[Federal Register Volume 68, Number 168 (Friday, August 29, 2003)]
[Notices]
[Pages 51965-51981]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 03-22131]


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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Minority Business Development Agency

[Docket No. 000724217-3200-05]


Solicitation of Applications for the Minority Business 
Development Center (MBDC) Program

AGENCY: Minority Business Development Agency, Commerce.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: In accordance with Executive Order 11625 and 15 U.S.C. 1512, 
the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is soliciting 
competitive applications from organizations to operate Minority 
Business Development Centers (MBDCs) under its Minority Business 
Development Center (MBDC) Program.
    In order to receive consideration, applicants must comply with all 
information and requirements contained in this Notice. For-profit 
entities (including sole-proprietorships, partnerships, and 
corporations), non-profit organizations, state and local government 
entities, American Indian Tribes and educational institutions are 
eligible to operate MBDCs.
    The current MBDC Program, as described in this Notice, requires 
MBDC staff to provide standardized business assistance services to 
rapid growth potential minority businesses directly; to develop a 
network of strategic partnerships; to charge client fees; and to 
provide strategic business consulting.

[[Page 51966]]

These requirements will be used to generate increased results with 
respect to financing and contracts awarded to minority-owned firms and 
thus, are a key component of this program.

DATES: The closing date for applications for each MBDC project is 
October 10, 2003. Anticipated time for processing of applications is 
one hundred twenty (120) days from the date of publication of this 
notice.
    MBDA anticipates that awards for the MBDC program will be made with 
a start date of January 1, 2004. Completed applications for the MBDC 
program must be (1) mailed (USPS postmark) to the address below; or (2) 
received by MBDA no later than 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. 
Applications postmarked later than the closing date or received after 
the closing date and time will not be considered.

ADDRESSES: If the application is mailed by the applicant or its 
representative, they must submit one signed original plus two (2) 
copies of the application. Completed application packages must be 
mailed to: Office of Business Development, Office of Executive 
Secretariat, HCHB, Room 5063, Minority Business Development Agency, 
U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW., 
Washington, DC 20230.
    If the application is hand-delivered by the applicant or his/her 
representative, one signed original plus two (2) copies of the 
application must be delivered to Room 1874, which is located at 
Entrance 10, 15th Street, NW., between Pennsylvania and 
Constitution Avenues.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information or to obtain 
an application package, contact the specified MBDA National Enterprise 
Center (NEC) for the geographic service area in which the project will 
be located or visit MBDA's Minority Business Internet Portal (MBDA 
Portal) at http://www.mbda.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Electronic Access: Applicants are encouraged 
to submit their proposal electronically via the Internet and mail or 
hand-deliver only the pages that require original signatures by the 
closing date and time stated above. Applicants may submit their 
applications on MBDA's website: http://www.mbda.gov. All required forms 
are located at this web address. However, the following paper forms 
must be submitted with original signatures in conjunction with any 
electronic submissions by the closing date and time stated above: (1) 
SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance; (2) the SF-424B, 
Assurances-Non-Construction Programs; (3) the SF-LLL (Rev. 7-97) (if 
applicable), Disclosure of Lobbying Activities; (4) Department of 
Commerce Form CD-346 (if applicable), Applicant for Funding Assistance; 
and (5) the CD-511, Certifications Regarding Debarment, Suspension and 
Other Responsibility Matters; Drug-Free Workplace Requirements and 
Lobbying.
    Pre-Application Conference: A pre-application conference will be 
held for the MBDC project solicitation. Contact the specified MBDA NEC 
for the geographic service area in which the project will be located to 
receive further information. Proper identification is required for 
entrance into any Federal building. Notice of the pre-application 
conference will be available on MBDA Portal at http://www.mbda.gov.

    Authority: Executive Order 11625 and 15 U.S.C. 1512.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA): 11.800 Minority 
Business Development Center Program.

Program Description

    MBDA is soliciting applications for the following geographic 
service areas: Georgia Statewide, North Carolina Statewide, Puerto Rico 
Islandwide, South Carolina Statewide, Illinois Statewide, Ohio 
Statewide, Michigan Statewide, Dallas/Ft. Worth/Arlington, El Paso, New 
Mexico Statewide, San Antonio, Manhattan/Bronx/Westchester, Queens/
Nassau/Suffolk, New Jersey Statewide, Pennsylvania Statewide, 
Washington Metro, Williamsburg (Brooklyn), Alaska Statewide, Arizona 
Statewide, Los Angeles Metro, Inland Empire, Central/Northern 
California, Washington Statewide.
    The MBDC Program will concentrate on rapid growth potential 
minority business enterprises (MBEs), e.g., those generating $500,000 
or more in annual revenues or capable of generating significant 
employment and long-term economic growth. The MBDC Program shall 
continue to leverage telecommunications technology, including the 
Internet, and a variety of online computer-based resources to 
dramatically increase the level of service that the MBDC can provide to 
minority-owned firms, including micro-enterprises.
    The MBDC program incorporates an entrepreneurial approach to 
building market stability and improving the quality of services 
delivered. This strategy expands the reach of the MBDC by requiring 
project operators to develop and build upon strategic alliances with 
public and private sector partners, as a means of serving the growing 
numbers of minority firms with rapid growth potential within the 
project's geographic service area. In addition, MBDA will establish 
specialized business consulting training programs to support the MBDC 
client assistance services. These MBDC training programs are designed 
specifically to foster growth assistance to its clients. The MBDC will 
also encourage increased collaboration and client/non-client referrals 
among the MBDA-sponsored networks. This will provide a comprehensive 
approach to serving the emerging sector of the minority business 
community.
    The MBDC will operate through the use of trained professional 
business consultants who will assist minority entrepreneurs through 
direct client engagements.
    Entrepreneurs eligible for assistance under the MBDC Program are 
African Americans, Puerto Ricans, Spanish-speaking Americans, Aleuts, 
Asian Pacific Americans, Asian Indians, Native Americans, Eskimos, and 
Hasidic Jews.
    As part of its strategy for continuous improvement, the MBDC shall 
expand its delivery capacity to all minority firms, with greater 
emphasis on emerging/rapid growth-potential minority firms capable of 
impacting economic growth and employment. MBDA wants to ensure that 
MBDC clients are receiving a consistent level of service throughout its 
funded network. To that end, MBDA will require MBDC consultants to 
attend a series of training courses designed to achieve standardized 
services and quality expectations. Further information about the 
training is provided in this document under the heading of Work 
Requirements.

Background

    Under the MBDC Program, MBDA has selected locations for the 
establishment of Centers based on the size of the population in those 
markets and the density of rapid growth-potential minority business 
enterprises (MBE), as established by MBDA and U.S. Census Bureau data, 
as well as other available information.
    The MBDC Program is one of MBDA's core competencies of overall 
business development efforts. Under this strategy, the MBDC will be 
expected to provide the following four types of client services:
    1. Client Assessment--This activity requires the MBDC to conduct a 
standardized client assessment, which includes identifying the client's 
immediate and long term needs, and establishes a projected growth 
track. MBDA shall provide a new and innovative electronic tool to 
support

[[Page 51967]]

this function (see Business Needs Analyzer under the heading of 
Enhancing the MBDCs through Technology for more details). This activity 
shall be conducted three times for each client on an annual basis: one 
at the onset of service delivery, one prior to the end of the second 
quarter and one prior to the end of the funding year. This process may 
also include referring the client to any of MBDA's other funded 
projects that specialize in specific growth assistance and/or strategic 
partners that are capable of continuing client growth. The referral 
process may occur in conjunction with MBDC direct assistance.
    2. Strategic Business Consulting--This involves providing intensive 
business consulting services that can be delivered by two methods:
    [sbull] Personalized Consulting--defined as one-on-one business 
consulting services utilizing an integrative systems approach to foster 
the growth of minority firms (see Integrative Systems Approach under 
the heading Client Services).
    [sbull] Group Consulting--seminars that provide education and 
training to minority entrepreneurs on important business topics. The 
consulting should be hands-on, practical, and streamlined in order to 
reflect the time constraints of the typical entrepreneur. In addition, 
given the proliferation of online resources from MBDA as well as 
others, this training should be designed to educate MBEs in the use of 
the Agency's electronic business assistance tools and in the use of 
electronic commerce generally to better access suppliers, customers and 
information.
    3. Access to Capital--This involves assisting MBEs to secure the 
financial capital necessary to start-up, and thereafter to fuel growth 
and expansion of their businesses. Undercapitalization has been a major 
contributor to the failure of business ventures in the minority 
community over the years. The goal of this activity is to help minority 
entrepreneurs obtain the amount of financing appropriate to the scope 
of the proposed business, thereby helping to ensure the greatest 
likelihood of success for the minority venture in the marketplace.
    4. Access to Markets--This involves assisting MBEs to identify and 
access opportunities for increased sales and revenue. Activities 
include conducting market analysis, identifying sales leads, bid 
preparation assistance, creating market promotions, and assisting in 
the development of joint ventures and strategic alliances.

