Food Infrastructure Improvement Program RFA

Food Infrastructure Improvement Program

Fiscal Year 2023 Request for Applications

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-AMS-TM-FIIP-G-23-00##

Publication Date: [PUBLICATION DATE]

Application Due Date: 11:59 PM Eastern Time on [60 DAYS FROM PUBLICATION]

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Program Solicitation Information
Funding Opportunity Title: Food Infrastructure Improvement Program Cooperative Agreements
Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-AMS-TM-FIIP-G-23-00##
Announcement Type: Initial
Assistance Listing Number: 10.###
Funding Authorization: The Food Infrastructure Improvement Program (FIIP) program was authorized
by section 1001 of the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021 (Pub. L. No. 117—2).
Eligible Entities: Eligible entities are State agencies, commissions, or departments in States and
territories that are responsible for agriculture, commercial food processing, seafood, or related food
system/distribution or commerce activities within the State or Territory. AMS will consider only one
application per State; agencies within the State must coordinate on the application. AMS requires a
Lead State agency partnering with at least one additional relevant state agency. The term 'State' means
the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands.
Applying for funds under this solicitation is a two-step process (see section 1.4 for full details). First,
eligible entities must submit a Letter of Intent conveying their intention to apply for funds. Second,
eligible entities must then submit a full application describing their funding request, how it aligns with
the program’s priorities and intent, and implementation plans.
Letter of Intent Due Date: Eligible entities must submit a Letter of Intent by XX, 2023. The letter of
intent must be from the Lead State Agency and reflect engagement and commitment from partner
agencies in the State. States that do not submit a letter of intent will not be eligible for funds under this
program.
Application Due Dates: Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on [60 DAYS FROM
PUBLICATION], through Grants.gov. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered for
funding.
Executive Summary: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS),
requests applications for fiscal year (FY) 2023 from each U.S. State and territory for Food Infrastructure
Improvement Program Cooperative Agreements (FIIP) to develop and administer state coordinated
initiatives to build resilience across the middle of the State’s food supply chain for food crops. Funds will
be used to expand capacity for the aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting,
wholesaling, and distribution of food products, including specialty crops, dairy, grains for human
consumption, aquaculture, and other food products, excluding meat and poultry. This program is
intended to provide similar support to that provided in other USDA funding for meat and poultry
processing, but for the non-meat and poultry sectors. States will work in partnership with USDA to
make competitive subaward investments in middle of the supply chain infrastructure (Infrastructure
Grants) to food and farm businesses and other eligible entities, and may use a limited portion of funds
to develop and/or strengthen the State’s supply chain coordination and targeted market development
services.
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Approximately $400 million in American Rescue Plan funding is available for this program. Funds will be
allocated by formula (see section 2.4) for activities that will take place between FY 2023 and FY 2026.
The overall goal of FIIP is to create more and better processing options for producers across the
specialty crops, dairy, grain (for food), and other sectors detailed in section 1.2.1 (i.e., non- meat and
poultry sectors) by targeting gaps and opportunities in the pandemic assistance, Food Systems
Transformation (FST) programs, and existing USDA grant programs that support the agricultural supply
chain.
AMS encourages applications that benefit smaller farms and ranches, and historically underserved
producers. For projects intending to serve these entities, applicants should engage and involve those
beneficiaries when developing projects and applications.
In all programs and initiatives, USDA promotes climate-resilient landscapes and rural economic systems,
including tools to support agriculture, forests, grazing lands, and rural communities. AMS encourages
applicants to consider including goals and activities related to reducing and stabilizing the levels of heattrapping greenhouse gases in the atmosphere or adapting to the already occurring climate change in
their project’s design and implementation.

Application Checklist
AMS expects applicants to read the entire RFA prior to submitting their application to ensure that they
understand the program’s requirements.
This application checklist provides the required and conditionally required documents for an application
package:
SF-424 – Application for Federal Assistance (in Grants.gov)
SF-424A – Budget Summary (in Grants.gov)
Project Abstract Summary (in Grants.gov)
State Plan Template
Signed Letter(s) of Commitment Section 5.2.6
Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) (PDF Attachment)
Note: Project Profile Templates may be submitted at the time of application through Grants.gov OR within one year
of the start date on the grant agreement by email to AMS. It should be clear from the Grant Administrative
Template which option the State department of agriculture will choose.

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Table of Contents
Program Solicitation Information .................................................................................... 2
Application Checklist ..................................................................................................... 3
Table of Contents .......................................................................................................... 4
1.0
Funding Opportunity Description ........................................................................... 6
1.1 Legislative Authority............................................................................................ 6
1.2 Purpose .............................................................................................................. 6
1.3 Program Description ............................................................................................ 7
1.4 State Responsibilities .......................................................................................... 9
1.5 Infrastructure Grant Subaward Process .............................................................. 10
1.6 State-Led Complementary Supply Chain Coordination Activities ........................... 15
1.7 USDA Substantial Involvement In Cooperative Agreements With States ................ 16
1.8 National Environmental Policy Act and Other Federal Laws and Regulations ......... 17
2.0
Award Information ............................................................................................. 17
2.1 Type of Federal Assistance ................................................................................. 17
2.2 Type of Applications .......................................................................................... 17
2.3 Available Funding and Federal Award Period Duration ......................................... 17
2.4 Amounts Available to Each Applicant .................................................................. 18
3.0
Eligibility Information ......................................................................................... 19
3.1 Eligible Applicants ............................................................................................. 19
3.2 Partners and Collaborators ................................................................................ 20
3.3 Performance Measures ...................................................................................... 20
4.0
Funding Considerations ...................................................................................... 20
4.1 Cost Sharing and Matching ................................................................................. 20
4.2 Indirect Costs .................................................................................................... 21
4.3 Grant Administration Funds ............................................................................... 22
4.4 Supplanting ....................................................................................................... 22
4.5 Allowable and Unallowable Costs and Activities .................................................. 22
4.6 Coordinator Meeting Travel ............................................................................... 23
4.7 Funds Not Applied For or Failure to Submit Letter of Intent................................. 23
5.0
Application and Submission Information .............................................................. 23
5.1 Electronic Application Package ........................................................................... 23
5.2 Content and Form of Application Submission ...................................................... 23
5.3 Grants.gov Application Submission and Receipt Procedures and Requirements ..... 26
5.4 Application Submission Requirements ................................................................ 28
5.5 Submission Date and Time ................................................................................. 28
5.6 Intergovernmental Review ................................................................................. 29
6.0
Application Review Information .......................................................................... 29
6.1 Initial Application Review .................................................................................. 29
6.2 Infrastructure Grant Evaluation Criteria ............................................................. 30
7.0
Award Administration Information ...................................................................... 31
7.1 Award Notices ................................................................................................... 31
7.2 Administrative and National Policy Requirements ............................................... 31
7.3 Reporting Requirements .................................................................................... 31
7.4 Acknowledgement of USDA Support ................................................................... 31
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8.0
8.1
8.2
9.0
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5

Agency Contacts ................................................................................................. 31
Available Resources ........................................................................................... 31
Grants.gov Questions ........................................................................................ 32
Other Information .............................................................................................. 32
Definitions ......................................................................................................... 32
Equal Opportunity Statement ............................................................................. 33
Freedom of Information Act Requests ................................................................ 34
Paperwork Reduction......................................................................................... 34
Equity and Trust ................................................................................................ 34

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1.0 FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION
1.1

LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY

The Food Infrastructure Improvement Program (FIIP) program was authorized by section 1001 of the
American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act of 2021 (Pub. L. No. 117—2).
1.2

PURPOSE

The purpose of the FIIP program is to assist U.S. states and territories (States) to build resilience in the
middle of the supply chain and strengthen local and regional food systems and creating new revenue
streams for producers. States will make subawards in the form of Infrastructure Grants to middle-of-thesupply businesses to create more diverse local market options and create more economic opportunities
for communities, allowing them to retain more of the food system dollar. These investments aim to
create a food systems infrastructure to support competitive and profitable market access for farm
products. States may use some of the funds to conduct complementary state-led supply chain
coordination in alignment with these program goals.
The Food Infrastructure Improvement Program (FIIP) serves as an important component of USDA’s
framework to transform the food system to benefit consumers, producers, and rural communities by
providing more options, increasing access, and creating new, more, and better markets for small and
mid-size producers. The pandemic and recent supply chain disruptions have revealed the perils of a
national food system that depends on capacity concentrated in a few geographic areas and requires
many steps to get from farm to fork. To be more resilient, the food system of the future needs to be
more distributed and local.
FIIP addresses this need by targeting crucial parts of the agricultural supply chain to address gaps in
existing pandemic assistance, Food Systems Transformation (FST) programs, and other USDA programs.
The primary goal of FIIP is to support food system crops and products meant for human consumption
(excluding meat and poultry products, which are funded through other USDA programs).
The program also aims to:
•
•
•

Support development of value‐added products available to consumers;
Support proposals that provide fair prices, fair wages and new and safe job opportunities that
keep profits circulating in the rural community; and
Increase diversity in processing options in terms of business model approaches, geography, and
availability to underserved communities.

