The NOAA Grants Management Division's Budget Narrative Guidance outlines requirements for submitting detailed budget narratives for federal and non-federal expenditures associated with non-construction and construction awards. Applicants must justify costs by object class as listed on the SF-424A or SF-424C, ensuring consistency across documents. The narrative must explain calculations for personnel, fringe benefits, travel, equipment, supplies, contractual, construction, and other expenses, with required supporting details. Key aspects include providing justification for salaries, specifying percentages of time dedicated to the project, detailing travel plans, and including justifications for equipment use. All costs must be reasonable and necessary, adhering to federal guidelines. The document emphasizes the requirement to show matching funds and restricts federal funds from covering in-kind goods or services that benefit federal employees. The guidance provides a structured framework for budget preparation, ensuring transparency and compliance with federal regulations. Overall, it serves to help applicants develop clear, justified budgets that align with NOAA's funding objectives while following federal cost principles. This document was last updated on May 24, 2017, and is subject to change, highlighting the need for periodic review.

The NOAA Notice of Funding Opportunity seeks applications for special projects aligned with NOAA's mission goals, covering fiscal years 2024 to 2026. This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) invites institutions of higher education, non-profits, and governments to propose innovative research and outreach initiatives addressing ocean exploration, climate adaptation, weather preparedness, and the sustainability of marine ecosystems. Applications may be submitted on a rolling basis until September 30, 2026, but funding availability is contingent on congressional appropriations. Key objectives include addressing critical gaps in marine science, enhancing climate change resilience, and promoting public understanding of NOAA's mission. Applicants need to demonstrate how their proposals advance NOAA's strategic goals and participate in an evaluation process based on technical merit, relevance, applicant qualifications, budget realism, and outreach effectiveness. Furthermore, submissions must comply with federal guidelines, including registration in key federal systems. The document emphasizes that no awarded funds have been appropriated yet, and it outlines a comprehensive application process, including specific format and content requirements. Applicants will be informed of their application status within three to six months after submission.