Enhancing the MBDCs Through Technology

    Over the last several years, MBDA has developed a variety of new 
technology tools designed to leverage the benefits of information 
technology to assist the minority business community. MBDA uses a high-
speed network strategy that links all of its funded projects into a 
single virtual organization. The goal of MBDA is to allow all funded 
projects to have access to this technology through the MBDA Portal.
    The technology tools that will be available to the MBDCs include 
but are not limited to the following:
    [sbull] Business Needs Analyzer--a software package designed to 
standardize and electronically record the Client Assessment process. 
This tool assists MBDC counselors to interview and benchmark the 
status, needs and potential growth of its clients. The program is 
designed and maintained by MBDA and operated by the MBDC.
    [sbull] Phoenix/Opportunity--an electronic bid-matching system that 
alerts participating MBEs of contract and teaming opportunities 
directly via e-mail. Procurement leads are transmitted to minority 
firms on a targeted basis according to the company's industry 
classification and geographic market.
    [sbull] Resource Locator--a software application that allows MBEs 
to search for business resources interactively on the Internet. 
Resource Locator can help MBEs identify trade associations representing 
their industries, government licensing and permit offices, management 
and technical assistance providers, and a host of other resources 
quickly and efficiently.
    [sbull] Capital Locator--an Internet-based tool that allows MBDC 
consultants to inquire about, identify and locate potential financiers 
nearest them. This tool shall provide basic financing criteria for each 
identified capital resource. The tool is designed to give users the 
benefit of a nationwide market for identifying financing needs and 
products.
    [sbull] Business and Market Planning--a software package designed 
to streamline and enhance the development of business plans, marketing 
plans and other strategic business documents.
    [sbull] Business Analyst GIS--a software operated at an individual 
computer workstation that provides strategic business data through 
geographic-based information system. This software will be awarded to 
select MBDCs, based on availability of funds and competition.
    These electronic tools will help streamline the process of 
delivering client assistance to minority business enterprises, free up 
time so that the MBDC can implement MBDA's strategic goals and generate 
critical outcomes as described under the heading Performance Measures.
    In addition, MBDA strongly encourages the MBDC to use these 
electronic tools daily because of the significant value they add to the 
MBDC and to minority businesses. These tools are designed to reinforce 
the standardization of services received throughout MBDA's extended 
network.

Work Requirements

    The work requirements specify the duties and responsibilities of 
each recipient operating a MBDC.
    Although it is not necessary for the applicant to have an office in 
the geographic service area at the time of application, one must be 
opened and be fully operational within thirty (30) days after receipt 
of the award. Fully operational means that all staff are hired, all 
signs are up, all items of furniture and equipment (e.g., hardware, 
software, Internet services, phones, faxes, etc.) are in place, and the 
MBDC's doors have been fully opened to the public for service.
    The MBDC must be accessible to disabled persons and strategically 
located in the geographic service area (as defined in this Notice) to 
ensure that it is: (1) Close to the available public and private sector 
resources, and (2) within a reasonable commuting distance to the 
minority business community.
    The MBDC operator must provide services to eligible clients within 
its specified geographic service area. Each MBDC operator must 
contribute its efforts to help support MBDA's online business 
assistance network as established by Agency policies.
    All MBDC consultants and its project director shall be required to 
attend a one-time five (5) day mandatory training session on 
``Implementing a System for High-Quality Service.'' This training will 
be held three (3) times during the first year of program operation; in 
the east, in the west, and in the middle of the country (exact 
locations and dates will be announced). The training sessions may be 
conducted in the second and third year of operation based on 
availability of funding. The costs of tuition, materials, conference 
facilities and amenities for the training program will be covered by 
MBDA. However, the MBDC shall budget lodging, food and travel 
expenditures for its attending staff. The program will be conducted 
approximately forty-five (45) days after receipt of the award. The 
training shall focus on:


[[Page 51968]]


[sbull] Orientation to the MBDA strategy
[sbull] Instilling the entrepreneurial mindset
[sbull] Standardization of client intake services
[sbull] Skills and information needed to provide high-quality services 
to emerging firms

    Successful completion of this program, which involves a competency 
examination, will result in certification of the MBDC staff member by 
MBDA. In the event that one or more MBDC staff member should fail the 
competency examination, the MBDC shall lose two (2) points from the 
assessment score during the evaluation of the project. This training 
may be provided a second time by the MBDA after mid-year review. The 
second training session will require the attendance of MBDC staff not 
previously trained, and/or those who failed to successfully complete 
the initial training program.
    In addition to the initial training, the MBDC is required to have 
one staff member attend a one-time five (5) day advanced program, held 
in a Midwest location during the second quarter of 2004. This training 
session will teach MBDC staff how to transform high-potential minority 
businesses and put them on a high-growth trajectory. The purpose of 
this program is to ensure that at least one staff member in each MBDC 
will have the skills to nurture the growth of MBEs to become large 
companies, thereby helping to fulfill MBDA's strategic priority. 
Successful completion of this program, which involves a competency 
examination, will result in certification of the MBDC staff member by 
MBDA.
    The MBDC shall budget for one staff member's lodging, food and 
travel expenditures, probably to the Chicago area. The costs of 
tuition, materials, and registration for the advanced training program 
will be covered by MBDA.
    The MBDC is required to perform work in four (4) basic areas. These 
elements are designed to increase the exposure and visibility of MBEs 
(as defined in this Notice). MBDC efforts in these activities should 
provide quantifiable results.
    1. Market Development--is designed to facilitate the identification 
of potential MBEs, methods to solicit potential clients and to 
identify, develop and leverage public and private sector resources and 
business opportunities for their clients:
    (a) Market Research and Development: systematically investigate the 
service area market to see what business and capital opportunities 
exist for MBE development and search for sources of capital, sales 
opportunities, business buy-outs and new start possibilities. As market 
research is conducted, the MBDC will make optimum use of the MBDA 
network to ensure that the information is made available to fellow MBDC 
operators and to MBEs throughout the country.
    (b) Market Promotion: Promote minority business development in the 
local business community by obtaining support from the community for 
the utilization of MBEs.
    The MBDC will promote individual MBEs to the public and private 
sectors to build market awareness of the capability, talent and 
capacity of its clients. The MBDC may utilize public service 
announcements and paid advertising. The MBDC may promote its clients 
locally to entities such as: Chambers of Commerce, business and trade 
associations, corporations and company trade fairs and meetings, state 
and local government agency purchasing departments, economic 
development and planning offices and MBE events.
    The MBDC shall carry out a plan-of-action that will include, but is 
not limited to the following actions: (1) Develop an MBDC brochure for 
mail-out and distribution to the public; (2) Develop an MBDC program 
description for inclusion on the MBDA Portal and the MBDC web site; and 
(3) Adhere to MBDA's communication plan (see Operational Quality, item 
(j) under this section).
    The MBDC shall promote and participate in one Regional NEC and one 
national Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week activities. MED 
Week is an annual event, coordinated through MBDA that celebrates the 
success of minority businesses. Participation is defined as follows:
    (1) NEC MED Week--This event is held annually in late summer or 
early fall, in or near the MBDA NEC. It involves full participation and 
collaboration with the designated MBDA NEC. The MBDC shall participate 
in MBDA's process of nominating their outstanding clients for various 
awards. The MBDC may be asked to coordinate/host panel discussions and 
support its MBDA NEC. At a minimum, travel expenditures for the MBDC's 
project director and (at least) one staff must be included in the 
proposal.
    (2) National MED Week--This event is held annually in the fall in 
Washington, DC. It shall require at a minimum, travel expenditures for 
the MBDC's project director and (at least) one staff. During the 2004 
National MED Week program, optional training in accounting and finance 
will be offered to MBDC staff. There will be no charge for tuition or 
materials. Successful completion of this program, which involves a 
competency examination, will result in certification of the staff 
member by MBDA.
    (c) Resource Development requires the MBDC to identify and 
electronically record on the MBDA Portal likely sources of the 
following:
    (1) Market Opportunities--e.g., public (Federal, state and local 
government) and private (domestic and foreign) sector contracting 
opportunities;
    (2) Capital Resources--e.g., standard commercial and alternative 
debt (loans, lines of credit, etc.), equity (venture capital, angel, 
etc.), and mezzanine (near equity, subordinated debt, etc.) financing, 
bonds (performance and surety), and trade credit opportunities;
    (3) Business Ownership Opportunities--e.g., franchises, licensing 
arrangements, mergers and buy-outs;
    (4) Education and Training Resources--e.g., educational institution 
programs and other training resources; and,
    (5) Registration of MBEs--e.g., register eligible local MBEs in 
MBDA's Phoenix system, which is a national electronic inventory of 
minority firms capable of selling their goods and services to the 
public and private sector. The identified and recorded resources shall 
be verified by MBDA prior to publishing on the MBDA Portal.
    (d) Develop and Maintain a Network of Strategic Partners and Intra-
Strategic Relationships--The work requirements for an award recipient 
under the MBDC Program include the development of key networks. The 
purpose for establishing strategic partners is to: assist the MBDC to 
achieve its goals for assisting minority businesses (as defined in this 
solicitation, under the heading of Performance Measures); synchronize 
outreach efforts between the MBDC and MBDA; and, foster collaboration 
among the MBDA funded network as established under the terms of the 
award. Each Strategic Partnership shall be documented by a written 
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that shall document the terms and 
conditions of the partnership. The terms and conditions should assist 
the MBDC in achieving its goals for assisting MBEs.
    A minimum of five (5) strategic partners between the MBDC and key 
local entities selected by the recipient must be established within one 
hundred twenty (120) days after receipt of the award. The MBDC is 
required to maintain these partnerships throughout the life of the 
award. The MBDC must

[[Page 51969]]

replace a Strategic Partner within forty-five (45) days after 
termination of a previously established partnership. The MBDC shall 
consult with its MBDA National Enterprise Center prior to completing 
the MOU. The MBDA shall have no relationship with or responsibility to 
the MBDC's Strategic Partners.
    The Strategic Partners shall be public or private sector 
organizations located within the project's geographic service area. 
Strategic Partners may include:

[sbull] Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) programs operated by state, 
county or city governments;
[sbull] Chambers of Commerce or trade associations focused on the needs 
of the minority business community;
[sbull] Small Business Development Centers, or other college and 
university entrepreneurial development programs;
[sbull] Community Development Corporations;
[sbull] Banks and financial institutions; and
[sbull] Faith-based organizations having economic development 
components, whose activities are not used for sectarian purposes.