This program is also aligned with efforts to:
•

Ensure equitable access to USDA programs and benefits from USDA-funded projects and
support the policies of Executive Order 13985 (Executive Order on Advancing Racial Equity and
Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government). Diversity, Equity,
Inclusion, and Accessibility in the Federal Workforce).

•

Contribute to the resilience of the food and agricultural supply chains through support for
diversified, value-added agriculture and support the policies of Executive Order 14017
(Executive Order on America’s Supply Chains).

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•

Promote competition in the food system and support the policies of Executive Order 14036
(Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American Economy).

•

Implement the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act. Guidance on BABA requirements for
USDA award recipients is available here.

1.2.1 TARGET LOCAL AND REGIONAL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS
FIIP is intended to serve middle-of-the-supply-chain needs to provide more and better markets to
producers of the target agricultural products below. These represent food system crops and products
meant for human consumption (excluding meat and poultry products, which are funded through other
USDA programs).
Eligible products include:
Grains, beans, and pulses for human consumption (not for animal feed and forage)
Fruits and vegetables
Tree nuts
Peanuts
Milk and other dairy products from cows, sheep, and goats
Eggs
Aquaculture (food fish and mollusks, crustaceans for food, seaweed and algae)
Honey
Hemp hearts and hempseed oil
Fiber
Ineligible products include: meat and poultry, wild-caught seafood, animal feed and forage products,
including pet food, landscaping products, or highly processed commodity crops such as corn and sugar
beets.

1.3

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The program will award cooperative agreements to each State. Cooperative agreements are a form of
grant that anticipates substantial involvement by the awarding federal agency (e.g., engaging with the
grant recipient on overall project direction and implementation).
AMS will make only one award to each state and territory. Each State will apply through a Lead State
Agency (see Section 3.1). States will use the formula funds awarded by USDA to make competitive
Infrastructure Grant subawards as described in Section 1.5 for projects to expand capacity and
infrastructure for the aggregation, processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, or
distribution of targeted agricultural products (see section 1.2.1).
States may also use up to 20 percent of their formula grant, for a total of up to $1 million per State, to
develop and/or enhance a supply chain coordination initiative that focuses on business support and
market development (see section 1.4.5) to benefit local and regional food systems and contributes to
the success and impact of the FIIP Infrastructure Grant investments. States can also use grant funds to
pay administrative costs associated with implementing their program.
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There is no match requirement for grant funds dedicated to activities conducted by the state (see
section 4.1). Sub-awardees will be required to provide matching funds on a graduated scale (see section
1.5.3).
States must ensure that Infrastructure Grants are used for the purpose of expanding middle of the
supply chain capacity and offer more and better market opportunities and new streams of revenue to
small and mid-sized agricultural producers, including those who may not have access to value-added
opportunities or processing to meet market demand for premium or value-added products. The FIIP
program will focus on funding Infrastructure Grant activities in each state that:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Expand capacity for processing, aggregation and distribution of agricultural products to create
more and better markets for producers;
Modernize manufacturing, tracking, storage, and information technology systems;
Enhance worker safety through adoption of new technologies or investment in equipment or
facility improvements;
Improve the capacity of entities to comply with federal, state, and local food safety
requirements;
Improve operations through acquiring consultant services and training opportunities;
Support construction of a new facility or purchase of an inoperable facility;
Modernize or expand an existing facility (including expansion and modifications to existing
buildings and/or construction of new buildings at existing facilities;
construction of wastewater management structures, etc.); and
Modernize processing and manufacturing equipment.
Develop, customize or install climate‐smart equipment that reduces greenhouse gas emissions,
increases efficiency in water use, improves air and/or water quality, and/or meets one or more
of USDA’s climate action goals.

States must propose in their initial application how they will prioritize Infrastructure Grant applications
that benefit the following:
•
•
•
•

Underserved farmers and ranchers;
New and beginning farmers or ranchers;
Veteran producers;
Processors and other middle-of-the-supply businesses owned by socially disadvantaged
individuals as defined by the Small Business Administration (SBA).

States must include criteria in their Infrastructure Grant competition that focuses funding to projects
that:
• Offer family-supporting job quality and treatment/safety of workers;
• Focus on small and medium-sized enterprises that add options and choices for consumers and
producers (emphasis on value-added);
• Demonstrate local support for the project;
• Support underserved communities; and
• Are submitted by cooperatives, farmer- and worker-owned enterprises.
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States may choose to prioritize investments based on specific markets that align with program goals and
are important in the State. Some potential markets for prioritization include:
•
•
•
•

1.4

Institutions
Retail
Intermediaries, such as food hubs, aggregators, wholesalers, and distributors
Market channels or mechanisms intended to respond to food access challenges in the state,
including distinct cultural markets, corner stores, etc.
STATE RESPONSIBILITIES

States are responsible for (1) submitting a letter of intent, (2) developing an initial state application
outlining how the state plans to conduct outreach and use the funds, (3) conducting outreach and an
Infrastructure Grant competition and submitting Infrastructure Grant award recommendations to USDA
in a State Infrastructure Grant Proposal, and (4) upon USDA approval, making Infrastructure Grant
awards, conducting associated state-led coordination activities and overseeing funded projects. This
includes ensuring that Infrastructure Grant recipients maintain appropriate records and follow all
applicable Federal statutes and regulations as well as the Cooperative Agreement and Program Specific
and AMS General Terms and Conditions.
States must ensure that proposals are fully responsive to the FIIP program by reviewing section 1.2
Purpose and award criteria found in section 6.1. Contact a specialist listed in section 8.0 Agency
Contacts if there is any question about whether or not a project qualifies for FIIP.
1.4.1 LETTER OF INTENT
States are required to submit a letter of intent by [XX date]. This letter must be submitted by the agency
selected to lead the work in the state (Lead State Agency). The letter must include (1) intent to use the
formula funds offered to the state, and (2) identify the Lead Agency applicant and any partner agencies
that will work on the program (if partners are planned and identified by then). Upon confirmation of
USDA receipt of your letter of intent, states should proceed to developing their initial application
(Section 1.4.2).
1.4.2 INITIAL APPLICATION – PROJECT NARRATIVE
By the deadline in this RFA, States must submit an Initial Application, including Project Narrative,
submitted by the Lead State Agency and responsive to the requirements in Sections 5.2 of this RFA. The
Initial Application will describe the state’s outreach plan, a description of anticipated priorities and
needs in the state relative to this program, the State’s plan for its Infrastructure Grant competition
process, including how it will ensure that the purpose and priorities of FIIP will be fulfilled, and whether
it will use a portion of the funds (up to 20% of the State’s award amount or up to $1 million, whichever
is less) for complementary State-led supply chain coordination activities described in Section 1.4.5.
USDA will review, inform, and approve this Initial Application before entering into a cooperative
agreement with the Lead State Agency, as described in Section 6.1. Initial Applications will be expected
to meet the award criteria outlined in Section 6.1.

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1.4.3 OUTREACH TO IDENTIFY INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT FUNDING PRIORITIES
States are expected to perform outreach to interested parties, including underserved farmers and
ranchers, new and beginning farmers or ranchers, veteran producers, farm and food businesses in
supply chains for Target Agricultural Products, and underserved communities, prior to the development
and release of the State’s request for applications for their Infrastructure Grants, through a transparent
process of receiving and considering public comment to identify State funding priorities. The State
should conduct this outreach to ensure that the Initial Application it submits to USDA for review has
been developed with proven and justified public support.
1.4.4 ADMINISTER INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT SUBAWARDS
States will administer a competitive process to award Infrastructure Grants in their State, as described in
Section 1.5.
1.4.5 STATE-LED COMPLEMENTARY SUPPLY CHAIN ACTIVITIES
States may allocate up to 20% of a their FIIP funding, or up to $1 million (whichever is smaller), to Supply
Chain Coordination activities, led by the Lead State Agency or one or more partner state agencies,
aligned with the purposes of the program, and designed to serve the producers and supply chains
targeted by this FIIP program, including but not limited to Infrastructure Grant recipients. States are
encouraged to conduct these activities themselves, in order to build state-level capacity, but may
contract or enter subagreements for some of the activities. See Section 1.6 for more details.

