1. Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Part F – Special Projects of National Significance Pre-Application Technical Assistance Webinar HRSA Improving HIV Health Outcomes through the Coordination of Supportive Employment and Housing Services – Evaluation and Technical Assistance Provider June 12, 2017
Template for RWHAP discretionary grant programs. Information conveyed must be consistent with the NOFO. No new information (not contained in the NOFO) may be presented.
Chau Nguyen, MPH, Public Health Analyst and
Corliss Heath, PhD, MPH, MDiv, Health Scientist
Office of Training and Capacity Development (OTCD)
Special Projects of National Significance Program (SPNS)
HIV/AIDS Bureau (HAB)
Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)

2. Welcome and Introductions
April Stubbs-Smith
Domestic Director, OTCD
Adan Cajina
SPNS Branch Chief
Chau Nguyen
SPNS Project Officer
Corliss Heath
SPNS Health Scientist
Amy Griffin
Meredith DeDona
Aisha Muhammad
HAB Project Officer
Senior Policy Advisor, DOL
Program Specialist, HUD/OHH
Beverly Smith
HRSA Grants Management Specialist
Welcome and Introductions
We welcome you all to this pre-application technical assistance conference call. With us today, we have HAB staff from The Office of Training and Capacity Development (OTCD) in the HIV/AIDS Bureau as well as our Grants Management Specialist. We have (read off names) ______. Our intention today is to provide all interested organizations with information about and clarification of the funding opportunity materials. We will also provide you with practical advice for developing your application.

3. Agenda HAB Vision and Mission
Purpose of Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
Program Expectations
Background
Award Information
Eligibility
Application and Submission Information
Application Review Information
Application Submission Tips
Question and Answer

4. Acronyms DOL – Department of Labor
NOFO – Notice of Funding Opportunity (formerly FOA)
DUNS – Data Universal Numbering System
OHH - Office of HIV/AIDS Housing
EHB – Electronic Handbook
ETAP – Evaluation and Technical Assistance Provider
PLWH – People Living with HIV
PO – Project Officer
GMS – Grants Management Specialist
RWHAP – Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program
HAB – HIV/AIDS Bureau
SAM – System for Award Management
HOPWA – Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS
SPNS – Special Projects of National Significance
HUD – Department of Housing and Urban Development
SMAIF – Secretary’s Minority AIDS Initiative Fund
IRB – Institutional Review Board
TA – Technical Assistance
Include/revise as appropriate.

5. HIV/AIDS Bureau Vision and Mission
Optimal HIV/AIDS care and treatment for all
Mission
Provide leadership and resources to assure access to and retention in high quality, integrated care, and treatment services for vulnerable people living with HIV and their families

6. Funding and Collaboration
This HRSA/HAB initiative is in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor and the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of HIV/AIDS Housing
Supported through funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Secretary’s Minority AIDS Initiative Fund (SMAIF) and the Special Projects of National Significance (SPNS) Program
Please refer to pages i and 1-2 of the NOFO
Collaboration
Partnership between U.S. Department of Labor and Department of Housing/Office of HIV/AIDS Housing

7. Purpose – Evaluation and Technical Assistance Provider (ETAP)
To support a single organization that will serve as the Evaluation and Technical Assistance Provider (ETAP)
To conduct a rigorous multi-site evaluation and provide technical assistance (TA) to a cohort of up to ten (10) demonstration sites (funded under a separate announcement HRSA )
To lead and coordinate the efforts for publication and dissemination of findings and lessons learned from the initiative
Please refer to pages 1-2 of the NOFO
This announcement solicits applications for fiscal year (FY) 2017 for a new three-year initiative entitled Improving HIV Health Outcomes through the Coordination of Supportive Employment and Housing Services – Evaluation and Technical Assistance Provider (ETAP). The purpose of this announcement is: HRSA will award one (1) cooperative agreement to a single organization for up to $700,000 per year for three (3) years to conduct a multi-site evaluation and provide technical assistance (TA) to up to 10 demonstration sites. These sites (funded under a separate announcement, HRSA ) will design, implement and evaluate innovative interventions that coordinate HIV care, housing, and employment services to improve health, housing, and employment outcomes for low-income, uninsured, and underinsured people living with HIV (PLWH) in racial and ethnic minority communities.

8. Please refer to pages 1-2 of the NOFO
Purpose
Companion NOFO (HRSA ): Improving HIV Health Outcomes through the Coordination of Supportive Employment and Housing Services – Demonstration Sites
Demonstration sites will design, implement and evaluate innovative interventions that coordinate HIV care, housing, and employment services to improve health, housing, and employment outcomes for people living with HIV (PLWH) in racial and ethnic communities
The overall goal of the initiative is to improve engagement and retention in HIV care and supportive services for PLWH impacted by social determinants of health, specifically housing and employment instability
Please refer to pages 1-2 of the NOFO
and HRSA NOFO
Because award recipients under both NOFOs (HRSA and HRSA ) will need to work together closely to be successful, HAB encourages you to read the companion announcement and be familiar with all program expectations within both NOFOs.

9. Please refer to pages 1 to 2 of the NOFO
Key Definitions
HIV care services are defined as all of the HIV care and treatment services allowable through the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP). For more information regarding RWHAP eligible services see PCN #16-02 Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Services: Eligible Individuals & Allowable Uses of Funds
Employment Services are defined as all services designed to connect individuals to employment or to improve a person’s income through employment.
Housing Services are defined as the full range of rental and mortgage support services offered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), including the Housing Opportunity for Persons with AIDS Program (HOPWA), to stabilize individuals and families experiencing unstable housing or homelessness. For more information on the HOPWA program go to:
Please refer to pages 1 to 2 of the NOFO
HIV care services are defined as all of the HIV care and treatment services allowable through the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP). For more information regarding RWHAP eligible services see PCN #16-02 Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Services: Eligible Individuals & Allowable Uses of Funds
Employment Services are defined as all services designed to connect individuals to employment or to improve a person’s income through employment. Such services may include but are not limited to resume building, job search assistance, and resource rooms with internet and resume writing tools, job training or education programs, accessibility and special accommodation services for people with disabilities, etc. Applicants may reference Section VIII of this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) entitled Other Information for a list of resources and programs offered through the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).
Housing Services are defined as the full range of rental and mortgage support services offered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), including the Housing Opportunity for Persons with AIDS Program (HOPWA), to stabilize individuals and families experiencing unstable housing or homelessness. For more information on the HOPWA program, applicants may visit the HUD website at In addition, please see the August 18, 2016 program letter, Using Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Funds to Support Housing Services.
For more information on the HOPWA program go to:
HRSA HAB Program Letter Using Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Funds to Support Housing Services. See: (August 18, 2016)