    Also, the MBDC shall establish Intra-Strategic Relationships with 
other MBDA funded programs in support of their goals for assisting 
larger minority businesses as defined under the terms of the award. The 
MBDC is required to meet with other MBDA-funded programs in the NEC (in 
person or by phone conference) at quarterly meetings conducted by MBDA 
staff. The MBDC is encouraged to refer and/or accept clients from these 
Relationships. The Intra-Strategic Relationships shall not be counted 
towards the MBDC goal of obtaining Strategic Partnerships as described 
above.
    (e) Facilitate Matches which identify and refer eligible MBEs with 
specific viable businesses, market and/or capital opportunities.
    This function contributes to an MBDC's financing and/or procurement 
performance goals, and is the only MBDC market development function 
outside of the standard client business assistance in which a portion 
of an MBDC's time can be directly associated to individual minority 
business clients and resource customers. This client specific time, no 
matter how small, is considered client assistance and may be subject to 
client fees. Under this function, the MBDC shall match qualified 
minority entrepreneurs with identified opportunities and resources by: 
(1) Accessing vendor information systems, including the Phoenix/
Opportunity system; (2) Providing follow-up communication to Phoenix-
registered minority firms that receive Opportunity matches within the 
MBDC geographic area; (3) Maintaining a constant awareness of the 
minority firms that operate within the geographic service area and 
their capabilities; (4) Maintaining direct contact with purchasing 
executives, government procurement officials, banking officials and 
others so that representatives of the MBDC are in a position to learn 
about available business opportunities, both formally and informally; 
(5) Engaging in relationship brokering between purchasing organizations 
and individual minority firms capable of fulfilling their requirements; 
and (6) Assisting in direct negotiations between purchasing 
organizations and individual minority firms, in appropriate cases, in 
order to help resolve issues, serve as an advocate for the minority 
firm, or otherwise assist in bringing the transaction to closure.
    2. Client Services--Provides direct client assistance to MBEs on 
the basis of individualized professional engagements. Rapid growth-
potential minority businesses shall be assisted primarily through one-
on-one business consulting.
    Rapid growth-potential minority businesses are defined as those 
firms with $500,000 in annual sales or more or capable of generating 
significant employment and long term economic growth. Under these 
duties, the MBDC shall assist minority firms and individuals, which 
have agreed in writing to become MBDC clients, in establishing, 
improving and/or successfully maintaining their businesses. All new 
clients shall be entered into the Performance system and registered in 
the Phoenix system. The MBDC is required to enter clients and service 
hours into the Performance system within seventy-two (72) hours from 
the time of service. Clients assisted more than once during the funding 
period may only be counted once in that funding period.
    Business consulting to rapid growth-potential minority businesses 
requires the delivery of sophisticated management and technical 
assistance based on the client size (see below for definition of sales 
range). The MBDC shall operate a systems-integrated approach (as 
described below) to assist in minority business growth and development. 
The MBDC must define its business consulting service approach for each 
of the following annual sales range categories:
    (a) $500,000-$999,999
    (b) $1,000,000-$5,000,000
    (c) Other rapid growth-potential minority firms (as defined above)
    A systems-integrated approach is defined as a customer-based 
service model supported by the following functions:

[sbull] Strategy--e.g., plans for achieving sustainable competitive 
advantage and creating customer value
[sbull] Processes--e.g., efficient, effective ways of manufacturing 
products or delivering services
[sbull] Architecture--e.g., organizational and value chain 
(outsourcing) structure to implement the strategy and key processes
[sbull] Resources--e.g., the acquisition and management of financial, 
human, and technical assets
[sbull] Systems--e.g., mechanisms for control and communication, 
including management information systems (MIS)
[sbull] Empowerment--e.g., delegation in a way that encourages staff to 
pursue strategic initiatives and continuous improvement.

The MBDC shall be responsible for providing business consulting to MBEs 
based on these principles.
    Business consulting services are (as defined under this section) 
provided by the MBDC to eligible MBEs and individuals (as referenced in 
Executive Orders 11625 and 12432) seeking assistance from the MBDC, 
including 8(a) certified and graduate firms. These client services are 
segments to the systems-integrated approach. They are designed to 
assist minority firms to bridge operational and strategic gaps. They 
cannot provide long term business viability without aligning all 
aspects of the business and its environment. Client services include, 
but are not limited to, the following types of assistance:
    (a) Client Assessment--Provides the MBDC client with a fundamental 
business evaluation. This process is designed to standardize services 
across the MBDC network nationwide and to facilitate the client 
referral process among the MBDA funded network. It requires an 
interview to be conducted between client and MBDC consultant. This 
service is designed to provide:

[sbull] Background and contact information on the client;
[sbull] Client business analysis with respect to its core competency, 
organizational structure, market and industry placement, production of 
products/delivery of services, marketing plan, resources and financial 
viability;
[sbull] Analysis and benchmarking of the client;
[sbull] Development of an intervention plan utilizing a systems-
integrated approach (as defined under Client Services) & client report; 
and,

[[Page 51970]]

[sbull] Identification of resources and referrals.

    (b) Functional Assistance--Provides the MBDC client with detailed 
business consulting services including but not limited to:
    (1) Marketing, e.g., market research, promotion, advertising and 
sales, sales forecasting, market feasibility studies, pricing, product 
and customer service, brochure design (excludes mass printing);
    (2) Financial Management, e.g., capital budgeting, general 
accounting, break-even analysis, cost accounting, financial planning 
and analysis budgeting, tax planning, business consulting (excludes 
bookkeeping, tax preparation, and audits);
    (3) Financial Assistance, e.g., identification, preparation and 
packaging of standard commercial and alternative debt (loans, lines of 
credit, etc.), equity (venture capital, angel, etc.), and mezzanine 
(near equity, subordinated debt, etc.) financing and trade credit 
opportunities;
    (4) Procurement Assistance, e.g., preparation and planning for the 
identification of private and public-sector contracting opportunities;
    (5) Operations & Quality Management, e.g.,

[sbull] Manufacturing--plant location and site selection, plant 
management, materials handling and distribution, total quality 
management, metrication for world market, and business consulting;
[sbull] Construction--estimating, bid preparation, bonding, take-offs, 
and business consulting;
    [sbull] International Trade Assistance--exporting, importing, 
letters of credit, bank draft, dealerships, agencies, distributorship, 
exporting trading companies, joint ventures, business consulting, and 
freight forwarding and handling;
    [sbull] Specialized Certification--ISO 9000 knowledge of program 
and standards, how to implement standards, how to report and properly 
apply for ISO 9000 Quality Systems certification;
    [sbull] Total Quality Management--process engineering, inventory 
control, purchasing, continuous improvement programs;
    [sbull] Technology & Systems--automation design, development and 
integration of technology to support infrastructure, knowledge 
management, data mining, performance based reporting;

    (6) Organization & Administration, e.g., human resource management, 
job evaluation and rating system, employee stock option programs, 
training, business consulting; and,
    (7) General Management, e.g., organization and structure, 
formulating corporate policy, feasibility studies, reports and 
controls, public relations, staff scheduling, legal services (excludes 
litigation), business planning, organizational development, bid 
preparation, and business consulting.
    The MBDC shall not perform or engage in the day-to-day operations 
or make decisions for its clients.
    Group training sessions are considered a form of business 
development services that can be provided to minority clients. This 
function may be subject to client fees and directly contributes to an 
MBDC's performance goals.
    3. Operational Quality--Maintains the efficiency and effectiveness 
of its overall operations as well as the quality of its client 
services. These duties are the means by which the MBDC manages its 
overall operations as well as the quality of its client services. The 
function directly contributes to the MBDC's overall qualitative 
evaluation and rating as well as the successful completion of all work 
requirements. Under this function, the MBDC shall:
    (a) Execute signed work plan agreements and engagement letters with 
clients; (b) Formally describe the methodology that will be used in 
achieving the work plan objectives for each client; (c) Input progress/
results to the performance database within seventy-two (72) hours from 
the time of service; (d) Establish procedures for collecting and 
accounting for all fees charged to clients; (e) Maintain records/files 
for all work charged to the program and clients; (f) Obtain written 
acceptance and verification (with client signatures) of services 
provided to its clients and any financings/contracts obtained. For 
services reported, documentation must be in the MBDC's client files 
within thirty (30) days after the end of every quarter in which a 
client receives services; (g) Comply with all reporting requirements 
provided upon award; (h) Cooperate with MBDA in maintaining content for 
the Phoenix/Opportunity system, Resource Locator, and other online 
tools located at http://www.mbda.gov; (i) Promote and utilize the 
services and resources of other MBDA programs, sponsored efforts and/or 
voluntary activities; and (j) The MBDC shall adhere to MBDA's trademark 
and licensing requirements for all forms of communication including but 
not limited to signage, stationary and other MBDC-related publications. 
Such requirements shall be provided at the time of award. These 
requirements include but are not limited to specific size, location, 
and font of the MBDA logo.

[sbull] Signage--Signs should be highly visible to the MBDC clients and 
general public. They should be prominently displayed on entrances or 
doors.
    [sbull] Printed Materials--These items shall include the name of 
MBDA on all stationery, letterhead, brochures, etc.
    [sbull] Internet Presence and Information-- The MBDC is to maintain 
an Internet presence (see Computer Requirements) and shall include 
standardized language as provided by MBDA.
    [sbull] Telephonic Communication--Identify the MBDC immediately 
upon answering the telephone. If the recipient also requires that its 
organization's name be given, it should be provided only after the MBDC 
has been verbally identified to a caller. Refer to MBDA in all advocacy 
and outreach efforts such as speaking engagements, news conferences, 
etc.

    The MBDC is not authorized to use either the Department of 
Commerce's (DOC) official seal or the MBDA logo in any of its 
publications, documents or materials without specific written approval 
from the Department of Commerce.
    The term Minority Business Development Center (MBDC) is a trademark 
of the Federal Government, and the Government reserves exclusive rights 
in the term. Permission to use the term is granted to the award 
recipient for the sole purpose of representing the activities of the 
award recipient in the fulfillment of the terms of the financial 
assistance award. The Minority Business Development Agency reserves the 
right to control the quality of the use of the term by the award 
recipient. Whenever possible, for example in promotional literature and 
stationery, use the TM designation as in Minority Business 
Development CenterTM.

