[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 133 (Wednesday, July 13, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 40311-40318]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-13752]


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Rural Business-Cooperative Service


Request for Proposals: Fiscal Year 2005 Funding Opportunity for 
1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Program Outreach 
Initiative

AGENCY: Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA.

ACTION: Initial notice.

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SUMMARY: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) announces the 
availability of a yet undetermined amount of funding in competitive 
cooperative agreement funds allocated from USDA Rural Development's 
fiscal year (FY) 2005 salaries and expense budget. A separate notice 
will be published when the funding level has been determined. RBS 
hereby requests proposals from 1890 Land Grant Universities and 
Tuskegee University (1890 Institutions) for competitively awarded 
cooperative agreements for projects that support USDA Rural 
Development's goals and objectives of providing technical assistance 
for business creation in economically challenged rural communities, for 
educational programs to develop and improve upon the professional 
skills of rural entrepreneurs, and for outreach and promotion of USDA 
Rural Development's programs in small rural communities with the 
greatest economic need. Project proposals must be designed to overcome 
currently identified economic problems and lead to sustainable economic 
development. Project proposals that address both traditional and 
nontraditional business enterprises are encouraged. This initiative 
seeks to create a working partnership between USDA Rural Development 
and the 1890 Institutions through cooperative agreements. A cooperative 
agreement requires substantial involvement of the government agency in 
carrying out the objectives of the project.
    Cooperative agreements will be awarded to the project proposals 
receiving the highest scores as determined by a peer review panel of 
USDA employees knowledgeable of the subject matter. Awards will be made 
to

[[Page 40312]]

the extent that funds are available; however, USDA Rural Development is 
making no commitment to fund any particular project proposal or to make 
a specific number of awards. Eligible applicants must provide matching 
funds equal to at least 25 percent of the total project costs.
    This Notice sets forth the information required lists the 
information needed to submit an application for these funds.

DATES: Applications must be submitted by 4 p.m., eastern time on August 
29, 2005. Proposals received after 4 p.m. eastern time on August 29, 
2005, will not be considered for funding.

ADDRESSES: You may obtain application guides and materials for the 1890 
Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Outreach and Development 
Initiative at the following Internet Address: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/oa/1890.htm or by contacting Mr. Edgar L. 
Lewis, Program Manager, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA, Mail 
Stop 3252, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-3252. 
Telephone: (202) 690-3407, E-mail: [email protected].
    Final paper applications for an 1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural 
Entrepreneurial Program Outreach Initiative cooperative agreement may 
be submitted via the Postal Service to Cooperative Programs, Attention: 
1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Program Outreach 
Initiative Program, USDA, Mail Stop 3250, 1400 Independence Ave., SW., 
Washington, DC 20250, or UPS, Federal Express, or similar delivery 
service to Cooperative Programs, Attention: 1890 Land Grant 
Institutions' Rural Entrepreneurial Program Outreach Initiative 
Program, USDA Room 4016, 1400 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC 
20250. The phone number that should be used for FedEX or similar 
packages is (202) 720-7558.
    Submit electronic cooperative agreement applications using the 
Grants.gov Web site at http://www.grants.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Edgar L. Lewis, Program Manager, 
Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA, Stop 3252, Room 4221, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-3252. Telephone:(202) 
690-3407, E-mail: [email protected], or visit the program Web site 
at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/oa/1890.htm.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Overview

    Federal Agency: Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS).
    Funding Opportunity Title: 1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural 
Entrepreneurial Outreach and Development Initiative.
    Announcement Type: Initial Announcement.
    Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 10.856.
    Key Dates: Cooperative agreement applications must be received by 4 
p.m. eastern time, August 29, 2005. Proposals received after 4 p.m., 
August 29, 2005, will not be considered for funding.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    This solicitation is issued pursuant to 7 U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4) and 
Executive Order 13256 (February 12, 2002), ``President's Board of 
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.''
    Several other Federal statutes and regulations apply to project 
proposals considered for review and to cooperative agreements awarded. 
These include, but are not limited to:

7 CFR part 15, subpart A--Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted 
Programs of the Department of Agriculture--Effectuation of Title VI of 
the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
7 CFR part 3015--Uniform Federal Assistance Regulations.
7 CFR part 3017--Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension 
(Nonprocurement).
7 CFR part 3018--New Restrictions on Lobbying.
7 CFR part 3019--Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and 
Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other 
Non-Profit Organizations.
7 CFR part 3021--Governmentwide Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace 
(Financial Assistance).
7 CFR part 3052--Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit 
Organizations.