1.5

INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT SUBAWARD PROCESS

States must offer most of their FIIP funding to Infrastructure Grants through a competitive subawards
process administered according to the requirements in this section and the following sections (1.5.1 1.5.8) and other relevant requirements in this RFA. After states take their allowed administrative funds
and indirect costs (see Section 4.2 and 4.3) and up to 20% of the funding or $1 million, whichever is less,
for complementary state-led technical assistance (see Section 1.6), the remainder must be used for
Infrastructure Grants.
1.5.1 INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT – FUNDING AMOUNTS
The minimum award amount is $100,000 and maximum award amount is $3,000,000.
1.5.2 ENTITIES ELIGIBLE FOR INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS
Entities eligible for Infrastructure Grants made by states will be:
•
•
•

Agricultural producers or processors, or groups of agricultural producers and processors
Nonprofit organizations operating middle-of-the-supply-chain activities such as processing,
aggregation, distribution of targeted agricultural products
Local government entities operating middle-of-the-supply-chain activities such as processing,
aggregation, distribution of targeted agricultural products

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•
•

Tribal governments operating middle-of-the-supply-chain activities such as processing,
aggregation, distribution of targeted agricultural products.
Institutions such as schools, universities, or hospitals bringing producers together to establish
cooperative or shared infrastructure or invest in equipment that will benefit multiple producers
middle-of-the-supply-chain activities such as processing, aggregation, distribution of targeted
agricultural product.

1.5.3 INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS – COST SHARING AND MATCHING
For the Market Development and Promotion and Processing Capacity Expansion Projects, the recipient
must pay 50% of the project cost, as a match to federal funding. Turnkey Equipment-Only Projects do
not require matching funds.
Reduced Matching Funds– Historically Underserved Groups
For underserved farmers and ranchers, or for other businesses that qualify under SBA categories
of Small disadvantaged business, Women-owned small business, or veteran-owned small
business, the required match funding contribution or cost share is reduced to 25% of the project
cost.
Historically Underserved Farmers and Ranchers Certification
To receive the reduced match or cost share, qualifying applicants must use the following
options:
Qualifying farmer and rancher applicants should complete form CCC-860, Socially
Disadvantaged, Limited Resource, Beginning and Veteran Farmer or Rancher Certification. This
form allows producers to certify that they, or the entity or joint operation applying for the
program, are:
•
•
•
•

Members of a socially disadvantaged group;
Qualify as limited resource producers;
Are beginning farmers or ranchers; or
Are a veterans.

Qualifying applicants must complete the form according to the CCC-860 instructions and submit
it to their local USDA Farm Service Agency office.
Small Business Certification
Small disadvantaged businesses, women-owned small businesses or veteran-owned small
businesses should get certified through SAM.gov using the Small Business Administration (SBA)
categories. Information on the SBA Certification process can be on the program pages for the
Small Disadvantaged Business program, Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contract
program, and the Veteran Contracting Assistance Program.
Other Matching Fund Information

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In-kind contributions are defined, when used as a cost share or match for a grant, as the value of
goods or services provided for the benefit of the grant program, where no funds transferred
hands. For example, a partner, such as a tribal community member, may volunteer their
professional expertise as a match contribution to the project as described in 2 CFR § 200.306(e).
These contributions cannot satisfy a cost sharing or matching requirement for this grant
program if they are used toward satisfying a match requirement under any other Federal grant
agreement to which the applicant is a party.
All matching contributions must be committed or secured at the time an applicant is
recommend for an award.
Applicants must indicate the total amount of match and how it will specifically align with their
requested funding when completing the fiscal plan and resources section of the Project
Narrative, section 5.2.5. Additionally, applicants must submit signed letters or other
documentation verifying the match for EACH cash and/or in-kind resource. Refer to section
5.2.6, Matching Funds and Letters of Verification for more information.
Indirect costs may count toward your match. Refer to section 4.2, Indirect for more information.
Program income (as defined in 2 CFR § 200.1) or any other Federal funds is an ineligible source
of match or cost share.
1.5.4 INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS – INDIRECT COSTS
Indirect costs are any costs that are incurred for common or joint objectives that therefore, cannot be
readily identified with an individual project, program, or organizational activity. They generally include
facilities operation and maintenance costs, depreciation, and administrative expenses. If an
Infrastructure Grant recipient has a NICRA, States are required to honor that negotiated rate, and a copy
of the NICRA must be submitted with the Infrastructure Grant application. Otherwise, applicants may
elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent of modified total direct costs (MTDC). For additional
information, refer to section 4.2.
1.5.5 INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS – COMPETITIVE REVIEW PROCESS
States must award Infrastructure Grants through a competitive review process. State will facilitate and
have operational responsibility to carry out the competition and should simplify the process and
application to the maximum extent possible.
The competitive review process must:
•
•
•
•

follow all applicable state policies and procedures
include the use of an independent review panel of experts or qualified individuals
include the factors and reasons for selecting an applicant and any changes in project proposal
ranks/scores that may occur during the review process
maintain guidelines and procedures to prevent any conflict of interest or the appearance of a
conflict of interest as required by 2 CFR § 400.2(b)

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All documentation affecting the decision to approve, disapprove, defer, or otherwise not fund an
application should be maintained in an accessible, centralized program file.
When conducting their competitive review of subaward applications for Infrastructure Grants, States
should consider the extent to which each:
-

Is being submitted by an eligible entity as defined in Section 1.5.2
Is for a project with eligible activities as described in Section 1.5.6
Is responsive to priorities as described in Section 1.3
Demonstrates financial viability, technical feasibility, and readiness.
Describes market impact and opportunities.
Demonstrates community impact and support, including labor and workforce considerations.

AMS will provide a subaward project narrative template for Infrastructure Grant applications.
After the State Infrastructure Grant competition is complete, and within the first year of the grant
agreement, States will submit their Infrastructure Grant award recommendations to USDA in a State
Infrastructure Grant Proposal for review and final approval. The State Infrastructure Grant Proposal will
include a compiled set of project profiles based on the AMS-provided project narrative template, one for
each project the State proposes to fund. Each State Infrastructure Grant Proposal will be reviewed by a
USDA Review Board (Board) against the criteria described in this section and to ensure that project
portfolios in each state align with the program purpose, provide reasonable geographic coverage within
the state, support a diversity of targeted agricultural products appropriate to the specific state, prioritize
underserved producers and businesses and support program goals as stated in this RFA. This Review
Board may respond to the State with questions and recommendations to adjust award
recommendations.
1.5.6 INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS – PROJECTS ELIGIBLE FOR FUNDING
A project is a set of interrelated tasks with a cohesive, distinct, specified, and defined goal. It follows a
planned, organized approach over a fixed period of time and within specific limitations (cost,
performance/quality, etc.). Additionally, it uses resources that are specifically allocated to the work of
the project and usually involves a team of people.
Projects are different from other ongoing operations in an organization because, unlike operations,
projects have a definitive beginning and end – they have a limited duration. A project has an overarching
goal that the applicant wants to accomplish through a series of individual activities or tasks.
Infrastructure Grants will fund projects that expand capacity and infrastructure for the aggregation,
processing, manufacturing, storing, transporting, wholesaling, or distribution of targeted agricultural
products. Examples include:
•
•

Expanding processing capacities, including adding product types, increasing production
volumes, and supporting new wholesale/retail product lines;
Modernizing equipment or facilities through upgrades, repairs, or retooling; (e.g., adapting
product lines for institutional procurement or adding parallel processing capacity);

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•
•
•
•
•

•
•

•
•

Purchase and installation of specialized equipment, such as processing components, sorting
equipment, packing and labeling equipment, or delivery vehicles;
Modernizing manufacturing, tracking, storage, and information technology systems
Enhancing worker safety through adoption of new technologies or investment in equipment or
facility improvements
Construction of a new facility
Increasing packaging and labeling capacities that meet compliance requirements under
applicable laws (e.g. sealing, bagging, boxing, labeling, conveying, and product moving
equipment);
Increasing storage space, including cold storage;
Develop, customize or install climate‐smart equipment that reduces greenhouse gas emissions,
increases efficiency in water use, improves air and/or water quality, and/or meets one or more
of USDA’s climate action goals;
Modernize equipment or facilities to ensure food safety, including associated Hazard, Analysis,
and Critical Control Points (HACCP) consultation, plan development and employee training;
Training on the use of all equipment purchased under the grant and associated new processes;

