The ECC’s FY 2024 Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFO) emphasizes the inclusion of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) plans in proposal submissions. In accordance with Executive Orders 13985 and 14020, implementers are encouraged to articulate how their projects will advance DEIA objectives, focusing on underserved communities. DEIA plans are voluntary and should outline steps to achieve objectives such as diversifying implementer pools, engaging experts from varied backgrounds, enhancing participation in ECC trainings, and promoting gender equity. Implementers can submit their DEIA plans as standalone documents or integrate them into their proposals. Standalone plans must not exceed two pages, while integrated plans should be limited to 250 words and detail specific goals and steps. DEIA plans will be evaluated separately but will contribute to the overall project evaluation score. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable approach in federal grant and RFP processes, seeking to enhance opportunities for diverse populations in funded projects.

The document outlines budget guidelines crucial for applicants seeking federal grants and RFPs. It specifies that, alongside the SF-424A budget form, a Summary Budget and a Detailed Line Item Budget must be submitted. The latter should be in Excel format, detailing expenditure categories like personnel, fringe benefits, travel, equipment, supplies, and contractual costs, among others. It emphasizes the importance of a budget narrative, which should provide explanations for each budget line item, associated costs, and details about cost-sharing. Additionally, costs must align with OMB regulations, specifically 2 CFR 200 provisions for Federal awards. The guidelines also categorize allowable costs for review, highlighting what the Bureau will and will not consider for funding. The document underscores the significance of presenting a realistic budget reflecting the project’s duration and requirements, while allowing for adjustments based on the Bureau's needs and available funding. Overall, these budgetary instructions aim to ensure applicants effectively communicate their financial plans and comply with federal funding standards.

The open competition cooperative agreement, titled "Strategic Trade Control Capacity in East/Southeast Asia" (Funding Opportunity Number: DFOP0009162), calls for proposals to support trade control capacity in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Mongolia. Applicants must assist all these countries and have the capacity to draft a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) screening model for each. The proposal requires a two-page Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) plan and encourages engagement with local government institutions. Applicants must submit their proposals in 15-point Calibri font, except for the detailed budget. Priority sectors for local engagement will be identified collaboratively with U.S. counterparts, and proposals submitted in response to each Line of Effort (LOE) must include separate documents as outlined in the proposal submission instructions. Overall, the RFP emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive collaboration and adherence to guidelines to achieve local buy-in while ensuring the quality of proposals submitted for funding consideration.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation has announced a funding opportunity (#DFOP0009162) aimed at enhancing strategic trade control capacity in East/Southeast Asia. Approximately $1.85 million is available for three cooperative agreements over 24 months, focusing on three lines of effort: 1) Establishing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) screening mechanisms; 2) Strengthening prosecutorial capacity in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Mongolia concerning proliferation cases; 3) Preventing exploitation of the critical minerals supply chain in Malaysia. Eligible applicants include U.S. and foreign non-profits, educational institutions, and for-profit organizations. Proposals must be developed collaboratively, with a focus on local partnerships and measurable outcomes. The application deadline is April 19, 2024, emphasizing innovative, flexible proposals tailored to the unique contexts of partner countries. The funding seeks to bolster compliance with international trade control norms, advance national security, and foster regional cooperation against proliferation risks. A rigorous review and selection process will prioritize quality of project ideas, organizational capacity, and overall cost effectiveness.

The document serves as a guide for international entities registering on SAM.gov, a prerequisite for federal assistance awards. Key requirements include obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), undergoing entity validation, and maintaining accurate and consistent information across systems. Organizations must register through a secure Login.gov account and respond swiftly to requests from SAM.gov to prevent delays. Important aspects include the distinction between NCAGE codes for Department of Defense funding, the necessity for annual registration renewal, and the transition to a new validation service, requiring even established entities to validate their information anew. Documentation needed for validation may include incorporation papers and bilingual translations. Subrecipients must only obtain a UEI unless they are federal award recipients. The summary outlines processes, essential documentation, and suggested actions for issues during registration, emphasizing adherence to guidelines to ensure eligibility for federal funding. This document is critical for understanding the procedural framework for accessing government grants and contracts, particularly for foreign organizations seeking to engage with U.S. federal funding mechanisms.