Acer Access and Development Program

Fiscal Year 2024 Request for Applications 

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-AMS-TM-ACER-G-24-0016

Publication Date: March 21, 2024 

Application Due Date: 11:59 PM Eastern Time on May 21, 2024 
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PROGRAM SOLICITATION INFORMATION

Funding Opportunity Title: Acer Access and Development Program

Funding Opportunity Number: USDA-AMS-TM-ACER-G-24-0016

Announcement Type: Initial

Assistance Listing Number: 10.174

Dates: Applications must be received on or before 11:59 pm Eastern Time, May 21, 2024, through 

Grants.gov. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered for funding.

Executive Summary: The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Marketing 

Service (AMS), requests applications for the fiscal year (FY) 2024 Acer Access and Development Program 

(Acer Program). AMS will competitively award grants to eligible applicants for projects that support the 

efforts of States, Tribal governments, and research institutions to promote the domestic maple syrup 

industry through activities associated with: promotion of research and education related to maple syrup 

production; promotion of natural resource sustainability in the maple syrup industry; market promotion 

for maple syrup and maple-sap products; encouragement of owners and operators of privately held land 

containing species of trees in the genus Acer to initiate or expand maple-sugaring activities on the land; 

or to voluntarily make the land available, including by lease or other means, for access by the public for 

maple-sugaring activities. 

Approximately up to $6 million will be available to fund applications under this solicitation. The final 

amount available is subject to Congressional action. All project types range from $200,000 to $500,000. 

Eligible applicants and activities remain the same as in previous years. This program does not require 

cost sharing or match. 

In the FY 2023 application cycle, AMS received 20 applications and funded 13 (65%). In FY2024, AMS will 

competitively award grants to eligible applicants for projects that meet the purpose of the program, 

meet all program requirements, and are of high quality. All applications are reviewed using merit and 

customary evaluation procedures. 

This announcement provides information about the eligibility criteria for applicants and projects, and 

the application forms and associated instructions needed to apply for an award.

AMS encourages applications submitted by, or intended to serve, smaller farms and ranches, new and 

beginning farmers and ranchers, historically underserved producers, veteran producers, and/or 

underserved communities. For projects intending to serve these audiences, applicants should engage 

and involve those beneficiaries when developing projects and applications.

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 heat-trapping greenhouse 

gases in the atmosphere or adapting to the already occurring climate change in their project’s design 

and implementation.
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Stakeholder Input: AMS seeks your comments about this Request for Applications (RFA). We will 

consider the comments when we develop the next RFA for the program. E-mail written stakeholder 

comments within six months of the publication date of this RFA to: AMSGrants@usda.gov. (This e-mail 

address is intended only for receiving comments regarding this RFA and not for requesting information 

or forms.) In your comments, please state that you are commenting on the Acer Access and 

Development Program RFA. 

2024 HIGHLIGHTS AND CHANGES

Below are highlights of major changes to the program since last year.

• The AMS General Terms and Conditions have been updated to reflect recent changes to the Uniform 

Guidance (2 CFR Part 200) and the Build America, Buy America Act for infrastructure projects. 

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

AMS requests that applicants read the entire RFA prior to submitting their application to ensure that 

they understand the program’s requirements.

The application checklist below provides the required documents for an application package.

This program requires that all application packages include the following:

 SF-424 – Application for Federal Assistance (Grants.gov)

 SF-424A – Budget Information - Non-Construction Programs (Grants.gov)

 Project Abstract (Grants.gov)

 Project Narrative Form (section 5.2.4) 

o Use the required template 

o Do not use more than 250 words in the Project Abstract

o Do not exceed the page limit for the Project Narrative 

 The Project Narrative 30-page page limit applies to the Project Abstract, 

Alignment and Intent, Technical Merit, Achievability, Expertise and Partners, 

and Fiscal Plan and Resources sections. The supporting documents do not 

count against the limit for the Project Narrative. 

o Ensure the application exclude unallowable costs and activities per section 4.3.

 Signed Letter(s) of Commitment from each partner or collaborating organization at the time of 

application per section 5.2.5.

If applicable, packages may also be required to include the following documents:

 Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) (PDF Attachment) per section 5.2.6. 
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TIPS FOR APPLICANTS

• To do business with the Federal Government and to submit your application electronically using 

Grants.gov, you must— 

o Have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN); 

o Provide your UEI number and TIN on your application; 

o Be registered in SAM.gov, the Government's primary registrant database; and

o Maintain an active SAM registration with current information throughout the 

application review period and, if you are awarded a grant, during the project period.

• Register in Grants.gov and submit applications early. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE DAY OF THE 

APPLICATION DEADLINE. AMS encourages you to submit your application at least two weeks 

before the application deadline to ensure all certifications are met.