Computer Requirements

    MBDA requires that all award recipients meet certain requirements 
related to the acquisition, installation, configuration, maintenance 
and security of information technology (IT) assets in order to ensure 
seamless and productive interface between and among all grant 
recipients, minority-owned businesses, the MBDA federal IT system and 
the public. These required assets and their configuration are 
hereinafter referred to as the ``enterprise.'' The basic components of 
the enterprise are the

[[Page 51971]]

desktop workstations, the server, local area network (LAN) components 
and a connection to the Internet.
    At a minimum, each grantee shall provide one (1) desktop computer 
for the exclusive use of each employee delivering minority business 
assistance to the public under an award from MBDA. All desktop 
computers shall be inter-connected with a Server computer using an 
Ethernet protocol enabling communication with all workstations on the 
network. The Server shall have a constant, high-speed Internet 
connection, active during all business hours, preferably through a DSL 
or cable modem connection. The recipient shall ensure that each of his/
her employees, to include management, administrative personnel, 
contractors, full-time, part-time, and non-paid (volunteer) staff have 
a unique electronic mail (email) address available to the public. Each 
grantee shall design, develop and maintain, in accordance with the 
computer requirements, a presence on the Internet's World Wide Web and 
shall maintain appropriate computer and network security precautions 
during all periods of funding by MBDA. All IT requirements, as 
described herein, shall be met within thirty (30) calendar days after 
the award.
    1. Network Design: At all locations where services are delivered to 
the eligible public as defined by Executive Order 11625, the recipient 
shall operate a ``Client-Server'' configured local area network (LAN) 
enabling each staff person delivering services to the eligible public 
exclusive access to a personal computer workstation during all business 
hours. MBDA shall, from time to time, designate certain configurations 
of the enterprise hardware and software to meet interface requirements.
    Currently, MBDA recommends servers using an operating system that 
is fully compatible with Microsoft Windows 2000 with a service pack 
three (3) or greater. Domain Controller (DC) servers or any server 
providing principal service to the desktops shall contain 18 or more 
gigabytes (GB) of hard drive space using two or more 9 GB+ disks 
configured appropriately to ensure data retention should one disk fail. 
At least one (1) Pentium IV central processing unit (CPU), or a CPU 
ensuring similar speed, shall be used in the DC server or any other 
server providing principal service to the desktops. Web servers, mail 
servers and/or servers maintained by a third party such as an Internet 
Service Provider (ISP) shall meet the minimum server specifications as 
stated herein. A ``trusted'' relationship, as appropriate, shall be 
established and maintained between the MBDA DC server and those 
operated by, or operated for, the recipient to ensure access by MBDA 
system administration personnel during normal business hours. (In a 
network that consists of two or more domains, each domain acts as a 
separate network with its own accounts database. Even in the most 
rigidly stratified organizations, some users in one domain will need to 
use some or all of the resources in another domain. The usual solution 
to confirming user access levels among domains is what's called a trust 
relationship.) From time to time, MBDA will require access to servers 
and desktop workstations after business hours and on holidays and 
weekends. For this purpose, the recipient shall ensure appropriate 
communications links are active and appropriate personnel on station, 
upon 24-hour notice from MBDA.
    2. Desktop Workstations: All desktop systems shall not be more than 
two (2) calendar years old at time of award and shall contain a Pentium 
IV central processing unit (CPU), or a CPU ensuring similar speed, 
operating at speeds not less than 2+ Gigahertz (GHz). Each desktop 
system shall contain a hard drive with a storage capacity of at least 
twenty (20) GB and 512 Megabytes of RAM. All desktop systems shall have 
installed an operating system fully compatible with Microsoft Windows 
2000 with MS Office 2000 Professional (SP1) or higher, Microsoft 
Internet Explorer 6.x as well as some form of regularly updated 
antivirus protection software. Additionally, it is suggested that at 
least one workstation have installed both a full-page scanner and feed, 
along with software fully compatible with Adobe Acrobat software 
(version 4.0 or higher) for the production of electronic document 
submissions.
    Since workstations may be linked to a live, two-way conference 
connection with potential clients, at least 50% of all employee 
workstations shall be fully operational with a qualified staff person 
positioned at the keyboard during all business hours to include lunch 
and break periods.
    3. Maintenance and Security: A network map (``as-built'') 
reflecting adherence to the computer and networking requirements set 
forth herein shall be maintained by the recipient for review by MBDA at 
any time. Each recipient shall designate and train one administrative 
person competent in the operation of an operations system fully 
compatible with Windows 2000 network and local area network (LAN) 
technology as described herein. If a firewall, proxy server or similar 
security component is used, MBDA's server shall be ``trusted'' for full 
access to all files relevant for network and administrative operations. 
From time to time, MBDA may require certain software be loaded on 
servers and desktops. In any given year, the cost of this additional 
software may be $200.00 per workstation and $500.00 per server, such 
additional cost may be borne by MBDA. Every employee of the MBDC shall 
be assigned a unique username and password to access the system. Every 
employee shall be required to sign a written computer security 
agreement. (A suggested format for the computer security agreement will 
be provided at the time of award.) Every manager, employee, and 
contractor and any other person given access to the computer system 
shall sign the security agreement and an original copy of the signed 
agreement shall be kept in the MBDC's files. A photocopy of the 
agreement shall be sent by fax to MBDA at: (202) 482-2693 no later than 
thirty (30) days after receipt of the award. All subsequent new hires 
and associations requiring access to the MBDC or MBDA systems shall 
read, understand and sign the security agreement prior to issuance of a 
password. No employee shall have access to the MBDA system without a 
signed security agreement on file at MBDA.
    4. Web site: Each recipient shall create and maintain a public web 
site using a unique address (e.g., http://www.center-name.com). The 
first page (Index page) of the web site shall clearly identify the 
recipient as a Minority Business Development Center funded by the U.S. 
Department of Commerce's Minority Business Development Agency. The 
Index page of the web site shall load on software fully compatible with 
Windows Internet Explorer 6.x browser software using a normal home 
computer with 56 Kb/s analog phone line connection in less than ten 
(10) seconds. The web site shall contain the names of all managers and 
employees, the business and mailing address of the Center, business 
phone and fax numbers and email addresses of the MBDC and employees, a 
statement referencing the services available at the MBDC, the hours 
under which the MBDC operates and a link to the MBDA homepage at http://www.mbda.gov. For purpose of electronically directing clients to the 
appropriate MBDC staff, the web site shall also contain a short 
biographical statement for each employee of the MBDC including 
management, contractors, part-time, full time, and non-paid (volunteer) 
personnel,

[[Page 51972]]

providing services directly to the eligible public under an award from 
MBDA. This biographical statement shall contain: the full name of the 
employee, and a brief description of the expertise of the employee to 
include academic degrees, certifications and any other pertinent 
information with respect to that employee's qualifications to deliver 
minority business assistance services to eligible members of the 
public.
    No third party advertising of commercial goods and services shall 
be permitted on the site. All links from the site to other than 
federal, state or local government agencies and non-profit educational 
institutions must be requested, in advance and in writing, through the 
Chief Information Officer, MBDA Office of Information Technology 
Services to the Grants Office for written approval. Such approval shall 
not be unreasonably withheld but approval is subject to withdrawal if 
MBDA determines the linked site unsuitable. No employee of the MBDC, 
nor any other person, shall use the MBDC web site for any purpose other 
than that approved under the terms of the agreement between the 
recipient and MBDA. Every page of the web site shall comply with 
Federal standards of the Americans With Disabilities Act, Section 508, 
and be reviewed by the recipient for accuracy, currency, and 
appropriateness every three (3) months. Appropriate privacy notices and 
handicapped accessibility will be predominately featured. From time to 
time, MBDA shall audit the recipient's web site and recommend changes 
in accordance with the guidelines set forth herein.
    5. Time for Compliance: Within thirty (30) days after receipt of 
the award, the recipient shall report via email to the Chief 
Information Officer, MBDA Office of Information Technology Services and 
the MBDA Office of Business Development that he/she has complied with 
all technical requirements as specified herein. Within thirty (30) days 
after receipt of the award, the recipient shall report the name, 
contact telephone number and email address of the Project Director, 
Network or System Administrator. As appropriate, the recipient shall 
also provide the telephone number and email address for the Technical 
Contact at the Internet Service Provider (ISP) providing Internet 
access for the grantee, the IP number of the Domain Name Server (DNS) 
and/or Domain Control (DC) server, and any other technical information 
as specified in the Technology Requirements.
    6. Performance System--All required performance reporting to MBDA 
shall be conducted via the Internet using the Performance system to be 
found at a secure web site (http://www.mbda.gov). Within thirty (30) 
days after the receipt of award, each MBDC business consultant and/or 
anyone providing business assistance to the public under the award 
shall have satisfactorily completed the Performance System Training 
Course (PSTC). This course is available on-line from the Performance 
web site (http://www.mbda.gov). Only trained staff shall enter data 
into the Performance system. There shall be no ``sharing'' of passwords 
on the Performance system. MBDA encourages input of information on a 
daily basis.
    7. Data Integrity: The recipient shall take the necessary steps to 
ensure that all data entered into MBDA systems, and systems operated by 
the recipient in support of the award, or by any employee of the 
recipient is accurate and timely.

Performance Measures

    In accordance with 15 CFR parts 14 and 24, applicants selected will 
be responsible for the effective management of all functions and 
activities supported by the financial assistance award. Award 
recipients will be required to use program performance measures in a 
performance report due thirty (30) days after the end of the second 
quarter and to provide an end-of-year assessment of the accomplishments 
of the project using these measures. The end-of-year or final 
performance report is due ninety (90) days after the end of the funding 
year. Once the project is awarded, the evaluation criteria, along with 
the assigned weight value, to be used for measuring the MBDC project 
performance on an ongoing basis are:

1. The dollar value of transactions (65);
2. Number of jobs created (10);
3. Number of new clients (5);
4. Administrative Management & Operational Quality (20)

    [sbull] Client satisfaction (5);
    [sbull] Management assessment (5);
    [sbull] Market promotion (1);
    [sbull] Resource entries (5);
    [sbull] Establish strategic partners (2);
    [sbull] Facilitated matches (2).

