Specifications include, but are not limited to: The following scope of work clearly defines the objectives and strategies for the recruitment of priority projects as defined in the Notice of Funding Announcement (NOFA), specifically smallscale farms that request $20,000 or less in REAP funds and farms located in disadvantaged communities defined in Section F.1.ii. (b) of the NOFA for the REAP Program. The scope of work for the selected vendor is outlined in tasks 1-3 below and associated deliverables. Task 1: Provide Agribusinesses with tailored assistance in crafting successful REAP applications: The vendor will lead efforts to communicate with all parties (farmers, installers, OER, etc.) relevant to REAP application submission to obtain and complete all documentation needed to prepare a full USDA REAP application. This effort will enhance the quality and success rate of grant applications submitted by farmers by providing dedicated assistance only to the REAP application component, while also offering technical support for the submission of environmental review and additional documentation requested by USDA as part of the application process. This provision is especially suited for farmers who might lease land that has an easement, which has historically led to lengthy project timelines. Technical assistance for only the REAP component therefore allows the farmer to place a greater focus on the RI AgEP application which will result in higher success rates for both agricultural energy programs. Technical Assistance activities may include but are not limited to: i. Technical assistance plan for RI Agricultural Producers to complete and submit REAP applications for Energy Efficiency or Renewable Energy Projects, as described above. ii. Coordinating and/or aiding in communications with representatives from USDA REAP to ensure all guidelines are adhered to and the application is successfully submitted. iii. Preparing technical reports associated with REAP in accordance with 7 CFR 4280.110(g). iv. Assisting RI agricultural operations with filing for System Award Management (SAM) and Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) registrations v. Assisting with completion of environmental reports and/or documentation required for submittal of REAP applications. vi. Assistance with all reporting requirements associated with this grant opportunity, to be submitted to OER for signing on a quarterly basis.