10. Program Expectations - Employment Curriculum
This project builds upon HUD and DOL’s Getting to Work Initiative utilizing the agencies knowledge and experience
Key personnel including the Principal Investigator, Project Director, and Evaluator must complete the Getting to Work: A Training Curriculum for HIV/AIDS Service Providers and Housing Providers curriculum
ETAP is responsible for collecting demonstration sites’ staff certificates of completion for this curriculum
Please refer to page 2 of the NOFO
Employment Curriculum
In order to provide adequate technical assistance as subject matter experts to the demonstration sites, the ETAP recipient’s key personnel must obtain a certificate of completion for each of the three modules in HUD and DOL’s employment training curriculum entitled Getting to Work: A Training Curriculum for HIV/AIDS Service Providers and Housing Providers.
Key ETAP personnel include the Principal Investigator, Project Director, and Evaluator. In addition, the ETAP should be responsible for collecting demonstration sites’ staff certificates of completion for this curriculum. The information provided within the curriculum shall be used to inform the design of the demonstration sites’ interventions.
ETAP applicants must possess a thorough understanding of both the needs of PLWH in racial and ethnic minority communities experiencing unstable housing and employment barriers such as stigma, lack of access to housing and health care, limited employment or training/skills development opportunities, and other economic vulnerabilities that impact health outcomes for PLWH. Additionally, ETAP applicants should demonstrate an in-depth understanding of coordinated models of care that impact health disparities, as it relates to health, housing and employment outcomes for PLWH.

11. Program Expectations - Multi-Site Evaluation
ETAP will design and implement a rigorous multi-site evaluation
ETAP will collect and analyze outcome, process, and cost data from the demonstration sites to assess the effectiveness of the coordinated HIV care, employment and housing interventions.
Expected outcome improvements for PLWH project participants:
Housing stability;
Rates of employment; and
Achievement of viral suppression
Please refer to pages 3-4 of the NOFO
Program Expectations (Multi-Site Evaluation)
As part of the multi-site evaluation, the ETAP will collect outcome, process, and cost data from the demonstration sites to assess the effectiveness of the implementation of HIV care, employment and housing interventions.
Outcome measures may include but are not limited to client demographics; biomedical and behavioral health indicators; barriers to access and factors facilitating the utilization of core HIV medical care, housing, employment services; and other outcome measures proposed by the ETAP.
The federal partners expect to see improvements in the following outcomes for PLWH participating in this project:
• Housing stability;
• Rates of employment; and
• Achievement of viral suppression.
Therefore, you must demonstrate the ability to work among federal partner agencies and with the demonstration sites to design and implement a multi-site evaluation including collection and analysis of data related to health outcomes, housing stability, and employment status.

12. Multi-Site Evaluation - Key Performance Measures
HAB Core Performance Measures
Retention in HIV Medical Care
Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
Viral Suppression
Housing Status
HOPWA Annual Progress Report (APR) measures
Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) Performance Measures
Employment Status
DOL Employment and Training Administration (ETA) Common Performance Measures
Please refer to pages 3-5 of the NOFO
Program Expectations (Multi-Site Evaluation)
Key performance measures that must be included in the multi-site evaluation are outcomes of PLWH program participants along the HIV care continuum including:
• HAB Core Performance Measures, specifically:
o Retention in HIV Medical Care  Percentage of clients who had at least one HIV medical care visit in each six (6)-month period of the 24-month measurement period, with a minimum of 60 days between medical visits.
o Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Among Persons in HIV Medical Care
 Percentage of clients prescribed ART for the treatment of HIV infection in the 12-month measurement period.
o Viral Suppression Among Persons in HIV Medical Care
 Percentage of clients with a viral load <200 copies/mL during the last test in the 12-month measurement period.
• Additional HAB Core Performance Measures, as needed
• Housing Status o Percentage of persons with an HIV diagnosis who were homeless or unstably housed receiving housing services in the 12 month measurement period
o HOPWA Annual Progress Report (APR) measures8/Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) Performance Measures9
o Other HUD measures, as appropriate
• Employment Status o Percentage of PLWH with unmet employment needs receiving employment services in the 12 month measurement period
o DOL Employment and Training Administration (ETA) Common Performance Measures, as appropriate10
o Other DOL measures, as appropriate

13. Program Expectations - Multi-Site Evaluation
Rapid and Ongoing Evaluation:
The ETAP must rapidly design and deploy a multi-site evaluation methodology within six (6) months of receiving the award.
The ETAP will monitor the progress of the demonstration sites in their collection and reporting of evaluation data to assure its timely completion and quality.
Additional Multi-Site Evaluation-related ETAP Responsibilities:
Data Portal and Security
Website
Evaluation-related TA
Institutional Review Board (IRB)
Human Subjects Protection
Focused Evaluation Studies
Please refer to pages 9-11 of the NOFO
Program Expectations (Multi-Site Evaluation)
Additional ETAP responsibilities include:
Data Portal and Security: the demonstration sites will submit evaluation data to the ETAP through a secure data portal to be constructed and maintained by the ETAP. The ETAP will coordinate efforts to assure the privacy and confidentiality of data submitted, collected, and stored. The ETAP will be responsible for monitoring data quality and completeness of submissions, and interpreting evaluation results.
Website: In addition to a secure data portal, the ETAP will be responsible for developing and maintaining a website with both public access for promotion of the initiative and private password-protected access for demonstration sites, ETAP, HAB staff and federal partners HUD/OHH and DOL. The website will be expected to support TA resources for the multi-site evaluation; ongoing documentation of presentation, publication and dissemination efforts for the initiative; registration information for the annual national meetings of the initiative; recent findings of interest from outside the initiative; and links to relevant resources.
Evaluation-related TA: The ETAP recipient will conduct technical support for all aspects of the multi-site evaluation to include assistance to the demonstration sites in implementing the evaluation of their intervention, training demonstration site staff in the use of the data collection instruments and web-based data entry portal, establishment of quality control mechanisms, regular monitoring of data collection and reporting efforts, and remedial action when necessary to assure data collection requirements are met and are of the highest quality for dissemination of project results. The ETAP will assess demonstration site TA needs and will be responsible for the provision of evaluation-related TA to the demonstration sites through regular teleconferences, webinars, and in-person meetings over the course of the project period.
Institutional Review Board: The ETAP will be required to submit the proposed multi-site evaluation plan and instruments to its Institutional Review Board (IRB) for review and approval. The ETAP will be required to submit their IRB’s approval and annual renewals for all client-level data collection instruments, informed consents and evaluation materials to HAB. The ETAP also will be responsible for tracking and collecting the demonstration projects’ required IRB approvals and annual renewals for the multi-site evaluation, their local evaluation and any other related studies.
Human Subjects Protection: The ETAP will coordinate the efforts of demonstration projects to assure the privacy and confidentiality of program participants. The ETAP and the demonstration projects will be expected to conform to the regulations for human subjects research protection set forth in regulations. All key ETAP project personnel are expected to have taken Human Subjects Research Protections training23 with certificate of completion documentation. The ETAP will be expected to review the required plans of demonstration projects to safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of program participants, in accordance with HIPAA regulations and human subjects research protections. See Code of Federal Regulations, Title 45, Part 46 Protection of Human Subjects.24
Focused evaluation studies: In addition to the multi-site evaluation, the ETAP recipient will be responsible for conducting focused evaluation studies including but not limited to case studies or qualitative studies that focus on issues relating to the coordination of health, housing, and employment service delivery systems. The ETAP, in collaboration with the demonstration sites, HAB staff, and federal partners HUD/OHH and DOL, will generate the specific topics for these focused studies.
Rapid and Ongoing Evaluation: The ETAP must rapidly design and deploy a multi-site evaluation methodology within six (6) months of receiving the award. The ETAP will monitor the progress of the demonstration sites in their collection and reporting of evaluation data to assure its timely completion and quality.