• The applicant organization registration process may take more than four weeks to complete. 

You must complete the organization registration to allow enough time to meet the required 

application submission deadlines. See section 5.3.1 for information.

• Thoroughly read this RFA and follow all the instructions.

• Thoroughly review the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions to understand allowable 

and unallowable costs.

• Apply to the correct grant program in Grants.gov using the correct Assistance Listing Number

“10.174” and Funding Opportunity Number “USDA-AMS-TM-ACER-G-24-0016.”

• Ensure you have the most recent copy of Adobe Reader installed on your computer and that it is 

compatible with Grants.gov software. 

• Limit Application File Size/ File Name Characters (50 or less).

• Avoid Special Characters in File Names ($, %, &, *, Spanish "ñ", etc.).

• When uploading attachments, click the “Add Attachments” button (do NOT use the “paperclip” 

icon in Adobe Reader)

• Do not password-protect your documents and make sure all tracked-changes are “accepted”.

• Input the correct UEI (formerly DUNS) number on the SF-424 form cover page.

• Review the Grants.gov Applicant User and Registration Guides: 

https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-faqs.html

https://www.grants.gov/applicants/workspace-overview.html

TIMING TO OBTAIN AND SUBMIT GRANTS.GOV REQUIRED ELEMENTS

Required Action Timing to Obtain/Submit

AMS Deadline to receive final application and all supporting materials 

through Grants.Gov

May 21, 2024 – 11:59 

p.m. Eastern Time

Obtaining Your Organization’s UEI Number (if you do not already have one) 7-10 business days

Establishing an Active SAM.gov Account (if you do not already have one) 7-10 business days

Obtaining a TIN/EIN (if you do not already have one) Up to 2 weeks

Creating your Grants.gov profile and registering your Authorized 

Organizational Representative (AOR) authorization Up to 4 weeks 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 Funding Opportunity Description............................................................................................. 6

1.1 Legislative Authority ..................................................................................................................... 6

1.2 Purpose ......................................................................................................................................... 6

1.3 Project Types................................................................................................................................. 6

2.0 Award Information .................................................................................................................. 8

2.1 Type of Federal Assistance............................................................................................................ 8

2.2 Type of Applications...................................................................................................................... 8

2.3 Available Funding.......................................................................................................................... 8

2.4 Federal Award Period Duration and size ...................................................................................... 8

3.0 Eligibility Information .............................................................................................................. 9

3.1 Eligible Applicants......................................................................................................................... 9

3.2 Partners and Collaborators........................................................................................................... 9

3.3 Performance Measures............................................................................................................... 10

4.0 Funding Considerations ......................................................................................................... 10

4.1 Cost Sharing and Matching ......................................................................................................... 10

4.2 Indirect Costs .............................................................................................................................. 10

4.3 Allowable and Unallowable Cost and Activities.......................................................................... 11

4.4 Coordinator Meeting Travel........................................................................................................ 11

5.0 Application and Submission Information ............................................................................... 11

5.1 Electronic Application Package ................................................................................................... 11

5.2 Content and Form of Application Submission ............................................................................ 12

5.3 Grants.gov Application Submission and Receipt Procedures and Requirements ...................... 16

5.4 application submission requirments........................................................................................... 19

5.5 Submission Date and Time.......................................................................................................... 19

5.6 Intergovernmental Review ......................................................................................................... 19

6.0 Application Review Information ............................................................................................ 19

6.1 Project Evaluation Criteria .......................................................................................................... 19

6.2 Review and Selection Process..................................................................................................... 21

7.0 Award Administration Information........................................................................................ 22

7.1 Award Notices............................................................................................................................. 22

7.2 Unsuccessful Applicants.............................................................................................................. 22

7.3 Administrative and National Policy Requirements..................................................................... 22

7.4 Reporting Requirements............................................................................................................. 22

8.0 Agency Contacts.................................................................................................................... 22

8.1 Address........................................................................................................................................ 23

9.0 Other Information ................................................................................................................. 23

9.1 Equal Opportunity Statement..................................................................................................... 23

9.2 Freedom of Information Act Requests........................................................................................ 23

9.3 Paperwork Reduction.................................................................................................................. 23
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1.0 FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

1.1 LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY

The Acer Access and Development Program (Acer Program) was initially authorized by section 12306 of 

the Agricultural Act of 2014 (Public Law 113—79) and amended under section 12501 of the Agriculture 

Improvement Act of 2018 (Public Law 115—334). The program is codified in (7 U.S.C. § 1632c). 

1.2 PURPOSE

To support the efforts of States, Tribal governments, and research institutions to promote the domestic 

maple syrup industry through the following activities:

(1) Promotion of research and education related to maple syrup production.

(2) Promotion of natural resource sustainability in the maple syrup industry.

