain. Sampling is a challenge. In the context of
the priorities listed in the RFA, sampling issues are not outside the scope of the SCMP as a topic
of study. We retained Bullet #1 as originally stated in the Guidance.

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3.2.1 Bullet #2--Develop procedures and mechanisms and provide assistance/education in
implementing Good Agricultural Practices, Good Manufacturing Practices, Good Handling
Practices on a national or regional level. If providing education/training opportunities, ensure
the curriculum and materials align with and not duplicate that being developed by the
Produce Safety Alliance (PSA);
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that the phrase “and/or cooperating states” be
added at the end of Bullet #2 after “Produce Safety Alliance (PSA).” One commenter
recommended that “Although we agree that materials should not duplicate those being
developed by PSA, neither should materials be restricted solely to those that follow and align
with PSA. Such a restriction would prevent curriculum alternatives to PSA’s materials from
being developed that could best serve the unique needs of different farming communities.”
The commenter also stated that “PSA’s curriculum approaches training through a classroom
model,” and recommended that funding be made available for a variety of training programs
emphasizing “those with the greatest on-the-ground impact.”

RESPONSE: We accepted these suggestions. State departments of agriculture and their
partners or any other entity participating in the project must utilize PSA or other FDArecognized training and resources for producer and/or processor training or education.
Training need not be restricted to the classroom. Training “in the field” can be beneficial and
effective. AMS will allow training conducted under a SCMP project to take place in alternate
venues provided that it follows PSA or other FDA-recognized curriculum, materials and
resources.
3.2.1 Bullet #3--Conduct research focused on issues (such as die-off rates/survival rates of
pathogens) related to (1) water quality; or (2) use of biological soil amendments of animal
origin, on similar agro-ecological regions or localities utilizing the specific.
COMMENT: One commenter stated that they support the language of Bullet #3, “as long as it’s
done under real-world conditions, not simulated in a laboratory or under extreme
contamination conditions.”
RESPONSE: The phrase “utilizing the specific” was inadvertently included in Bullet #3 in the
Guidance. Bullet #3 is expanded in the RFA. It references separate, specific Framework
Documents which were developed under FDA- commissioned studies and resulted in protocols
when conducting research on agricultural water and for biological soil amendments of animal
origin. As described in the RFA, we suggest applicants use these Framework protocols as
references when developing technical research proposals in these areas.
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We agree that SCMP proposals must have practical impact. However, it is often necessary to
test out and prove new technologies or approaches on a small scale in the laboratory before
taking them into the field. Any technically-oriented proposal submitted to SCMP must outline
how, if proven successful in the laboratory, the technology or approach will be tested in realworld conditions, and specifically how specialty crop producers and processors may benefit.
3.2.1 Bullet #4--Apply new or improved food processing technologies to prevent and reduce
foodborne pathogen loads in specialty crops.
COMMENT: One commenter said that “There appears to be limited success on this type of
process.”
RESPONSE: New and existing food processing technologies are continuously being developed
and refined. It is not possible to anticipate what new technologies may be developed in the
future, or to what degree they will prove successful. We retained Bullet #4 as originally stated
in the Guidance.
3.2.1 Bullet #5--Strengthen national traceback systems; promoting an outbreak response
system that shortens the time between outbreak detection, resolution, and recovery; and
improving methods for communicating with consumers about traceback and foodborne
illness outbreaks; and/or
COMMENT: One commenter stated that “Traceback of product eaten to its source is not the
problem, and shortening that time will not help. Detection by public health agencies that an
illness from food has occurred, and traceback from an ill person to what made them ill are the
primary delays.”
RESPONSE: Traceback remains a major limitation in many food contamination investigations,
especially for those involving fresh produce. If the food item does not have an individual label
or if it is highly perishable, the consumer either does not have information about the source of
the food item, or the packaging containing the information has been discarded by the time the
consumer is recognized to be part of an outbreak. In addition, many locations that serve
consumers such as grocery stores or restaurants do not have the ability to trace a product to
the final point of sale. Thus, delays at each step--from detecting illness, to tracing the food, to
removing the contaminated food from the marketplace--can result in more consumers
becoming ill. It is vital to reduce risk at each step in the farm-to-table continuum. Better
traceback systems and protocols are needed. The term “systems” includes, but is not limited to,
IT or electronic systems.

