[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 87 (Friday, May 6, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 24080-24087]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-9013]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Indian Health Service


Tribal Management Grant Program; New Discretionary Funding Cycle 
for Fiscal Year 2006

    Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2006-IHS-TMP-0001.
    CFDA Number: 93.228.
    Key Dates: Training: May 23-27, 2005; June 15-16, 2005 June 29-30, 
2005; and July 13-14, 2005.
    Application Receipt Deadline: August 12, 2005.
    Application Review Dates: October 3-7, 2005.
    Application Notification: Second week of November 2005.
    Anticipated Award Start Date: January 1, 2006.
    Program Authority: Public Law 93-638, Sections 103(b)(2) and 
103(e), Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, as 
amended.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    The Tribal Management Grant (TMG) Program is a national competitive 
discretionary grant program established to assist Federally-recognized 
Tribes and Tribally-sanctioned Tribal organizations in assuming all or 
part of existing Indian Health Service (IHS) programs, services, 
functions, and activities (PSFA) through a Title I contract and to 
assist established Title I contractors and Title V compactors to 
further develop and improve their management capability. In addition, 
TMGs are available to Tribes/Tribal organizations under the authority 
of Public Law (Pub. L.) 93-638 section 103(e) for (1) obtaining 
technical assistance from providers designated by the Tribe/Tribal 
organization (including Tribes/Tribal organizations that operate mature 
contracts) for the purposes of program planning and evaluation, 
including the development of any management systems necessary for 
contract management and the development of cost allocation plans for 
indirect cost rates; and (2) planning, designing, and evaluating 
Federal health programs serving the Tribe/Tribal organization, 
including Federal administrative functions. These grants are 
established under the authority of section 103(b)(2) and section 103(e) 
of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, Pub. L. 
93-638, as amended.
    Funding Priorities: The IHS has established the following funding 
priorities for TMG awards. The funding of approved Priority I 
applicants will occur before the funding of approved Priority II 
applicants. Priority II applicants will be funded before approved 
Priority III applicant. Funds will be distributed until depleted.
     Priority I--Any Indian Tribe that has received Federal 
recognition (restored, unterminated, funded, or unfunded) within the 
past 5 years, specifically received during or after April 2000.
     Priority II--All other eligible Federally-recognized 
Indian Tribes or Tribally-sanctioned Tribal organizations submitting a 
competing continuation application or a new application with the sole 
purpose of addressing audit material weaknesses identified in 
Attachment A (Summary of Findings and Recommendations) and other 
attachments, if any, of the transmittal letter received from the Office 
of the Inspector General (OIG), National External Audit Review (NEAR) 
Center, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Please identify 
by underlining the weakness to be addressed on Attachment A. Please 
refer to Section III.3, ``Other Requirements'' for more information 
regarding Priority II participation.

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    Federally-recognized Indian Tribes or Tribally-sanctioned Tribal 
organizations not subject to Single Audit Act requirements, must 
provide a financial statement identifying the Federal dollars in the 
footnotes. The financial statement must also identify specific 
weaknesses/recommendations that will be implemented in the TMG proposal 
and are related to 25 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 900, 
``Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act Amendments'', 
Subpart F--``Standards for Tribes and Tribal Organizations''.
    Priority II participation is only applicable to the Health 
Management Structure project type. See Eligible Project Types.
     Priority III--All other eligible Federally-recognized 
Indian Tribes or Tribal organizations submitting a competing 
continuation application or a new application.

