The document outlines revised common instructions for applicants seeking discretionary grants from the Department of Education. Published on December 27, 2021, these instructions aim to streamline the application process by providing centralized guidance that will be referenced in individual Notices Inviting Applications (NIAs). Notable updates include the removal of references to the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) as the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is now fully implemented. Key procedural elements include requirements for electronic submission via Grants.gov, the necessity of a UEI and Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and registration in the System for Award Management (SAM). Ensuring active SAM registration is critical, as an application submitted without it will be disqualified. The document specifies submission guidelines, including file format preferences, deadlines, and the process for addressing technical issues with Grants.gov. It also discusses the option for paper applications under certain circumstances. The notice emphasizes the importance of adhering to all specified requirements to facilitate the application process and ensure timely and effective review. This cohesive structure reflects the Department's initiative to enhance accessibility and clarity for potential grant applicants.
The federal notice outlines two key proposals from the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Education regarding information collections, aiming to enhance access and security within federal installations and improve educational research funding.
The DoD seeks public comments on a revised information collection for the Navy Access Control System and the U.S. Marine Corps Biometric Access Control System (OMB Control Number 0703-0061). This system aims to manage physical access to installations by using biometric verification methods, requiring participation from approximately 3.5 million individuals, generating an estimated 583,333 annual burden hours. Comments are due by June 27, 2024.
Meanwhile, the Department of Education invites applications for research grants in fiscal year 2025 under various programs, including Education Research and Special Education Research Grant Programs. The grants support research on educational outcomes, including developmental and school readiness for individuals with disabilities. The grants ranging from $100,000 to $800,000 aim to improve education systems, methodologies, and training while promoting equity in educational opportunities. Application deadlines are generally set for September 12, 2024, with varying funding ranges for different topics. These programs reflect a commitment to developing data-driven solutions to enhance educational practices across the nation.