EPA Funding Opportunity: Gulf of Mexico Watershed Projects

Program Overview

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a major funding opportunity through the “Farmer to Farmer 2024 BIL” program, allocating $20 million to enhance the health and resilience of the Gulf of Mexico watershed. This document outlines key information for organizations interested in applying for this funding.

Key Details

Funding Amount: Up to $20 million total Individual Award Cap: Up to $2 million per applicant Expected Awards: 10-20 awards Project Duration: 3 years Application Deadline: January 28, 2025 Cost Share: Not required

Eligible Applicants

The following entities are eligible to apply:

• Nonprofit Organizations (excluding those engaged in lobbying)
• Institutions of Higher Learning
• Government Entities:
  • State
  • Interstate
  • Tribal
  • Local

Note: For-profit organizations and lobbying nonprofits are not eligible.

Eligible Activities

Projects must align with Clean Water Act Section 104(b)(3) and may include:

Research and Development

• Implementation of new technologies
• Experimental methods for pollution reduction
• Innovative water quality improvement strategies

Demonstration Projects

• Pilot programs for new environmental management techniques
• Testing of novel pollution control methods
• Showcase projects for water quality enhancement

Training and Education

• Knowledge-sharing initiatives
• Best practices dissemination
• Stakeholder education programs

Ineligible Activities

The following activities will not receive funding:

• Traditional “gray infrastructure” projects
• Non-demonstration construction
• Routine stormwater system maintenance
• State/local government planning responsibilities
• Court-ordered or enforcement action obligations
• Federal land improvements
• Projects outside Clean Water Act Section 104(b)(3) scope

Application Requirements

Technical Components

1. Problem Statement

• Clear definition of environmental challenge
  • Impact on Gulf of Mexico watershed
  • Current situation analysis

2. Project Plan

• Detailed methodology
  • Timeline of activities
  • Expected outcomes
  • Performance metrics

3. Collaboration Strategy

• Partner organizations
  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Communication protocols

4. Innovation Description

• New technologies or approaches
  • Expected benefits
  • Implementation strategy

5. Dissemination Plan

• Knowledge sharing methods
  • Target audiences
  • Communication channels

Administrative Components

1. Budget Documentation

• Detailed cost breakdown
  • Resource allocation
  • Financial justification

2. Organizational Information

• Qualification documentation
  • Past performance
  • Key personnel

3. Compliance Documentation

• Environmental permits
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Required certifications

Best Practices for Application Success

Proposal Development

1. Start Early

• Review all requirements thoroughly
  • Gather necessary documentation
  • Allow time for revisions

2. Focus on Impact

• Clear environmental benefits
  • Measurable outcomes
  • Long-term sustainability

3. Demonstrate Expertise

• Relevant experience
  • Technical capabilities
  • Management capacity

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Incomplete applications
• Missing deadlines
• Unclear project scope
• Inadequate budget justification
• Poor alignment with program goals

Professional Assistance Available

FedBiz Access offers comprehensive support services for organizations pursuing this funding opportunity, including:

• Registration Assistance
• Capability Statement Creation
• Technical Writing Support
• Compliance Review

Contact Information

For professional assistance with your application:

Phone: (844) 628-8914 Website: www.fedbizaccess.com

Next Steps

1. Review full EPA announcement
2. Assess eligibility
3. Begin gathering required documentation
4. Contact FedBiz Access for support if needed
5. Prepare application components
6. Submit before January 28, 2025

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Document prepared by FedBiz Access Government Contracting Made Simple