Team Nutrition Training Grants
ID: 354241Type: Posted
Overview

Buyer

Food and Nutrition Service (USDA-FNS1)

Award Range

$250K - $800K

Eligible Applicants

State Governments

Funding Category

Food and Nutrition

Funding Instrument

Grant

Opportunity Category

Discretionary

Cost Sharing or Matching Requirement

Yes

Original Source

https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/354241

Additional Information

https://www.fns.usda.gov/grant/tn/training-fy24
Timeline
    Description

    The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) of the USDA is offering the FY 2024 Team Nutrition Training Grants, aimed at enhancing the nutritional quality of school meals and supporting workforce sustainability among School Nutrition Professionals. Eligible state agencies that administer the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) can apply for funding to implement initiatives focused on Meal Pattern Modernization and Retention and Mentorship Opportunities, addressing challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. With a total funding pool of $9.6 million, individual grants can range from $250,000 to $800,000, and applications must be submitted electronically by July 16, 2024. For further details, interested applicants can contact Anna Arrowsmith at anna.arrowsmith@usda.gov or visit the Team Nutrition Grants website for additional information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    anna.arrowsmith@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    _FY 2024 Team Nutrition Training Grants Request for Applications.pdf
    _FY.pdf
    The Team Nutrition Training Grants for Meal Pattern Modernization and Retention and Mentorship Opportunities for Fiscal Year 2024, administered by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service, aims to enhance the nutritional quality of meals in schools and support school nutrition professionals. Up to $9.6 million will be awarded, with each state agency eligible for up to $800,000. The grants will focus on two tracks: Meal Pattern Modernization, which involves training professionals to prepare nutritious meals aligned with dietary guidelines, and Retention and Mentorship Opportunities, aimed at coaching and mentoring staff, particularly following disruptions from COVID-19. Applicants must prepare a comprehensive Project Work Plan detailing objectives, need justification, and proposed activities that align with grant goals. The application process requires specific forms to be submitted via Grants.gov by July 16, 2024, with an anticipated award date in August 2024. Eligible applicants include state agencies that administer the National School Lunch Program, with a focus on advancing equity and supporting historically underserved communities. A Letter of Commitment and detailed budget narrative are also required. The initiative reflects the Biden-Harris administration's commitment to improving school meal nutrition and workforce development, ensuring that the grants effectively support the nutritional health of American children.
    Access.pdf
    The FY2024 Team Nutrition Training Grant informational webinar aims to provide potential applicants with essential details regarding the Request for Applications (RFA). It will address eligibility criteria for applicants, outline the application process, specify application requirements, and explain the evaluation and scoring criteria that will be used in the selection process. This initiative by the USDA is designed to support teams in enhancing nutrition education and training within their communities. Interested parties can access the webinar through the provided link for comprehensive insights into the grant's offerings and expectations. The focus of this document is to facilitate a clear understanding of the grant process, ensuring that eligible entities are well-informed and prepared to apply effectively.
    Attachment A Project Work Plan.docx
    Attachment A Project Work Plan.pdf
    Attachment B Project Timeline.docx
    Attachment B Project Timeline.pdf
    Attachment C Letter of Intent.pdf
    Attachment D Activities and Performance Measures.docx
    Attachment D Activities and Performance Measures.pdf
    Attachment.bin
    Attachment.pdf
    The FY 2024 Team Nutrition Training Grants focus on Meal Pattern Modernization and Retention and Mentorship Opportunities for School Nutrition Professionals under the USDA. Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive Project Work Plan summarizing their initiatives and demonstrating how they will enhance the nutritional quality of school meals and support professional development. The proposal must align with one of two tracks: Track 1 emphasizes improving culinary skills and knowledge to comply with nutritional guidelines, while Track 2 focuses on mentorship and retention strategies for staff. Key components include outlining a justification for the project's need, a clear evaluation plan with performance measures, and addressing local wellness policies and professional standards for staff. Additionally, sustainability of the project post-funding, effective grant management, and an itemized budget narrative are necessary parts of the application. Bonus points are available for initiatives promoting racial equity and collaboration with other USDA state agencies. Applications must be submitted electronically by July 16, 2024, with strict adherence to guidelines regarding format and deadlines. The grant proposal is aimed at fostering improved meal patterns in school nutrition programs by enhancing staff capabilities and ensuring effective management and implementation strategies.
    FNS-906 - Grant Program Accounting System and Financial Capability Questionnaire.pdf
    FNS-906.pdf
    The USDA's Food and Nutrition Service has issued a Grant Program Accounting System and Financial Capability Questionnaire, required for organizations receiving federal funds. This survey is critical for evaluating financial management practices in compliance with federal guidelines (2 CFR §200.302). It assesses an organization's financial stability, quality of management systems, and the proper handling of federal funds. Key areas of inquiry include recent federal awards, use of accounting software, separate tracking of program funds, oversight responsibility, segregation of financial duties, tracking employee effort, and asset management systems. The questionnaire also requests information regarding past audit reports within the last five years, focusing on the nature of any opinions or findings disclosed. Completion of this form ensures transparency and accountability in the use of federal funds and is essential for maintaining eligibility for grants. The document emphasizes that failure to meet outlined financial criteria may result in ineligibility for federal awards.
    SuggestedBudgetTemplate_FY24 TNTG.xlsx
    SuggestedBudgetTemplate_FY24.bin
    Team.pdf
    The FY 2024 Team Nutrition Training Grant focuses on Meal Pattern Modernization and Retention and Mentorship Opportunities. Administered by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), this grant aims to enhance the nutritional quality of school meals and support workforce sustainability within child nutrition programs. State agencies eligible to apply must administer the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), and up to twelve grants will be awarded based on application quality and funding availability. Applicants must choose one of two tracks: Track 1 emphasizes implementing meal pattern changes according to new dietary guidelines, while Track 2 focuses on training and workforce development. Additionally, collaborations between state agencies can earn bonus points. The document outlines various eligibility criteria, staffing requirements, budgeting guidelines, and administrative processes, emphasizing that school food authorities cannot apply directly. The grants are intended for activities during the specified period without guarantees for future funding, and they prohibit co-mingling funds from various USDA programs. Key roles, such as Project Director and Team Nutrition Coordinator, can be filled internally or externally, while specific requirements for educational backgrounds are noted. The document serves as an essential guide for potential applicants, ensuring clarity on policy and application procedures.
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