(3) Market promotion for maple syrup and maple-sap products.

(4) Encouragement of owners and operators of privately held land containing species of trees in the 

genus Acer: 

(A) to initiate or expand maple-sugaring activities on the land; or

(B) to voluntarily make the land available, including by lease or other means, for access by 

the public for maple-sugaring activities.

1.2.1 DEFINITION OF MAPLE-SUGARING

The collection of sap from any species of tree in the genus Acer for the purpose of boiling to produce 

food. Acer is a genus of trees or shrubs commonly known as maple.

1.3 PROJECT TYPES

Applicants must align their proposal to only one of the following two project types: 

• Market Development and Promotion (MDP)

• Producer and Landowner Education (PLE)

All applications must illustrate a regional or national impact on domestic maple syrup or maple-sap 

products and have the potential to quantitatively increase maple-sugaring activities or maple syrup 

production. 

1.3.1 MARKET DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION (MDP)

Market Development and Promotion (MDP) projects should emphasize improving consumer knowledge, 

awareness, and understanding of the maple syrup industry and its products. Specifically, this project

type focuses on enhancing the market for domestic maple syrup and maple-sap products through 

consumer promotion, including education related to maple syrup production, research, and natural 

resource sustainability in the maple syrup industry.

Examples Include:
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• Consumer campaigns to highlight and promote sustainable practices implemented by the maple 

syrup industry.

• Consumer education campaigns highlighting maple syrup and maple-sap products, inputs, and 

output to generate greater awareness of maple product development.

• National consumer awareness campaigns about domestic maple syrup production.

• Increased consumer awareness of maple product development by general promotion of 

agritourism of land devoted to maple-sugaring.

• Campaigns that foster the development of relationships between U.S. maple producers and 

international buyers and traders.

1.3.2 PRODUCER AND LANDOWNER EDUCATION (PLE)

Producer and Landowner Education (PLE) projects should emphasize improving producer knowledge, 

awareness, and understanding of research, educational resources, or natural resource sustainability 

practices affecting the maple syrup industry and its products. Specifically, this project type focuses on 

increasing maple syrup and maple-sap product producer knowledge and awareness of current research, 

educational resources, and natural resource sustainability practices that increase maple product 

production through increased efficiency and reduced inputs. PLE projects can also coordinate with 

landowners and operators of privately held land containing maple trees to initiate or expand maplesugaring activities on the land or to voluntarily make the land available, including by lease or other 

means, for access by the public for maple-sugaring activities. These efforts must emphasize potential 

economic return for producers as well as landowners and operators of privately held land containing 

maple trees. 

Examples include:

• Education campaigns highlighting new processes or procedures that streamline or decrease the 

cost of maple syrup or maple-sap products. 

• Producer awareness campaigns encouraging landowners and maple syrup producers to use 

new, safer, and more efficient technologies.

• Establishing or expanding maple producer land-sourcing networks and organizations on a state, 

regional, or national level.

• Informational campaigns for landowners and operators of privately held land about the 

economic benefits of initiating or expanding maple-sugaring activities or making their land 

available for maple-sugaring activities.

• Campaigns that highlight the sustainability of operating maple-sugaring activities on privately 

held land. 
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1.3.3 PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR FUNDING

Projects are not eligible for funding if the proposed activities:

• Are to purchase land, or for construction of a building or structure. 

• Are related to State, territorial, Tribal, regional, or other non-Federal entity specific maple syrup 

marketing campaigns. 

• Benefit only one agricultural producer or individual.

• Depend upon the completion of another project or the receipt of another grant.

• Duplicate activities in a project that has received a Federal award from another Federal award 

program.

For additional allowable and unallowable activities please refer to the applicable AMS General Terms 

and Conditions. Applicants that have questions concerning the allowability of costs after reviewing the 

Terms and Conditions should contact AMS staff using the contact information listed under 8.0 Agency 

Contacts. 

1.4 PRIORITY AREAS

In accordance Congressional direction in the Joint Explanatory Statement that accompanied the 

Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, AMS may prioritize funding for applications that support the 

promotion of research and education, natural resource responsibility, and market development and 

promotion, and that are from regions with sufficient distribution of Acer saccharum to support a 

commercially viable maple syrup industry.

2.0 AWARD INFORMATION

2.1 TYPE OF FEDERAL ASSISTANCE

AMS will use a Grant Agreement to provide a federal award to successful applicants. 

2.2 TYPE OF APPLICATIONS

New application. Applications are limited to new application type. All new applications will be reviewed 

competitively using the selection process and evaluation criteria described in section 6.0 Application 

Review Information. 

2.3 AVAILABLE FUNDING

AMS anticipates that up to $6 million will be available to fund applications in Fiscal Year 2024. 