    The minimum performance goals required for the above listed 
performance measures for each of the solicited geographic service areas 
are outlined under the Funding Availability sub-heading for each 
geographic service area. The minimum performance goals are listed on an 
annual basis by MBDA and will be broken out into quarterly increments 
by the applicant and submitted as part of their proposal.
    The MBDC is required to utilize, in a good faith effort, all of its 
resources to achieve the stated goals. Should the MBDC exceed its 
performance requirements prior to the end of a funding year, the MBDC 
is expected to maintain operations at full strength and continue to 
provide services and reach greater performance outcomes. MBDA views the 
MBDC as a designated cooperative partner and an envoy to the greater 
minority business community. Thus, high achievement in one performance 
measure cannot excuse failure to reach other goals as stated in this 
notice.

Definitions

    1. Dollar Value of Transactions--The dollar value of transactions 
are defined as:
    (a) Dollar Value of Completed Financial Transactions which 
represent the total principal value of approved loans, equity 
financings, bonds, or other binding financial agreements secured by 
clients of the project, with the assistance of MBDC staff. For purposes 
of this performance element, eligible financial transactions are those 
which have a specific dollar value, and which expand its capital base/
operations, or produce some other direct commercial benefit for client 
firms. In order to be deemed complete, a financial transaction must be 
documented by an executed and binding agreement between the MBDC client 
(firm) and a party (financier) capable of performing its obligations 
under the terms of the agreement.
    (b) Dollar Value of Gross Receipts which represent the total dollar 
value of successfully awarded contracts and/or the total principal 
value of executed sales/delivery contracts of services/products/
intellectual rights and/or increase in sales and/or completed Mergers 
and Acquisitions or other binding financial considerations secured by 
clients of the project, with the assistance of project staff. For 
purposes of this performance element, Dollar Value of Gross Receipts 
are those transactions which have a specific dollar value, and which 
produce some other direct commercial benefit for client firms. In order 
to be deemed complete, successfully awarded contracts or mergers and 
acquisitions must be documented by an executed and binding agreement 
between the client firm and a party capable of performing its 
obligations under the terms of the agreement. Increase in sales must be 
documented through an initial client assessment and a midyear and year-
end client assessment (see Client

[[Page 51973]]

Assessment under Client Services) supported by client submitted 
financial documentation.
    MBDA recognizes that the financial obligations evidenced by these 
transactions may be long-term, and require performance over an extended 
period. Consequently it is not necessary that the funds or other 
financial value specified under the agreements have actually changed 
hands for the project to receive credit under this performance element, 
so long as the agreement of the parties is documented and binding.
    2. Number of Jobs Created--This is defined as the number of new 
full time and/or part time employment opportunities reported on the 
client's payroll during the funding year. Persons on paid sick leave, 
paid holiday and paid vacations are included as employees as are 
salaried officers and executives of corporations. However, proprietors 
and partners of unincorporated business are not considered employees 
under this definition.
    3. Number of New Clients--This represents the actual number of new 
clients in a funding year. New clients are defined as those MBEs that 
complete a written engagement with the MBDC for specific services and 
registered with the MBDC.
    4. Administrative Management & Operational Quality--Operational 
quality refers to the quality and effectiveness of the project 
operator's delivery of client services and project scope, as evidenced 
by the following performance elements relating to the day-to-day 
management of the project:
    a. Client Satisfaction--An MBDA consultation process with clients 
of the MBDC used to verify and rate the qualitative level of services 
rendered by the MBDC.
    b. Management Assessment--The management assessment reflects MBDA's 
own evaluation of the overall management of the MBDC project, based on 
the Agency's internal review of the project's operations. The 
management assessment reflects such areas as the development of written 
engagement letters and work plans, proper staffing, adherence to 
scheduled work hours, recordkeeping, successful completion of Agency 
training, and any other areas which MBDA may deem to be relevant in 
determining the overall quality of the project's operations.
    c. Market Promotion--This represents the total number of 
successfully completed activities (per reporting period) as proposed in 
the applicant's response to this Notice.
    d. Resource Entries--This is defined as the total quantity of 
accurate and timely records entered into MBDA's Portal tools (e.g., 
Phoenix, Opportunity, Capital Locator, Resource Locator, etc.) in 
support of its efforts to disseminate information electronically.
    e. Establish Strategic Partners--This represents formalized 
memoranda of understanding between the MBDC and its strategic partners.
    f. Facilitated Matches--This represents the number of minority 
firms directed by the MBDC to strategic partners, the MBDA funded 
network, and other business resources that result in a financial 
transaction (as described above under Dollar Value of Transactions).

Extraordinary Performance--Support of MBDA's Strategic Initiative

    An element of MBDA's overall mission is to advocate on behalf of 
all MBEs. In part, MBDA recognizes successful efforts of MBDC operators 
to establish new opportunities for all MBEs. Extraordinary performance 
by a MBDC or the MBDC operator may result in bonus points for the MBDC. 
The MBDC may receive up to a maximum of (5) performance bonus points 
(one (1) point for each fully completed initiative as defined below) in 
any funding period for the successful execution of the following four 
items:
    (a) The MBDC and/or the MBDC operator may develop and maintain a 
maximum of five (5) strategic initiatives designed to benefit the 
minority business community within the MBDC geographic area.
    (b) The strategic initiative(s) should be framed to expand market 
and financing opportunities for MBEs in areas not previously 
established by MBDA or the MBDA funded network.
    (c) A desired and measurable economic impact that benefits MBEs 
must be established and accounted for at the end of the MBDC funding 
year. Economic impact can be formulated by identifying the dollar value 
of transactions (financings, contracts/ procurements) and/or other 
means of economic opportunities.
    (d) The strategic initiative(s) should be documented in writing and 
should include

--The name(s) and contact information of the collaborating entities;
--Responsibilities and duties of the collaborating entities;
--The resources which each party agrees to commit to the relationship; 
and,
--The goals which the initiative is to accomplish.

Performance Standards

    The year-to-date performance of an MBDC for Year One of the award 
will be based on the following rating system:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Minimum required
  Minimum required percent of   points needed for
 goals needed for each rating      each rating       Rating categories
           category                  category
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100% and above *..............  100 ** & above...  Outstanding
At least 90...................  90-99............  Commendable
At least 80...................  80-89............  Good
At least 75...................  75-79............  Satisfactory
Below 75......................  Below 75.0.......  Unsatisfactory
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Not to exceed 110%.
** Not to exceed 110 Points.

    The year-to-date performance of an MBDC for Year Two of the award 
will be based on the following rating system:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Minimum required
  Minimum required percent of   points needed for
 goals needed for each rating      each rating       Rating categories
           category                  category
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100% and above *..............  100 ** & above...  Outstanding
At least 90...................  90-99............  Commendable
At least 80...................  80-89............  Good

[[Page 51974]]

 
At least 77...................  77-79............  Satisfactory
Below 77......................  Below 77.0.......  Unsatisfactory
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Not to exceed 110%.
** Not to exceed 110 Points.

    The year-to-date performance of an MBDC for Year Three of the award 
will be based on the following rating system:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Minimum required
  Minimum required percent of   points needed for
 goals needed for each rating      each rating       Rating categories
           category                  category
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100% and above *..............  100 ** & above...  Outstanding
At least 90...................  90-99............  Commendable
At least 85...................  85-89............  Good
At least 80...................  80-84............  Satisfactory
Below 80......................  Below 80.0.......  Unsatisfactory
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Not to exceed 110%.
** Not to exceed 110 Points.

Funding Availability

    MBDA anticipates that a total of approximately $7.2 million will be 
available in FY 2004 for Federal assistance under this program. 
Applicants are hereby given notice that funds have not yet been 
appropriated for this program. In no event will MBDA or the Department 
of Commerce be responsible for proposal preparation costs if this 
program fails to receive funding or is canceled because of other agency 
priorities.
    Financial assistance awards under this program may range from 
$155,000 to $346,463 in Federal funding per year based upon minority 
population, the size of the market and its need for MBDA resources. 
Applicants must submit project plans and budgets for each of the three 
years. Projects will be funded for no more than one year at a time. 
Funding for subsequent years will be at the sole discretion of the 
Department of Commerce and will depend on satisfactory performance by 
the recipient, the availability of funds to support the continuation of 
the project, and Agency priorities.

Geographic Service Areas

    An operator must provide services to eligible clients within its 
specified geographic service area. MBDA has defined the service area 
for each award below. To determine its geographic service areas, MBDA 
uses states, counties, Metropolitan Areas (MA), which comprise 
metropolitan statistical areas (MSA), consolidated metropolitan 
statistical areas (CMSA), and primary metropolitan statistical areas 
(PMSA) as defined by the OMB Committee on MAs http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/bulletins and other demographic boundaries as 
specified herein. Services to eligible clients outside of an operator's 
specified service area may be requested, on a case-by-case basis, 
through the appropriate MBDA Regional Director and granted by the 
Grants Officer.

1. MBDC Application: Georgia Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of Georgia.
    Award Number: 04-10-04001-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Atlanta, Georgia. 
Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $283,058. The total Federal 
amount is $240,599. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $42,459 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $21,023,588.
    Number of Jobs Created: 65.
    Number of New Clients: 135.
    Resource Entries: 281.
    Facilitated Matches: 7.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Atlanta National Enterprise Center at (404) 730-3300 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Robert Henderson, Regional Director.

2. MBDC Application: North Carolina Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of North Carolina.
    Award Number: 04-10-04002-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Raleigh/Durham, 
North Carolina. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the 
cost of performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from 
January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $285,058. The 
total Federal amount is $240,599. The application must include a 
minimum cost share of 15% or $42,459 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $21,023,588.
    Number of Jobs Created: 65.
    Number of New Clients: 135.
    Resource Entries: 281.
    Facilitated Matches: 7.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Atlanta National Enterprise Center at (404) 730-3300 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Robert Henderson, Regional Director.

3. MBDC Application: Puerto Rico Islandwide

    Geographic Service Area: Island of Puerto Rico.
    Award Number: 04-10-04003-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in San Juan, Puerto 
Rico. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $285,058. The total Federal 
amount is $240,599. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $42,459 in non-Federal contributions.