II. Award Information

    Type of Instrument: Grant.
    Estimated Funds Available: The estimated amount of funds available, 
based on the Administration's request for the TMG Program, is 
$2,430,000 in Fiscal Year (FY) 2006. There will be only one funding 
cycle in FY 2006.
    Anticipated Number of Awards: This estimated amount is anticipated 
to fund approximately 20-25 new and continuation awards.
    Project Periods: Varies from 12 months to 36 months. Please refer 
to ``Eligible Project Types, Maximum Funding, and Project Periods'' 
below for more detailed information.
    Estimated Range of Awards: $50,000/year-$100,000/year. Please refer 
to ``Eligible Project Types, Maximum Funding, and Project Periods'' 
below for more detailed information.
    Eligible Project Types, Maximum Funding and Project Periods: 
Applications submitted must be for only one project type. The TMG 
Program consists of four types of projects: (1) Feasibility studies, 
(2) planning, (3) evaluation studies, and; (4) health management 
structure development or improvement. Applications that address more 
than one project type will be considered ineligible and will be 
returned to the applicant. The maximum funding level noted below 
includes both direct and indirect costs. Application budgets which 
exceed the maximum funding level or project period identified for a 
project type will not be reviewed. Please refer to Section IV.5. 
``Funding Restrictions'' for further information regarding ineligible 
activities.
    A. Feasibility Study--(Maximum funding/project period: $70,000/12 
months).
    A study of a specific IHS program or segment of a program to 
determine if Tribal management of the program is possible. The study 
shall present necessary plans, approach, training, and resources 
required to assume Tribal management of the program. The study shall 
include the following four components:
     Health needs and health care services assessments that 
identify existing health care services and delivery system, program 
divisibility issues, health status indicators, unmet needs, volume 
projections, and demand analysis.
     Management analysis of existing management structures, 
proposed management structures, implementation plans and requirements, 
and personnel staffing requirements and recruitment barriers.
     Financial analysis of historical trends data, financial 
projections and new resources requirements for program management 
costs, and analysis of potential revenues from Federal/non-Federal 
sources.
     Decision statement/report that incorporates findings, 
conclusions, and recommendations; the presentation of the study and 
recommendations to the governing body for Tribal determination 
regarding whether Tribal assumption of program(s) is desirable or 
warranted.
    B. Planning--(Maximum funding/project period: $50,000/12 months).
    A collection of data to establish goals and performance measures 
for the operation of current health programs or anticipated PSFAs under 
a Title I contract. Planning will specify the design of health programs 
and the management systems (including appropriate policies and 
procedures) to accomplish the health priorities of the Tribe/Tribal 
organization. For example, planning could include the development of a 
Tribal Specific Health Plan or a Strategic Health Plan, etc. Please 
note: The Public Health Service urges applicants submitting strategic 
health plans to address specific objectives of Healthy People 2010. 
Interested applicants may purchase a copy of Healthy People 2010 
(Summary Report in print; Stock No. 017-001-00547-9) or CD-ROM (Stock 
No. 107-001-00549-5) through the Superintendent of Documents, 
Government Printing Office, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 
15250-7945, or (202) 512-1800. You may access this information via the 
Internet at the following Web site: http://www.health.gov/healthypeople/publications/ publications/.
    C. Evaluation Study--(Maximum funding/project period: $50,000/12 
months).
    A systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of data for 
the purpose of determining the value of a program. The extent of the 
evaluation study could relate to the goals and objectives, policies and 
procedures, or programs regarding targeted groups. The evaluation study 
could also be used to determine the effectiveness and efficiency of a 
Tribal program operation (i.e., direct services, financial management, 
personal, data collection and analysis, third-party billing, etc.) as 
well as determine the appropriateness of new components to a Tribal 
program operation that will assist Tribal efforts to improve the health 
care delivery systems.
    D. Health Management Structure--(Average funding/project period: 
$100,000/12 months; maximum funding/project period: $300,000/36 
months).
    Implementation of systems to manage or organize PSFAs. Management 
structures include health department organizations; health hoards; and 
financial management systems, including systems for accounting, 
personnel, third-party billing, medical records, management information 
systems, etc. This includes the design, improvements, and correction of 
management systems that address weaknesses identified through quality 
control measures, internal control reviews, and audit report find is 
under the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular No. A-133--
Revised June 27, 2003, ``Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-
Profit Organization.'' A copy of this circular and 25 Code of Federal 
Regulations (CFR) Part 900, ``Indian Self-Determination and Education 
Assistance Act Amendments'', Subpart F--``Standards for Tribal or 
Tribal Organization Management Systems'' is available in the appendix 
of the TMG application kit. Please see the ``Application and Submission 
Information'' section for directions about how to request a copy of the 
TMG application kit.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants

    Any federally-recognized Indian Tribe or Tribally-sanctioned Tribal 
organization is eligible to apply for a grant. Eligible applicants 
include Tribal organizations that operate mature contracts that are 
designed by a Tribe to

[[Page 24082]]

provide technical assistance and/or training. Only one application per 
Tribe or Tribal organization is allowed.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The TMG Program does not require cost sharing or matching to 
participate in the competitive grant process. However, in accordance 
with Public Law 93.638 section 103(c), the TMG funds may be used as 
matching shares for any other Federal grant programs that develop 
Tribal capabilities to contract for the administration and operation of 
health programs.