Enactment of a continuing resolution, appropriations act, or other authorizing legislation may affect the 

availability or level of funding for this program. USDA does not guarantee a specific number of awards. 

2.4 FEDERAL AWARD PERIOD DURATION AND SIZE

AMS expects applicants to complete their projects within the required performance period. It is 

acceptable to complete a project before the scheduled performance period end date. However, AMS 
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encourages applicants to take the full grant period to allow ample time to complete projects. The 

applicant must indicate the start and end dates on Block 17 on the SF-424 “Application for Federal 

Assistance.”

Applicants may not request less than or more than the respective minimum/maximum amounts. 

Applicants must justify the requested award funding amounts within the respective narrative and 

workplan sections on the project narrative. 

Project 

Type

Duration 

(Months) Start Date Completion Date Minimum Award

Maximum 

Award

MDP 36 September 30, 2024 September 29, 2027 $200,000 $500,000

PLE 36 September 30, 2024 September 29, 2027 $200,000 $500,000

3.0 ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

3.1 ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

Eligible applicants are State agencies, Tribal governments, and research institutions from the 50 States, 

American Samoa, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Federated States of Micronesia, the 

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin 

Islands.

• Research institutions are organizations that typically conduct research with non-Federal and 

Federal funds, including colleges and universities, federally funded research and development 

centers, national user facilities, industrial laboratories, or other research institutes.

3.2 PARTNERS AND COLLABORATORS

An applicant may subcontract or subaward with partners and collaborators. Only the applicant must 

meet the eligibility requirements. Project partners and collaborators do not need to meet these 

eligibility requirements.

• A partnership is a relationship involving close cooperation between parties having specified and 

joint rights and responsibilities in the management of the project.

• 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. 

Partners and collaborators may be private or public, for-profit, or nonprofit entities, including but not 

limited to:

• New and beginning farmers and ranchers (individuals or entities that have not operated a farm 

or ranch for more than 10 years and substantially participate in the operation);

• Rural enterprises (small and emerging private businesses in rural areas that have fewer than 50 

employees and less than $1 million in gross revenue);
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• Agri-businesses; and

• Local government entities. 

Applicants are required to show evidence of existing community or industry support and engagement. 

Applications should demonstrate a commitment to engage potential project beneficiaries as active 

participants. AMS will not award grant funds for projects that solely benefit one individual or entity.

3.3 PERFORMANCE MEASURES

To evaluate and report on the outcomes of the Acer Program on a national scale, AMS collects 

information on performance measures. These measures focus on: Providing short- and long-term impact 

indicators.

• More accurately reflecting grant recipients’ accomplishments.

• Reducing burden on grant applicants and recipients.

• Improving AMS’s ability to report on the impact of its grant programs.

• Standardizing measures across programs where appropriate.

Each project submitted in the proposal must include at least one of the five outcomes listed in the Acer 

Performance Measures and at least one of the indicators listed in the selected outcome(s). Additional 

information regarding the update to the performance measures can be found on the AMS Grant 

Performance Measures website. 

4.0 FUNDING CONSIDERATIONS

4.1 COST SHARING AND MATCHING

This funding opportunity does not have a federal cost sharing or matching requirement. Applicants 

should not include this topic in the submitted application nor subsequent performance or financial 

reports. 

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. 

In accordance with 2 CFR § 200.414(f), any non-Federal entity that does not have a current negotiated 

(including provisional) 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). The applicant is authorized to determine the appropriate rate up to this limit. The de minimis 

rate does not require documentation to justify its use and may be used indefinitely. Costs must be 

consistently charged as either indirect or direct costs but may not be double charged or inconsistently 

charged as both in accordance with 2 CFR § 200.403. Once elected, this methodology must be used 
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consistently for all Federal awards until a recipient chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the recipient 

may apply to do at any time.

All applicants who elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent must use the MTDC as the base. 

MTDCs 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 subaward (regardless of the period of 

performance of the subawards under the award). MTDCs excludes equipment, capital expenditures, 

charges for patient care, rental costs, tuition remission, scholarships and fellowships, participant support 

costs, and the portion of each subaward 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 cognizant agency assignments, see 2 CFR § 200.1. 

4.3 ALLOWABLE AND UNALLOWABLE COST AND ACTIVITIES

All AMS awards are subject to the terms and conditions, cost principles, and other considerations 

described in the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions. 

Applicants that have questions concerning the allowability of costs after reviewing this document should 

contact AMS staff using the contact information listed under 8.0 Agency Contacts. 

4.4 COORDINATOR MEETING TRAVEL

Recipients are expected to attend AMS sponsored grants management meetings 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.

