The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the development and deployment of a comprehensive sanction platform in Albania, with the objective of enhancing international security practices. This initiative, identified as funding opportunity number DFOP0017099, invites U.S. and foreign organizations to submit proposals by the deadline of 31 March 2025, with an anticipated award of $98,667 for a project period of 24 months starting 1 October 2025. The program aims to create an interactive database to improve the enforcement of sanctions, streamline access to information, and ensure alignment with international sanctions frameworks from the U.S., EU, and UN. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, and public international organizations. The application must include detailed proposals, monitoring frameworks, and risk assessments. The review criteria will focus on program quality, organizational capacity, budget justification, and sustainability of outcomes. The successful proposal will significantly upgrade Albania's existing sanctions registry, enabling better compliance and fostering international cooperation to address illicit activities and human rights violations. The project aligns with broader U.S. governmental goals to bolster partner resilience against malign influences and enhance capabilities to counter proliferation threats.

The document outlines budget guidelines for federal grants and RFP submissions, emphasizing the required budget components: a Summary Budget, Detailed Line Item Budget, and supporting budget narratives. Applicants must categorize expenses into specific categories, including Personnel, Fringe Benefits, Travel, Equipment, Supplies, Contractual, and Other Direct Costs, with clear guidelines on each category's definitions and allowable charges. Costs must adhere to federal standards, including the Fly America Act and relevant per diem rates, with travel expenses specifically detailed. Organizations must maintain records for cost-sharing and ensure compliance with OMB regulations, including Direct and Indirect Costs. Importantly, the document discusses cost-sharing benefits, suggesting that projects demonstrating non-federal contributions may enhance competitiveness. Furthermore, it highlights the Bureau's authority to adjust proposed budgets based on funding availability. The purpose of this document is to ensure clarity and compliance in budgeting practices for grant applicants, facilitating a transparent and standardized financial proposal process for federal assistance programs.

The document provides essential guidance for applicants and recipients regarding the registration and management of Federal Assistance through SAM.gov. Key changes include the cessation of the DUNS system and the requirement for all organizations to validate their status in SAM.gov, a process that may face significant delays, particularly for lapsed registrations, potentially extending up to 45 days. Organizations must register annually and maintain active status to be eligible for grants and payments. Best practices include creating a login.gov account, maintaining updated contact information, and monitoring validation status regularly. Necessary documents for validation must be prepared, and helpdesk tickets should be submitted for any issues encountered. Moreover, the process for submitting notarized letters for certain entity registrations is outlined, distinguishing between domestic and international entities. Overall, the goal is to ensure organizations remain compliant and prepared for federal funding opportunities while navigating the updated SAM.gov registration procedures effectively. The document emphasizes the importance of timely registration and provides resources and troubleshooting steps to resolve typical issues in the process.

This document provides guidance for international entities on registering in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov). SAM.gov is mandatory for receiving federal assistance, including grants and contracts, and requires entities to secure a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Foreign organizations seeking contracts with the Department of Defense must obtain a NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code before registering. The registration process involves creating an account via Login.gov, ensuring consistent information across all platforms, and completing entity validation. Entities must maintain registration by annually renewing and responding promptly to requests for additional information; failure to do so can delay processing. International applicants must provide specific documentation to validate their business name, address, and incorporation date, including certified translations where necessary. The document emphasizes the importance of timely submission and communication during the validation process and outlines steps for submitting inquiries or issues related to registration or login difficulties. Subrecipients of federal awards must only obtain a UEI but are not required to register in SAM.gov. This FAQ aims to facilitate accurate and efficient registration for foreign entities in pursuit of U.S. government contracts and grants.