The U.S. Department of Education has published revised common instructions for applicants seeking funding under discretionary grant programs. This document replaces the previous version from December 2022 and serves as a centralized guide to streamline the application process. Key updates include clearer application requirements, the necessity of maintaining an active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov), and specific instructions for electronic submissions via the Grants.gov platform. This update emphasizes the importance of using a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for all applicants. Additionally, the revised instructions address the use of artificial intelligence in grant application development, highlighting both its potential benefits and associated risks. Applicants are advised to adhere to established guidelines to ensure the integrity and equity of their applications. The document also outlines procedures for paper submissions, technical issue protocols, and compliance with deadlines. This comprehensive approach is designed to facilitate access to federal grants while ensuring adherence to regulatory standards, ultimately supporting educational initiatives efficiently and transparently.

The document outlines two significant initiatives from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Education focused on improving support for military personnel and Native youth education, respectively. Firstly, the DoD's OUSD(P&R) is proposing a new information collection related to the U.S. Marine Corps' Prime for Life program aimed at understanding and improving prevention approaches for sexual harassment and assault within military settings. The proposal anticipates responses from 1,215 participants with an estimated annual response burden of 656 hours. Secondly, the Department of Education is inviting applications for the Demonstration Grants for Indian Children and Youth Program, targeting community-driven projects to enhance educational opportunities for Native students. It highlights availability of approximately $20 million for grant awards ranging from $400,000 to $500,000 per project. The program emphasizes collaboration with local businesses for career preparation and equitable access to early learning opportunities, aiming to ensure that Indian students are college and career-ready. Both initiatives underscore the federal commitment to creating effective educational environments and prevention programs by leveraging community involvement and evidence-based practices, reflecting the ongoing efforts to address diverse educational and social challenges in the U.S.