5.0 APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 

5.1 ELECTRONIC APPLICATION PACKAGE

Applicants MUST apply to this RFA electronically via Grants.gov. No other submission method is 

accepted. AMS urges applicants to submit early to the Grants.gov system. For an overview of the 

Grants.gov application process see Grants.gov’s How to 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 5.3 Grants.gov 

Application Submission and Receipt Procedures and Requirements. 
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Applicants can find the opportunity under either the Assistance Listing (formerly CDFA) number 

“10.174,” or the Acer Funding Opportunity Number “USDA-AMS-TM-ACER-G-24-0016.” 

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 www.Grants.gov. Applicants may use the 

following supplemental instructions associated with specific blocks on the SF-424.

Block Instructions

#1 Type of Submission Select Application

#2 Type of Application Select New

#4 through #7 Not required

#8.c Organizational Unique Entity Identifier 

(UEI): 

Enter applicant UEI for the organization 

submitting the application. 

#8.d Address Enter the organization street address as it 

appears in SAM.gov. P.O. Boxes will not be 

accepted. Enter a 9-digit zip code.

#10 Name of Federal Agency AMS, USDA

#11 Catalog of Federal Domestic 

Assistance Number (Assistance Listing 

Number)

10.174

#12 Funding Opportunity Number USDA-AMS-TM-ACER-G-24-0016

#13 Competition Identification Number Not applicable

#14 Areas Affected by Project Enter cities, counties, States affected by project.

#15 Descriptive Title of Applicant’s 

Project

Provide a short description of the project.

#16.a Congressional Districts for

Applicant

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 implemented. Write “All” if the 

project will be implemented in more than one 

location.

#17 Proposed Project Start Date and 

End Date

Start Date: September 30, 2024.

End date: September 29, 2027.

#18.a Estimated Funding - Federal Enter the total ACER award requested

#19 Is Applicant Subject to Review by State 

Under Executive Order 12372 Process? See section 5.6 Intergovernmental Review. 

5.2.2 SF-424A BUDGET INFORMATION

Required. The SF-424A 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. The following 

supplemental instructions associated with specific blocks on form SF-424A should be used for this RFA. 
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Please complete only sections A and B. (Do not complete sections C, D, E and F.) 

Section A – Budget Summary

Box Instructions

1.a – Grant Program Function or Activity Enter “ACER – Federal”

1.b – Catalog of Federal Domestic 

Assistance Number

Enter “10.174”

1.e – Federal Enter the amount of Federal funding requested for 

the project

1.f – Non-Federal N/A for this program

Section B – Budget Categories

Box Instructions

6.a – 6.j – Object Class Categories In Column 1, enter the amount of Federal funds 

requested for each Object Class Category. Do not

include match funding.

For example, if you are requesting $2,000 in 

Federal funds for “Travel”, enter 2000 in Column 1, 

box 6.c

5.2.3 PROJECT ABSTRACT SUMMARY

Required. The Project Abstract Summary form will be used as the award description for the overarching 

Federal award. 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, key partner, and collaborator activities. Identify the key partners, collaborators 

and subrecipients you know will be part of the work are and how their engagement will support 

the program goals.

5.2.4 PROJECT NARRATIVE

Required. Applicants MUST prepare and submit a project narrative that includes the six sections below 

and clearly describe the objectives and goal, type of activities, applicable outcomes indicators, and fiscal 

plan and resources information. The Project Narrative must be typed, single-spaced, and in an 11-point 

font, not to exceed thirty (30) 8.5 x 11 pages. The Project Narrative must be submitted as a PDF and

attached to the Grants.gov application package using the “Project Narrative Attachment Form” button 

under SF-424 item #15. Handwritten applications or applications in MS Word will not be accepted. 

Prior to submitting the application to Grants.gov, make sure that it is in final form and all track changes

have been accepted. AMS has posted a Project Narrative Form template on the grant program’s 

application website. This template is highly encouraged but not required. 
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(1) Project Abstract

Include a summary of 250 words or less suitable for dissemination to the public. This summary should 

include a concise outline of the project’s purpose; activities to be performed, including subawards 

(when applicable); deliverables and expected outcomes; intended beneficiaries; and any other pertinent 

information.

(2) Alignment and Intent

(i) Clearly state the purpose of the project and Project Type identified in section 1.3 Project Types. 

Describe the specific issue, problem, or need that the project will address in relation to the statutory 

language of the program (7 U.S.C. § 1632c). Include data and/or estimates that describe the extent of 

the issue, problem, or need. 

(ii) List the objectives of the project. The objectives must be related to addressing the issue(s), 

problem(s), or need(s) mentioned above in section (2)(i).

(iii) Provide a description of the benefits that are intended to be achieved as a result of engaging in the 

activities associated with this project, including the number of affected producers or processors.