3. Other Requirements

    The following documentation is required (if applicable):
     Tribal Resolution--A resolution of the Indian Tribe served 
by the project must accompany the application submission. An Indian 
Tribe that is proposing a project affecting another Indian Tribe must 
include resolutions from all affected Tribes to be served. Applications 
by Tribal organizations will not require a specific Tribal resolution 
if the current Tribal resolution(s) under which they operate would 
encompass the proposed grant activities. Draft resolutions are 
acceptable in lieu of an official resolution. However, an official 
signed Tribal resolution must be received by the Division of Grants 
Operations prior to the beginning of the Objective Review (October 3-7, 
2005). If an official signed resolution is not received by September 
30, 2005, the application will be considered incomplete, ineligible for 
review, and returned to the applicant without consideration. Applicants 
submitting additional documentation after the initial application 
submission are required to ensure the information was received by the 
IHS by obtaining documentation confirming delivery (i.e., FedEx 
tracking, postal return receipt, etc.).
     Documentation for Priority I Participation--A copy of the 
Federal Register notice or letter from the Bureau of Indian Affairs 
verifying establishment of Federal Tribal status within the last 5 
years. Date must reflect that Federal recognition was received during 
or after April 2000.
     Documentation for Priority II Participation--A copy of the 
transmittal letter and Attachment A from the OIG, NEAR Center, HHS. See 
``Funding Priorities'' in Section I for more information. If an 
applicant is unable to locate a copy of their most recent transmittal 
letter or needs assistance with audit issues, information or technical 
assistance may be obtained by contacting the IHS Division of Audit 
Resolution at (301) 443-7301, or the National External Audit Review 
Center help line at (816) 374-6714 ext. 108. The auditor may also have 
the information/documentation required.
    Federally-recognized Indian Tribes or tribally-sanctioned Tribal 
organizations not subject to Single Audit Act requirements, must 
provide a financial statement identifying the Federal dollars in the 
footnotes. The financial statement must also identify specific 
weaknesses/recommendations that will be implemented in the TMG proposal 
and are related to 25 CFR part 900, ``Indian Self-Determination and 
Education Assistance Act Amendments'', subpart F--``Standards for 
Tribes and Tribal Organizations''.
     Documentation of Consortium Participation--If an Indian 
Tribe submitting an application is a member of a consortium, the Tribe 
must:
     Identify the consortium.
     Indicate if the consortium intends to submit a TMG 
application.
     Demonstrate that the Tribe's application does not 
duplicate or overlap any objectives of the consortium's application.
    If a consortium is submitting an application it must:
     Identify all the consortium member Tribes.
     Identify if any of the member Tribes intend to submit a 
TMG application of their own.
     Demonstrate that the consortium's application does not 
duplicate or overlap any objectives of the other consortium members who 
may be submitting their own TMG application.
     Please refer to Sections IV.5. ``Funding Restrictions'' 
and V.2. ``Review Selection Process'' for more information regarding 
other application submission information and/or requirements.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Package

    Interested parties may request a copy of the TMG aplication kit 
from either of the following persons: Ms. Deanna J. Dick, Office of 
Tribal Programs, Indian Health Service, 801 Thompson Avenue, Suite 220, 
Rockville, Maryland 20852, (301) 443-1104. Ms. Patricia Spotted Horse, 
Division of Grants Operations, Indian Health Service, 801 Thompson 
Avenue, TMP 100, Rockville, Maryland 20852, (301) 443-5204.
    The entire application kit is also available online at: http://www.ihs.gov/NonMedicalPrograms/tmg/index.asp and http://www.grants.gov.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission

    A. All applications should:
     Be single-spaced.
     Be typewritten.
     Have consecutively numbered pages.
     Use black type not smaller than 12 characters per one 
inch.
     Have one-inch border margins.
     Be printed on one side only of standard size 8\1/2\'' x 
11'' paper.
     Not be tabbed, glued, or placed in a plastic holder.
     Contained a narrative that does not exceed 14 typed pages 
that includes the below listed sections. (The 14-page narrative does 
not include the workplan, standard forms, Tribal resolution(s), table 
of contents, budget, budget justifications, multi-year narratives, 
multi-year budget, multi-year budget justifications, and/or other 
appendix items.)
     Introduction and Need for Assistance.
     Project Objectives(s), Approach, and Results and Benefits.
     Project Evaluation.
     Organizational Capabilities and Qualifications.
    Include in the application the following documents in the order 
presented:
     Application Receipt Record, IHS-815-1A (Rev. 3/05).
     FY 2006 TMG Application Checklist.
     FY 2006 General Information Page.
     Tribal Resolution (final signed or draft unsigned).
     Documentation for Priority I Participation (if 
applicable).
     Documentation for Priority II Participation (if 
applicable).
     Documentation of Consortium Participation (if applicable).
     Standard Form 424, Application for Federal Assistance.
     Standard Form 424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction 
Programs (pages 1-2).
     Standard Form 424B, Assurances--Non-Construction Programs 
(front and back). The application shall contain assurances to the 
Secretary that the applicant will comply with program regulations, 42 
CFR part 36, subpart H.
     Certifications (pages 17-19).
     PHS-5161 Checklist (pages 25-26).
     Disclosure of Lobbing Activities.
     Table of Contents with corresponding numbered pages.
     Project Narrative (not to exceed 14 typewritten pages--
should address first year only if project is a multi-year request).
     Categorical Budget and Budget Justification.