Allowable activities or tasks that could be a part of such projects might include:
•
•

•

•
•

Hiring personnel for the project activities
Purchasing special purpose equipment: defined in Section 8.2 of the AMS General Terms and
Conditions. This includes the purchase of special purpose equipment for institutions or others
that will benefit multiple producers through middle-of-the-supply-chain activities such as
processing, aggregation, distribution of targeted agricultural product.
Developing marketing plans, conducting feasibility studies, analyzing potential facility upgrades
and changes that meet regulatory requirements, obtaining design and/or architecture services,
etc.
Planning for Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) or other food safety or worker
safety measures or equipment recommendations
Upgrades or new facilities for processing specific agricultural products, such as:
o On-farm post-harvest processing, preservation, and storage/cold storage
o Post-harvest cleaning and grading
o Aggregator warehouse and storage, including cooperatives
o Purchase of freezing equipment, freezer, or cold storage
o Processing, canning, preserving and pasteurization
o Preparation and packing
o Drying, hulling, shelling, and milling
o Cooking, baking, juicing, distilling, fermenting

1.5.7 INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS - ACTIVITIES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR FUNDING
The following activities are not eligible for funding:

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•
•
•
•

Acquiring real property (including land purchases), or any interest therein.
Projects focused on meat and poultry processing or other ineligible agricultural products as
noted in Section 1.2.1.
Activities that have received a Federal award from another Federal award program.
Claim expenses that have been or will be reimbursed under any Federal, State, or local
government funding.

Activities which have already received funding or are more directly targeted by other USDA-funded
grant programs are also ineligible for funding under this program, including but not limited to:
• [Depending on timing of announcements, add Organic Market Development]
• Organic certification or transition to certification activities funded under the Organic
Certification Cost Share Program; and
• Food safety program expenses funded under the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops
Program.
1.5.8 INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS – EVIDENCE OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Evidence of Critical Infrastructure is required if critical resources and/or infrastructure are necessary for
the completion of the proposed Infrastructure Grant project. States must require applicants to submit
evidence (in MS Word or PDF) that critical resources and infrastructure necessary to support the
initiation and completion of a project are in place. Land, structures, and other critical resources must be
in place and in working condition at the time of application submission. The letter must indicate the
critical resources that are necessary for initiation and completion of the project and certify that they are
in place and committed prior to the start date of the project. States may use the AMS Suggested
Evidence of Critical Resources and Infrastructure Template Letter. If States do not require Infrastructure
Grant applicants to use this template, Letters of Evidence of Critical Infrastructure must minimally
include the following:
• Project Applicant
• Project Title
• A statement about committing/approving/granting permission, etc. of the critical resource or
infrastructure to the project for the time period
• A description of the approved use of the critical resource or infrastructure approved for the
project, any costs associated with its use, and any qualifying circumstances for its use
1.6

STATE-LED COMPLEMENTARY SUPPLY CHAIN COORDINATION ACTIVITIES

Up to 20% of a state’s FIIP funding, or up to $1 million (whichever is smaller) may be allocated to Supply
Chain Coordination activities, led by the Lead State Agency or a partner state agency, aligned with the
purposes of the program and designed to serve the producers and supply chains targeted by this FIIP
program, including but not limited to Infrastructure Grant recipients. States are encouraged to conduct
these activities themselves, in order to build state-level capacity, but may contract or enter
subagreements for some of the activities.
States within a region served by one of the USDA’s Regional Food Business Centers (Regional Food
Centers) are expected to coordinate with the Regional Food Center to the maximum extent possible.

15

States are also encouraged to coordinate program activities with applicable Local Food Purchase
Assistance Agreements and Local Food for Schools agreements, which many states and territories have
with USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service Commodity Procurement Program.
States are encouraged to connect local and regional producers with Federal and State programs,
including USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) Farm to School Leads, USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA)
State Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coordinators, and state food and agriculture councils.
States should include nonmonetary assistance to businesses through either targeted technical
assistance or trainings and other relevant resources. Specific forms of assistance may include:
•

•
•
•

1.7

Assessing supply chain needs and opportunities in the state to benefit agricultural producers,
expand product offerings for consumers, expand processing options and capacity, facilitate
cooperative solutions to bottlenecks, and plan for best use to meet needs and build
opportunities through Infrastructure Grants;
Providing innovative, yet practical, planning for the aggregation, processing, manufacturing,
storage, transportation, wholesaling, or distribution of food;
Developing or facilitating general informational websites, webinars, conferences, trainings, plant
tours, and field days; and
Business assistance, including business plan development for processed products, strategic
planning assistance, and distribution and supply chain innovation.
USDA SUBSTANTIAL INVOLVEMENT IN COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS WITH STATES

A cooperative agreement means a legal instrument of financial assistance between a Federal awarding
agency and a recipient or a pass-through entity and a subrecipient (See 2 CFR § 200.1). A cooperative
agreement is distinguished from a grant in that it provides for substantial involvement of the Federal
awarding agency in carrying out the activity contemplated by the Federal award.
USDA will review, inform, and approve States’ Initial Application before entering into cooperative
agreements, which will include tailored substantial USDA involvement based on the goals articulated by
each state.
As described in Section 1.5.5 above, USDA will provide partnership and expertise in its review of State
Infrastructure Grant Proposals and provide input to states to ensure that funded Infrastructure Grants
are aligned with the program.
USDA will be substantially involved throughout the period of performance of the award. Substantial
involvement may include, but is not limited to, the following:
•
•

USDA will maintain engagement to ensure that implementation maintains consistency across
states and in alignment with FIIP program purpose while also being responsive to the specific
needs of the producers in the state. This may include coordinating state partner meetings.
Sharing expertise and resources on local and regional food systems, market development, value
chain coordination or other topics identified as useful to support state FIIP activities.

16

•
•

•

Provision of specific direction or redirection of work during the period of performance, including
reallocation of Infrastructure Grant funds or supply chain coordination funds to alternative
projects or uses, as needed.
Developing and disseminating clear and consistent branding for this program. USDA will
coordinate with states on all award announcements to ensure they are amplified at the federal
level and provide opportunities for USDA officials to attend announcement events if feasible.
States will also coordinate with USDA on events or ribbon-cuttings or other events to highlight
success of Infrastructure Grant projects.
Collaborating with States on data collection methods and data analysis for performance reports.

USDA substantial involvement does not release the State from their role in ensuring that all activities,
including subawards are conducted in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
1.8

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT AND OTHER FEDERAL LAWS AND
REGULATIONS

States must ensure Infrastructure Grant Recipients comply with the National Environmental Policy Act
(NEPA), National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), and all other federal
environmental laws and regulations. States are required to review projects for NEPA compliance prior to
the award of Infrastructure Grant subaward funds. States are responsible for assisting Infrastructure
Grant recipients with obtaining any authorities, permits, easements or other approvals necessary for the
implementation of the activities in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
If selected for an award, Infrastructure Grant recipients will need to provide States all requested
information to support compliance with NEPA, ESA, NHPA, and other Federal laws or regulations as part
of the administrative process. The costs associated with satisfying environmental review requirements
and permits are also eligible for reimbursement as pre-application expenses. See section XXX of program
specific terms and conditions for allowable pre-application costs for environmental review process and
permitting.
AMS will complete an Environmental Screening evaluation before awarding of grant funds. All
Environmental areas evaluated can be found in the grant specific Terms and Conditions. AMS reserves
the right to deny an application that does not meet NEPA or permitting policies or does not provide
documentation by established time frame. A project cannot begin until a completed NEPA review has
been completed by AMS.
2.0 AWARD INFORMATION
2.1

TYPE OF FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

AMS will use a Cooperative Agreement to provide the Federal award to applicants.
2.2

TYPE OF APPLICATIONS

New application. AMS will review all applications for conformance with the criteria in section 5.0 and
may require the applicant to provide additional information or clarification by a specified date.
2.3