(3) Technical Merit

(i) Provide a Work Plan that describes the activities and timeline associated with each project objective 

mentioned in the Alignment and Intent section. 

The workplan should include: a timeline for each activity and major output including the anticipated 

date of completion; how and where the activities will take place; required resources; milestone(s) for 

assessing progress and success; the person(s) responsible for completing the activity, including 

collaborative arrangements or subcontractors; if conducting training and technical assistance, how 

participants will be recruited; and how you will help guide program development and delivery. AMS 

recommends using a table to display this information. 

(ii) If the proposed project will be or has been submitted to another Federal program for funding, 

provide the grant program name. 

(iii) If the proposed project builds on work previously funded by a Federal program, including AMS grant 

programs, provide the year and grant program name, and describe how the proposed project would not 

duplicate work previously funded by the Federal government. 

(4) Achievability

(i) Provide baseline and/or estimated target numbers to all the applicable outcome indicators listed in 

the Acer Performance Measures that are relevant to the project . If an outcome indicator does not 

apply, state that it is not applicable. AMS will use outcomes measures to report impacts on a national 

scale and demonstrate the program performance. 

(ii) For each completed outcome indicator, describe how you derived the numbers, how you intend to 

measure and achieve each relevant outcome and indicator, and any potential challenges to achieving 

the estimated targets and action steps for addressing them. 
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(iii) Describe how you will disseminate the project’s results (positive and negative) to similar 

organizations, stakeholders, and others that may be interested in the project’s results or implementing a 

similar project.

(5) Expertise and Partners

(i) List key staff, including personnel and external project partners and collaborators that comprise the 

Project Team, their roles, and their relevant experience and past successes in developing and operating 

projects similar to this project. Ensure that you have included Letters of Commitment from Partner and 

Collaborator Organizations to support the information.

(ii) Describe your management plan for coordinating, communicating, and sharing data and reports 

among members of the Project Team and stakeholder groups, both internally to personnel and 

externally to partners and collaborators.

(iii) Describe how the project, and its partnerships and collaborations, will be sustained beyond the 

project’s period of performance (without grant funds) if the project need is expected to extend beyond 

the grant period.

Provide a one- to two-page resume or summary of relevant experience and/or qualifications of the 

principal investigator(s) and for each of the other major project participants. Longer resumes will be 

disregarded. The resume or summary does not count against the page limit for the Project Narrative.

(6) Fiscal Plan and Resources

The Fiscal Plan and Resources must include a Budget Spreadsheet and Budget Narrative. The Budget 

Spreadsheet must show the relevant expenditure categories in the far-left column. Relevant cost 

categories include:

• Personnel

• Fringe Benefits

• Travel

• Special Purpose Equipment

• Supplies

• Contracts/Subawards

• Other

• Indirect Costs

• Program Income

Proceeding across the page, there must be a column showing the dollar amount of Federal funds 

requested. Provide separate Year 1, Year 2, Year 3, and cumulative budgets.

The Budget Narrative must break down and explain how the dollar amounts for each category shown on 

the Budget Spreadsheet were derived and what they cover. See section 8 of the AMS General Terms and 

Conditions for a full listing of allowable and unallowable costs.

The supporting documents in the subsequent sections do not count against the page limit for the 

Project Narrative.
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5.2.5 LETTERS OF COMMITMENT FROM PARTNER AND COLLABORATOR ORGANIZATIONS

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 Partners and Collaborators. 

The letter must state the partner or collaborator agrees to the project management plan presented in 

the Project Narrative. Emails will not be accepted. 

AMS strongly encourages applicants to use the Suggested Partner Organization Template Letter on the 

grant program’s application website. If you do not use this template, your Letter of Commitment must, 

at a minimum, include the following:

• Project Applicant

• Project Title

• A short introduction describing the partnering organization’s mission and its interest in Acer 

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 commitments 

• A statement that these individuals and the organization agree to abide by the management plan 

contained in the application

Submit Letters of Commitment on letterhead and address them 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. 

Letter(s) must be attached to the Grants.gov application package using the “Add Attachments” button 

under Form SF-424 item #15.

PLEASE NOTE: The Acer Program does not require Congressional letters of support nor do such letters 

carry additional weight during the evaluation process. 

5.2.6 NEGOTIATED INDIRECT COST RATE AGREEMENT (NICRA)

Required if the applicant has a NICRA. Refer to section 4.2 Indirect Costs 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. 

5.3 APPLICATION SUBMISSION AND RECEIPT PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS

5.3.1 HOW TO REGISTER TO APPLY 

Applicants MUST have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), an active SAM.gov account, and a Grants.gov 

account to submit an application. AMS recommends that applicants start the registration process in 

these systems immediately to allow enough time to meet application submission deadlines. Registration 

in these systems collectively may in some cases take more than four weeks to complete. The steps 

below provide details on how to complete each registration.
17 | Page

Individual applicants eligible to apply for this grant funding opportunity can find complete instructions 

here: https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration. 