[[Page 24083]]

     Multi-year Objectives and Workplan with Multi-year 
Categorical Budget and Multi-year Budget Justifications (if 
applicable).
     Appendix Items.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    Applications must be received on or before Friday, August 12, 2005. 
Paper submissions must be received by the IHS by 5 p.m. eastern 
standard time. Electronic submissions must be received by the 
Grants.gov Web site by 11:59 p.m. eastern standard time.
    The anticipated start date of grants is January 1, 2006.
    The IHS is accepting paper and electronic applications for this 
cycle.
    Paper submission--to submit a paper application, include one 
original and two complete copies of the final proposal with all 
required signatures and documentation. Mark the original application 
with a cover sheet that states, ``Original Grant Application.'' Mail or 
hand-deliver applications to the Division of Grants Operations, Indian 
Health Service, 801 Thompson Avenue, Rockville, Maryland 20852. Please 
note: all mailed applications must be received on or before august 12, 
2005 by close of business (i.e. 5p.m. eastern standard time).
    Hand Delivered Proposals: Hand delivered proposals will be accepted 
from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. eastern standard time, Monday through Friday. 
Applications will be considered to meet the deadline if they are 
received on or before the deadline, with hand-carried applications 
received by close of business 5 p.m. For mailed applications, a dated, 
legible receipt from a commercial carrier or the U.S. Postal Service 
will be accepted in lieu of a postmark. Private metered postmarks will 
not be accepted as proof of timely mailing. Later applications not 
accepted for processing will be returned to the applicant and will not 
be considered for funding.
    Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services do 
not always deliver as agreed. IHS will not accommodate transmission of 
applications by Fax or E-Mail.
    Late application: Applications which do not meet the criteria above 
will be considered late. Late applications will be returned to the 
applicant and will not be considered for funding.
    Extension of deadlines: IHS may extend application deadlines when 
circumstances such as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur, or 
when there are widespread disruptions of mail service, or in other rare 
cases. Determination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests 
with the Chief Grants Management Officer and would appear as an 
amendment in Federal Register.
    Acknowledgment of Receipt: Acknowledgment of receipt of 
applications will be via the Application Receipt Card, IHS 815-1A (Rev. 
3/05).
    Electronic Submission--To submit an application electronically, 
please use the Grants.gov ``Apply'' Web site at http://www.grants.gov. 
The grants.gov Web site will allow applicants to download a copy of the 
application package, complete it offline, and then upload and submit 
the application. Electronic submissions must be submitted to and 
accepted by the Grants.gov Web site by 11:59 p.m. eastern standard 
time. Applicants are strongly encouraged to following the instructions 
exactly for successful submission. As previously noted, the IHS will 
not accommodate transmission of applications via e-mail.
    Applicants planning to submit an electronic application via the 
grants.gov Web site should note the following:
     Electronic submission is voluntary.
     Applicants entering the grants.gov Web site will find 
information regarding submitting an application electronically through 
the site, as well as the hours of operation. The IHS strongly 
recommends that applicants not wait until the deadline date to begin 
the application process through grants.gov.
     To use grants.gov, applicants must have a Dun and 
Broadstreet (DUNS) number and be registered in the Central Contractor 
Registry (CCR). Applicants should allow a minimum of five days to 
complete CCR registration. See item 6 of this section, ``Other 
Submission Requirements,'' for more information regarding the DUNS and 
CCR registration process.
     Applicants will not receive additional point value for 
submitting a grant application in the electronic format, nor will the 
IHS penalize applicants submitting an application in paper format.
     Applicants may submit all documents electronically, 
including all information typically included on the SF-424 and all 
necessary assurances and certifications.
     Applications must comply with page limitation requirements 
described in this program announcement.
     Applications submitted electronically will receive an 
automatic acknowledgment from the grants.gov Web site that contains a 
assigned grants.gov tracking number. The IHS will retrieve your 
application from the grants.gov Web site.
     Applicants may access the electronic application for this 
program on http://www.grants.gov.
     Applicants must search for the downloadable application 
package by CFDA number--93.228.

4. Intergovernmental Review

    Executive Order 12372 requiring intergovernmental review is not 
applicable to this program.