[[Page 51975]]

    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $21,023,588.
    Number of Jobs Created: 65.
    Number of New Clients: 135.
    Resource Entries: 281.
    Facilitated Matches: 7.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Atlanta National Enterprise Center at (404) 730-3300 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Robert Henderson, Regional Director.

4. MBDC Application: South Carolina Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of South Carolina.
    Award Number: 04-10-04004-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Columbia, South 
Carolina.
    Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $285,058. The total Federal 
amount is $240,599. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $42,459 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $21,023,588.
    Number of Jobs Created: 65.
    Number of New Clients: 135.
    Resource Entries: 281.
    Facilitated Matches: 7.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Atlanta National Enterprise Center at (404) 730-3300 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Robert Henderson, Regional Director.

5. MBDC Application: Illinois Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of Illinois.
    Award Number: 05-10-04001-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Chicago, 
Illinois. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost 
of performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 
1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $283,058. The total 
Federal amount is $240,599. The application must include a minimum cost 
share of 15% or $42,459 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $21,023,588.
    Number of Jobs Created: 65.
    Number of New Clients: 135.
    Resource Entries: 281.
    Facilitated Matches: 7.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Chicago National Enterprise Center at (312) 353-0182 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Carlos Guzman, Acting Regional Director.

6. MBDC Application: Ohio Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of Ohio.
    Award Number: 05-10-04002-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Cincinnati, Ohio. 
Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $283,058. The total Federal 
amount is $240,599. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $42,459 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $21,023,588.
    Number of Jobs Created: 65.
    Number of New Clients: 135.
    Resource Entries: 281.
    Facilitated Matches: 7.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Atlanta National Enterprise Center at (312) 353-0182 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Carlos Guzman, Acting Regional Director.

7. MBDC Application: Michigan Statewide.

    Geographic Service Area: State of Michigan.
    Award Number: 05-10-04003-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Detroit, 
Michigan. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost 
of performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 
1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $283,058. The total 
Federal amount is $240,599. The application must include a minimum cost 
share of 15% or $42,459 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $21,023,588.
    Number of Jobs Created: 65.
    Number of New Clients: 135.
    Resource Entries: 281.
    Facilitated Matches: 7.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Chicago National Enterprise Center at (312) 353-0182 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov. For Further Information 
and a copy of the application kit, contact Carlos Guzman, Acting 
Regional Director.

8. MBDC Application: Dallas/Ft.Worth/Arlington, Texas

    Geographic Service Area: Dallas/Ft. Worth/Arlington MAs.
    Award Number: 06-10-04001-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Dallas, Texas. 
Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $367,811. The total Federal 
amount is $312,639. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $55,172 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $27,318,191.
    Number of Jobs Created: 84.
    Number of New Clients: 175.
    Resource Entries: 365.
    Facilitated Matches: 9.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Dallas National Enterprise Center at (214) 767-8001 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
John F. Iglehart, Regional Director.

9. MBDC Application: El Paso, Texas.

    Geographic Service Area: El Paso, Texas MA.
    Award Number: 06-10-04002-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in El Paso, Texas. 
Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $236,046. The total Federal 
amount is $200,639. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $35,047 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $17,532,131.
    Number of Jobs Created: 54.
    Number of New Clients: 113.
    Resource Entries: 235.
    Facilitated Matches: 5.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Dallas National Enterprise Center at (214) 767-8001 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.

[[Page 51976]]

    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
John F. Iglehart, Regional Director.

10. MBDC Application: New Mexico Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of New Mexico.
    Award Number: 06-10-04003-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Albuquerque, New 
Mexico. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $258,824. The total Federal 
amount is $220,000. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $38,824 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $19,223,643.
    Number of Jobs Created: 59.
    Number of New Clients: 123.
    Resource Entries: 257.
    Facilitated Matches: 6.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Dallas National Enterprise Center at (214) 767-8001 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
John F. Iglehart, Regional Director.

11. MBDC Application: San Antonio

    Geographic Service Area: San Antonio, Texas MA.
    Award Number: 06-10-04004-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in San Antonio, 
Texas. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $301,929. The total Federal 
amount is $256,639. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $45,289 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $22,425,161.
    Number of Jobs Created: 69.
    Number of New Clients: 144.
    Resource Entries: 300.
    Facilitated Matches: 7.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the Dallas National Enterprise Center at (214) 767-8001 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
John F. Iglehart, Regional Director.

12. MBDC Application: Manhattan/Bronx/Westchester

    Geographic Service Area: The Counties of New York (Manhattan), 
Bronx and Westchester.
    Award Number: 02-10-04001-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in New York County 
(Manhattan). Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the 
cost of performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from 
January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $339,670. The 
total Federal amount is $288,719. The application must include a 
minimum cost share of 15% or $50,950 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $25,228,306.
    Number of Jobs Created: 78.
    Number of New Clients: 162.
    Resource Entries: 338.
    Facilitated Matches: 8.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the New York National Enterprise Center at (212) 264-3262 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Heyward Davenport, Regional Director.

13. MBDC Application: New Jersey Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of New Jersey.
    Award Number: 02-10-04002-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Newark, New 
Jersey. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $339,670. The total Federal 
amount is $288,719. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $50,950 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $25,228,306.
    Number of Jobs Created: 78.
    Number of New Clients: 162.
    Resource Entries: 338.
    Facilitated Matches: 8.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the New York National Enterprise Center at (212) 264-3262 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Heyward Davenport, Regional Director.

14. MBDC Application: Pennsylvania Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of Pennsylvania.
    Award Number: 02-10-04003-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Philadelphia, 
Pennsylvania. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the 
cost of performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from 
January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $339,670. The 
total Federal amount is $288,719. The application must include a 
minimum cost share of 15% or $50,950 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $25,228,306.
    Number of Jobs Created: 78.
    Number of New Clients: 162.
    Resource Entries: 338.
    Facilitated Matches: 8.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the New York National Enterprise Center at (212) 264-3262 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Heyward Davenport, Regional Director.

15. MBDC Application: Queens/Nassau/Suffolk

    Geographic Service Area: The Counties of Queens/Nassau/Suffolk.
    Award Number: 02-10-04004-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Queens, New York.
    Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $339,670. The total Federal 
amount is $288,719. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $50,950 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $25,228,306.
    Number of Jobs Created: 78.
    Number of New Clients: 162.
    Resource Entries: 338.
    Facilitated Matches: 8.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the New York National Enterprise Center at (212) 264-3262 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Heyward Davenport, Regional Director.

16. MBDC Application: Washington Metro

    Geographic Service Area: DC/MD/VA/WVA MAs.

[[Page 51977]]

    Award Number: 02-10-04005-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in the District of 
Columbia. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost 
of performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 
1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $339,670. The total 
Federal amount is $288,719. The application must include a minimum cost 
share of 15% or $50,950 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $25,228,306.
    Number of Jobs Created: 78.
    Number of New Clients: 162.
    Resource Entries: 338.
    Facilitated Matches: 8.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the New York National Enterprise Center at (212) 264-3262 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Heyward Davenport, Regional Director.

17. MBDC Application: Williamsburg

    Geographic Service Area: Kings County (Brooklyn), and Richmond 
County (Staten Island).
    Award Number: 02-10-04006-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Williamsburg in 
Kings County (Brooklyn). Contingent upon the availability of Federal 
funds, the cost of performance for each of three 12-month funding 
periods from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at 
$374,412. The total Federal amount is $318,250. The application must 
include a minimum cost share of 15% or $56,162 in non-Federal 
contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $27,633,017.
    Number of Jobs Created: 86.
    Number of New Clients: 178.
    Resource Entries: 372.
    Facilitated Matches: 9.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the New York National Enterprise Center at (212) 264-3262 or 
visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Heyward Davenport, Regional Director.

18. MBDC Application: Alaska Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of Alaska.
    Award Number: 09-10-04001-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Anchorage, 
Alaska. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $203,802. The total Federal 
amount is $173,232. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $30,570 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $15,136,984.
    Number of Jobs Created: 47.
    Number of New Clients: 97.
    Resource Entries: 203.
    Facilitated Matches: 5.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the San Francisco National Enterprise Center at (415) 744-3001 
or visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Linda Marmolejo, Deputy Regional Director.

19. MBDC Application: Arizona Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of Arizona.
    Award Number: 09-10-04002-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Phoenix, Arizona. 
Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost of 
performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 1, 
2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $407,604. The total Federal 
amount is $346,463. The application must include a minimum cost share 
of 15% or $61,141 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $30,273,967.
    Number of Jobs Created: 93.
    Number of New Clients: 194.
    Resource Entries: 405.
    Facilitated Matches: 10.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the San Francisco National Enterprise Center at (415) 744-3001 
or visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Linda Marmolejo, Deputy Regional Director.

20. MBDC Application: Central/Northern California

    Geographic Service Area: The counties south of the Oregon/
California border through, and including Santa Barbara, Inyo and Kern 
Counties.
    Award Number: 09-10-04003-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Oakland, 
California. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost 
of performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 
1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $407,604. The total 
Federal amount is $346,463. The application must include a minimum cost 
share of 15% or $61,141 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $30,273,967.
    Number of Jobs Created: 93.
    Number of New Clients: 194.
    Resource Entries: 405.
    Facilitated Matches: 10.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the San Francisco National Enterprise Center at (415) 744-3001 
or visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Linda Marmolejo, Deputy Regional Director.

21. MBDC Application: Inland Empire

    Geographic Service Area: The Counties of Orange, Riverside, San 
Bernardino, Imperial and San Diego, California.
    Award Number: 09-10-04004-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Riverside/San 
Bernardino, California. Contingent upon the availability of Federal 
funds, the cost of performance for each of three 12-month funding 
periods from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at 
$407,604. The total Federal amount is $346,463. The application must 
include a minimum cost share of 15% or $61,141 in non-Federal 
contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $30,273,967.
    Number of Jobs Created: 93.
    Number of New Clients: 194.
    Resource Entries: 405.
    Facilitated Matches: 10.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the San Francisco National Enterprise Center at (415) 744-3001 
or visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Linda Marmolejo, Deputy Regional Director.