    RBS was established under the authority of the Department of 
Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994. The mission of RBS is to 
enhance the quality of life for rural Americans by providing leadership 
in building competitive businesses including sustainable cooperatives 
that can prosper in the global marketplace. RBS meets these goals by 
investing financial resources and providing technical assistance to 
cooperatives and other businesses located in rural communities and 
establishing strategic alliances and partnerships that leverage public, 
private, and cooperative resources to create jobs and stimulate rural 
economic activity.
    The primary purposes of the 1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural 
Entrepreneurial Program Outreach Initiative are to encourage 1890 
Institutions to provide technical assistance for business creation in 
economically challenged rural communities, to conduct educational 
programs that develop and improve upon the professional skills of rural 
entrepreneurs, and to provide outreach and promote USDA Rural 
Development programs in small rural communities with the greatest 
economic need. Project proposals must be designed to overcome currently 
identified economic problems and lead to sustainable economic 
development. Project proposals that address both traditional and 
nontraditional business enterprises are encouraged.
    RBS will use cooperative agreements with the 1890 Institutions to 
strengthen the capacity of these communities to undertake innovative, 
comprehensive, citizen-led, long-term strategies for community and 
economic development. The cooperative agreements will be for an 
outreach and development effort to promote Rural Development programs 
in targeted underserved rural communities and shall include, but not be 
limited to:
    (a) Developing a business startup program including technical 
assistance, to assist new cooperatives and other businesses with new 
business development, business planning, franchise startup and 
consulting, business expansion studies, marketing analysis, cash flow 
management, and seminars and workshops for cooperatives and small 
businesses;
    (b) Developing management and technical assistance plans that will:
    (1) Assess cooperative and small business alternatives to 
traditional agricultural and other natural resource based industries;
    (2) Assist in the development of business plans or loan packages, 
marketing, or bookkeeping; and
    (3) Assist and train cooperatives and small businesses in customer 
relations, product development, or business planning and development.
    (c) Assessing local community weaknesses and strengths, feasible 
alternatives to agricultural production, and the necessary 
infrastructure to expand or develop new or existing businesses;
    (d) Providing community leaders with advice and recommendations 
regarding best practices in community economic development stimulus 
programs for their communities;
    (e) Conducting seminars to disseminate information to stimulate 
business and economic development in selected rural communities; and

[[Page 40313]]

    (f) Conducting outreach through use of computer technology and 
maintaining an internet web presence which links community leaders and 
residents to available economic development information.
    Funds may not be used to: (a) Pay costs of preparing the 
application package; (b) fund political activities; (c) pay costs prior 
to the effective date of the cooperative agreement; (d) provide for 
revolving funds; (e) do construction; (f) conduct any activities where 
there is or may appear to be a conflict of interest; or (g) purchase 
real estate.

II. Awards

    Program awards will be made through cooperative agreements between 
RBS and the 1890s Institutions receiving the highest scores on their 
project proposals. The maximum amount of Federal funds awarded for any 
one proposal will be $100,000.
    If an applicant is to receive an award that is less than the amount 
requested, the applicant will be required to modify the application to 
conform to the reduced amount before execution of the cooperative 
agreement. RBS reserves the right to reduce or de-obligate any award if 
acceptable modifications are not submitted by the awardee(s) within 10 
working days from the date the application is returned to the 
applicant. Any modification must be within the scope of the original 
application.
    Throughout the project period, USDA Rural Development's continued 
commitment to advance funds will be conditioned upon evidence of 
satisfactory progress by the recipient (as documented in certified 
acceptable quarterly progress and financial reports), and the 
determination that continued funding is in the best interest of U.S. 
Government.

III. Eligibility Requirements

1. Applicant Eligibility

    To be eligible for an award under this program, an applicant must:
    (a) Be an 1890 Institution which includes: Alabama A&M University; 
University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff; Delaware State University; Florida 
A&M University; Fort Valley State University; Kentucky State 
University; Southern University and A&M College; University of 
Maryland-Eastern Shore; Alcorn State University; Langston University; 
North Carolina A&T State University; Lincoln University (Missouri); 
South Carolina State University; Tennessee State University; Prairie 
View A&M University; Virginia State University; and West Virginia State 
University; and Tuskegee University. RBS will accept only one 
application per institution under this program. In the event that more 
than one application is submitted, the 1890 Institution's president 
will determine the official application for consideration;
    (b) Demonstrate that the personnel assigned to the project have the 
expertise and experience necessary to fulfill the tasks set forth in 
the project proposal. Applicants should demonstrate a previous record 
of successful implementation of similar projects;
    (c) Demonstrate expertise in the use of computer technologies to 
provide technical assistance and access to Internet web sites; and
    (d) Submit a completed application as set forth in Section IV.3.
    An applicant may subcontract with organizations not eligible to 
apply provided such organizations are necessary for the conduct of the 
project. However, the subcontracted amount may not exceed one-third of 
the total Federal award.