5. Funding Restrictions

Ineligible Project Activities
    The TMG may not be used to support recurring operational programs 
or to replace existing public and private resources. Note: The 
inclusion of the following projects or activities in an application 
will render the application ineligible and the application will be 
returned to the applicant:
     Planning and negotiating activities associated with the 
intent of a Tribe to enter the IHS Self-Governance Project. A separate 
grant program is administered by the IHS for this purpose. Prospective 
applicants interested in this program should contact Ms. Mary Trujillo, 
Office of Tribal Self-Governance, Indian Health Service, Reyes 
Building, 801 Thompson Avenue, Suite 240, Rockville, Maryland 20852, 
(301) 443-7821, and request information concerning the ``Tribal Self-
Governance Program Planning Cooperative Agreement Announcement'' or the 
``Negotiation Cooperative Agreement Announcement.''
     Projects related to water, sanitation, and waste 
management.
     Projects that include long-term care or provision of 
direct services.
     Projects that include tuition, fees, or stipends for 
certification or training of staff to provide direct services.
     Projects that include pre-planning, design, and planning 
of construction for facilities, including activities relating to 
Program Justification Documents.
     Projects that propose more than one project type. Please 
see Section II, ``Award Information'', specifically ``Eligible Project 
Types, Maximum Funding and Project Periods'' for more information. An 
example of a proposal with more than one project type that would be 
considered ineligible may include the creation of a strategic health 
plan (defined by TMG as a planning project type) and improving third-
party billing structures (defined by TMG as a health management 
structure project type).
    Other Limitations--A current TMG recipient cannot be awarded a new, 
general, or competing continuation grant for any of the following 
reasons:

[[Page 24084]]

     A grantee may not administer two TMGs at the same time or 
have overlapping project/budget periods;
     The current project is not progressing in a satisfactory 
manner; or
     The current project is not in compliance with program and 
financial reporting requirements.
    Delinquent Federal Debts: No award shall be made to an applicant 
who has an outstanding delinquent Federal debt until either:
     The delinquent account is paid in full; or
     A negotiated repayment schedule is established and at 
least one payment is received.

6. Other Submission Requirements

    Beginning October 1, 2003, applicants were required to have a DUNS 
number to apply for a grant or cooperative agreement from the Federal 
Government. The DUNS number is a nine-digit identification number which 
uniquely identifies business entities. Obtaining a DUNS number is easy 
and there is no charge. To obtain a DUNS number, access 
www.dunandbradstreet.com at http://www.dunandbradstreet.com or call 1-
866-705-5711. Interested parties may wish to obtain their DUNS number 
by phone to expedite the process.
    To submit an application electronically, applicants must also be 
registered with the CCR. A DUNS number is required before CCR 
registration can be completed. Many organizations may already have a 
DUNS number. Please use the number listed above to investigate whether 
or not your organization has a DUNS number. Registration with the CCR 
is free of charge. Applicants may register by calling 1-888-227-2423. 
Please review and complete the CCR ``Registration Worksheet'' located 
in the appendix of the TMG application kit or on http://www.grants.gov/CCRRegister.
    More detailed information regarding these registration processes 
can be found at http://www.grants.gov.

V. Application Review Information

    The instructions for preparing the application narrative also 
constitute the evaluation criteria for reviewing and scoping the 
application. Weights assigned to each section are noted in parentheses. 
The 14-page narrative should include only the first year of activities; 
information for multi-year projects should be included as an appendix. 
See ``Multi-year Project Requirements'' at the end of this section for 
more information.

1. Criteria

Introduction and Need for Assistance (20 Points)