14. Program Expectations – Providing Technical Assistance (TA)
ETAP will coordinate and provide TA to the Demonstration Sites:
TA Needs – teleconferences, webinars
Intervention Manuals
Site Visits
Annual Meeting – lead and coordinate
Additional TA to RWHAP recipients and subrecipients
ETAP will also develop tools and TA resources to help other RWHAP recipients/subrecipients implement and/or coordinate employment services at the state and federal levels .
Please refer to pages 2 and 11 of the NOFO
Program Expectations (Technical Assistance)
2) Providing TA
The ETAP will coordinate and provide TA to the demonstration sites in the implementation of the proposed demonstration projects. The ETAP must provide and leverage existing TA resources with expertise in HIV care service delivery, housing, and employment.
TA Needs Assessments: The ETAP will routinely assess the TA needs of the demonstration sites. The ETAP may provide TA during regular teleconferences; through its website and webinars; during annual site visits; and at annual meetings for this initiative.
Intervention Manuals: The ETAP will assist each demonstration site in the development of their required Intervention Manual, which will document the methodology, implementation and outcomes of their intervention project, in order to guide potential replication in the future.
Site Visits: The ETAP will conduct, at minimum, one annual site visit with each demonstration site throughout the initiative, along with federal staff, if available. The ETAP will develop a site visit protocol to guide the content and focus of these visits. Generally, the site visits will focus on the provision of TA as requested by the demonstration site or based on the ETAP’s assessment. Site visit protocols should address TA needs in the areas of planning and project implementation, as well as data submission and data quality issues.
Annual Meeting: The ETAP will lead and coordinate the logistics for an annual meeting with the demonstration sites during each year of the three-year project period. This activity includes but is not limited to meeting venue selection, logistics coordination, participant registration, development of meeting agendas and meeting facilitation. While the ETAP is responsible for overall logistics, each demonstration site is responsible for travel and hotel accommodations for these meetings. All activities will be conducted in collaboration with HAB staff, federal partners, and demonstration project staff. The annual meetings will take place in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.
In addition, the ETAP will develop tools and resources such as an on-line downloadable manual, online and in-person trainings, webinars, or other proposed TA deliverables for RWHAP recipients and subrecipients to help implement and/or coordinate with a wide-range of employment services at the state and federal levels (e.g. state vocational rehabilitation agencies, American Job Centers, AmeriCorps, and the Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Programs).
To support project goals, the ETAP will provide technical assistance to the demonstration sites in implementing new or enhancing existing services that integrate RWHAP HIV care systems, HOPWA housing support, and DOL-funded or other employment services. As such, the ETAP must demonstrate knowledge, either directly or through partnerships, of RWHAP, HOPWA and DOL funding structures, regulations and delivery systems.

15. Program Expectations – Dissemination
The ETAP will lead and coordinate dissemination of findings and lessons learned:
Monograph and Intervenion Manual
Publications
Dissemination
Replication
Please refer to page 12 of the NOFO
Program Expectations (Dissemination)
3) Leading and Coordinating Publication and Dissemination of Findings and Lessons Learned
Monograph and Intervention Manuals: The ETAP will develop a detailed monograph that includes an overview of the interventions; findings from the multi-site evaluation; an assessment of the lessons learned by demonstration sites in implementing their interventions; and demonstration site recommendations for program sustainability and program integration. In addition, the ETAP will produce a multi-site Intervention Manual, in coordination with the demonstration sites, to document the methodology, implementation, outcomes and lessons learned of successful interventions, in order to guide their potential replication in the future.
Publications: The ETAP will disseminate project findings and lessons learned to local communities, state and national conferences, policymakers, and in peer reviewed journals. The ETAP recipient will lead the publication and dissemination activities for the initiative, working in collaboration with the demonstration sites, HAB staff and federal partners. The ETAP will establish a publications and disseminations committee. The publications and disseminations committee will work collaboratively to formulate its own publication and policy guidelines to cover such issues as governance and function; authorship; multi-site data requests; and other operational issues.
Dissemination: The ETAP will be responsible for producing and disseminating TA toolkits, materials, and products. Mechanisms of dissemination may include websites, presentations via webcast, conferences, and other meetings or national forums to inform lessons learned and how to replicate the models. The ETAP must use the TARGET Center (the website for the RWHAP community to host webcasts, tools, trainings and other resources to assist RWHAP-funded programs) as the web forum to disseminate all information, tools, materials, and products from this project. The ETAP will communicate project findings and lessons learned to local communities, state and national conferences, and policymakers.
Replication: The ETAP will document challenges and opportunities of emerging practices and will share lessons learned with the demonstration sites and the wider housing, employment, and HIV communities. All materials will be disseminated to RWHAP programs, housing, and employment programs interested in the replication of these models to facilitate the coordination of housing, employment, and HIV care services.
The ETAP is encouraged to collaborate with partner organizations, as needed, to meet these responsibilities, expectations and competencies.