2. Project Eligibility

    To be eligible for an award under this program, an applicant must:
    (a) Demonstrate that the project eligible beneficiaries are located 
in a rural area as defined in 7 U.S.C. 1991(a)(13)(A) with a 
demonstrated economic need. Eligible beneficiaries must also be located 
in communities that show significant community support for the 
proposal;
    (b) Provide matching funds equal to at least 25 percent of the 
total project costs; and
    (c) Establish and maintain an internet web presence linked to the 
USDA Rural Development web site. This web site should contain links to 
additional economic development function that will benefit residents 
and community leaders.

3. Rural Area Definition

    Rural underserved targeted counties/communities must be an area 
other than a city or town that has a population of greater than 50,000 
inhabitants and the urbanized area contiguous and adjacent to such a 
city or town, as defined by the U.S. Bureau of Census using the latest 
decennial census of the United States.

4. Matching Funds

    Matching funds may be provided by either the applicant or third 
party in the form of either cash or in-kind contributions and must be 
from non-Federal funds. Matching funds must be spent in proportion to 
the spending of funds received from the cooperative agreement. 
Applicants must verify in their applications that matching funds are 
available for the time period of the cooperative agreement.

IV. Application Process

1. Application Packages

    If an institution plans to apply using a paper application, 
application packages, including the required forms for this funding 
opportunity, may be obtained from http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/oa/1890.htm. If an institution does not have access to the Internet, or if 
it is having difficulty accessing the forms online, it may contact the 
RBS at (202) 690-3407 or FAX (202) 690-2723. The application forms and 
instructions may also be requested via e-mail by sending a message with 
the contact person's name, mailing address, and phone number to 
[email protected]. The application forms and instructions will 
be mailed as quickly as possible. When calling or e-mailing RBS, please 
indicate that you are requesting application forms and instructions for 
FY 2005 1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Outreach and 
Development Initiative.
    If an institution plans to apply electronically, the forms must be 
obtained from http://www.grants.gov.

2. Application Submission

    Applications must be received in the RBS National Office by 4 p.m. 
eastern time on August 29, 2005. Proposals received after 4 p.m. 
eastern time on August 29, 2005, will not be considered for funding. 
The applicant assumes the risk of any delay in proposal delivery. 
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit completed applications 
electronically or via overnight mail or delivery service to ensure 
timely receipt by RBS. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged 
by e-mail. Therefore, applicants are strongly encouraged to provide 
accurate e-mail addresses. If the applicant does not receive an 
acknowledgment within 7 work days of the submission deadline, please 
contact the program manager. If RBS receives your application after the 
deadline due to: (a) Carrier error, when the carrier accepted the 
package with guarantee for delivery by the closing date and time, or 
(b) Significant weather delays or natural disaster, you will be given 
the opportunity to document these problems. RBS will consider the 
application as having been received by the deadline if your 
documentation meets these requirements and verifies the delay was 
beyond your control. Applications submitted via facsimile will not be 
accepted.

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    An institution may submit its application in paper or in an 
electronic format. If a paper application is submitted, a signed 
original and two copies of the completed application must be submitted. 
The original and 2 copies must include all required forms, 
certifications, assurances, project proposal document, and appendices, 
be signed by an authorized representative of the institution, contain 
original signatures, and be submitted unbound.
    A paper application submitted via the Postal Service must be 
addressed to Cooperative Programs, Attention: 1890 Land Grant 
Institutions' Rural Entrepreneurial Program Outreach Initiative 
Program, USDA, Mail Stop 3250, 1400 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, 
DC 20250. A paper application submitted via UPS, Federal Express, or 
similar delivery service must be addressed to Cooperative Programs, 
Attention: 1890 Land Grant Institutions' Rural Entrepreneurial Program 
Outreach Initiative Program, USDA Room 4016, 1400 Independence Ave., 
SW., Washington, DC 20250. The phone number to be used for FedEX or 
similar packages is (202) 720-7558.
    If an application is submitted electronically, the application must 
be submitted at http://www.grants.gov. Applicants are advised to visit 
the site well in advance of the application deadline if they plan to 
apply electronically to insure that they have obtained the proper 
authentication and have sufficient computer resources to complete the 
application.
    All Federal grant applicants must provide a Dun and Bradstreet Data 
Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number when applying for Federal 
grants and cooperative agreements. The DUNS number is required whether 
an applicant is submitting a paper application or using the government-
wide electronic portal Grants.gov. A DUNS number is required for every 
application for a new award or renewal/continuation of an award, 
including applications or plans under formula, entitlement and block 
grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003. Please ensure 
that your institution has a DUNS number. An institution may acquire a 
DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free DUNS number 
request line on 1-866-705-5711 or on-line at http://www.dnd.com.
    If an institution's application does not contain a DUNS number 
field, please write the DUNS number at the top of the first page of the 
application, and/or include the DUNS number in the application cover 
letter.