22. MBDC Application: Los Angeles Metro

    Geographic Service Area: The Counties of Ventura and Los Angeles, 
California.
    Award Number: 09-10-04005-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in the greater Los 
Angeles

[[Page 51978]]

Metropolitan Area. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, 
the cost of performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from 
January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $407,604. The 
total Federal amount is $346,463. The application must include a 
minimum cost share of 15% or $61,141 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $30,273,967.
    Number of Jobs Created: 93.
    Number of New Clients: 194.
    Resource Entries: 405.
    Facilitated Matches: 10.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the San Francisco National Enterprise Center at (415) 744-3001 
or visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Linda Marmolejo, Deputy Regional Director.

23. MBDC Application: Washington Statewide

    Geographic Service Area: State of Washington.
    Award Number: 09-10-04006-01.
    The recipient is required to maintain its MBDC in Seattle, 
Washington. Contingent upon the availability of Federal funds, the cost 
of performance for each of three 12-month funding periods from January 
1, 2004 to December 31, 2006, is estimated at $203,802. The total 
Federal amount is $173,232. The application must include a minimum cost 
share of 15% or $30,570 in non-Federal contributions.
    The minimum performance goals for the MBDC are:
    Dollar Value of Transactions: $15,136,984.
    Number of Jobs Created: 47.
    Number of New Clients: 97.
    Resource Entries: 203.
    Facilitated Matches: 5.
    Pre-Application Conference: For the exact date, time and place, 
contact the San Francisco National Enterprise Center at (415) 744-3001 
or visit MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.
    For Further Information and a copy of the application kit, contact 
Linda Marmolejo, Deputy Regional Director.

Matching Requirements

    Cost sharing of at least 15% is required. Cost sharing is the 
portion of the project cost not borne by the Federal Government. 
Applicants must meet this requirement in client fees and any one or 
more of remaining three means or a combination thereof: (1) Client fees 
(mandatory); (2) cash contributions; (3) non-cash applicant 
contributions; and/or (4) third party in-kind contributions.
    The MBDC must charge client fees for services rendered. The fees 
may range from $10 to $60 per hour based on the gross receipts of the 
client's business ranging from $0 to $5 million and above. The MBDC 
must comply with the following policy restrictions when charging client 
service fees: (1) Client fees charged for one-on-one assistance must be 
based on a rate of $100 per hour, (2) the MBDC must set fee rates based 
on the following chart:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   Base rate for    Percent of
                    Gross receipts of client                         services     cost borne  by  Client fee per
                                                                     rendered         client           hour
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$0-99,999.......................................................         $100.00              10          $10.00
$100,000-299,999................................................          100.00              20           20.00
$300,000-999,999................................................          100.00              30           30.00
$1 Million-2,999,999............................................          100.00              40           40.00
$3 Million-4,999,999............................................          100.00              50           50.00
$5 Million and Above............................................          100.00              60           60.00
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(3) the MBDC must contribute cash for uncollected fees that were 
included as part of the cost sharing contribution committed for this 
award, and (4) client fees applied directly to the award's cost sharing 
requirement must be used in furtherance of the program objectives.

Type of Funding Instrument

    Financial assistance awards in the form of cooperative agreements 
will be used to fund this program. MBDA's substantial involvement with 
recipients will include performing the following duties to further the 
MBDC's objectives:

Post-Award Conferences

    MBDA shall conduct post-award conferences for all new MBDC awards 
to ensure that each MBDC has a clear understanding of the program and 
its components. The conference will: (1) Provide an MBDA Directory of 
Business Resources; (2) Orient MBDC program officers; (3) Explain 
program reporting requirements and procedures; (4) Identify available 
resources that can enhance the capabilities of the MBDC; and (5) 
Provide detailed information about MBDA's business and other 
information systems.

Training

    MBDA shall conduct various qualitative training sessions for the 
MBDC staff. The training sessions are designed (in part) to improve 
communications, understandings, client service delivery, performance 
and reporting. The following training sessions are designated for the 
2004 funding year:
    (1) A systems integrated approach to client services, including 
client assessment and functional assistance (initial 5-day training), 
and subsequent advanced training (5-day follow-up training), and
    (2) MBDA Portal tools including (but not limited to) Performance, 
Resource Locator, Capital Locator, Business Plan, Phoenix and 
Opportunity System. We anticipate that the training will be provided at 
MBDA's annual National conference. Training sessions may be offered 
each funding year based on the availability of funds. Locations for the 
training sessions are subject to change.

Networking, Promotion and Information Exchange

    MBDA shall provide the following: (1) Access to business 
information systems, which support the work of the MBDC as described in 
the Enhancing the MBDCs Through Technology section. This information 
will be provided by MBDA's Office of Information Technology. The 
specific information systems and access to them will be provided at the 
time of the award for a particular MBDC; (2) Sponsor one national and 
at least one NEC conference; (3) Expand the Phoenix data bank of 
minority-owned firms by requiring other MBDA-funded programs to provide 
additional entries; (4) Promote the exchange of business opportunity 
information within the MBDA funded system using the Capital Locator, 
Resource Locator, Phoenix and

[[Page 51979]]

Opportunity system on the MBDA Portal located at http://www.mbda.gov; 
(5) Work closely with the MBDC to establish a system in which 
procurement and contract opportunities can be shared with the network 
of MBDCs. This system will include opportunities identified throughout 
the MBDA network using the Phoenix and Opportunity system located at 
http://www.mbda.gov; (6) Help promote special events to be scheduled at 
the local community, state and national levels in celebration of MED 
Week, which occurs annually; and (7) Identify Federal, state and local 
governments, and private sector market opportunities to the MBDC using 
the Capital Locator, Resource Locator, Phoenix and Opportunity system 
on the MBDA Portal located at http://www.mbda.gov.

Project Monitoring

    MBDA will systematically monitor the performance of the MBDC. This 
monitoring includes regular review of data input to the performance 
system, assessment of the end of the second quarter progress report, an 
on-site review of the center's client files to verify MBDC performance, 
reported assistance and interviews with clients assisted. In 
consultation with clients of the individual MBDC, MBDA will assess the 
Center's effectiveness in providing business development services to 
their respective minority business communities. MBDA will then provide 
a report of findings and recommendations for improvement as a result of 
evaluations and monitoring visits. MBDA will also assess the MBDC's 
performance for the first and third quarters of performance data (as 
recorded in the Performance System) and provide a written report of 
findings. MBDA will approve qualifications of key MBDC staff and 
respond in a timely manner to correspondence requesting MBDA action.

Eligibility Criteria

    For-profit entities (including sole-proprietorships, partnership, 
and corporations), and non-profit organizations, state and local 
government entities, American Indian Tribes, and educational 
institutions are eligible to operate MBDCs.

Award Period

    The total award period is three (3) years. Funding will be provided 
annually at the discretion of MBDA and DoC, and will depend upon 
satisfactory performance by the award recipient, availability of funds 
to continue the project, and Agency priorities. Project proposals 
accepted for funding will not compete for funding in subsequent budget 
periods within the approved award period. Publication of this notice 
does not obligate MBDA or DoC to award any specific cooperative 
agreement or to obligate all or any part of available funds.

Indirect Costs

    The total dollar amount of the indirect costs proposed in an 
application under this program must not exceed the indirect cost rate 
negotiated and approved by a cognizant Federal agency prior to the 
proposed effective date of the award or 100 percent of the total 
proposed direct costs dollar amount in the application, whichever is 
less.

Proposal Format

    The structure of the proposal should contain the following headings 
and information, in the following order:
I. Table of Contents
II. Program Narrative
    a. Applicant Capability--Include a resume setting forth the 
qualifications of the project director as part of the application, 
along with a copy of a college transcript, as appropriate. Position 
descriptions and qualification standards for all staff should be 
included as part of the application. Applicants must provide a copy of 
their Articles of Incorporation, by-laws and IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit 
letter or other evidence of non-profit status.
    b. Resources--Include original commitment letters from those 
resources listed and indicate their willingness to work with the 
applicant. These resources can include such items as facilities, 
equipment, voluntary staff time and space, and financial resources. One 
to two letters of support (with contact information) from prior 
assisted larger minority firms and community organizations should be 
included from those resources willing to work with the applicant.
    c. Techniques and Methodologies--The applicant's proposal shall 
include a specific plan-of-action detailing how the work requirements 
will be met and how those techniques will be implemented. MBDA requires 
the applicant to provide a quarterly breakdown of the goals.
    d. Costs--Include how client fees will be used to meet the cost-
share.
III. Forms

    Note: Pages of the proposal should be numbered consecutively.

Application Forms and Package

    One (1) original and two (2) signed copies of the application must 
consist of: Standard Forms 424, Application for Federal Assistance; 
424A, Budget Information-Non-Construction Programs; and 424B, 
Assurances-Non-Construction Programs, SF-LLL (Rev. 7-97); Department of 
Commerce forms, CD-436, Applicant for Funding Assistance, CD-511, 
Certifications Regarding Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility 
matters: Drug-Free Workplace Requirements and Lobbying, CD-512, 
Certifications Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and 
Voluntary Exclusion-Lower Tier Covered Transactions and Lobbying. These 
forms may be obtained by (1) contacting MBDA as described in the FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section above; (2) by downloading Standard 
forms at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants and Department of 
Commerce at http://www.doc.gov/forms, or (3) by applying on-line via 
the World Wide Web at MBDA's web site located at http://www.mbda.gov.
    Failure to submit a signed, original SF-424 with the application, 
or separately in conjunction with submitting a proposal electronically, 
by the deadline will result in the application being rejected and 
returned to the applicant. Failure to sign and submit with the 
application, or separately in conjunction with submitting a proposal 
electronically, the forms identified above by the deadline will 
automatically cause an application to lose two (2) points. Failure to 
submit other documents or information may adversely affect an 
applicant's overall score. MBDA shall not accept any changes, 
additions, revisions or deletions to competitive applications after the 
closing date for receiving applications, except through a formal 
negotiation process.