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COMMENT: One commenter recommended that Bullet #5 be revised to read as follows by
adding the phrase “and regional: “
Strengthen national and regional traceback systems; promoting an outbreak response
system that shortens the time between outbreak detection, resolution, and recovery;
and improving methods for communicating with consumers about traceback and
foodborne illness outbreaks; and/or
RESPONSE: We accepted the recommendation. SCMP authorizes projects addressing both
regional (multi-State) and national issues, including traceback systems.
3.2.1 Bullet #6--Improve national support and coordination of food safety programs by
conducting national and regional conferences, building collaborative networks, and
exchanging information about integrated food safety.
COMMENT: One commenter stated that “These are currently going on throughout the country.
Support state, local public health agencies in outbreak detection and investigation would be
more effective.”
RESPONSE: We acknowledge that there are efforts already underway to improve national
support and coordination of food safety programs and also that there are many conferences,
networks, and ways to exchange information. However, many of these efforts are broad,
covering multiple industry food sectors instead of focusing specifically on produce. It is
important to avoid duplication of the existing efforts, but there are opportunities to
complement these efforts and/or fill in gaps. Small and medium sized firms and producers may
be difficult to reach and they may be unaware of technical information and materials available
to them. It would be helpful to find ways to better reach this community since they are often
not linked up with the larger trade associations.
Although support of State and local public health and regulatory agencies is critical to an
effective food safety system in the United States, State and local agencies focus on State and
local issues, not on cross-jurisdictional issues such as investigations of multi-State outbreaks. It
is important to improve coordination between the States, especially because so much of the
food supply has wide distribution and involves multiple States when a food contamination
event occurs.
COMMENT: One commenter requested that AMS define “food safety programs.”

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RESPONSE: We believe the term “food safety programs” does not require a specific definition
in that many different programs may fall under this heading. We retained Bullet #6 as originally
stated in the Guidance. Section 1.3.1 of the RFA covers food safety proposal types.
COMMENTS: One commenter recommended that food safety projects should reach all
populations: growers, retailers, food service workers, and consumers, most importantly, and
that Good Agricultural Practices could be introduced to all groups simultaneously with a
customized media education and outreach campaign. One commenter recommended the
following bullet be added to the Priority Areas:
•

“Reduce foodborne threats by executing an outreach and education campaign that
combines the force of innovative media and on site engagement to encourage food
safety practices that influence consumers, growers, retailers and food service workers on
a regional or national level. Projects that address Good Agricultural Practices and extend
the messaging developed by the Produce Safety Alliance to new and different audiences
are recommended.”

RESPONSE: We acknowledge that consumers would benefit from educational materials and
campaigns that convey messages regarding safe handling, preparation and storage of specialty crops
in the home. Projects that reach all audiences listed in the comment are acceptable under the
SCMP.
COMMENT: One commenter observed that there was nothing in the Guidance about
marketing projects being allowed, and recommended that such projects be added as
acceptable for SCMP.
RESPONSE: We accepted this recommendation. Marketing and promotion projects are allowed
under the SCMP. The RFA defines marketing and promotion projects as focused efforts to sell,
advertise, promote, market, and generate publicity, attract new customers, or raise customer
awareness for specialty crops or a specialty crop venue.
We suggest that marketing and promotion projects include the following outcome
measurement and indicator:
Outcome: To enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through increased sales.
Indicator: Sales increased from $________ to $_________ , and by ______ percent, as result
of marketing and/or promotion activities.

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If this outcome and indicator does not apply to the project, the applicant must use another
outcome and indicator, subject to approval by AMS if the project is selected for funding.
COMMENT: One commenter suggested that projects which provide assistance to specialty crop
producers to comply with FSMA implementation should be included.
RESPONSE: Providing financial assistance to producers is outside the scope of SCMP and would
duplicate the types of projects currently covered under the Specialty Crop Block Grant program
(SCBGP). SCBGP specifically authorizes projects to assist “all entities in the specialty crop
distribution chain in developing “Good Agricultural Practices,” “Good Handling Practices,”
“Good Manufacturing Practices,” and in cost-share arrangements for funding audits of such
systems for small farmers; packers and processors; ”
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that Bullet #6 be revised to read as below (in bold)
by including the phrase “developing educational materials for producers and consumers.”
Improve national support and coordination of food safety programs by conducting national
and regional conferences, developing educational materials for producers and consumers,
building collaborative networks, and exchanging information about integrated food safety.”
RESPONSE: We did not add the suggested phrase to this bullet, but developing educational
materials and campaigns targeted to consumers is acceptable under the SCMP provided that
the content conforms to PSA or other FDA-recognized guidelines and the focus is on providing
useful and practical information that will help consumers avoid food contamination using
practices that are under their control once they purchase a specialty crop. We cover this topic
in more detail in the RFA.
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that AMS include additional examples of projects
that would meet priority areas.
RESPONSE: The existing examples provided in the Guidance and carried over to the RFA reflect
the overall intent of the legislation. We believe they are general enough to encompass a wide
variety of topics relevant to the SCMP.
Section 3.3.4 Crop-Specific Projects
COMMENT: One commenter suggested the following Bullet be added as an example under this
section.