AVAILABLE FUNDING AND FEDERAL AWARD PERIOD DURATION

17

Source

Available Funding

Award Period

Start Date

End Date

ARP

$400 million*

4 years

TBD

TBD

*Amounts do not include AMS administrative costs. Enactment of additional continuing resolutions or
an appropriations act may affect the availability or level of funding for this program.
The applicant must indicate the start and end dates on the SF-424, “Application for Federal Assistance”
in block 17. AMS encourages States to allow ample time for completion of all projects.
2.4

AMOUNTS AVAILABLE TO EACH APPLICANT

Subject to the amount of available funding as set forth above in section 2.3, each eligible applicant that
submits an application that the AMS reviews and accepts is eligible to receive the available allocation as
indicated below. These allocation amounts are based a formula using available NASS data across eligible
commodities (e.g., wheat, pulses, rice, fruits, vegetables, dairy, aquaculture, and more). The formula is
developed to favor States that have a significant amount of production of the target commodities AND
where that production is produced mostly by small farms. The formula is based on sales figures for each
State’s share of national small farm production and each state’s share of national production for
targeted commodities. Small farm share is weighted 2:1 to overall production to prioritize small and
midsize agriculture. AMS is providing a minimum funding allocation of $2 million for all states and
territories regardless of the size of their production.
State

Available Allocation

Alabama
Alaska
American Samoa
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Guam
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky

$3,508,613
$2,132,943
$2,059,801
$4,571,518
$3,996,759
$45,211,987
$4,358,569
$2,707,145
$2,177,586
$2,000,000
$7,688,273
$6,070,235
$2,093,440
$3,310,769
$7,683,683
$4,400,961
$7,277,544
$5,160,859
$6,490,069
$5,260,690

18

Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Northern Mariana Islands
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Puerto Rico
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
U.S. Virgin Islands
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

$3,740,678
$3,844,902
$3,468,633
$3,473,450
$9,972,045
$12,987,792
$3,335,204
$6,028,016
$4,421,795
$3,527,251
$2,220,919
$2,613,746
$3,201,008
$3,735,487
$19,072,647
$4,898,935
$5,154,107
$2,027,308
$11,084,535
$4,666,330
$6,202,506
$26,234,156
$3,613,241
$2,192,385
$3,363,842
$3,373,791
$3,925,606
$8,732,092
$2,058,614
$3,152,600
$4,719,321
$4,583,008
$10,982,411
$2,664,089
$30,409,819
$2,156,288

3.0 ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION
3.1

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

Eligible entities are State agencies, commissions, or departments in States and territories that are
responsible for agriculture, commercial food processing, seafood, or related food system/distribution or
commerce activities within the State. The Governor may decide which agency to apply as the Lead State
19

Agency applicant, as there is one application per state. The Lead State Agency applicant may implement
the program in partnership with other eligible agencies within the state. The Lead State Agency is
responsible for submitting the letter of intent and should describe partnerships with any other eligible
entity agencies in the state who will play a significant role in implementation. USDA has designated
funding for each of the 50 States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, and the United States Virgin
Islands.
AMS expects that applicants will consult with the Governor’s Office and other relevant stakeholders
before developing FIIP project applications to ensure maximum public input and benefit. These
stakeholders should play an important role in development of project goals and objectives, in
implementing the project plan, and in evaluating and disseminating project results and outcomes.
3.2

PARTNERS AND COLLABORATORS

An applicant may establish subcontracts or subagreements with partners and collaborators for
coordination and technical assistance activities, or to conduct outreach for the Infrastructure Grant
competition.
•

•

3.3

A partnership is a relationship involving close cooperation between parties having specified
responsibilities in the management of the project. In FIIP, this may include other state agencies
working with the Lead State Agency applicant.
A collaborator is a person or an organization unaffiliated with the applicant that cooperates with
the applicant in the conduct of the project and is not immediately connected to the
management of the project. Collaborators may come from private or public, for-profit or
nonprofit entities, as appropriate for their intended roles in the proposal, and are not required
to meet the eligibility requirements listed in this RFA.
PERFORMANCE MEASURES

AMS is required to report on the outcomes of the FIIP on a national scale to demonstrate the
performance of this program. By collecting, aggregating, and reporting performance data across all
States, AMS can share the impact of the FIIP with all stakeholders, including OMB, U.S. Congress, the
agricultural community, and the public.
Each project submitted in the State Plan must include at least one of the outcomes listed in the FIIP
Performance Measures and at least one of the indicators listed in the selected outcome(s). The progress
of the one or more outcomes and indicators selected will need to be reported in the Annual
Performance Report, and the results will be reported in the Final Performance Report. Please refer to
the FIIP Performance Measures for more information.
4.0 FUNDING CONSIDERATIONS
4.1

COST SHARING AND MATCHING

20

States are not required to provide match funding or cost share in this program.
4.2

INDIRECT COSTS

Indirect costs (also known as “facilities and administrative costs”—defined at 2 CFR § 200.1) are those
costs incurred for a common or joint purpose benefitting more than one cost objective, and not readily
assignable to the cost objectives specifically benefitted, without effort disproportionate to the results
achieved.
Presenting Direct and Indirect Costs Consistently
Applicants are responsible for presenting direct and indirect costs appropriately and consistently and
must not include costs associated with their organization’s indirect cost rate agreement as direct costs.
In addition, a cost may not be allocated as an indirect cost if it also incurred as a direct cost for the same
purpose and vice versa.
Direct costs are costs that can be identified specifically with a particular award, project or
program, service, or other organizational activity or that can be directly assigned to such an
activity relatively easily with a high degree of accuracy. Typically, direct costs include, but are
not limited to, compensation of employees who work directly on the award to include salaries
and fringe benefits, travel, equipment, and supplies directly benefiting the grant supported
project or program.
Indirect costs (also known as “facilities and administrative costs”) defined at 2 CFR § 200.1 are
costs incurred for a common or joint purpose benefitting more than one cost objective, and not
readily assignable to the cost objectives specifically benefitted without effort disproportionate
to the results achieved. Refer to 2 CFR §§ 200.413 and 414 for additional information on
determining if costs charged to the award are direct or indirect.
The salaries of administrative and clerical staff should typically be treated as indirect costs. However,
charging these costs as direct costs may be appropriate where all the following conditions are met:
(1) administrative or clerical services are integral to a project or activity;
(2) individuals involved can be specifically identified with the project or activity;
(3) such costs are explicitly included in the budget or have the prior written approval of the
Federal awarding agency; and
(4) the costs are not also recovered as indirect costs.
As stated in the regulations (2 CFR §§ 200.413 and 414), any non-Federal entity that has never received
a negotiated indirect cost rate, except State and Local Government and Indian Tribe Indirect Cost
Proposals, may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent of modified total direct costs (MTDC)
which may be used indefinitely. No documentation is required to justify the 10% de minimis indirect
cost rate. As described in 2 CFR § 200.403, costs must be consistently charged as either indirect or direct
costs, but may not be double charged or inconsistently charged as both. If chosen, this methodology
once elected must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such time as a recipient chooses to

21

negotiate for a rate, which the recipient may apply to do at any time and which would be applicable to
future federal grant awards.
All applicants who elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent must use the MTDC as the base.
MTDC are defined in 2 CFR § 200.1 as all direct salaries and wages, applicable fringe benefits, materials
and supplies, services, travel, and up to the first $25,000 of each Infrastructure Grant (regardless of the
period of performance of the Infrastructure Grants under the award). MTDCs exclude equipment,
capital expenditures, charges for patient care, rental costs, tuition remission, scholarships and
fellowships, participant support costs, and the portion of each Infrastructure Grant in excess of $25,000.
Other items may be excluded only when necessary to avoid a serious inequity in the distribution of
indirect costs, and with the approval of the cognizant agency for indirect costs.
If an applicant has a negotiated indirect cost rate approved by its cognizant agency, the applicant must
submit a copy of its approved NICRA with its application. Entities that would like to negotiate an indirect
cost rate must contact their cognizant agency. For assignments of cognizant agencies see 2 CFR § 200.1.
4.3

GRANT ADMINISTRATION FUNDS

AMS encourages all grant applicants to include the grant administrative funds, up to XX percent of their
total Federal award, in their budget narrative, which can be used for costs such as monitoring
subrecipients, ensuring grant recipient and subrecipient compliance with regulations and requirements,
and grant management training. Grant recipients are encouraged to conduct periodic site visits to
review project accomplishments and monitor progress, to review financial and performance records,
organizational procedures, and financial control systems, and to provide technical assistance to
subrecipients as required. These recommended site visits are meant to support accountability,
compliance with regulations and requirements, and achievements of subrecipients. It is imperative that
States consider the capacity of support staff to manage these grants funds to not only ensure that
subrecipients are paid in a timely way, but also that Federal funds are managed appropriately.
4.4

SUPPLANTING

The funds awarded through this RFA must increase, expand, or replace, and not duplicate, existing
activities of the Lead State Agency applicant or its partners.
4.5

ALLOWABLE AND UNALLOWABLE COSTS AND ACTIVITIES

All AMS awards are subject to the terms and conditions, cost principles, and other considerations
described in the AMS General Terms and Conditions.
Funds may not be used for the following:
• Pay costs that have been or will be reimbursed by a third party.
• Pay costs incurred prior to the date the Agreement is executed unless prior approval is
granted by AMS.
• Pay costs that support or oppose union organizing.
• Pay costs associated with conducting research and development.
• Pay costs or allow for current market value of property and equipment as eligible total
project costs that only support existing processing capacity for a facility.
22

•

Support an application (project) that has a proposed period of performance longer than 48
months.