    A. Describe the Tribe's/Tribal organization's current health 
operation. Include what programs and services are currently provided 
(i.e., Federally funded, State funded, etc.), information regarding 
technologies currently used (i.e., hardware, software, services, etc.), 
and identify the source(s) of technical support for those technologies 
(i.e., Tribal staff, Area Office, vendor, etc.). Include information 
regarding whether the Tribe/Tribal organization has a health department 
and/or health board and how long it has been operating.
    B. Describe the population to be served by proposed project. 
Include a description of the number of IHS eligible beneficiaries who 
currently use services.
    C. Describe the geographic location of the proposed project 
including any geographic barriers to the health care users in the area 
to be served.
    D. Identify all previous TMGs received, dates of funding, and 
summary of project accomplishments. State how previous TMG funds 
facilitated the progression of health development relative to the 
current proposed project. (Copies of reports will not be accepted).
    E. Identify the eligible project type and priority group of the 
applicant.
    F. Explain the reason for your proposed project by identifying 
specific gaps or weaknesses in services or infrastructure that will be 
addressed by the proposed project. Explain how these gaps/weaknesses 
were discovered. If proposed project includes information technology 
(i.e., hardware, software, etc.) provide further information regarding 
measures taken or to be taken that ensure the proposed project will not 
create other gaps in services or infrastructure (i.e., IHS interface 
capability, Government Performance Reporting Act reporting 
requirements, contract reporting requirements, Information Technology 
(IT) compatibility, etc.).
    G. Describe the effect of the proposed project on current programs 
(i.e., Federally funded, State funded, etc.) and, if applicable, on 
current equipment (i.e., hardware, software, services, etc.). Include 
the affect of the proposed project on planned/anticipated programs and/
or equipment.
    H. Address how the proposed project relates to the purpose of the 
TMG Program by addressing the appropriate description that follows:
     Identify if the Tribe.Tribal organization is a Title I 
contractor. Address if the self-determination contract is a master 
contract of several programs or if individual contracts are used for 
each program. Include information regarding whether or not the Tribe 
participates in a consortium contact (i.e., than one Tribe 
participating in a contract). Address what programs are currently 
provided through those contracts and how the proposed project will 
enhance the organization's capacity to manage the contracts currently 
in place.
     Identify if the Tribe/Tribal organization is a Title V 
compactor. Address when the Tribe/Tribal organization entered into the 
compact and how the proposed project will further enhance the 
organization's management capabilities. Identify if the Tribe/Tribal 
organization is not a Title I or Title V organization. Address how the 
proposed project will enhance the organization's management 
capabilities, what programs and services the organization is currently 
seeking to contract, and an anticipated date for contract.

Project Objective(s), Workplan and Consultants (40 Points)

    A. Identify the proposed project objective(s) addressing the 
following:
     Measurable and (if applicable) quantifiable.
     Outcome oriented.
     Time-limited.
    Example: The Tribe will increase the number of bills processed by 
15% by installing new software by the end of 12 months.
    B. Address how the proposed project will result in change or 
improvement in program operations or processes for each proposed 
project objective. Also address what tangible products are expected 
from the project (i.e., policies and procedures manual).
    C. Address the extent to which the proposed project will build the 
local capacity to provide, improve, or expand services that address the 
need of the target population.
    D. Submit a workplan in the appendix which includes the following 
information:
     Provide the action steps on a timeline for accomplishing 
the proposed project objective(s).
     Identify who will perform the action steps.
     Identify who will supervise the action steps taken.
     Identify who will accept and/or approve work projects at 
the end of the proposed project.
     Include any training that will take place during the 
proposed project and who will be attending the training.

[[Page 24085]]

     Include evaluation activities planned.
    E. If consultants or contractors will be used during the proposed 
project, please include the following information in their scope of 
work (or note if consultants/contractors will not be used):
     Educational requirements.
     Desired qualifications and work experience.
     Expected work products to be delivered on a timeline. If a 
potential consultant/contractor has already been identified, please 
include a resume in the appendix.
    F. Describe what updates (i.e., revision of policies/procedures, 
upgrades, technical support, etc.) will be required for the continued 
success of the proposed project. Include when these updates are 
anticipated and where funds will come from to conduct the update and/or 
maintenance.

Project Evaluation (15 Points)

    Each proposed project objective should have an evaluation component 
and the evaluation activities should appear on the work plan.
    A. Please address the following for each of proposed objective:
     What data will be collected to evaluate the success of the 
objective(s).
     How and when the data will be collected.
     Who will collect the data.
    B. Explain how the data demonstrates the change brought about by 
the proposed project objective.
    C. Describe any future evaluation efforts for the proposed project 
that will be conducted after the expiration of the grant.

Organizational Capabilities and Qualifications (15 Points)

    A. Describe the organizational structure of the Tribe/Tribal 
organization beyond health care activities.
    B. Provide information regarding plans to obtain management systems 
if the Tribe/Tribal organization does not have an established 
management system currently in place that complies with 25 CFR part 
900, subpart F, ``Standards for Tribal Management Systems''. If 
management systems are already in place, simply note it. (A copy of the 
25 CFR part 900, subpart F, is available in the TMG application kit.)
    C. Describe the ability of the organization to manage the proposed 
project. Include information regarding similarly sized projects in 
scope and financial assistance as well as other grants and projects 
sucessfully completed.
    D. Describe what equipment (i.e., fax machine, phone, computer, 
etc.) and facility space (i.e., office space) will be available for use 
during the proposed project. Include information about any equipment 
not currently available that will be purchased through the grant.
    E. List key personnel who will work on the project. Include title 
used in the workplan. In the appendix, include position descriptions 
and resumes for all key personnel. Position descriptions should clearly 
describe each position and duties, indicating desired qualifications 
and experience requirements related to the proposed project. Resumes 
must indicate that the proposed staff memeber is qualified to carry out 
the proposed project activities. If a position is to be filled, 
indicate that information on the proposed position description.
    F. If the project requires additional personnel (i.e., IT support, 
etc.), address how the Tribe/Tribal organization will sustain the 
position(s) after the grant expires. (If there is no need for 
additional personnel, simply note it.)