16. Program Expectations ETAP must demonstrate knowledge of:
Needs of PLWH experiencing unstable housing
Employment barriers, limited employment and training opportunities
Coordinated models of care that impact health, housing and employment disparities outcomes for PLWH
RWHAP, HOPWA and DOL funding structures, regulations and delivery systems, either directly or through partnerships
The ETAP is encouraged to collaborate with partner organizations, as needed, to meet these responsibilities, program expectations and competencies.
Please refer to pages 2-3 and 12 of the NOFO
Program Expectations
ETAP applicants must possess a thorough understanding of both the needs of PLWH in racial and ethnic minority communities experiencing unstable housing and employment barriers such as stigma, lack of access to housing and health care, limited employment or training/skills development opportunities, and other economic vulnerabilities that impact health outcomes for PLWH. Additionally, ETAP applicants should demonstrate an in-depth understanding of coordinated models of care that impact health disparities, as it relates to health, housing and employment outcomes for PLWH.
To support project goals, the ETAP will provide technical assistance to the demonstration sites in implementing new or enhancing existing services that integrate RWHAP HIV care systems, HOPWA housing support, and DOL-funded or other employment services. Demonstration sites will rely heavily on HOPWA and DOL-funded service structures for the provision of housing and employment services. As such, the ETAP must demonstrate knowledge, either directly or through partnerships, of RWHAP, HOPWA and DOL funding structures, regulations and delivery systems.
The ETAP is encouraged to collaborate with partner organizations, as needed, to meet these responsibilities, expectations and competencies.

17. Background
Social determinants of health such as poverty, housing, and employment are associated with HIV-related health disparities
Of 533,000 clients received services from RWHAP-funded providers:
The majority were from racial/ethnic minority populations (47% African American; 23% Hispanic/Latino)
~65% of RWHAP clients were living at or below the federal poverty level (FPL)
An estimated 45-70% of PLWH remain unemployed, and among these as much as 40% feel ready and able to work
Please refer to page 6 to 7 of the NOFO
In 2015 according to the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Services Report (RSR) data, the RWHAP served just over 533,000 clients.
Nearly three-quarters (73%) of RWHAP clients are from racial/ethnic minority populations, and approximately two-thirds (65%) are living at or below the poverty line.
From FOA:
Social determinants of health such as poverty, housing, and employment are associated with HIV-related health disparities, including health outcomes (e.g., viral suppression). Of 533,036 clients receiving services by the RWHAP in 2015, the majority were black/African American (47.1 percent) and Hispanic/Latino (22.7 percent); 65.4 percent were living at or below the federal poverty level (FPL)
Employment Background
Due to advances in HIV care and treatment, life expectancy rates have increased, and PLWH increasingly have the stamina to work and achieve self-sufficiency through employment. While it is important to acknowledge that some PLWH experience chronic disabilities that require special accommodation or limit the type of work accessible, entering or remaining in the workforce is an option for many. However, an estimated percent of PLWH remain unemployed, and among these as much as 40 percent feel ready and able to work.
Employment services such as vocational rehabilitation may help improve access to health care, reduce risky health behaviors, and reduce HIV stigma. Employment is associated with improved physical and mental health, and may help bolster long-term treatment adherence and viral suppression among PLWH. Moreover, employment can increase financial self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on publicly funded benefits and other services, including health care and supportive services currently provided by the RWHAP and other federal programs.
In a demographically representative survey of PLWH conducted by the National Working Positive Coalition, participants reported increases in treatment adherence and CD4 counts following entry into the workforce. Similar trends in HIV outcomes by employment were observed in a review of 28 studies; overall, employed respondents were more likely to report medication adherence compared to unemployed PLWH.

18. Ryan White Services Report*, 2015 RWHAP Clients by Housing Status
From HAB cleared slide deck
From NOFO:
Additionally in 2015, our client level indicates that 9.8 percent had temporary housing and 5.0 percent had unstable housing situations.
While 85% of RWHAP clients are stably housed, ~15% of RWHAP clients remain temporarily or unstably housed and may be in need of additional housing support. This is a factor for the ETAP applicant to consider in your proposed technical assistance plan to Demonstration Sites around unmet housing need in your application.
*Source: HRSA. Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Annual Client-Level Data Report Does not include clients receiving only AIDS Drug Assistance Program services

19. HIV, Homelessness, & Suppression
Ryan White Services Report, 2015 Viral Suppression by Housing Status
From HAB cleared slide deck
Viral Suppression among Clients Served by the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (non-ADAP), by Housing Status, 2015—United States and 3 Territories
In 2015, viral suppression varied by housing status; 69.3% of clients with unstable housing achieved viral suppression, compared to 78.4% of clients with temporary housing and 84.6% of clients with stable housing.
From FOA:
RWHAP clients with unstable housing have lower percentages of viral suppression (69.3 percent) than clients with stable (84.6 percent) or temporary housing (78.4 percent)
Thus to help close this gap, your proposed technical assistance plan and multi-site evaluation design should assess and evaluate how addressing both unmet housing needs and employment needs (as described in the earlier slide) can impact or lead to improvements in viral suppression rates over time.”
Note: N represents the total number of clients in the specific subpopulation.
Viral suppression: ≥1 OAMC visit during the calendar year and ≥1 viral load reported, with the last viral load result <200 copies/mL.

20. Please refer to pages 12-13 of the NOFO
Award Information
Funding will be provided through a cooperative agreement.
Approximately $700,000 is available to fund one (1) applicant
Applicants may request funding amounts of up to $700,000 for each year of the 3-year project period (September 30, 2017 – September 29, 2020)
Requests exceeding this amount will be deemed nonresponsive and will not be considered
Funding beyond the first year is dependent on the availability of appropriated funds
Please refer to pages of the NOFO
Funding will be provided through a cooperative agreement. This means that HRSA will have substantial involvement in the programmatic activities.
Approximately $700,000 is expected to be available annually to fund one (1) recipient. You may apply for a ceiling amount of up to $700,000 total cost (including both direct and indirect/facilities and administrative costs) per year.
The project period is September 30, 2017 through September 29, 2020 (three years). Funding beyond the first year is dependent on the availability of appropriated funds in subsequent fiscal years, satisfactory recipient performance, and a decision that continued funding is in the best interest of the Federal Government.

21. Eligibility Information
Eligible applicants include entities eligible for funding under Parts A – D of Title XXVI of the Public Health Service Act as amended by the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009
Eligible applicants also include public health departments and institutions of higher education, state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, faith-based and community-based organizations, tribes, and tribal organizations
Foreign entities are not eligible to apply
Cost sharing/matching is not required
Please refer to page 13 of the NOFO

22. Application and Submission Information
Two Components of the NOFO:
HRSA (Improving HIV Health Outcomes through the Coordination of Supportive Employment and Housing Services–Evaluation and Technical Assistance Provider) focuses on the program-specific content, including goals, expectations, and requirements of the program
HRSA’s General Instructions
SF 424 Application Guide (“Application Guide”)
Links are found throughout the NOFO
Applicants must use both HRSA NOFO and the SF424 Application Guide to successfully complete and submit an application

23. Application Package Applicants must include the following:
SF-424 Application for Federal Assistance
Project Abstract (uploaded in box 15 of the SF-424)
Project/Performance Site Location Form
Project Narrative (uploaded to the Project Narrative Attachment Form)
SF-424A Budget
Budget Narrative (uploaded to the Budget Narrative Attachment Form)
Attachments (Section IV 2. v. of NOFO)
Grants.gov Lobbying Form
SF-424B Assurances
Key Contacts
We will discuss the components of the application package highlighted in bold text.

