The document outlines revisions to the common instructions for applicants seeking discretionary grant funds from the Department of Education. These updates aim to reduce barriers in the application process, replacing previous instructions from December 2021. Key changes include the removal of references to the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS), replaced by the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and several technical updates across the instructions. Additionally, it provides essential information on the application and submission process, emphasizing electronic submissions through Grants.gov. Applicants must ensure active registrations in both SAM.gov and Grants.gov, with strict compliance to submission deadlines being crucial. Assistance protocols and guidelines for submitting paper applications under certain conditions are also addressed. The document underscores the importance of following outlined steps to ensure eligibility for federal funding while promoting accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This revised set of instructions plays a critical role in streamlining the grant application process within the federal education context, aligning with broader federal efforts to enhance accessibility and efficiency in grant management.
The U.S. Department of Education has issued a notice inviting applications for two grant programs for fiscal year 2025: the Using Longitudinal Data to Support State Education Policymaking (ALN 84.305S) and Transformative Research in the Education Sciences (ALN 84.305T). The former aims to assist state agencies in utilizing longitudinal data to address achievement gaps, while the latter focuses on innovative research to tackle major educational challenges and enhance learning outcomes. The application deadlines are August 15, 2024, for ALN 84.305S, and September 12, 2024, for ALN 84.305T, with awards ranging from $100,000 to $1,250,000 depending on project scope and requirements for matching funds applicable to the Transformative Research program. Both grants emphasize collaboration between state agencies and research organizations and seek to drive economic mobility and educational equity through evidence-based solutions. The document also outlines eligibility requirements, application processes, and review criteria for prospective applicants, underscoring the initiative's commitment to enhancing educational research and practice across various educational levels.