Categorical Budget and Budget Justification (10 Points)

    A. Provide a categorical budget for each of the 12-month budget 
periods requested.
    B. If indirect costs are claimed, indicate and apply the current 
negotiated rate to the budget. Include a copy of the rate agreement in 
the appendix.
    C. Provide a narrative justification explaining why each line item 
is necessary/relevant to the proposed project. Include sufficient cost 
and other details to facilitate the determination of cost allowability 
(i.e., equipment specifications, etc.).

Multi-Year Project Requirements

    Projects requiring a second and/or third year must include a 
narrative addressing the second and/or third year's project objectives, 
evaluation components, work plan, categorical budget, and budget 
justification.

Appendix Items

     Workplan for proposed objectives.
     Position descriptions for key staff.
     Resumes of key staff that reflect current duties.
     Consultant proposed scope of work (if applicable).
     Indirect Cost Agreement.
     Organizational chart (optional).
     Multi-Year Project Requirements (if applicable).

2. Review Selection Process

    In addition to the above criteria/requirements, applications are 
considered according to the following:
A. Application Submission (Application Deadline: August 12, 2005)
    Applications received in advance of or by the deadline and verified 
by the postmark will undergo a preliminary review to determine that:
     The applicant and proposed project type is eligible in 
accordance with this grant announcement.
     The application is not a duplication of a previously 
funded project.
     The application narrative, forms, and materials submitted 
meet the requirements of the announcement allowing the review panel to 
undertake an indepth evaluation; otherwise, it may be returned.
B. Competitive Review of Eligible Applications (Objective Review: 
October 3-7, 2005)
    Applications meeting eligibility requirements that are complete, 
responsible, and conform to this program announcement will be reviewed 
for merit by the Ad Hoc Objective Review Committee (ORC) appointed by 
the IHS to review and make recommendations on these applications. The 
review will be conducted in accordance with the IHS Objective Review 
Guidelines. The technical review process ensures selection of quality 
projects in a national competition for limited funding. Applications 
will be evaluated and rated on the basis of the evaluation criteria 
listed in Section V.1. The criteria are used to evaluate the quality of 
a proposed project, determine the likelihood of success, and assign a 
numerical score to each application. The scoring of approved 
applications will assist the IHS in determining which proposals will be 
funded if the amount of TMG funding is not sufficient to support all 
approved applications. Applications recommended for approval, having a 
score of 60 or above by the ORC and scored high enough to be considered 
for funding, are forwarded by the Division of Grant Operations to the 
Area Offices for cost analysis and further recommendation. The program 
official accepts the Area Office Contract Proposal Liaison Officers' 
recommendations for consideration when funding applications. The 
program official forwards the final approved list to the Director, 
Office of Tribal Programs, for final review and approval. Applications 
scoring below 60 points will be

[[Page 24086]]

disapproved and returned to the applicant. Applications that are 
approved but not funded will not be carried over into the next cycle 
for funding consideration.
C. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates
    The IHS anticipates an award start date of January 1, 2006.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices

    Notification: Second week of November 2005. The Director, Office of 
Tribal Programs, or program official, will notify the contact person 
identified on each proposal of the results in writing via postal mail. 
Applicants whose applications are declared ineligible will receive 
written notification of the ineligibility determination and their 
original grant application via postal mail. The ineligible notification 
will include information regarding the rationale for the ineligible 
decision citing specific information from the original grant 
application. Applicants who are approved but unfunded and disapproved 
will receive a copy of the Executive Summary which identifies the 
weaknesses and strengths of the application submitted. Applicants which 
are approved and funded will be notified through the official Notice of 
Grant Award (NGA) document. The NGA will serve as the official 
notification of a grant award and will state the amount of Federal 
funds awarded, the purpose of the grant, the terms and conditions of 
the grant award, the effective date of the award, the project period, 
and the budget period. Any other correspondence announcing to the 
Applicant's Project Director that an application was recommended for 
approval is not an authorization to begin performance. Pre-award costs 
are not allowable charges under this program grant.