24. See pages 15 in the NOFO and 37 in the SF424 Application Guide
Project Abstract
Summary of application
At top of abstract:
Project Title, Applicant Organization Name, Address, Project Director Name, Contact Phone Numbers (Voice, Fax), Address, Website Address, if applicable.
Note: Abstract must be single-spaced and no more than one page in length.
See pages 15 in the NOFO and 37 in the SF424 Application Guide
Project Abstract
The Project Abstract is a brief summary of the application, which consists of a brief description of the proposed project, including how needs will be addressed, proposed services, and a brief description the target population(s) to be served. It must be single-spaced and limited to one page in length. This information can is found in the SF424 Application Guide.
In terms of format, please place the following at the top of the abstract:
Project Title
Applicant Organization Name
Organization Address
Project Director’s Name
Contact Phone Numbers (Voice, Fax)
Address
Web Site Address, if applicable
In preparing the Project Abstract, it will be helpful to keep in mind that the abstract is often used to provide information to the public and Congress. Therefore it should be to be concise, accurate, clear and without reference to other parts of the application.

25. Please refer to pages 15 to 20 in the NOFO
Project Narrative
The Project Narrative provides a comprehensive framework and description of all aspects of the proposed project. It contains the following seven (7) sections:
Introduction
Needs Assessment
Methodology
Work Plan
Resolution of Challenges
Evaluation and Technical Support Capacity
Organizational Information
Note – In order for reviewers to understand your proposal, ensure that the Project Narrative is succinct, self-explanatory and well-organized.
Please refer to pages 15 to 20 in the NOFO
Project Narrative
The Project Narrative is described in detail in section IV.2.ii beginning on page 15 of the NOFO. The project narrative is what might be considered the “meat” of the application. It provides a comprehensive framework and description of all aspects of the proposed project and contains the following seven (7) sections, which should be used as headers for the Narrative:
Introduction
Needs Assessment
Methodology
Work Plan
Resolution of Challenges
Evaluative Measures
Organizational Information
As with other parts of your application, please be sure that your Project Narrative section is succinct, self-explanatory, well-organized and follows the order shown, in order to ensure that reviewers understand your proposal.

26. Project Narrative –Submission Notes
In order for reviewers to understand your proposal, ensure that the Project Narrative is succinct, self-explanatory and well-organized.
Clearly label all sections
Respond to all of the questions within each of the sections.
Follow all submission guidelines as listed in the NOFO
Follow all submission guidelines and tips as outlined in SF424 Application Guide
Please refer to pages 15 to 20 in the NOFO and pages 37 to 42 in the SF424 Application Guide

27. Budget Requirements
This NOFO is for a multi-year (3-year) non-construction program.
Budget information consists of three parts:
SF-424A: Complete Sections A-F for each year of the project period (included in the application package)
Line Item Budget: While the budget period is for one year, you must submit line item budgets for each of the 3 budget periods (Attachment 1)
Budget justification: Describe each cost element and explain how each cost contributes to meeting the project’s objectives/goals.
Budget Requirements
DGMO Representative/ Beverly Smith:
This NOFO is for a multi-year (3-year) non-construction program. Accordingly:
Because this NOFO is a multi-year non-construction program, the relevant instructions for the SF-424A are listed in Section 4.1 iv of HRSA’s SF 424 Application Guide. Please keep in mind the following important points:
In addition, the SPNS program requires the following:
Line Item Budget: While the budget period is for one year, you must submit line item budgets (as Attachment 1) for each of year of the proposed project as a single spreadsheet table, using the Section B Budget Categories of the SF-424A and breaking down sub-categorical costs as appropriate.
Budget Justification Narrative: This is a very important part of the application, where you will describe each cost element and explain how each cost contributes to meeting the project’s objectives/goals. Be very careful about showing how each item in the “other” category is justified.
For subsequent budget years, highlight any changes from year one or clearly indicate that there are no substantive budget changes during the project period.
Also be sure to describe the following elements of the budget:
Personnel Costs
Fringe Benefits
Travel
Equipment
Supplies
Contractual
Indirect Costs
For this section in particular, please be concise. In other words, avoid the temptation to expand the project narrative in this section of your application.
See pages 20 to 21 in the NOFO, and 31 to 34 in the SF424 Application Guide

28. Budget Requirements: SF-424A
Complete Sections A – F of the SF-424A Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs form included with the application package for each year of the project period. The budget period is for 1 year. However, you must submit 1-year budgets for each of the subsequent budget periods within the requested project period at the time of application. In Section A use rows to provide the budget amounts for the first 4 years of the project. Enter the amounts in the “New or Revised Budget” column- not the “Estimated Unobligated Funds” column.

29. Budget Requirements: SF-424A
In Section B 6. Object Class Categories of the SF-424A, provide the object class category breakdown (i.e., line item budget) for each year of the project period specified in Section A. In Section B, use column (1) to provide category amounts for year 1 and use columns (2) through (4), if applicable, for subsequent budget years. If applicable for year 5, please submit a copy of Section B of the SF-424A as an Attachment (specific attachment number will be listed in the NOFO - not counted in the page limit).

30. Budget Requirements: SF-424A
Section C – Non-Federal Resources: complete only if Section III. 2. Cost Sharing/Matching of the NOFO indicates that cost sharing/matching is required. Lines 8-11 correspond to the first 4 years of the project. If applicable for year 5, please submit a copy of Section C of the SF-424A as an Attachment (specific attachment number will be listed in the NOFO).
Section D – Forecasted Cash Needs: If no cost sharing/matching is required, complete only line “13. Federal” in the first column titled “Total for 1st Year.” If cost sharing/matching is required, complete all three lines “13. Federal,” “14. Non-Federal,” and “15. Total (Sum of lines 13 and 14)” in the first column titled “Total for 1st Year.”
Section E – Budget Estimates of Federal Funds Needed for Balance of the Project:
Complete line 16 of the Future Funding Periods columns for the out years, with (b) First being the 2nd year, (c) Second being the 3rd year, etc.

