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Resource Conservation Funds 2007 Solicitation
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much funding is available?
A: Final funding for FY07 has not been determined yet, however, we anticipate having approximately $200,000 available for funding projects in FY07, and up to an additional $200,000 for tribal solid waste projects. Up to $100,000 can be requested per project; however, we strongly suggest you be as realistic as possible in your request. We prefer to fund as many projects as possible. The average funding per project is $40,000. EPA reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and make no awards.
Q. How many projects will be funded in FY07?
A: The number of projects varies each year. In FY03 we funded 4 projects, in FY04 we funded 5 projects, in FY05 we funded 3 projects and in FY06 we funded 4 projects. In FY07 we anticipate funding 4 to 6 projects and 3 to 5 tribal solid waste projects.
Q. How can the funds be used?
A. The statutes authorize awards for the following activities: research (non-scientific), investigations, personnel, training, demonstrations, surveys, education materials and programs, and studies. Funds can only be used for the purposes set forth in the award, and must be consistent with the statutory authority for the award. EPA funds may only be used for the purposes set forth in the award, and must be consistent with the statutory authority for the award. EPA Region 9 will use the Solid Waste Disposal Act, section 8001, as amended; and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, as amended; for funding grants or cooperative agreements Assistance shall not include any element of construction or capital equipment (trucks, balers, etc.). Grant funds may not be used for matching funds, other Federal grants, or lobbying. Grant funds may not be used for matching funds, other Federal grants, or lobbying.
Q. Is there a cost sharing or matching requirement?
A. There is not a cost-sharing requirement. In-kind contributions can count toward a cost share or matching contribution. All matching funds or other contributions provided by the applicant are subject to audits and all federal regulations.
Q. How will my proposal be evaluated and selected?
A: Proposals must be submitted directly to EPA Region 9.We review and evaluate the proposals against the threshold and evaluation criteria outlined in the Solicitation. Finalists will be chosen based on the merit of their application and the qualifications presented to ensure project implementation. Final funding decisions will be made by an EPA Region 9 multi-media review team and approved by EPA Region 9 management based on the review team recommendations. Final decisions will take into account other policy considerations such as geographic distribution, whether the applicant is a federally recognized Tribe, distribution among the priority areas and program offices; and consideration of regional environmental issues.
Q. Can proposals be resubmitted if they were not selected in the past?
A. Yes. Comments were provided on proposals previously submitted. Please consult those comments before preparing a new proposal.
Q. If my project is selected, what are the reporting requirements after an award?
A: There are three required elements that must be completed by grantees: a full workplan including timeline, tasks, performance measures, and budget; quarterly reports with performance measures and budget; and a Final Report that outlines lessons learned and provides an in-depth evaluation of the project. EPA Region 9 will work with the selected applicants to develop performance measures.
Q: How can proposals be more successful?
A. Your proposal may be more successful if you:
- adhere to the 2 page pre-proposal limit
- be succinct
- address a specific environmental problem
- clearly link the project to one of the priority areas
- specifically address how results will be measured to show environmental improvements
- submit by the due date
Q. Can an organization submit more than one proposal?
A. Yes. but due to funding limitations, we will not likely fund more than one proposal from a specific organization. If you have more than one idea, you may want to discuss the ideas with the EPA contact before the pre-proposals are due.
Q. Can organizations outside of Region 9 apply?
A. Yes, but there must be a clear benefit to EPA Region 9. Organizations outside the region may want to consider partnering with an organization within the region. You may also contact us for information on EPA contacts in other parts of the country that may have similar solicitations.
Q. Who can I contact for additional information?
A. Please contact
EPA Regional contact
Cara Peck (peck.cara@epa.gov)
(415) 972-3382
Tribal Solid Waste contact
Heather White (white.heather@epa.gov)
(415) 972-3384