3. Completed Application

    To be eligible for funding, an application must contain all of the 
following elements. Any application that is missing any element or 
contains an incomplete element will not be considered for funding.
    (a) Completed forms.
    (1) Form SF-424, ``Application for Federal Assistance.''
    (2) Form SF-424A, ``Budget Information--Non-Construction 
Programs,'' including Sections A, B, C, and D. The applicant must 
include both federal and matching funds.
    (3) Form SF-424B, ``Assurances--Non-Construction Programs.''
    (4) Form AD-1047, ``Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, 
and Other Responsibility Matters--Primary Covered Transactions.''
    (5) Form AD-1049, ``Certification Regarding Drug-Free Workplace 
Requirements.''
    (b) Letters of support.
    (c) Table of Contents: For ease of locating information, each 
proposal must contain a detailed Table of Contents immediately 
following the required forms. The Table of Contents should include page 
numbers for each component of the proposal. Pagination should begin 
immediately following the Table of Contents. Provide page numbers in 
the Table of Contents where each evaluation criterion is addressed.
    (d) Project Executive Summary: A summary of the Project Proposal, 
not to exceed one page.
    (e) Project Proposal: The application must contain a narrative 
statement describing the nature of the proposed project. Each of the 
proposal evaluation criteria referenced in this funding announcement 
must be addressed, specifically and individually in narrative form. The 
proposal must include at least the following:
    (1) Project Title Page. The Title Page must include the following: 
Title of the project, names of principal investigators, and applicant 
organization.
    (2) Introduction. A concisely worded justification or rationale for 
the proposal must be presented. Summarize the social and economical 
statistical data (income, population, employment rate, poverty rate, 
education attainment, etc.), for the project area that substantiates 
the need for the initiative. Specify, whether the target area includes 
an Empowerment Zone/Enterprise Community, Champion Community, 
Federally-recognized Indian reservation or other Federally declared 
economic disaster area. An applicant should address the ``Economic Need 
of Community'' evaluation criterion in Section VII.1.(c).
    (3) Workplan. Discuss the approach (strategy) to be used in 
carrying out the proposed project outreach and achieving the proposed 
objectives. Address the ``Statement of Work'' evaluation criterion in 
Section VII.1.(e). A description of any subcontracting arrangements to 
be used in carrying out the proposed project must be included. The 
workplan also must include:
    (i) Overview: Identify and discuss the specific goals and 
objectives of the proposed project and its impact on the proposed 
beneficiaries;
    (ii) Timeframes: Develop a tentative timeline for completing the 
major tasks outlined in the project proposal;
    (iii) Milestones: Describe and quantify the expected outcomes of 
the proposed project, including the businesses created, professionals 
trained, jobs created or assisted, conferences and seminars conducted, 
and number of participants, loans packaged, etc.;
    (iv) Recipient involvement: Identify the person(s) responsible for 
performing the project tasks; and
    (v) USDA Rural Development involvement: Identify USDA Rural 
Development responsibilities for assisting and monitoring project 
tasks;
    (4) Estimated Budget. Provide a detailed budget justification, 
showing both federal and applicant's matching funds, including in-kind 
contributions. Provide a budget to support the work plan showing all 
sources and uses of funds during the project period. Detail and 
document both cash and in-kind by sources. Note that only goods and 
services for which no expenditure is made can be considered in-kind. If 
the applicant is paying for the goods and services as part of the 
matching funds contribution, the expenditure is considered a cash 
match, and should be verified as such.
    (5) Certification of Matching Funds. Certify that matching funds 
will be available at the same time Federal funds are anticipated to be 
spent and that matching funds will be spent in advance of Federal 
funding, such that for every dollar of Federal funds advanced or 
reimbursed, the applicant will have spent no less in proportion to the 
spending of Federal funds received from the cooperative agreement prior 
to submitting the request for reimbursement or advance. Please note 
that this certification is a separate requirement from the verification 
of Matching Funds requirement.
    (6) Leveraging Funds. Discuss in narrative form how the institution 
will use other Federal, State, private, and