Organization applicants can find complete instructions here: 

https://apply07.grants.gov/help/html/help/Register/OrganizationRegistration.htm.

1. Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Number: Entities applying for funding, including renewal 

funding, must have a UEI from SAM.gov. Applicants must enter the UEI number in the data entry 

field labeled "Organizational UEI" on the SF-424. Getting a UEI requires validation steps in 

SAM.gov. Applicants are encouraged to start this process as early as possible, and, if applicable, 

this includes providing guidance to subapplicants on getting their own UEI.

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 Unique Entity Identifier (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. Organizations must maintain an active SAM registration with 

current information throughout the application review period and, if you are awarded a grant, 

during the project period.

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.
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5.3.2 HOW TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION TO AMS VIA GRANTS.GOV

Applicants can apply using Grant.gov Workspace. Workspace is a shared, online environment where 

members of a grants team create and submits their grant applications. Workspace allows the grants 

team simultaneous access to complete and submit all application forms required by the grant-making 

agency. For each funding opportunity announcement, an applicant creates individual instances of a 

workspace.

1. Create a Workspace: This allows you to complete your Workspace online and route it through 

your organization for review before submitting.

2. Complete a Workspace: Add participants to the workspace, complete all the required forms, and 

check for errors before submission. 

a. Adobe Reader: If you decide not to apply by filling out the webforms, you can download 

individual PDF forms in Workspace so that they will appear like other Standard or AMS 

forms. The individual PDF forms can be downloaded and saved to your local storage 

device, network drive(s), or external drives, and then accessed through Adobe 

Reader. NOTE: You may need to visit the Adobe Software Compatibility page on 

Grants.gov to download the appropriate version of the software. There is no cost for 

Adobe Reader Software.

b. 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.

c. Complete SF-424 Fields First: The forms are designed to fill in common required fields 

across other forms, such as the applicant's name, address, and UEI number. To trigger 

this feature, an applicant must complete the SF-424 information first. Once it is 

completed, the information will transfer to the other forms.

3. Submit via 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 your application package at least 24-48 hours prior to the close 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 5.2 Content and Form of 

Application Submission are included.

4. Track via 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 (except federal holidays) toll-free support number 1-800-518-4726, or

email support@grants.gov. Grants.gov will issue a ticket number to which you and Grants.gov can refer 

if the issue is not resolved. For questions related to the specific grant opportunity, contact the 

individuals mentioned in section 8.0 Agency Contacts. 
19 | Page

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.

Special Note for Applicants with Slow Internet Connections: Applicants using slow internet, such as dialup connections, may experience significantly longer transmission times when submitting their 

application to Grants.gov, especially if there are large attachments contained in the upload. Again, 

Grants.gov will provide either an error message or a successfully received transmission notification via 

email to the applicant AOR.

5.5 SUBMISSION DATE AND TIME

Applicants must submit applications electronically via Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 21, 

2024. AMS cannot consider applications received after this deadline for funding. See AMS’ Late 

Applications, Denials and/or Appeal Procedures Policy. 

5.6 INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW

This program is not subject to Executive Order 12372 (Intergovernmental Review), which requires 

intergovernmental consultation with state and local officials.

6.0 APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

6.1 PROJECT EVALUATION CRITERIA

Each application will be reviewed competitively using the following criteria and scoring:

Alignment and Intent 25 Points

1) The application provides a clear and concise description of the specific issue, problem, or need 

addressed by the project and its objectives. 

2) The project addresses an important marketing barrier, challenge, or opportunity, and aligns with the 

Acer Program’s legislative and program goals. 
20 | Page

3) The applicant identifies the intended beneficiaries, including the number of beneficiaries, and how 

they will benefit. The application demonstrates a commitment to engage potential project 

beneficiaries as active participants in partnership activities.

Technical Merit 25 Points

1) The application presents a clear, well-conceived, and suitable overall methodology for fulfilling the 

goals and objectives of the proposed project.

2) The application presents a realistic schedule for implementing the proposed project during the 

award project period.

3) If the project or entity was previously funded, the extent to which the previous lessons learned are 

incorporated into the proposed project. 

4) The application complies with all written instructions and requirements described within the RFA 

and Project Narrative.

Achievability 15 Points

1) The selected Outcome(s) and Indicator(s) are feasible for the scale and scope of the project 

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. 

2) The proposed project can be easily adapted to other regions, communities, and/or agricultural 

systems. 

3) The applicant provides a comprehensive plan to disseminate the project’s results (both positive and 

negative) electronically and in person to target audiences, stakeholders, and interested parties. 