31. Salary Limitation
Please note that effective January 8, 2017, the salary rate limitation applicable to RWHAP domestic grants and cooperative agreements increased from $185,100 to $187,000.
The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2017, (P.L ) Division H, § 202, states, “None of the funds appropriated in this title shall be used to pay the salary of an individual, through a grant or other extramural mechanism, at a rate in excess of Executive Level II.” Please see Section 4.1.iv Budget – Salary Limitation of HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide for additional information.
As a reminder, RWHAP funds and program income generated by RWHAP awards may not be used to pay salaries in excess of the rate limitation.
When preparing your budget, please be mindful of legislation that limits salary amounts that may be charged to the award. This salary rate limitation is applicable to all HHS grants and cooperative agreements, including the RWHAP. This limitation is also applicable to subrecipients.

32. Salary Rate Limitation Example
Individual’s full time salary: $255,000.
Amount that may be claimed on the federal RWHAP award due to the legislative salary limitation:
Individual’s base full time salary adjusted to Executive Level II: $187,000
Here is an example of how the rate limitation is applied. Remember: this is a salary rate limitation, not a cap.

33. Please refer to pages 23 to 24 of the NOFO
Funding Restrictions
In addition to the general restrictions included in Section 4.1.iv of the SF-424 Application Guide, funds may not be used for the following:
Charges billable to third party payers (e.g., private health insurance, prepaid health plans, Medicaid, Medicare, HUD, etc.);
To directly provide housing or health care services (e.g., HIV care, counseling and testing);
Cash payments to intended RWHAP clients;
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) or Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) medications or the related medical services.
Syringe Services Programs (SSPs).
To develop materials designed to directly promote or encourage, intravenous drug use or sexual activity, whether homosexual or heterosexual.
Purchase, construction of new facilities or capital improvements to existing facilities;
Purchase or improvement to land;
Purchase vehicles; and/or
International travel
Budget (Funding Restrictions)
The governing cost principles address selected items of cost. The NOFO specifies unallowable costs that apply specifically to this funding opportunity. Additional information on funding restrictions (e.g., alcohol, entertainment costs, lobbying, meals, etc.) is available in the SF424 Application Guide. The list of unallowable costs starting on page 23 of the guide is not intended to be all-inclusive. The cost principles should be consulted for the complete explanation of the allowability or unallowability of costs they address.
Funds under this announcement may not be used for the following purposes:
Charges that are billable to third party payers (e.g. private health insurance, prepaid health plans, Medicaid, Medicare),
Purchase or construction of new facilities or capital improvement to existing facilities,
Purchase of or improvement to land,
Purchase of vehicles,
Fundraising expenses,
Syringe Services Programs (SSPs)
Cash payments to intended RWHAP clients
International travel
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) or Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) medications or the related medical services.
To develop materials designed to directly promote or encourage, intravenous drug use or sexual activity, whether homosexual or heterosexual.
Please refer to pages 23 to 24 of the NOFO

34. Please refer to pages 21 to 22 of the NOFO
Attachments
List of Attachments can be found in Section IV. 2. v. of the NOFO
Attachment 1: Line Item Budgets Spreadsheets for Years 1 through 3 (required)
Attachment 2: Work Plan (required)
Attachment 3: Staffing Plan (required)
Attachment 4: Job Descriptions for Key Personnel (required) Attachment 5: Biographical Sketches of Key Personnel (required)
Attachment 6: Letters of Agreement, Memoranda of Understanding, and/or Description of Proposed/Existing Contracts, project-specific (if applicable)
Logic Model (required)
Attachment 7: Project Organizational Chart (required)
Attachments 8-10: Other Relevant Documents (as applicable)
Please refer to pages 21 to 22 of the NOFO
This list includes all attachments as described in the NOFO. Please note next to each attachment we have indicated whether is required or should be attached only if applicable to your application.
Over the next couple of slides we are going to provide some general information about submitting your attachments as well as provide greater detail about each of the individual the attachments. Our goal is to provide clarity about what is expected in these attachments, to highlight how these Attachments relate to your Project Narrative, and specify where they tie the review criteria.
You can find this list on pages 19 and 20 of the NOFO

35. Please refer to pages 21 to 22 of the NOFO
Attachments
List of Attachments can be found in Section IV. 2. v. of the NOFO
Upload attachments in the order specified to the Attachments Form in the application package
Label each attachment clearly
Unless otherwise noted, attachments count toward the page limit
Please refer to pages 21 to 22 of the NOFO
Feel free to itemize the attachments on this slide. Include the current slide text as the notes to be presented during the webinar.

36. Attachment 1 | Line Item Budget (Years 1-3; Required)
Budget | Sample Line Item Budgets (Years 1 – 3)
On slide 36 the budget must be on 424A. they may include a spreed or excel doc but they must have a 424A budget per OMB
DGMO Representative (Beverly Smith)
Submit line item budgets for each year of the proposed project period using the Section B Budget Categories of the SF-424A and breaking down sub-categorical costs. This information is often supplied in a table or spreadsheet format.
Please refer to pages 20 to 21 of the NOFO

37. Attachment 2 | Work Plan (Required)
Recommend providing work plan in a table format
Goals
Objectives
Action Steps
Staff Responsible
Timeline for Action Steps
Measurable Outcomes
Your Work Plan should include objectives and key action steps that are:
SPECIFIC
MEASUREABLE
ACHIEVABLE
REALISTIC &
TIME FRAMED
Project Narrative | Work Plan (Attachment 2)
To be clear about definitions, be aware that
Goals are broad statements of things you hope to accomplish or address at some point in time –usually over the long term;
Objectives, on the other hand, are specific and time framed statements of things you will accomplish by the end of your budget period.
The focus here is to clearly explain how each goal and its corresponding objectives contribute to your overall plan to address the needs identified in the Program Narrative section. The key action steps should be specific activities that will help you achieve each listed objective. Developing a work plan that implements your goals and objectives, and key action steps requires input from, and planning by, numerous individuals throughout your organization Identify the key people to help develop the work plan, and give yourself plenty of time to meet and to discuss what should go into these two sections. Allow time for key participants to review and edit these sections.
The work plan should be time-framed with specific dates to actively manage the project by measuring progress and quantifying accomplishments.
Please refer to page to 18, 21, and page of the NOFO