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other sources of funds and resources to leverage the proposed project.
    (7) Coordination and Management Plan. Describe how the project will 
be coordinated among the various participants, the nature of the 
collaborations and benefits to participants, the communities, the 
applicant, and Rural Development. Describe your plans for the 
management of the project to ensure its proper and efficient 
administration. Describe the scope of Rural Development's involvement 
in the project.
    (8) Technology Outreach. The project proposal must address the 
applicant's ability to deliver computer technology to the targeted 
rural communities and maintain computer Internet Web sites linking 
community leaders and residents to available economic development 
information. Address the ``Digital Technology Outreach'' evaluation 
criterion in this Section VII.1.(f).
    (9) Key Personnel Support. Provide the curriculum vitae for the key 
personnel used to carry out the goals and objectives of the proposal.
    (10) Facilities or Equipment. Identify where the project will be 
located (housed) and what additional equipment is needed or already 
available to carry out the specific objectives of the project.
    (11) Previous Accomplishments. Summarize the institution's previous 
outreach and development accomplishments work funded by USDA Rural 
Development or similar outreach or development experiences. This is 
especially important for first time applicants. Address the ``Previous 
Accomplishments'' evaluation criterion in Section VII.1.(d).
    (12) Local and USDA Rural Development State Office Support. Provide 
letters of support from the local community such as businesses, 
educational institutions, local governments, community-based 
organizations, etc. Letters of support should demonstrate commitments 
for tangible resources and or assistance. Include any letter from the 
appropriate USDA Rural Development State Office evidencing its 
opportunity for input into your proposal and its involvement. Identify 
and discuss tangible support contained in the letters.
    (13) Additional information. Provide any additional information 
that demonstrates commitment for tangible resources and or that 
supports your proposal. Additionally you are encouraged to provide any 
strategic plan that has been developed to assist cooperative and 
business development or entrepreneurship for the targeted communities.

V. Intergovernmental Review of Applications

    Executive Order 12372 does apply to this program.

VI. Funding Restrictions

    Based on Section 708 of Title 7 Consolidated Appropriations Act 
2004, (Pub. L. 108-199) ``No funds appropriated by this Act may be used 
to pay negotiated indirect cost rates on cooperative agreements or 
similar arrangements between the United States Department of 
Agriculture and nonprofit institutions in excess of 10 percent of the 
total cost of the agreement when the purpose of such cooperative 
arrangement is to carry out programs of mutual interest between the two 
parties.'' Other funding restrictions are identified in Section III.

VII. Application Review

    1. Criteria--Project proposals will be evaluated using the 
following seven criteria. Each criterion is given the weight value 
shown with total points equal to 100. The points assigned provide an 
indication of the relative importance of each section and will be used 
by the reviewers in evaluating the proposals. Points do not have to be 
awarded for each criterion. After all proposals have been evaluated, 
the Administrator may award an additional 10 discretionary points to 
any proposal to obtain the broadest geographic distribution of the 
funds, ensure a broad diversity of project proposals, or ensure a broad 
diversity in the size of the awards.
    (a) Support of Local Community (Up to 10 points)--This criterion 
evaluates the support of local government, educational, community, and 
business groups. Higher points will be awarded for proposals 
demonstrating broad support from all components of the communities 
served, particularly cooperative groups. Broad support is demonstrated 
by tangible contributions, such as providing volunteers, computers, or 
transportation or co-sponsoring workshops and conferences. Points will 
be awarded based on the level of tangible contribution in comparison to 
the size of the award. Tangible support must be stated in letters from 
supporting entities.
    (b) Matching Funds/Leveraging (Up to 10 points)--This criterion 
evaluates the extent to which the institution has the capacity to 
support the project with matching funds and leveraging additional funds 
and resources from State, private, public and non-profit sources to 
carry out this outreach and development initiative.
    A maximum of 10 points will be awarded based upon the amount the 
proposal exceeds the minimum 25 percent matching requirement. 
Applicants will be required to provide matching funds or equivalent in-
kind in support of this project. Evidence of matching funds 
availability must be provided. Funds or equivalent in-kind must be 
available at the time at which the cooperative agreement is entered. 
Matching funds points will be awarded as listed below.