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•

“Connect specialty crop farmers to consumers by enhancing market opportunities that
highlight production practices, growing locations, and advance specialty crops. “

RESPONSE: We did not accept the addition of this new bullet as recommended, but we have
added marketing and promotion to the list of allowable topics. These activities are acceptable,
but to include the specific language of the suggested bullet would imply that marketing and
promotion is limited to these activities.
Section 3.4 Indicators of Successful Applications
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that the SCMP RFA require applicants to describe
the national or regional impact of the project; to disclose if an applicant is currently
participating in a State-level AMS SCBGP project; and if so, to identify the State department of
agriculture.
RESPONSE: We have accepted these recommendations. The RFA describes the requirements
of the application package. The Narrative subsection includes a number of questions applicants
are required to address including identification of the specific geographic target area of impact
of the project, and a description of the specific issue, problem, or need that the project will
address, or the research question that will be answered. Applicants are also asked to indicate if
a partner currently has a SCBGP award, and if so, to indicate the name of the project, the fiscal
year awarded, and the State agriculture department which awarded the grant.
COMMENT: One commenter recommended the following clarification (in bold italics) to the
first statement in this section:
“SCMP applications must bring together a multi-state organizational team and seek to
develop solutions for practical problems that cross state boundaries and address the needs
of specialty crop growers within the projects participating states.”
RESPONSE: We did not accept the recommendation. SCMP projects can have implications not
only for the States involved in the project, but also for those in the region or even nationally. It
is understood that a multi-State proposal will address the needs of specialty growers in the
targeted States.
Section 3.5 Development of Proposals
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that:
1. Applicants submit proposals directly to AMS rather than go through State departments
of agriculture;
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2. AMS, rather than State departments of agriculture, have direct responsibility for the
administration of SCMP projects; and
3. If State departments of agriculture must take the lead in SCMP projects, AMS should
issue requirements to assist States in deciding whether or not to be the State lead.
A second commenter recommended that AMS poll State departments of agriculture before
issuing the RFA to determine which of them would be willing to accept SCMP applications, and
to make the list of State departments of agriculture willing to accept applications publically
available.
RESPONSE: Recommendations 1 and 2 were not accepted. Section 101 (a) of the Specialty
Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004 (7 U.S.C. 1621 note), reads “Using the funds made available
under subsection (l), the Secretary of Agriculture shall make grants to States for each of the
fiscal years 2005 through 2018 to be used by State departments of agriculture solely to
enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops.” This enabling legislation establishes that
State departments of agriculture are the eligible entities to apply for SCMP funding, and as such
have the direct responsibility to administer SCMP projects.
Recommendation 3 and the recommendation from the second commenter were accepted.
AMS recognizes that every State department of agriculture may not have the resources to
administer SCMP projects. AMS has determined that each State department of agriculture
must decide if they would like to be designated as a Participating State department of
agriculture and to notify AMS no later than September 30, 2015, of their decision. A
Participating State department of agriculture will be the only entity that may submit SCMP
proposals to AMS. Additional requirements are included in the RFA.
Participating State departments of agriculture that have questions about whether or not a
proposal fits within the scope of the SCMP should contact the SCMP Program Manager.
Inquiries from potential partners will be referred to the points of contact identified by the
Participating State departments of agriculture.
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that AMS stress the importance of partnerships
and suggested the following language be included in the RFA:
“State departments of agriculture must also reach out to potential project partners to
engage them in developing proposals that meet multi-state project priorities. These
stakeholders should play an important role in the development of project goals and
objectives, in implementing the project plan, and in evaluating and disseminating
project results and outcomes.”
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“Applications are required to include nongovernmental organizations or communitybased organizations with expertise in specialty crop agricultural producer training and
outreach as partners or collaborators that contribute in a significant way to the project.”
RESPONSE: Project partners bring specialized knowledge and expertise, research capability,
and/or other resources needed to conduct a successful project. The RFA provides examples of
project partners that may include but are not limited to, the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Non-participating State departments of agriculture
Participating State departments of agriculture, but only if they have more than an
administrative role in the project
State agencies such as a State department of public health, a State department of natural
resources, etc.
Tribes
Land grant or State universities or colleges
Specialty crop producer organizations
Non-profit organizations
Community-based organizations

Section 5.1 Eligible Applicants
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that State departments of agriculture be ineligible
for SCMP funding if they are responsible for administering and approving SCMP awards. This
recommendation was made to address a concern about conflict of interest in the event a State
department of agriculture might submit their own proposal(s) in place of another proposal.
RESPONSE: We eliminated the cap on the number of applications that a Participating State
department of agriculture can submit. Participating State departments of agriculture will
establish a deadline for accepting SCMP applications, and develop internal procedures to
screen any application from any source submitted to them to ensure it meets the definition of a
multi-state project and the requirements outlined by the RFA. Participating State departments
of agriculture must submit all applications they receive that meet the RFA criteria.
Section 5.4 Grower-Level Projects
COMMENT: One commenter indicated the language of this section was unclear, specifically
that -- “shouldn’t all projects do this in some capacity since individuals, business or commercial
products cannot benefit from SCBGP?” (Below is the language of this section from the
Guidance.)