2. Administrative and National Policy requirements

    Grants are administered in accordance with the following documents:
     This grant announcement.
     Health and Human Services regulations governing Public Law 
93-638 grants at 42 CFR 36.101 et seq.
     45 CFR part 92, ``Department of Health and Human Services, 
Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Cooperative 
Agreements to State and local Governments Including Indian Tribes,'' or 
45 CFR part 74, ``Administration of Grants to Non-Profit Recipients''.
     Public Health Service Grants Policy Statement.
     Grants Policy Directives.
     Appropriate Cost Principles: OMB Circular A-87, ``State 
and Local Governments,'' or OMB Circular A-122, ``Non profit 
Organizations''.
     OMB Circular A-133, ``Audits of States, Local Governments, 
and Non-Profit Organizations''.
     Other Applicable OMB circulars.23. Reporting
     Progress Report--Program progress reports are required 
semi-annually. These reports will include a brief comparison of actual 
accomplishments to the goals established for the period, reasons for 
slippage (if applicable), and other pertinent information as required. 
A final report must be submitted within 90 days of expiration of the 
budget/project period.
     Financial Status Report--Semi annual financial status 
reports must be submitted within 30 days of the end of the half year. 
Final financial status reports are due within 90 days of expiration of 
the budget/project period. Standard Form 269 (long form) will be used 
for financial reporting.

VII. Agency Contact(s)

    Interested parties may obtain TMG programmatic information from the 
TMG Program Coordinator through the information listed under Section IV 
of this program announcement. Grant-related and business management 
information may be obtained from the Grants Management Specialist 
through the information listed under Section IV of this program 
announcement. Please note that the telephone numbers provided are not 
toll-free.

VIII. Other Information

    The IHS will have four training sessions to assist applicants in 
preparing their FY 2006 TMG application. There will be one 5-day 
training session and three 2-day training sessions. The 5-day training 
session will provide participants with basic grant writing skills, 
information regarding where to search for funding opportunities, and 
the opportunity to begin writing a TMG grant proposal. The 2-day 
training sessions will focus specifically on the TMG requirements 
providing participants with information contained in this announcement, 
clarifying any issues/questions applicants may have, and critiquing 
project ideas. In an effort to make the 2-day training sessions 
productive, participants are expected to bring draft proposals to these 
meetings.
    Priority will be given to groups eligible to apply for the TMG 
Program.
    Participation is limited to two personnel from each Tribe or Tribal 
organization. All sessions are first come--first serve with the above 
limitations noted. All participants are responsible formaking and 
paying for their own travel arrangements. Interested parties should 
register with the TMG staff prior to making travel arrangements to 
ensure space is available in selected session. There is no registration 
fee to attend the training session(s). The registration form may be 
obtained from the application kit or by accessing the TMG Web site at: 
http://www.ihs.gov/nonmedicalprograms/tmg/index.asp. The registration 
form may be faxed to (301) 443-4666. The training dates are listed 
below in chronological order and the training sessions will take place 
in the hotel identified:
     May 23-27, 2005--Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Limit 26; 
Registration/Reservation deadline: May 6, 2005), Crowne Plaza, 2945 
Northwest Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK 73112, (405) 848-4811--
Reference: IHS TMG, Hotel rate: $66.00/single or double plus 13.875% 
tax.
     June 15-16, 2005--Albuquerque, New Mexico (Limit 24; 
Registration/Reservation deadline: May 27, 2005), Courtyard Albuquerque 
Airport, 1920 Yale Boulevard, Albuquerque, NM 87106, (505) 843-6600--
Reference: IHS TMG, Hotel rate: $68.00/single or double plus 12.0625% 
tax.
     June 29-30, 2005--Seattle, Washington (Limit 24; 
Registration/Reservation deadline: June 11, 2005), Holiday Inn Express 
City Center, 211 Dexter Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109, (206) 728-
8123--Reference: IHS TMG, Hotel rate: $119.00/single or double plus 
15.6% tax.
     July 13-14, 2004--Grand Rapids, Michigan (Limit 24; 
Registration/Reservation deadline: June 24, 2005), AmeriSuites Grand 
Rapids/Airport, 5401 28th Street Court SE., Grand Rapids, MI 49546, 
(616) 940-8100--Reference: IHS TMG, Hotel rate: $74.00/single or double 
plus 13% tax.
    The Public Health Service (PHS) strongly encourages all grant and 
contract recipients to provide a smoke-free workplace and promote the 
non-use of all tobacco products. In addition, Public Law 103-227, the 
Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in certain facilities (or 
in some cases, any portion of the facility) in which regular or routine 
education, library, day care, health care or early childhood 
development services are provided to children. This is consistent with 
the PHS mission to protect and advance the physical and mental health 
of the American people.


[[Page 24087]]


    Dated: April 28, 2005.
Phyllis Eddy,
Acting Deputy Director, Indian Health Service.
[FR Doc. 05-9013 Filed 5-5-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4165-16-M