PROJECT SERV
Unsolicited Competition
Review Criteria

The following selection criteria are used to evaluate applications for grants under this competition. The maximum score for all of these criteria is 100 points. The maximum score for each criterion or factor under that criterion is indicated in parentheses.

1. Need for the Project (20 points) In determining the need for the proposed project, the following factors are considered:

The magnitude of the need for the services to be provided or the activities to be carried out by the proposed project. (10 points)

a) The extent to which specific gaps or weaknesses in service, infrastructure, or opportunities have been identified and will be addressed by the proposed project. (10 points)

2. Quality of the Project Design (25 points)

In determining the quality of the project design, the following factors are considered: The extent to which the design of the proposed project is appropriate to, and will successfully address, the needs of the target population or other identified needs. (15 points)

a) The extent to which the design of the proposed project reflects up-to-date knowledge from research and effective practice. (10 points)

3. Quality of Project Services (30 points)

In determining the quality of the services to be provided by the proposed project, the following factors are considered:

a) The likely impact of the services to be provided by the proposed project on the intended recipients of those services. (10 points)

b) The extent to which the services to be provided by the proposed project are focused on those with greatest needs. (10 points)

c) The quality and sufficiency of strategies for ensuring equal access and treatment for eligible project participants who are members of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability. (5 points)

d) The extent to which the services to be provided by the proposed project involve the collaboration of appropriate partners for maximizing the effectiveness of project services. (5 points)

4. Adequacy of Resources (10 points)

In determining the adequacy of resources, the following factors are considered:

a) The adequacy of support, including facilities, equipment, supplies, and other resources, from the applicant organization or the lead organization. (5 points)

b) The potential for the incorporation of project purposes, activities, or benefits into the ongoing program of the agency or organization at the end of Federal funding. (5 points)  

5. Quality of the Management Plan (15 points)

In determining the quality of the management plan, the following factors are considered:

a) The adequacy of the management plan to achieve the objectives of the proposed project on time and within budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines, and milestones for accomplishing project tasks. (10 points)

b) The adequacy of procedures for ensuring feedback and continuous improvement in the operation of the proposed project. (5 points)