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The AMS SCBG-MSPC encourages State departments of agriculture to prioritize and
further expand funding to projects that address the needs of and support U.S. specialty
crop growers.
RESPONSE: This language was originally included to establish the focus of SCMP projects, and
provide States with guidance on prioritizing potential projects. Since the cap on the number of
applications a State department of agriculture can submit has been removed, Participating
State departments of agriculture will be required to use the RFA as a guide for deciding
whether or not to submit a proposal to the SCMP. Acceptable applications cover a wide range
of topics including issues of importance to producing, handling, preparing, storing and
marketing specialty crops.
Section 5.7 Limited Number of Applications
COMMENT: The Guidance stated that State departments of agriculture could submit no more
than three applications. Two commenters recommended that AMS not restrict the number of
applications a State department of agriculture may submit.
RESPONSE: We accepted this recommendation and removed the cap on the number of SCMP
applications a Participating State department of agriculture may submit.
Section 6.0 Application Review Information
COMMENT: One commenter requested further information about the panel members who will
review and score SCMP applications including the types of people who will be on the panel, if
they will represent all of the U.S. regions, and if the panel will review all applications. One
commenter recommended that State departments of agriculture be involved in the review
process and that selected projects reflect “as regionally equitable distribution of funds as
possible.”
RESPONSE: We will seek subject matter specialists from USDA, other Federal agencies, as
appropriate, and from academia to review proposals. We accepted the recommendation to
include State departments of agriculture as participants in the review of proposals. However,
Participating State departments of agriculture may not review proposals, and any State
department named as a partner on a SCMP proposal, will not be able to participate in the
review.
Depending on the number and topic areas of proposals received, AMS will determine if review
panel members will see all proposals or if they will be assigned a subset of proposals to review.
To the degree possible, we will seek regional representation on the review panel(s).
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We did not accept the recommendation about selecting proposals to achieve a regionally
equitable distribution of funds. Proposals will be selected on their merits.
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that projects targeting small and mid-sized farms
and/or that assist beginning, socially disadvantaged and veteran farmers and ranchers receive
preference points in the scoring process. The commenter also recommended that half of the
available funding should be dedicated to projects that focus on farmer food safety outreach
education and training.
RESPONSE: USDA encourages proposals that increase opportunities for new and beginning
farmers and that target small and mid-sized farms and/or that assist beginning, socially
disadvantaged and veteran farmers and ranchers are welcome, However, SCMP will not
dedicate a portion of the grant funds to a specific type of project, or award priority points when
scoring these proposals.
Other – Timing of Release of the RFA
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that the SCMP RFA be published before the SCBGP
RFA deadline. One commenter recommended that the SCMP RFA run concurrently with the
annual AMS SCBGP RFA.
RESPONSE: The SCBGP is an annual program and funds must be obligated before the end of the
fiscal year, whereas the SCMP is not tied to an annual schedule. We will consider these
comments when we determine announcement dates and application deadlines for both
programs.
Other – Indirect Cost
COMMENT: One commenter recommended that State administrative costs (indirect cost) be
allowed at the maximum allowed by law.
RESPONSE: We do not have discretion to authorize any deviation from the maximum set by
law. The maximum indirect cost allowed under SCMP is 8 percent per Section 101 (k) (2) of the
Specialty Crop Competitiveness Act of 2004.
Other – Translation and Interpretation Services
COMMENT: One commenter recommended the RFA encourage projects, where applicable, to
provide translation or interpretation services for farmers with limited English proficiency.

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RESPONSE: These services would be appropriate and allowed under SCMP if necessary to
project goals. If a project requires such services, they should be discussed in the narrative and
reflected in the budget.

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8.4 BUDGET SPREADSHEET EXAMPLE
Budget Spreadsheet Example
All expenses described in the Budget Narrative must be reflected in the Budget Spreadsheet. Prepare a separate
Budget Spreadsheet for each year of the project as well as a cumulative budget. Label each Budget Spreadsheet as
Year 1, 2 or 3, as appropriate, and for the three-year period, label the Budget Spreadsheet as Cumulative.
SCMP BUDGET SPREADSHEET- Year X (or Cumulative)
Expense Category

Funds Requested

Personnel – one line for each person
Total Personnel
Fringe Benefits - one line for each person
Total Fringe Benefits
Total Personnel and Fringe Benefits
Travel
Total Travel
Equipment
Total Equipment
Supplies
Total Supplies
Contractual
Total Contractual
Other
Total Other
Total Direct Costs
Indirect Costs
TOTAL PROJECT BUDGET

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According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a
collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 05810240. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 4 hours per response, including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of
information.

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2)

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3)

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