Risk Management Education Partnership Program
ID: 357740Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Risk Management Agency (USDA-RMA)

Award Range

$5K - $250K

Eligible Applicants

Small Businesses

Funding Category

Agriculture

Funding Instrument

Cooperative Agreement

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes
Timeline
    Description

    The Risk Management Agency (RMA) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering the Risk Management Education Partnership Program, which provides up to $2 million in funding for fiscal year 2025 to enhance risk management training for agricultural producers. This program aims to deliver education on crop insurance and risk management strategies, particularly focusing on underserved sectors, specialty crops, and commodities with limited insurance options. The initiative emphasizes collaboration among government entities, nonprofits, and educational institutions to develop innovative training and outreach initiatives that improve the financial stability of U.S. agriculture. Interested applicants, including small businesses, must submit their proposals electronically via the Results Verification System by March 11, 2025, with awards ranging from $5,000 to $250,000 for projects lasting 18 months. For further inquiries, applicants can contact Dennisse Bedard at dennisse.bedard@usda.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The Risk Management Agency's Risk Management Education Partnership Program outlines essential documentation requirements for applicants seeking funding in Fiscal Year 2025. The application must be submitted electronically via the Results Verification System (RVS), with a complete checklist to ensure no required documents are overlooked. Key documents include the OMB Standard Form 424 for federal assistance, budget information form, and certifications related to lobbying activities. Additional requirements consist of applicant contact information, letters of commitment, and any applicable indirect cost rate agreements. It is crucial for applicants to possess a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number and be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) prior to submission. Incomplete applications will not be considered for funding, emphasizing the necessity for meticulous preparation and compliance with all requirements to secure potential awards.
    The document provides comprehensive guidance on preparing a budget narrative for federal awards, emphasizing compliance with cost principles outlined in 2 CFR Part 200. It details that all costs must be allowable, allocable, and reasonable, and encourages a thorough narrative to support administrative review. Key categories for budgeting are discussed, including personnel, fringe benefits, travel, equipment, supplies, contractual, construction, and other costs. Each section includes specific instructions on required information and sufficient detail needed to justify expenses. Indirect costs are addressed, highlighting the necessity of having an established indirect cost rate or opting for a 10% de minimis rate. The guidance seeks to ensure equitable allocation of costs while promoting financial accountability in grant-related activities. Overall, it aims to assist applicants in accurately presenting their budgetary needs, facilitating the funding process under federal and state/local RFPs.
    The document provides instructions for completing the SF-424 and SF-424A forms, essential for federal grant applications. It outlines prerequisites, definitions, and guidelines for various applicant categories, submission types, and budget considerations. The SF-424 requires applicants to indicate the type of submission, application, and applicant identifiers, ensuring accurate information aligned with the System for Award Management (SAM) registration. The SF-424A focuses on budget summary and categories, detailing funding requirements, project costs, and non-federal resources. Key sections include budget categories like personnel, equipment, and travel, along with indirect charges. It emphasizes the importance of accuracy in budget estimation and suggests preparing a separate budget narrative for detailed cost breakdowns. Additionally, applicants must address federal debt delinquency, agree to state review under Executive Order 12372, and certify information accuracy. Following these structured instructions is vital for effective grant proposal submissions, minimizing the likelihood of application delays or corrections. Overall, the guidance aims to facilitate a clear and organized approach to federal grant applications, streamlining the process for applicants while ensuring compliance with governmental standards.
    The Risk Management Education Partnership Program, announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Risk Management Agency, offers up to $2 million in funding for fiscal year 2025 to enhance risk management training for agricultural producers. This funding opportunity is designed to deliver education about crop insurance and risk management strategies, particularly targeting underserved sectors, specialty crops, and producers of commodities with limited insurance options. Applicants can submit proposals through the Results Verification System by March 11, 2025, with awards ranging from $5,000 to $250,000 for projects with a duration of 18 months. The program emphasizes collaboration between agencies and eligible organizations—including government entities, nonprofits, and educational institutions—to develop innovative training and outreach initiatives aimed at improving the financial stability of U.S. agriculture. Key application components include detailed project proposals outlining educational activities, audience engagement strategies, and expected outcomes. Eligible applicants are encouraged to seek assistance in preparing proposals, particularly those serving underserved communities. This initiative reinforces the USDA's commitment to promoting effective risk management practices within agriculture while ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
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