Expertise and Partners 25 Points

1) The proposed project represents qualification of the applicant (individual and team) and the 

relevant partnerships and collaborations to accomplish the project’s goals and objectives and meet 

the needs of the intended beneficiaries, including:

a. Commitment from the key staff, demonstrated through Letters of Commitment from Partner 

and Collaborator Organizations.

b. The key staff who will be responsible for managing the projects and the individuals (name and 

title) who comprise the Project Team; and

c. The expertise and experience of the Project Team necessary to successfully manage and 

implement the proposed project.
21 | Page

2) The application describes plans for coordination, communication, data sharing and reporting among 

members of the Project Team and stakeholder groups, both internally for the applicant personnel 

and externally for partners and collaborators.

3) The application describes how the project, and its partnerships and collaborations, will be sustained 

beyond the project’s period of performance (without grant funds).

Fiscal Plan and Resources 10 Points

1) The application Budget Narrative/Justification provides a clear, detailed description for each budget 

line item, and is consistent with the size and scope of the project. 

2) The budget and justification relate logically to the Project Narrative describing the project. 

3) The application provides evidence that critical resources and infrastructure that are necessary for 

the initiation and completion of the proposed project that are currently in place. 

6.2 REVIEW AND SELECTION PROCESS

Step 1: Initial Qualification Screening

Each application is initially reviewed for overall completeness, as well as compliance with eligibility and 

program requirements set forth in this RFA. If an application does not meet these requirements, it is 

removed from consideration. Please see AMS’s Late Applications, Denials and/or Appeal Procedures 

Policy for more information. 

Step 2: Technical Review

Each application that passes initial screening (Step 1) is evaluated by a panel of independent peer 

reviewers. AMS makes every attempt to match reviewers with applications in their areas of expertise. 

Each reviewer signs a conflict of interest and confidentiality agreement regarding any assigned 

applications. The peer review panels evaluate their assigned applications using instructions prepared by 

AMS officials. Individual reviewers score applications and then confer with other panel members. The 

scoring and discussion serve as the basis for awarding and allocating grant funds and focuses on 

strengths and weaknesses of each proposal. 

Step 3: Administrative Review 

AMS will conduct a final administrative evaluation of each review panel’s top rankings and 

recommendations. In addition to the rank and scores, AMS reviews each application to ensure that 

potential recommended projects align with the scope, allowability of budget items, available funding, 

geographic diversity, and USDA priorities. AMS staff will work with top-ranked applicants to negotiate 

any revisions as necessary. 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. 
22 | Page

7.0 AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION 

7.1 AWARD NOTICES

Upon announcement of the Federal awards, AMS will prepare and send a Notice of Award (NOA) to 

each recipient for signature by the appropriate official. The NOA will be signed by AMS and the AOR.

The NOA will provide pertinent instructions and information including, at a minimum, the information 

described in 2 CFR § 200.211 and a reference to the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions. 

7.2 UNSUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS

Unsuccessful applicants will be contacted by AMS via email as soon as possible after the awards are 

announced to inform them of the results. The unsuccessful applicants will receive anonymous review 

panel consensus comments regarding their proposals.

7.3 ADMINISTRATIVE AND NATIONAL POLICY REQUIREMENTS

As part of the NOA, all AMS recipients must abide by the applicable AMS General Terms and Conditions,

which reference applicable Administrative and National Policy Requirements. 

7.4 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Reporting and award closeout requirements are included in the applicable AMS General Terms and 

Conditions. If there are any program or award-specific award terms, they will be identified in the award. 

7.5 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 applicable

AMS General Terms and Conditions. 

8.0 AGENCY CONTACTS 

8.1 PROGRAMMATIC QUESTIONS

Applicants and other interested parties are encouraged to contact the ACER staff by email with 

questions about the program at SAGPgrants@usda.gov. AMS staff is available to provide timely 

technical assistance. 

For additional information, please visit the ACER Website:

https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/acer
23 | Page

8.2 ADDRESS

Acer Access and Development Program

USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service

1400 Independence Avenue, SW 

Room 1510 South Building, Stop 0264

Washington, DC 20250-0264

www.ams.usda.gov/acer

8.3 GRANTS.GOV QUESTIONS

All questions regarding Grants.gov technical assistance must be directed to Grants.gov’s Applicant 

Support. Applicants may also call the 24/7 (except federal holidays) toll-free support number 1-800-518-

4726 or email support@grants.gov. 

9.0 OTHER INFORMATION

9.1 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. 

9.2 FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REQUESTS

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) of 1966 (5 U.S.C. § 552) 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 2055-S, Stop 0201, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, 

Washington, DC 20250-0201, Telephone: (202) 302-0650; or email: AMS.FOIA@usda.gov.

9.3 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.