>25 percent to 35 percent match...........  2 points.
>35 percent to 50 percent match...........  5 points.
>50 percent to 75 percent match...........  7 points.
>75 percent match.........................  10 points.
 

    (c) Economic Need of Community (Up to 15 points)--This criterion 
evaluates the economic need of the targeted communities.
    Five points will automatically be awarded to project proposals with 
at least one of the beneficiary communities located in a targeted 
community(s): Empowerment Zones, Enterprise Communities, Champion 
Communities, Federally-recognized Indian reservations, and other 
federally declared economic depressed or disaster areas. The 
application must state the name(s) and location(s) of the economically 
depressed community(s) and the type(s) of targeted community 
designation (i.e., Empowerment Zone).
    Up to a maximum of 7 additional points will be awarded for 
demonstrated economic need based upon the currently available poverty 
rate of the targeted local community(s). An applicant may use targeted 
county or community poverty rates. When multi-community proposals are 
submitted, the over-all weighted average for all counties or 
communities must be used. An applicant must use current (2000 Census) 
poverty data for each targeted county or community. Points will be 
awarded based upon the differences in the targeted county or 
community's average poverty from the respective State poverty rate 
(average targeted county or community poverty rate minus the respective 
State poverty rate). Percents will be rounded to the next whole number.

Less than 3 percent.......................  0 points.
3-6 percent...............................  1 point.
7-10 percent..............................  2 points.
11-15 percent.............................  5 points.
Greater than 15 percent...................  7 points.
 

    Up to a maximum of 3 additional points may be awarded based upon 
the applicant's ability to demonstrate or

[[Page 40316]]

identify other economic needs of the targeted communities, such as, but 
not limited to, unemployment rates, education levels, and job 
availability. An applicant must provide sufficient information for the 
panel to properly evaluate and rate this criterion.
    (d) Previous Accomplishments (Up to 10 points)--This criterion 
evaluates the applicant's previous accomplishments with this initiative 
and/or its demonstrative capacity to conduct similar projects.
    One point will be awarded to an institution for each year it has 
been awarded a cooperative agreement under this program up to a total 
of 5 years. An applicant must provide evidence of satisfactorily 
completing the cooperative agreement for each year for which credit is 
claimed. Applicants with less than 5 recent years of awards in this 
program may receive up to the maximum 5 points by highlighting the 
applicant's previous performance in each of the past 5 years on 
projects with cooperative and other business development and outreach 
objectives. The applicant should discuss the potential impact of their 
project upon the targeted underserved rural communities, as well as 
describing previous similar outreach and development work.
    Up to a maximum of 5 additional points may be awarded based upon an 
applicant's ability to document the positive impact of its project upon 
the targeted underserved rural communities. Positive entrepreneurial 
developments should be emphasized. Points will be awarded if an 
applicant demonstrates that its technical assistance resulted in the 
creation of a business(s) in an economically challenged community or 
that its educational programs have developed or improved upon the 
professional skills of rural entrepreneurs. The applicant must provide 
specific information as to the specific businesses created and/or 
professional educational programs offered.
    (e) Statement of Work (up to 45 points)--This criterion evaluates 
the degree to which the proposed project addresses the major purposes 
for the ``1890 Land Grant Institutions Rural Entrepreneurial Program 
Outreach Initiative.'' Points will be awarded according to the degree 
to which the statement of work reflects innovative strategies for 
providing technical assistance for business creation in economically 
challenged rural communities, for educational programs to develop and 
improve upon the professional skills of rural entrepreneurs, and for 
outreach and promotion of USDA Rural Development's.
    Up to a maximum of 20 points will be awarded to proposed projects 
that have a clearly and concisely stated work plan detailing goals and 
objectives, timetables, expected results, and measurable outcomes for 
providing technical assistance for business creation in economically 
challenged rural communities. The greatest number of points will be 
awarded to those proposed projects that demonstrate innovative and 
creative ways to accomplish these goals.
    Up to a maximum of 15 additional points will be awarded to proposed 
projects that have a clearly and concisely stated work plan detailing 
goals and objectives, timetables, expected results, and measurable 
outcomes for educational programs to develop and improve upon the 
professional skills of rural entrepreneurs (i.e.; sustainable 
agricultural practices, real estate sales, real estate appraising, 
accounting for small entrepreneurs, etc.) The greatest number of points 
will be awarded to those proposed projects that demonstrate innovative 
and creative ways to accomplish these goals.
    Up to a maximum of 10 additional points will be awarded to proposed 
projects for outreach and promotion of USDA Rural Development's 
programs in small rural communities with the greatest economic need. 
The greatest number of points will be awarded to those proposed 
projects that demonstrate innovative and creative ways to accomplish 
these goals.
    All proposals must integrate substantial USDA Rural Development 
involvement.
    (f) Digital Technology Outreach (Up to 5 points)--This criterion 
evaluates the applicant's experience and capacity to provide outreach 
and assistance to targeted underserved rural communities through use of 
computer technologies.
    A maximum of 5 points will be awarded based upon the applicant's 
demonstrated capacity to promote innovations and improvements in the 
delivery of computer technology benefits, including a web presence to 
underserved rural communities whose share in these benefits is 
disproportionably low.
    (g) Coordination and Management of the Project (Up to 5 points)--
This criterion evaluates the applicant's demonstrated capacity to 
coordinate and manage the proposed project among the various 
stakeholders.
    Up to a maximum of 5 points will be awarded based upon the 
applicant's ability to demonstrate broad and collaborative involvement 
with the applicant's respective USDA Rural Development State Office on 
the proposed project. This involvement and collaboration should 
include, but not be limited to: (1) Evidence of any USDA Rural 
Development State Office's input in and review of the applicant's 
proposal, (2) a detailed plan for the State Office's continued 
participation in the proposed project that includes specific 
participatory tasks, and (3) a detailed plan as to how Rural 
Development programs can be integrated into the proposed project.