Applicants that have questions concerning the allowability of costs after reviewing this document should
contact AMS staff using the contact information listed under section .
4.6

COORDINATOR MEETING TRAVEL

State recipients are expected to attend an AMS sponsored grants management meeting during the
project’s period of performance. The proposed budget should include travel funds for the Project
Coordinator and any additional key personnel as reasonably determined by the recipient and AMS.
To estimate these costs in the budget section, please account for flight, hotel, per diem, and ground
transportation expenses for a 3-day, 2-night stay. Location and dates are to be determined with a
possibility of a virtual conference. If the conference is virtual, recipients will be able to reallocate those
funds to another allowable item.
4.7

FUNDS NOT APPLIED FOR OR FAILURE TO SUBMIT LETTER OF INTENT

Eligible State applicants who do not submit a letter of intent will no longer be eligible to apply for
funding. Eligible State applicants who submit a letter of intent, but do not apply for or do not request all
available funding during the specified grant application period will forfeit that portion of available
funding not requested. AMS will allocate funds not applied for, by a date determined by AMS, pro rata
to the remaining States that submitted applications. [ADD DEADLINE]
5.0 APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION
5.1

ELECTRONIC APPLICATION PACKAGE

Only electronic applications may be submitted via Grants.gov in response to this RFA. We urge
applicants to submit early to the Grants.gov system. For an overview of the Grants.gov application
process see Grants.gov Apply for Grants webpage. This RFA contains the information needed to obtain
and complete required application forms and AMS-specific attachments. More information about
applying through Grants.gov can be found in section How to Register to Apply Through Grants.gov
Applicants can find the opportunity under either the Assistance Listing number “10.###,” or the FIIP
Funding Opportunity Number “USDA-AMS-TM-FIIP G-23-00##.”
5.2

CONTENT AND FORM OF APPLICATION SUBMISSION

5.2.1 SF-424 APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL ASSISTANCE
Required. Form SF-424 is available via the opportunity at Grants.gov. Most information blocks on the
required form are either self-explanatory or adequately explained in the instructions. However,
applicants must use the following supplemental instructions associated with specific blocks on form SF424.
Box

Instruction

23

1 - Type of Submission
2 - Type of Application
8.c - Organizational Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)
8.d – Address
10 - Name of Federal Agency
11 -Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance
Number (Assisted Listing Number)
12 - Funding Opportunity Number
14 - Areas Affected by Project
15 - Descriptive Title of Applicant’s Project
16.a - Congressional Districts for Applicant

Application.
New.
Enter applicant UEI for the Organization
submitting the application.
The applicant street address as it appears in
SAM.gov. P.O. Boxes will not be accepted. Enter
a 9-digit zip code.
AMS, USDA
10.###.

USDA-AMS-TM-CFS-G-23-0008.
Enter cities, counties, States affected by project.
Provide a short descriptive title of the project.
Enter the Congressional district where your
main office is located.
16.b - Congressional Districts for Program/Project Enter the Congressional district where your
project will be performed. Write “All” if the
projects will be performed in more than one
location.
17 - Proposed Project Start Date and End Date
Start date: September 30, 2022
End date: No later than September 30, 2025.
18 - Estimated Funding
Total Federal funds requested.
19 - Is Applicant Subject to Review by State
See section 5.6.
Under Executive Order 12372 Process?
5.2.2 SF-424A BUDGET INFORMATION FOR NON-CONSTRUCTIONS PROGRAMS
Required. SF-424A is available via the application package in Grants.gov. Most information blocks on the
required form are either self-explanatory or adequately explained in the form instructions. However, for
DBI applications the following supplemental instructions must be used for specific boxes on the form.
Do not use instructions found on Grants.gov or elsewhere on the internet for the boxes below.
On SF-424A, please complete only Sections A and B. Do not complete Sections C - F.
Section A – Budget Summary
Box
1.a – Grant Program Function or Activity
1.b – Catalog of Federal Domestic
Assistance Number
1.e – Federal
Section B – Budget Categories
6.a – 6.j – Object Class Categories

Instructions
Enter “FIIP– Federal”
Enter “10.###”
Enter the amount of Federal funding requested for
the project
In Column 1, enter the amount of Federal funds
requested for each Object Class Category.
For example, if you are requesting $2,000 in
Federal funds for “Travel”, enter 2000 in Column 1,
box 6.c
24

5.2.3 NEGOTIATED INDIRECT COST RATE AGREEMENT (NICRA)
Required if the applicant has a NICRA. Refer to section 4.2 for more information. The NICRA must be in
PDF format and attached to the Grants.gov application package using the “Add Attachments” button
under SF-424 item #15.
5.2.4 PROJECT ABSTRACT SUMMARY
Required. The Project Abstract Summary form will be used as the award description for the overarching
Federal award. This is separate from the Project Narrative form. The Project Abstract box must include:
•
•
•
•
•

Project purpose
Activities to be performed
Deliverables and expected outcomes
Intended beneficiary(ies): Who will benefit from this beyond the applicant organization?
Subrecipient activities. Will the award result in subawards? If yes, who are the sub-awardees
and how does the subaward support the applicant organization?

5.2.5 INITIAL APPLICATION PROJECT NARRATIVE
Required. The project narrative must be completed by utilizing the provided State Initial Application
Template. The narrative must describe the outreach activities, monitoring and evaluation strategies
associated with the proposed activities, and how the applicant will manage the project (including the
Infrastructure Grant process and the state-led Supply Chain Coordination activities, if applicable). The
project narrative should include specific needs and priorities for the targeted agricultural products in the
State, and be responsive to the criteria listed in Section 1.3.
The project narrative also includes a budget narrative and justification section. The individual
Infrastructure Grant budgets and descriptions are not expected at the submission of this application.
However, the applicant will be expected to provide a comprehensive plan detailing how they plan to
disburse and allocate funding to accepted applicants.
The project narrative must be typed, single-spaced, in an 11-point font, not to exceed twenty (20) pages,
excluding existing form content. For example, if the form is 15 pages before you begin entering your
project information, your narrative form may be up to 35 pages (15 original pages + 20 pages of
applicant content). DO NOT modify the margins of the Project Narrative form. Handwritten applications
or applications in MS Word will not be accepted.
Applicants must submit the FIIP State Plan Template narrative form as a PDF and attached to the
Grants.gov application package using the “Project Narrative Attachment Form” on the application
package.
The supporting documents in subsequent sections do not count toward the 20-page limit for the
Project Narrative.
5.2.6 LETTERS OF COMMITMENT FROM PARTNER AND COLLABORATOR ORGANIZATIONS

25

Required. Applicants must provide letters of commitment from all project partners and collaborators.
More information can be found on partners and collaborators in section 3.2. The letter must state the
partner or collaborator agrees to the project management plan presented in the Project Narrative. The
Letter of Commitment must include the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Project Applicant
Project Title
A short introduction describing the partnering organization’s mission and its interest in this
program’s development
What the organization commits to participating in and supporting
The time period of the partnership
Roles of the participating individuals, as applicable, and any individual time commitment
A statement that these individuals and the organization agree to abide by the management plan
contained in the application

Letters of commitment must be written on partner letterhead and addressed to the applicant (i.e.,
Project Director). Clearly indicate at the top of the documents that they are LETTERS OF COMMITMENT.
Letters must accompany the proposal at the time of application. Unsigned letters will not be accepted.
Emails will not be accepted.
Letter(s) must be attached to the Grants.gov application package using the “Add Attachments” button
under Form SF-424 item #15.
PLEASE NOTE: AMS does not require Congressional letters of support and such letters do not carry
additional weight during the evaluation process.
5.3

GRANTS.GOV APPLICATION SUBMISSION AND RECEIPT PROCEDURES AND
REQUIREMENTS

5.3.1 HOW TO REGISTER TO APPLY THROUGH GRANTS.GOV
The applicant organization registration process can take up to four weeks to complete. Therefore,
complete your registration allowing sufficient time to ensure it does not impact your ability to meet
required application submission deadlines.
If individual applicants eligible to apply for this grant funding opportunity, refer to:
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/registration.html
Organization applicants can find complete instructions here:
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/organization-registration.html
1) Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Number: All entities applying for funding, including renewal
funding, must have a Unique Entity Identifier from SAM.gov. Applicants must enter the UEI number in
the data entry field labeled "Organizational UEI" on the SF-424 form. Getting a UEI number requires
validation steps in SAM.gov. Applicants are encouraged to start this process as early as possible.

