The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation has released a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for a project targeting proliferation finance. The funding opportunity, numbered DFOP0014001, invites applications from various eligible organizations, both domestic and foreign, to enhance international compliance with trade control norms and combat financial activities linked to weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The award provides funding ranging from $98,668 to $256,537 over a 24-month period, with a single award anticipated. Applicants must address specific challenges associated with proliferation finance, such as inadequate risk assessment frameworks and weak financial systems exploited by proliferator networks. The project aims to support partner countries in developing national proliferation finance risk assessments, implementing action plans, and enhancing capabilities to mitigate associated risks. Successful applicants will engage in consultations and training, reflecting the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Performance indicators for the project will be essential for monitoring effectiveness. An application deadline is set for June 21, 2024, with a clear review process to ensure alignment with U.S. foreign policy and national security goals.

The ECC's FY 2024 Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFO) emphasizes the inclusion of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) plans in proposals as per Executive Orders 13985 and 14020. Though voluntary, these plans should describe how applicants intend to support ECC's DEIA objectives, focusing on increasing diversity among implementers and participants, gender equity at ECC events, and broadening access to ECC's products and trainings. Implementers can present their DEIA plans as standalone documents or integrated within proposals, with specific formatting requirements outlined. The DEIA plans will be assessed separately from project evaluations, adding points to the overall score if well-articulated. Overall, this initiative reflects a commitment to fostering inclusive practices and ensuring underrepresented communities are engaged in ECC's activities for better societal outcomes. The document provides clear guidelines for implementation while allowing flexibility in approach.

The document outlines budget guidelines for applicants seeking federal grants, detailing the required components of budget submissions. Key elements include a Summary Budget, a Detailed Line Item Budget, and a Budget Narrative, each serving to clarify the financial aspects of the proposed project. Applicants must include specifics on personnel costs, fringe benefits, travel expenses, equipment justifications, and other direct costs while adhering to established policies, including the Fly America Act and OMB regulations. It emphasizes that budgets must accurately reflect real project expenses and include explanations for all line items. Furthermore, guidance is provided on indirect costs, cost-sharing expectations, and allowable versus unallowable expenses. The Bureau reserves the right to adjust proposals based on program needs and funding availability. Acceptance of cost-share contributions demonstrates commitment to the project, with the added stipulation that detailed records must be maintained for audit purposes. This document serves as a critical resource for organizations applying for funding, ensuring compliance with government requirements and promoting effective budget management for successful project implementation.

The federal funding opportunity titled "Counterproliferation Finance" invites applicants to contribute to risk assessments and implementation support in specific countries in the Balkans and Eastern Europe. Primarily, the initiative focuses on Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Moldova for risk assessments, while Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and Serbia are designated for implementation support of action plans derived from these assessments. Proposals can be limited, with preference given to certain countries for specific tasks. Croatia and Cyprus are mentioned but are not required for proposals. The document outlines the expectations regarding project proposals, including a focus on detailed risk assessments addressing political, social, and environmental factors. Stringent guidelines regarding document formatting, including a requirement for 15-point Calibri font and page limits are specified. Applicants must take care not to make unauthorized commitments to partner countries during the consultation phase. Additionally, costs related to translation and logistics will be borne by the awardee, and lodging is not required if delegates reside in the training city. The cooperative agreement emphasizes careful planning and sustainable project execution.

The document outlines the registration process for international entities in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov), which is essential for receiving federal assistance awards. It explains that entities must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and, if applicable, a NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code for Department of Defense funding. The registration requires accurate information across systems and responsiveness to verification requests to avoid delays. For a successful registration, international applicants must navigate various steps, including creating a Login.gov account, completing entity validation, and renewing their registration annually to maintain eligibility for payments and new awards. The document highlights the importance of timely renewal and the necessity for all entities to validate their information due to a policy change that discontinued reliance on previously validated data. It also provides guidance on resolving issues related to entity validation and necessary documentation for name, address, and incorporation verification. Additionally, it specifies that subrecipients must obtain a UEI but do not need a full SAM.gov registration unless they are also recipients of federal awards. Overall, the document serves as a comprehensive guide for international entities seeking to engage with U.S. government funding opportunities.