2. Selection Process

    Each application will be evaluated in a two-part process. First, 
each application will be reviewed to ensure that both the applicant and 
project meet the eligibility requirements as set forth in Section III. 
All applicants deemed to be eligible will be scored based upon the 
criteria set forth in Section VII.(1). Each eligible application will 
be scored by at least two expert reviewers. The individual scores for 
each application will be tallied and applications receiving the highest 
scores will be recommended to the Administrator, RBS, for award. The 
RBS Administrator has the final authority to award discretionary points 
in accordance with Section VII.(1) and determine the applications to be 
funded. If a tie score results after the proposals have been rated and 
ranked, the tie will be resolved by the proposal with the largest 
matching funds as a percent of the Federal amount of the award being 
selected for award.

VIII. Award Administration

1. Award Notification

    Upon completion of the review process, successful applicants will 
be notified, in writing, by the USDA Rural Development National Office 
of its award. Each successful applicant will receive a cooperative 
agreement for signature by the institution's president or designee. The 
document will become binding upon execution by the appropriate USDA 
official.
    Unsuccessful applicants will be notified, in writing, of the 
results of review.

2. Advance of Funds Requirements

    Requests for advance of funds must be submitted to the National 
Office on a quarterly basis on a completed Form SF-270, ``Request for 
Advance or Reimbursement.'' A completed Form SF-269 (Long Form), 
``Financial Status Report,'' must be submitted with each advance of 
funds request.

[[Page 40317]]

3. Project Reviews

    USDA Rural Development State Office representatives will conduct 
semi-annual onsite reviews of award recipients as well as any 
additional reviews deemed necessary by the National Office.

4. Reporting Requirements

    During the term of the cooperative agreement, each award recipient 
must submit quarterly progress reports and a final report detailing the 
tasks performed and results accomplished to the National and 
appropriate State Office. Quarterly reports must be submitted on or 
prior to January 31, April 28, and July 28, and October 31, 2006. A 
final report must be submitted within 90 days of the date of the 
project's completion. Reports may be submitted in hard copy original or 
an electronic copy that includes all required signatures. Failure to 
submit satisfactory, timely reports may result in suspension or 
termination of award.
    Upon the request of USDA Rural Development, the award recipient 
will submit manuscripts, videotapes, software, or other media, as were 
identified in project proposals. USDA Rural Development retains those 
rights delineated in 7 CFR 3019.36.