38. Attachment 3 | Staffing Plan (Required) Sample below only
Name
Education/
Credentials
Title
Project Role
Experience
FTE
Mrs. Doe
MPH
Program
Director
Day to day operational manager for the project
5 years as program director on previous multi-site projects
50%
Dr. Jones
PhD
Principal Investigator
Oversight of RWHAP award and project implementation
15 years providing HIV primary care
20%
Ms. Kona
Evaluator
Lead of the multi-site evaluation
10 years working in multi-site evaluation projects
Mr. Lewis MS
Data Manager
Responsible for all data collection activities from Demonstration Sites
5 years providing data collection at national data coordinating centers
25%
Include as appropriate—edit to reflect the requirements of the funding opportunity. Feel free to delete this slide. If the NOFO specifies key personnel, reiterate those positions. Indicate this is one of many samples for conveying information. The applicant is not required to use any particular format.
The Staffing Plan should include sufficient personnel to successfully implement the proposed project activities and goals, including education, experience, qualifications, and rationale for the amount of time being requested for each staff.
Applicants should ensure that the staffing plan is consistent with the project description
Job Descriptions that include the roles, responsibilities, and qualifications of proposed project staff must be included in Attachment 4, as specified in the NOFO. Keep each position description to one page each in length as much as is possible.
From template: Edit to reflect the requirements of the funding opportunity. If the NOFO specifies key personnel, reiterate those positions. This is one of many samples for conveying information. The applicant is not required to use any particular format.
Biographical sketches for any key positions that will be assigned to work on the proposed project must be included in Attachment 5, as specified in the NOFO . When applicable, biographical sketches (not to exceed two pages each in length) should include training, language fluency and experience working with the cultural and linguistically diverse populations that are served by their programs.
(In the event that a biographical sketch is included for an identified individual who is not yet hired, please include a letter of commitment from that person with the biographical sketch.)
Please refer to page 14, 15 and 21 of the NOFO

39. Attachment 4 | Job Descriptions for Key Personnel (Required)
Include job descriptions for key personnel responsible for project activities.
Include the role, responsibilities, and qualifications of proposed personnel (including consultants and contractors).
Keep each job description to one page in length as much as possible.
Please refer to page 22 of the NOFO and
Section 4.1.vi of the SF-424 Application Guide
Attachment 4: Job Descriptions for Key Personnel (see Section 4.1. of HRSA’s SF-424 Application Guide), required
Include job descriptions for key personnel responsible for project activities. Include the role, responsibilities, and qualifications of proposed project personnel (including consultants and contractors).
Keep each job description to one page in length as much as possible.

40. Attachment 5 | Biographical Sketches (Required)
Include biographical sketches for persons occupying the key positions described in Attachments 3 and 4, not to exceed two pages in length per person.
Biosketches for any key employed personnel that will be assigned to work on the proposed project must be included.
Biosketches should include training and experience working with the populations served by your programs.
In the event that a biographical sketch is included for an identified individual who is not yet hired, please include a letter of commitment from that person with the biographical sketch.
Please refer to page 22 of the NOFO and
Section 4.1.vi of the SF-424 Application Guide
Include biographical sketches for persons occupying the key positions described in Attachments 3 and 4, not to exceed two pages in length per person. In the event that a biographical sketch is included for an identified individual who is not yet hired, please include a letter of commitment from that person with the biographical sketch.

41. Please refer to page 22 of the NOFO
Attachment 6 | Letters of Agreement, Memoranda of Understanding, and/or Description(s) of Proposed/Existing Contracts (if applicable)
Provide documents that describe working relationships between your organization and other entities cited in your proposal.
Documents that confirm actual or pending contractual agreements should clearly describe the roles of the contractors and any deliverables
Letters of agreement must be dated.
If the applicant does not plan to contract or leverage resources or personnel to meet the requirements listed in the NOFO, then no letters of agreement, memoranda of understanding, or additional descriptions are required.
Please refer to page 22 of the NOFO
Attachment 6: Letters of Agreement, Memoranda of Understanding, and/or Description(s) of Proposed/Existing Contracts (project-specific), if applicable
Provide any documents that describe working relationships between your organization and other entities and programs cited in the proposal. Documents that confirm actual or pending contractual agreements should clearly describe the roles of the contractors and any deliverables. Letters of agreement must be dated.
In the event that a biographical sketch is included for an identified individual who is not yet hired, please include a letter of commitment from that person here.
If the applicant does not plan to contract or leverage resources or personnel to meet the requirements listed in the NOFO, then no LOAs, MOAs, MOUs, or additional descriptions are required.

42. Attachment 7 | Project Organizational Chart
The Project Organizational Chart should be a one- page figure.
Depict the project structure of the ETAP, not the entire organization.
Include subrecipients, contractors and other significant collaborators, if applicable.
Please refer to page 19 and 22 of the NOFO
Include a project organizational chart as Attachment 7.
The chart should be a one-page figure that depicts the project structure of the ETAP, not the entire organization. It should include subrecipients, contractors and other significant collaborators, if applicable.
Will be considered as part of Review Criterion #5, Resources/Capabilities.

43. Application Review Information
HRSA’s Division of Independent Review (DIR) is responsible for managing the objective and independent application review performed by a committee of qualified experts
Applications will be reviewed and rated based on the review criteria in Section V of the NOFO if they
are submitted by the published deadline
do not exceed the page limit
do not request more than the ceiling amount, and
pass the initial HRSA eligibility and completeness screening
The competitive objective review process is based solely on the merits of your application.  It is critical that you paint a clear picture of your proposed project and the capabilities that your organization brings to the work
Application Review Information
The Division of Independent Review (DIR) is responsible for managing objective reviews within HRSA. Applications that pass the initial HRSA completeness and eligibility screening will be reviewed and rated by a panel of experts called an Objective Review Committee, or ORC, based on the program elements and review criteria.
It is important to be aware that this competitive objective review process is based solely on the merits of the application. Your application will be reviewed as a stand-alone document and you should not assume that reviewers know anything other than what is written.  Even if reviewers have extraneous information about an applicant, it is not allowed to be a factor in the review conversation and scoring.
The members of the ORC are selected based on their relevant training, experience, credentials and other factors, such as geographic distribution, that may be considered to improve the balance of the committee. Each reviewer is screened to avoid conflicts of interest and is responsible for providing an objective, unbiased evaluation based on the review criteria. Through the objective review process, ORC members provide expert advice on the merits of each application to program officials responsible for final selections for award.

