This document provides detailed guidance for completing the SF-424 and SF-424A forms, essential for federal grant applications under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Production and Conservation Business Center. It emphasizes the importance of accurate form submission to avoid delays in agreement execution. Key sections include applicant identification, project descriptions, budget details, and compliance with federal regulations.
The document breaks down each field in the SF-424 form, providing specific instructions and clarifications on applicant type, agency identifiers, funding opportunities, project timelines, and budget categories. It also outlines budget preparation with categories like personnel, supplies, and contractual costs. Guidance is given on ensuring costs are reasonable, allowable, and allocable in compliance with federal standards (2 CFR 200).
Moreover, the forms's structure highlights the necessity of both federal and non-federal funding estimates, along with detailing program income and forecasted cash needs for the project duration. This comprehensive instruction set aims to assist applicants in effectively navigating the grant application process, thus promoting transparency, precision, and adherence to federal funding guidelines.
The document serves as a worksheet for the Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) agencies and federal financial assistance applicants, aimed at documenting the allocation of key personnel's time across various awards and contracts, in accordance with 2 CFR 200.430. Key personnel are defined as individuals essential to project leadership, development, delivery, and management, including program contacts and directors. The worksheet requires detailed entries for each key personnel member, such as their names, funding agency, agreement or application numbers, total financial obligations, performance periods, and percentage of time committed to the project. This structure helps ensure transparency and proper accountability in the management of federal grants and agreements, crucial for compliance with federal regulations concerning the allocation of resources. The overall purpose is to facilitate clear reporting and oversight of federally funded projects within the agricultural sector.