26

2) Register with the System for Award Management (SAM): In addition to having a UEI number,
organizations applying online through Grants.gov must register with SAM. Current SAM.gov registrants
have already been assigned their UEI and can view it within SAM.gov. All organizations must register
with SAM to apply online. Failure to register with SAM will prevent your organization from applying
through Grants.gov. SAM.gov accounts must be updated annually, and your organization must have an
active SAM.gov account to submit your application to Grants.gov.
3) Create a Grants.gov Account: The next step in the registration process is to create an account with
Grants.gov. Applicants must know their organization's UEI number to complete this process. Completing
this process automatically triggers an email request for applicant roles to the organization's E-Business
Point of Contact (EBiz POC) for review. The EBiz POC is a representative from your organization who is
the contact listed for SAM. To apply for grants on behalf of your organization, you will need the
Authorized Organization Role (AOR).
4) Authorize Grants.gov Roles: After creating an account on Grants.gov, the EBiz POC receives an email
notifying him or her of your registration and request for roles. The EBiz POC will then log in to
Grants.gov and authorize the appropriate roles, including the AOR role, thereby giving you permission to
complete and submit applications on behalf of the organization. You will be able to submit your
application online any time after you have been approved as an AOR.
5) Track Role Status: After registering with Grants.gov and authorizing the applicant AOR, Grants.gov
allows you to track your status.
6) Electronic Signature: When applications are submitted through Grants.gov, the name of the
organization's AOR who submitted the application is inserted into the signature line of the application,
serving as the electronic signature. The EBiz POC must authorize individuals who are able to make legally
binding commitments on behalf of the organization to act as an AOR; this step is often missed, and it is
crucial for valid and timely submissions.
5.3.2 HOW TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION TO AMS VIA GRANTS.GOV
Applicants can apply using Grants.gov Workspace. Workspace is a shared, online environment where
members of a grant team may simultaneously access and edit different web forms within an application.
For each funding opportunity announcement (FOA), an applicant creates individual instances of a
workspace.
1.0 Create a Workspace: This allows you to complete your Workspace online and route it through your
organization for review before submitting.
2.0 Complete a Workspace: Add participants to the workspace, complete all the required forms, and
check for errors before submission.
2.1

Adobe Reader: If you decide not to apply by filling out webforms you can download individual PDF
forms in Workspace so that they will appear similar to other Standard or AMS forms. The
individual PDF forms can be downloaded and saved to your local device storage, network drive(s),
or external drives, and then accessed through Adobe Reader.

27

2.2
2.3

NOTE: You may need to visit the Adobe Software Compatibility page on Grants.gov to download
the appropriate version of the software.
Mandatory Fields in Forms: Fields marked with an asterisk and a different background color are
mandatory fields you must complete to successfully submit your application.
Complete SF-424 Fields First: The forms are designed to fill in common required fields across other
forms, such as the applicant name, address, and UEI number. To trigger this feature, an applicant
must complete the SF-424 form information first. Once it is completed, the information will
transfer to the other forms.

3.0 Submit a Workspace: Submit your application through Workspace by clicking the Sign and Submit
button on the Manage Workspace page, under the Forms tab. Grants.gov recommends submitting
the application package at least 24-48 hours prior to the due date to provide you with time to
correct any potential technical issues that may disrupt the application submission.
SPECIAL NOTE: Grants.gov does not check for AMS required attachments. It is the applicant’s
responsibility to ensure that all required attachments listed in Section 5.0 are included. Use the
provided checklist to ensure your application package is complete.
4.0 Track a Workspace: After successfully submitting a workspace package, Grants.gov automatically
assigns a Tracking Number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) to the package, which will be listed on the
Confirmation page generated after submission.
Applicant Support: Grants.gov provides additional training resources, including video tutorials.
Applicants may also call the 24/7 toll-free support number 1-800-518-4726, or email
support@grants.gov. Grants.gov will issue a ticket number that you and Grants.gov can refer to if the
issue is not resolved. For questions related to the specific grant opportunity, contact the person(s)
mentioned in Section 8.0.
5.4

APPLICATION SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

AMS will not consider any applications received after the deadline, any applications submitted by fax,
email, or postal mail and any applications not responsive to the requirements of this RFA (eligibility,
incomplete application, missing required attachments documents, etc.). See AMS’ Late Applications,
Denials and/or Appeal Procedures Policy.
Ensure that all components are complete before submission. Allow enough time for the application
process, as it may take more than one attempt before your application is successfully submitted.
AMS encourages you to submit your application at least two weeks before the application deadline
to ensure all certifications and registrations are met.
Proof of timely submission is automatically recorded by Grants.gov using an electronic date/time
stamp generated when the application is successfully received by Grants.gov. The applicant AOR will
then receive an acknowledgement of receipt and a tracking number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) from
Grants.gov. Applicant AORs will also receive the official date/time stamp and Grants.gov tracking
number in an email serving as proof of their timely submission.
5.5

SUBMISSION DATE AND TIME
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Applicants must submit applications via Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on [60 DAYS FROM
PUBLICATION]. AMS cannot consider applications received after this deadline for funding. See AMS' Late
Applications, Denials and/or Appeal.
5.6

INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW

This program is not subject to Executive Order 12372, which requires intergovernmental consultation
with state and local officials.
6.0 APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION
6.1

INITIAL APPLICATION REVIEW

AMS will review Initial Applications to ensure each State proposal meets the statutory purpose of the
program, all application criteria are fulfilled in accordance with section 5.0 Application and Submission
Information, and that all costs are allowable. AMS will review project narratives and will engage with
States to ensure they include the following elements and that the elements are aligned with the purpose
of the program: outreach plan, relevant narrative statements of needs and priorities, clear and
compelling description of how the state will conduct the Infrastructure Grants program to meet statespecific needs and program purpose and priorities, and reasoning and intention to use up to 20% of
funds for state supply chain coordination activities, if requested.
AMS will also assess an organization’s ability to account for the use of Federal funds and monitor the
performance associated with these monies using the guidance provided by 2 CFR § 200.206.
AMS will notify the applicant if additional information is required after the initial review of the
application. AMS will work with applicants to negotiate any revisions if necessary and possible. Failure to
provide requested information in a timely manner may result in a project not receiving funding.
Please note that while funding levels for this program were decided by a formula, see section 2.4,
applicants will be reviewed and scored against the benchmarks for high-quality proposals described in
the award criteria below. Applicants that meet the quality threshold upon initial review will be
processed immediately for funds disbursement. States that need to revise sections of their application
to meet the award criteria will be able to do so. AMS will be available to work with applicants until the
proposal can be funded.
Each Initial Application will be evaluated using the following award criteria:
1. The application provides a clear and concise description of the specific issues, problems, or
needs to be addressed by the State’s proposed approach, including the Infrastructure Grants
and any complementary State-led coordination activities.
2. The application presents a clear, well-conceived, and overall suitable work plan for fulfilling the
goals and objectives of the program in the specific State.
3. The State’s proposed approach will develop, expand, and coordinate opportunities for the
intended beneficiaries, including underserved farmers and small-to-mid-size food businesses.
4. The application identifies and provides clear plans to engage the intended beneficiaries,
including the number of beneficiaries and how they will benefit.
29