44. Application Review |Criteria
Review Criteria are used to review and rank applications. For this opportunity, there are 6 review criteria:
Criteria
Points
Criterion 1: Need 10
Criterion 2: Response 30
Criterion 3: Evaluative Measures 20
Criterion 4: Impact
Criterion 5: Resources/Capabilities
Criterion 6: Support Requested
Total Points
100
Application Review | Criteria  
The review criteria— including the particular elements to be evaluated and their relative weight—are outlined in the NOFO, Section V.1.
Procedures for assessing the technical merit of applications have been instituted to provide for an objective review of applications and to assist the applicant in understanding the standards against which each application will be judged. Applicants should pay close attention to addressing all criteria when preparing your submissions, as they are the basis upon which the reviewers will evaluate the application.
Review criteria are used to review and rank applications. Applications will be scored on a basis of 100 points.
As you can see for this NOFO, SPNS has six (6) review criteria that the Objective Review Committee (ORC) members will use to score your application. It is important to demonstrate and clarify these criteria which are as follows:
Need (10 points): This refers to the extent in which your application demonstrates the problem and needs as it relates to the
Response (30 points): This refers to the extent to which the proposed project responds to the purpose of the initiative, and is capable of addressing the problem as it related to the proposed goals and objectives.
Evaluative Measures (20 points): This criterion refers to the strength and effectiveness of the method proposed to document the project’s processes.
Impact (10 points): This element refers to the plans for dissemination of project results, the extent to which project results may be significant or national in scope, the degree to which the project activities are replicable, and the sustainability of the program beyond the Federal funding.
Resources and Capabilities (20 points total): This element addresses the extent to which the applicant organization and project personnel are capable and qualified to implement and carry out the project.
Support Requested (10 points): This refers to the reasonableness of the proposed budget in relation to the project objectives, activities, and scope of work. This includes the extent to which key personnel have adequate time devoted to the project to achieve project objectives.
Please review pages of the NOFO for more specific information about all the review criteria. have provided a crosswalk between the required Project Narrative section and the corresponding Review Criterion. This information is also referenced throughout the NOFO on pages
Please refer to pages 25 to 28 of the NOFO

45. Application Package: Where is it?
On HRSA’s website at
Click on the NOFO “apply at Grants.gov” link At
Search by opportunity number, or
CFDA
The Application Guide is available at de/sf424guide.pdf or click the links in the NOFO
The easiest way to find the NOFO is to go to the HRSA website address listed on the slide. It will take you directly to the Grants.gov website. Make sure to download both the NOFO (instructions) and the application package.
If you can see the application package, you are able to complete and submit grant applications on Grants.gov When applying through Grants.gov, you will be required to use Adobe Reader version 9 through 11 and limited versions of Adobe Reader DC in order to apply and download the application package. You can download Adobe Reader from Grants.gov, but you may need help from your information technology department if you do not have permission to install software on your computer.

46. Application Submission Tips
Read the NOFO and the SF-424 Application Guide carefully and follow instructions.
Include your agency name and the name of this program on all pages (RWHAP [insert name] Program).
Refer to section 4.7 of the Application Guide for additional Tips for Writing a Strong Application.
Apply early; do not wait until the last minute in case you run into challenges!
Make sure the person who can submit for your organization will be available.
Ensure SAM.gov and Grants.gov registration and passwords are current immediately!
Have all your PIN numbers and passwords handy!

47. Grants.gov Contact Information
When to contact Grants.gov Helpdesk
Error messages
Other technical issues
Application did NOT transmit to HRSA
If you have any submission problems, please contact Grants.gov immediately!
Grants.gov Contact Center (24/7 except Federal holidays):
, or or
Please note the Grants.gov contact information listed on the slide.
If you receive an error message, have other technical issues, or if your application was not transmitted to HRSA, contact the Grants.gov help desk right away.
DO NOT contact your Project Officer, the HAB staff, Grants Management Specialist, or the HRSA call center for assistance with the application submission issues. They will not be unable to provide you with any assistance!
The deadline is firm! So start your process early to avoid the time crunch!

48. Tracking Grants.gov Submissions
Your application must be submitted through grants.gov and successfully validated prior to the published application deadline.
Please keep in mind, the submission receipt you receive from Grants.gov after uploading the application does not necessarily mean that the application has been accepted by Grants.gov.
Your organization should receive four s from Grants.gov during a successful submission.
The first will be a submission receipt . We highly encourage you to utilize the “Track My Application” link found within this message to track your application status.
The second is the most crucial, the submission validation . This will notify you if the application has been validated and sent forward or has been rejected with errors. This second step can take up to 72 hours to process, so it is absolutely essential to submit your application at least 4 business days prior to the application due date. This will give your organization a chance to make any corrections and re-upload the application before the deadline.
The third you will receive is that the application has been moved forward to HRSA.
The fourth you will receive which is that the application has been given a HRSA tracking number.
If your organization application has been rejected before the due date submission ( #2), contact the Grants.gov help desk immediately for assistance in making corrections to permit you to re-upload the application and validate it before the deadline.
SF424 Application Guide, section 8.2.5

49. Grants.gov Message upon Application Upload
Thank you for submitting your grant application package via Grants.gov. Your application is currently being processed by the Grants.gov system. Once your submission has been processed, Grants.gov will send messages to advise you of the progress of your application through the system. Over the next 24 to 48 hours, you should receive two s. The first will confirm receipt of your application by the Grants.gov system, and the second will indicate that the application has either been successfully validated by the system prior to transmission to the grantor agency or has been rejected due to errors.”
“IMPORTANT NOTICE: If you do not receive a receipt confirmation and either a validation confirmation or a rejection message within 48 hours, please contact us. The Grants.gov Contact Center can be reached by at or by telephone at Always include your Grants.gov tracking number in all correspondence. The tracking numbers issued by Grants.gov look like GRANTXXXXXXXXX.”
Include this slide if brand new entities may be applying; otherwise, feel free to delete.
When you have submitted your application in Grants.gov, you will receive a confirmation which will read,
“Thank you for submitting your grant application package via Grants.gov. Your application is currently being processed by the Grants.gov system.”

50. Reminders
Optional: Applicants encouraged to send a Letter of Intent to apply via by June 16, 2017 to
HRSA will not acknowledge receipt of letters
Include a brief description of the proposal
Your application must be electronically submitted through and successfully validated by Grants.gov no later than July 24, 2017, 11:59 pm ET.
We recommend submission of the application at least four business days before the due date.

51. Applicants who need additional information may contact:
HRSA Contacts
Applicants who need additional information may contact:
Program Contact Grants Contact
Adan Cajina Beverly Smith
SPNS, Branch Chief Grants Management Specialist
HRSA HIV/AIDS Bureau HRSA Office of Federal Assistance Management
(301) (301)
If you have any programmatic questions related to the application, please contact the Program Contact. Please note that we cannot provide assistance for grants.gov-specific questions.
If you have any grants administration related questions, please contact the Grants Contact.

52. Q&A - Your Questions are Welcome!
We will now begin the question and answer period
We will alternate between questions from the Q&A chat pod and any operator assisted questions from the phone.
Thank you and we will be posting the slides and the transcript of Q&A on the HAB TARGET Center in five to seven business days.
HAB TARGET Website 41