5. Administrative Requirements

    Award Recipients are responsible for:
    (a) Completing the objectives as defined in the proposed workplan.
    (b) Maintaining up-to-date project records during the term of the 
agreement.
    (c) Maintaining an accounting of Federal and matching fund 
expenditures, including in-kind contributions. Award recipients must 
submit to the National Office a completed Form SF-269 (Long Form) with 
each advance of funds request and within 90 days of the project's 
completion.
    (d) Immediately refunding to USDA Rural Development, at the end of 
the agreement, any balance of unobligated funds received from USDA 
Rural Development.
    (e) Providing matching funds or equivalent in-kind in support of 
the project, at least to the level agreed to in the accepted proposal.
    (g) Participating in the Annual or Bi-annual USDA Rural Development 
Entrepreneurship and Information Conferences/Workshops when planned.
    (h) In cooperation with local businesses, developing a program of 
cooperative and business startup and technical assistance that will 
assist with new company development, business planning, new enterprise, 
franchise startup and consulting, business expansion studies, marketing 
analysis, cashflow management, and seminars and workshops for 
cooperatives and small businesses.
    (i) Providing office space, equipment, and supplies for all 
personnel assigned to the project.
    (j) Developing management and technical assistance plans in 
cooperation with USDA Rural Development State Office that will:
    (1) Assess cooperative and small business alternatives to 
agriculture, and other natural resources-based industries;
    (2) Assist in the development of business plans and loan packages, 
marketing, bookkeeping assistance, and organizational sustainability; 
and
    (3) In cooperation with USDA Rural Development State Office, 
provide technical assistance and training in customer relations, 
product development, and business planning and development.
    (k) Assessing local community needs, weaknesses and strengths, 
feasible alternatives to agriculture production, and the needed 
infrastructure to expand or develop new or existing businesses. The 
plans for any such studies must be submitted to the USDA Rural 
Development National office for approval prior to the study being 
conducted.
    (l) In cooperation with the USDA Rural Development State Office, 
providing community leaders with advice and recommendations regarding 
best practices in community economic development stimulus programs for 
their communities.
    (m) Developing digital technology outreach and establishing and 
maintaining an Internet web site, linking community leaders and 
residents to available economic development information.
    (n) Assuring and certifying that it is in compliance with, and will 
comply in the course of the agreement with, all applicable laws, 
regulations, Executive Orders, and other generally applicable 
requirements, including those set out in 7 CFR parts 3015 and 3019.
    (o) Using Federal funds only to pay meeting-related travel expenses 
when employees are performing a service of direct benefit to the 
Government and in direct furtherance of the objectives of the proposed 
agreement. Federal funds cannot be used to pay non-Federal employees to 
attend meetings.
    (p) Not commingling or using program funds for administrative 
expenses to operate an intermediary relending program (IRP).
    (q) Submitting to USDA Rural Development National Office, in 
writing, any request for revising the project work plan, budget, or 
requesting a no-cost extension amending the cooperative agreement.
    (r) Assisting the USDA Rural Development State Office in conducting 
a semi-annual on-site review of the recipient's project.
    (s) Collaborating, as needed, with the USDA Rural Development 
National and State Offices in performing the tasks in the agreement and 
providing the Rural Development National Office with the information 
necessary for Rural Development to fulfill its responsibilities in the 
agreement.
    USDA Rural Development is responsible for:
    (1) Monitoring the program as it is being implemented and operated, 
including monitoring of financial information to ensure that there is 
no commingling or use of program funds for administrative expenses to 
operate an IRP or other unapproved items.
    (2) Terminating activity, after written notice, if tasks are not 
met.
    (3) Reviewing and approving changes to key personnel.
    (4) Providing technical assistance as needed.
    (5) Approving the final plans for any community business workshops; 
cooperative, business, and economic development sessions; and training 
workshops to be conducted by the recipient.
    (6) Providing reference assistance, as needed, to the recipient for 
technical assistance given on a one-on-one basis to entrepreneurs and 
startup businesses.
    (7) Reviewing and commenting on strategic plans developed by 
recipients for targeted areas.
    (8) Reviewing economic assessments made by the recipient for 
targeted counties enabling USDA Rural Development to determine the 
extent to which its programs are beneficial.
    (9) Carefully screening projects to prevent First Amendment 
violations.
    (10) Monitoring the program to ensure that a web site link to USDA-
Rural Development is established and maintained.
    (11) State Offices conducting semi-annual on-site reviews and 
submitting written reports to the National Office.
    (12) Participating in 1890 outreach and development program 
workshops, seminars and conferences as needed.
    (13) Providing any other work agreed to by USDA Rural Development 
in the Cooperative Agreement.

IX. Agency Contact

    For Further Information Contact: Mr. Edgar L. Lewis, Program 
Manager, Rural

[[Page 40318]]

Business-Cooperative Service, USDA, Stop 3252, Room 4221, 1400 
Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-3252. Telephone: (202) 
690-3407, e-mail: [email protected].

X. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The paperwork burden associated with this initiative has been 
cleared by the Office of Management and Budget under OMB Control Number 
0570-0041.

    Dated: July 7, 2005.
David Rouzer,
Acting Administrator, Rural Business-Cooperative Service.
[FR Doc. 05-13752 Filed 7-12-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-XY-P