Evaluation Criteria

    Proposals will be evaluated and applicants will be selected based 
on the following criteria. An application must receive at least 70% of 
the total points available for each evaluation criterion, in order for 
the application to be considered for funding.

1. Applicant Capability (45 Points)

    The applicant's proposal will be evaluated with respect to the 
applicant firm's experience and expertise in providing the work 
requirements listed. Specifically, the proposals will be evaluated as 
follows:
    [sbull] MBE Community--experience in and knowledge of the minority 
business

[[Page 51980]]

sector and strategies for enhancing its growth and expansion (5 
points);
    [sbull] Business Consulting--experience in and knowledge of 
business consulting of rapid growth-potential minority firms (10 
points);
    [sbull] Financing--experience in and knowledge of the preparation 
and formulation of successful financial transactions (5 points);
    [sbull] Procurements and Contracting--experience in and knowledge 
of the public and private sector contracting opportunities for minority 
businesses (5 points);
    [sbull] Financing Networks--resources and professional 
relationships within the corporate, banking and investment community 
that may be beneficial to minority-owned firms (5 points);
    [sbull] MBE Advocacy--experience and expertise in advocating on 
behalf of minority businesses, both as to specific transactions in 
which a minority business seeks to engage, and as to broad market 
advocacy for the benefit of the minority community at large (5 points); 
and
    [sbull] Key Staff--assessment of the qualifications, experience and 
proposed role of staff who will operate the MBDC. In particular, an 
assessment will be made to determine whether proposed staff possess the 
expertise in utilizing information systems as contemplated under the 
heading entitled, ``Computer Requirements'' (10 points).

2. Resources (20 Points)

    The applicant's proposal will be evaluated according to the 
following criteria:
    [sbull] Resources--discuss those resources (not included as part of 
the cost-sharing arrangement) that will be used. (10 points);
    [sbull] Partners--discuss how you plan to establish and maintain 
the network of five (5) Strategic Partners (5 points);
    [sbull] Equipment--discuss how you plan to accomplish the computer 
hardware and software requirements (5 points).

3. Techniques and Methodologies (25 Points)

    The applicant's proposal will be evaluated as follows:
    [sbull] Performance Measures--relate each performance measure to 
the financial, information and market resources available in the 
geographic service area to the applicant and how the goals will be met. 
Specific attention should be placed on the Dollar Value of Transactions 
(as described under Definitions). This goal represents the sum of (a) 
Dollar Value of Financial Transactions and (b) Dollar Value of Gross 
Receipts. When proposing the minimum goal under Dollar Value of 
Transactions, the applicant is given the flexibility to address the 
percentage breakdown for items (a) and (b) above within a specific 
range--not more than 60% and not less than 40%. The applicant should 
consider existing market conditions and its strategy to achieve the 
goal. The applicant may vary the percentage breakdown for items (a) and 
(b) above as long as the sum meets the required goal as provided by 
MBDA in this Notice (as described under Geographic Service Areas). (15 
points);
    [sbull] Plan of Action--provide specific detail on how the 
applicant will start operations. MBDCs have thirty (30) days to become 
fully operational after an award is made. Fully operational means that 
all staff are hired, all signs are up, all items of furniture and 
equipment are in place and operational, all necessary forms are 
developed (e.g., client engagement letters, other standard 
correspondence, etc.), and the center is ready to open its doors to the 
public (5 points);
    [sbull] Work Requirement Execution Plan--The applicant will be 
evaluated on how effectively and efficiently all staff time will be 
used to achieve the work requirements (5 points).

4. Proposed Budget and Supporting Budget Narrative (10 Points)

    The applicant's proposal will be evaluated on the following sub-
criteria:
    [sbull] Reasonableness, allowability and allocability of costs (5 
points).
    [sbull] Proposed cost sharing of 15% is required. The non-Federal 
share must be adequately documented, including how client fees will be 
used to meet the cost-share (5 points).

Bonus Points

    Proposals with cost sharing which exceeds 15% will be awarded bonus 
points on the following scale: 16-20%--1 point; 21-25%--2 points; 26-
30%--3 points; 31-35%--4 points; and over 36%--5 points.
    [sbull] Key points to remember: The Federal amount is not 
negotiable! The full amount of Federal funds designated for the award 
must be used in its entirety in the proposal.
    [sbull] All proposed costs must be accompanied by written 
narrative. Read the budget narrative requirements in the application 
kit carefully. All costs must be explained in writing.
    [sbull] Indirect Costs. The indirect cost policies contained in OMB 
Circulars A-21, A-87 and A-122 will apply to MBDA awards for its 
business development programs. Indirect costs are those costs proposed 
for common or joint objectives and which cannot be readily identified 
with a particular cost objective. Therefore, if the MBDA award is to be 
the sole source of support for the applicant organization, all costs 
are direct costs and no indirect costs should be proposed.
    Organizations with indirect costs that do not have an established 
indirect cost rate negotiated and approved by a cognizant Federal 
agency may still propose indirect costs. For the recipient to recover 
indirect costs, however, the proposed budget must include a line item 
for such costs. Also, the recipient must prepare and submit a cost 
allocation plan and indirect cost rate proposal as required by 
applicable OMB circulars (A-21, A-87 and A-122). The allocation plan 
and the rate proposal must be submitted to the Department's Office of 
Acquisition Management within 90 days from the effective date of the 
proposed award.
    [sbull] Audit Costs. Audits shall be performed in accordance with 
audit requirements contained in Office of Management and Budget 
Circular A-133, Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit 
Organizations, revised June 27, 2003. OMB Circular A-133 requires that 
non-profit organizations, government agencies, Indian tribes and 
educational institutions expending $500,000 or more in federal funds 
during a one-year period conduct a single audit in accordance with 
guidelines outlined in the circular. Applicants are reminded that other 
audits may be conducted by the Office of Inspector General.
    [sbull] Management Fee. For-profit as well as not-for-profit 
organizations may negotiate their management fees, but they shall not 
exceed 7% of total estimated direct costs (Federal plus non-Federal) 
for the proposed award.
    [sbull] Program Income. Many of MBDA's business development 
services programs allow their awardees to charge a fee for services 
rendered to clients. Where applicable, fees are considered program 
income and shall be accounted for and used to finance the non-Federal 
cost-share of the project. Any excess fee income shall be used to 
further the program purpose in accordance with the terms and conditions 
of the award.
    Selection Procedures: Prior to the formal paneling process, each 
application will receive an initial screening to ensure that all 
required forms, signatures and documentation are present. Each 
application will receive an independent, objective review by a panel 
qualified to evaluate the applications submitted. MBDA anticipates that 
the review panel will be made up of at least three independent

[[Page 51981]]

reviewers who are Federal employees who will review all applications 
based on the above evaluation criteria. Each reviewer will evaluate and 
provide a score for each proposal. The Director of MBDA makes the final 
recommendation to the Department of Commerce Grants Officer regarding 
the funding of applications, taking into account the following 
selection criteria:
    1. The evaluations and rankings of the independent review panel;
    2. The following funding priorities: (1) Identifying and working to 
eliminate barriers which limit the access of minority businesses to 
markets and capital; (2) Identifying and working to meet the special 
needs of minority businesses seeking to obtain large-scale contracts 
(in excess of $500,000) with institutional customers; and (3) Promoting 
the understanding and use of Electronic Commerce by the minority 
business community. The National Director or his designee reserves the 
right to conduct a site visit (subject to the availability of funding) 
to applicant organizations receiving at least 70% of the total points 
available for each evaluation criterion, in order to make a better 
assessment of the organization's capability to achieve the three 
funding priorities.
    3. The availability of funding.

Unsuccessful Competition

    On occasion, competitive solicitations or competitive panels may 
produce less than optimum results, such as competition resulting in the 
receipt of no applications or competition resulting in all unresponsive 
applications received. If the competition results in the receipt of 
only one application, it may or may not require additional action from 
MBDA depending upon the competitive history of the area, the quality of 
the application received, and the time and cost limits involved. In the 
event that any or all of these conditions arise, MBDA shall take the 
most time and cost-effective approach available that is in the best 
interest of the Government. This includes, but is not limited to: (1) 
Re-competition or (2) Re-Paneling or (3) Negotiation.

Universal Identifier

    Applicants should be aware that they may be required to provide a 
Dun and Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number during 
the application process. See the June 27, 2003 (68 FR 38402) Federal 
Register notice for additional information. Organizations can receive a 
DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free DUNS Number 
request line at 1-866-705-5711 or on MBDA's website at http://www.mbda.gov.

Intergovernmental Review

    Applications under this program are not subject to Executive Order 
12372, ``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.''

Department of Commerce Pre-Award Notification Requirements for Grants 
and Cooperative Agreements

    The Department of Commerce Pre-Award Notification Requirements for 
Grants and Cooperative Agreements contained in the Federal Register 
notice of October 1, 2001 (66 FR 49917), as amended by the Federal 
Register notice published on October 30, 2002 (67 FR 66109), are 
applicable to this solicitation.

Executive Order 12866

    This notice has been determined to be not significant for purposes 
of E.O. 12866.

Administrative Procedure Act/Regulatory Flexibility Act

    Prior notice and an opportunity for public comment are not required 
by the Administrative Procedure Act for rules concerning public 
property, loans, grants, benefits, and contracts (5 U.S.C. 553(a)(2)). 
Because notice and opportunity for comment are not required pursuant to 
5 U.S.C. 553 or any other law, the analytical requirements of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) are inapplicable. 
Therefore, a regulatory flexibility analysis is not required and has 
not been prepared.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    This document contains collection-of-information requirements 
subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). The use of Standard Forms 
424, 424A, 424B, CD 346, and SF-LLL have been approved by OMB under the 
respective control numbers 0348-0043, 0348-0044, 0348-0040, 0605-0001, 
and 0348-0046.
    Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person is required 
to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty for failure 
to comply with a collection of information subject to the Paperwork 
Reduction Act unless that collection displays a currently valid OMB 
Control Number.

    Dated: August 25, 2003.
Ronald N. Langston,
National Director, Minority Business Development Agency.
[FR Doc. 03-22131 Filed 8-28-03; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-21-P