5. If the State intends to focus on a specific geographic area within the State, the application
describes the project’s proposed geographic focus area, and why it is the most appropriate place
to conduct project activities.
6. The application complies with all written instructions and requirements described within the
RFA and Project Narrative Template.
7. The application presents a realistic schedule for implementing the proposed activities during the
award project period.
8. The outcomes and indicator(s) are appropriate for the scale and scope of the proposed
approach, including:
a. How indicator numbers were derived with a clear means to collect feedback to evaluate
and achieve each relevant outcome indicator; and
b. The anticipated key factors that are predicted to contribute to or restrict progress
toward the applicable indicators, including action steps for addressing identified
restricting factors.
9. The application budget narrative or justification provides a clear, detailed, narrative description
for each budget line item including:
a. How the budget is consistent with the size and scope of the proposed activities; and
b. How the budget relates logically to the narrative describing the proposed activities.
6.2

INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT EVALUATION CRITERIA

Within the first year of the cooperative agreement or sooner, the state/territory must submit
Infrastructure Grant recommendations to AMS utilizing the provided State Infrastructure Grant Proposal
Template. This proposal must include the following information for each proposed Infrastructure Grant:
•
•
•

•
•

Applicant name/Business Name
Dollar amount requested and amount proposed by state for award
Summary description of the project, to include activities, intended outcomes, alignment with
program priorities and goals. This should include how the project will increase processing
capacity in the area and contribute to more and better markets for the targeted agricultural
products of farmers and ranchers in the state or geographic area, including whether and how it
benefits underserved producers.
Project partners
Budget and cost share responsibility

Each State Infrastructure Grant Proposal will be reviewed by a USDA Review Board (Board) against the
benchmarks for high-quality proposals described in Section 1.5.5 and to ensure that project portfolios in
each state align with the program purpose, provide reasonable geographic coverage within the state,
support a diversity of targeted agricultural products appropriate to the specific state, and support
program goals as stated in this RFA.
This Review Board may respond to the State with questions and recommendations to adjust award
proposals and will be available to work with States until the proposal can be funded.

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7.0 AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION
7.1

AWARD NOTICES

Upon announcement of the Federal awards, AMS will prepare and send a Notice of Award and
Cooperative Agreement to each recipient for signature by the appropriate official. Cooperative
Agreements will be signed by AMS and the AOR.
The Notice of Award and Cooperative Agreement will provide pertinent instructions and information
including, at a minimum, the information described in 2 CFR § 200.211 and reference to the AMS
General Terms and Conditions and program-specific Terms and Conditions.
In addition, AMS encourages States to notify successful and unsuccessful sub-applicants about the
outcome of the competitive process as it relates to their proposals.
7.1.1 UNSUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS
Ineligible applicants will be contacted by AMS via email after the initial application screening.
7.2

ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS

As part of the Notice of Award and Cooperative Agreement, all AMS recipients must abide by the
Program Specific Terms and Agreements and the AMS General Terms and Conditions, which reference
applicable Administrative and National Policy Requirements.
7.3

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Reporting and award closeout requirements are included in the AMS General Terms and Conditions. If
there are any program or award-specific award terms, they will be identified in the award.
7.4

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF USDA SUPPORT

Proper acknowledgement of your USDA-AMS funding in published solicitations (e.g., for state
competitions), presentations, press releases, and other communications is critical for the success of our
agency’s programs. Grantees must meet the acknowledgement requirements outlined in the updated
AMS General Terms and Conditions.
8.0 AGENCY CONTACTS
After closely reviewing this RFA in its entirety, applicants and other interested parties are encouraged to
contact the AMS grants staff by e-mail with questions about the grant program at XXXXXXX@usda.gov.
For additional information, please visit the AMS grants website: www.ams.usda.gov/grants.
8.1

AVAILABLE RESOURCES

AMS provides resources and information on the Food Infrastructure Improvement Program (FIIP)
website (www.ams.usda.gov/xx that may be helpful to applicants. AMS staff is available to provide
timely technical assistance. Correspondence may be directed to:

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Food Infrastructure Improvement Program
USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Room 1096 South Building
Stop 0264
Washington, DC 20250-0264
8.2

GRANTS.GOV QUESTIONS

All questions regarding Grants.gov technical assistance must be directed to Grants.gov Applicant
Support.
9.0 OTHER INFORMATION
9.1

DEFINITIONS

Beginning Farmer or Rancher is an individual or entity that has not operated a farm or ranch for more
than 10 years and substantially participates in the operation.
Critical Resources and Infrastructure: resources and infrastructure necessary to support the initiation
and completion of a project, including but are not limited to land and structures.
Applicant/Eligible Entity: Refers to any state governments and territories applying/awarded under this
opportunity.
Direct-to-Consumers: The business model of selling products directly to customers, rather than through
an intermediary such as a retailer or wholesaler. These include: DTC online markets, DTC on-farm
markets, DTC off-farm markets, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), and Agritourism (including upick, etc.)
Food Access Considerations: Distinct cultural markets, marginalized communities, or defined by USDA
as low-income low access.
Infrastructure Grant recipients: FIIP subaward recipients who are awarded Infrastructure Grants by the
Lead State Agency, who is the primary recipient.
Institutions: These include organizations such schools (K-12; colleges/universities), hospitals, food
banks, gleaners, food rescue, workplace cafeterias, prisons, and care centers (senior, preschools).
Intermediaries: Includes aggregators, distributors, food hubs, brokers, auction houses, and wholesale.
Retail: Includes businesses such supermarkets, restaurants and caterers, and direct and other to retail
markets (food cooperatives, small independent grocers, corner stores.)
Mid-Size Producers: USDA defines small family farms as those with a Gross Cash Farm Income (GCFI) of
less than $350,000; mid-size farms have a GCFI of $350,000 to $999,999
Small Disadvantaged Business: is defined under §124.1001 as a concern that qualifies as small under
part 121 of Chapter I Small Business Administration, for the size standard corresponding to the six-digit
North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code that is assigned by the contracting officer to
32

the procurement at issue, and that is owned and controlled by one or more socially and economically
disadvantaged individuals. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the phrase “socially and economically
disadvantaged individuals” includes Indian tribes, ANCs, CDCs, and NHOs.
Underserved Farmer or Rancher: is a farmer or rancher who is a member of an Underserved Group. An
Underserved Group is a group whose members have been subject to discrimination on the basis of race,
color, national origin, age, disability, and, where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental
status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or a part
of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program.
Veteran Farmer or Rancher: is a producer who served in the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps,
Air Force, or Coast Guard, including the reserve component thereof, was released from service under
conditions other than dishonorable, and has not operated a farm or ranch or has operated a farm or
ranch for no more than 10 years or who first obtained status as a veteran during the most recent 10year period.
Veteran-Owned Small Business: is a small business concern that meets the requirements described in §
128.200(a), that is not less than 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more veterans.
Women-Owned Small Business: is a concern that is small pursuant to part 121 of Chapter I Small
Business Administration, and that is at least 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more women
who are citizens in accordance with §§127.200, 127.201 and 127.202.

9.2

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights
regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in
or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national
origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age,
marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs,
or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by
USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program
or incident.
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information
(e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible
Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the
Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in
languages other than English.
To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form,
AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or
write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form.
To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to
USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400
33

Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email:
mailto:program.intake@usda.gov.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
9.3

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REQUESTS

The Freedom of Information Act of 1966 (5 U.S.C. § 552) (FOIA) and the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. §
552a), as implemented by USDA’s regulations (7 CFR part 1, Subpart A) govern the release or
withholding of information to the public in connection with this Federal award. The release of
information under these laws and regulations applies only to records held by AMS and imposes no
requirement on the recipient or any subrecipient to permit or deny public access to their records.
FOIA requests for records relating to this Federal award may be directed to USDA, Agricultural
Marketing Service, FOIA/PA Officer, Room 1671-S, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC
20250-0273, Telephone: (202) 302-0650; or email: AMS.FOIA@usda.gov.
9.4

PAPERWORK REDUCTION

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501), an agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid
OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 0581-0240.The
time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 4 hours per response,
including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering, and maintaining
the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.
9.5

EQUITY AND TRUST

In alignment with E.O. 13985, Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities
Through the Federal Government, and the E.O. 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal
Governments, the USDA Regional Food Center program takes a comprehensive approach to advancing
equity for all, including people of color and others who have been historically underserved,
marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality, and meeting a Federal trust
responsibility to advance programming that recognizes tribal sovereignty, policies, and standards.

34