The ECC's FY 2024 Notice of Funding Opportunities (NOFO) encourages implementers to include Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) plans as part of their proposals, following Executive Orders 13985 and 14020. These plans, while voluntary, aim to advance DEIA objectives by outlining how proposals will address diversity within communities and fair treatment for underserved populations. Implementers are prompted to consider diverse implementers and experts, broaden engagement efforts, and promote gender equity in events. The DEIA plans can be submitted as standalone documents or integrated into proposals, with specific formatting requirements. They will be assessed separately from overall project evaluations, with points earned added to the final scores. The initiative reflects ECC’s commitment to fostering inclusive practices by promoting participation from diverse and underserved communities. This effort is crucial in guiding funding opportunities that progress towards equitable representation in federal projects and initiatives.

The document outlines comprehensive budget guidelines for applicants submitting proposals for federal grants and RFPs. It requires a Summary Budget, a Detailed Line Item Budget, and a Budget Narrative, detailing specific costs and justifications. Key components include outlining personnel and fringe benefits, specifying travel and equipment requirements, and categorizing expenses like supplies and contractual costs. The guidelines emphasize the importance of compliance with federal regulations, noting necessary documentation for cost-sharing arrangements and direct vs. indirect costs. Applicants are required to justify all expenditures, explain the rationale for proposed budget allocations, and ensure budgets align with project needs over the grant period. Additionally, the document states that the Bureau/Post has discretion to adjust budgets based on program needs and funding availability. Overall, the guidance aims to establish clear expectations for financial transparency and accountability in the application process.

The U.S. Department of State is inviting proposals through a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for a project titled "Semiconductor Security Academy," aiming to enhance the security and resilience of global semiconductor supply chains as part of U.S. foreign policy. The grant, with a funding ceiling of $1.4 million and a performance period of 24 months, is open to a range of eligible applicants including U.S.-based NGOs, foreign organizations, and educational institutions. The project's main goal is to develop and conduct two workshops aimed at foreign government officials from identified countries, addressing their capabilities in technology protection related to semiconductors. These workshops will cover areas such as strengthening trade control frameworks, risk assessment for foreign investment in technology sectors, and public procurement regulations. ISN/ECC will maintain substantial involvement in the project, overseeing key aspects including agenda approval and collaboration with U.S. government experts. Proposals must be submitted through MyGrants by May 3, 2024, with clear benchmarks for monitoring and evaluation. This initiative aligns with the objectives of strengthening partners' capabilities to combat proliferation threats while fostering collaboration across nations.

The document provides essential guidance for international entities seeking to register in SAM.gov, a mandatory system for receiving federal assistance awards, including grants and contracts. It outlines the registration process, which necessitates obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and ensuring accurate and consistent information across platforms. Key components include the need for an NCAGE code for entities bidding on Department of Defense (DOD) awards and the role of Login.gov as a secure access point for SAM.gov. Detailed steps for registration, including guidance for entity validation and handling discrepancies in address matching, are emphasized. Entities must renew their registration annually to maintain eligibility for funding, and any updates to previously registered information require verification through new documentation. The process also necessitates timely responses to information requests to avoid delays. Overall, this document serves as a comprehensive resource for international applicants navigating the complexities of SAM.gov registration, highlighting the importance of diligence and adherence to procedural requirements in obtaining federal assistance. Crucially, these guidelines facilitate compliance with government mandates affecting RFPs, grants, and funding opportunities at various governmental levels.