Providing grant information to current and prospective HHS grantees

The application evaluation activities include the receipt and review of grant applications submitted by potential recipients. The Grants Management Office oversees the review and evaluation of grant applications to ensure outside reviewers and agency personnel comply with management policies and regulations, and with sound business management practices.

The Program Management Office evaluates grant applications for their programmatic value and determines which applications best meet program goals and offer maximum potential for success.

Receipt and Screening

This involves receiving and officially logging incoming grant applications. Applications are screened (usually against a checklist) to ensure they are properly completed. The Grants Management Office receives and screens the grant applications for completeness and eligibility of the applicant. This function may be centralized and/or supported by contractor effort.

Independent/Objective Review

This involves evaluation of the technical aspects of grant applications through the objective review process. After the technical evaluation is completed, a preliminary decision is usually made and documented on a technical merit rankings list. The Grants Management Office advises objective review groups and individuals in the proper procedures to follow in conducting the independent/objective review and/or checks for violations of procedures. The Program Management Office provides technical experts who participate in the independent/objective review and develop the technical or merit rankings list, unless the evaluation is performed by an individual office (e.g. NIH Center for Scientific Review).

Business Management Evaluation

This involves evaluation of the business management capability of applicants based on information contained in the application, additional information as requested, and a review of prior performance as a recipient. If necessary, a pre-award business management review is conducted (usually on-site). This step also involves reviewing the application to ensure it complies with the applicable regulatory or statutory requirements (e.g., to ensure all required assurances have been provided). The Grants Management Office performs business management evaluation activities. The Program Management Office assists the Grants Management Office as requested.

Cost Analysis

This involves conducting a detailed cost analysis of the proposed budget submitted by the grant applicant to determine if costs are allowable, allocable, and reasonable. The Grants Management Office performs cost analysis activities. The Program Management Office assists the Grants Management Office as requested, particularly by assessing the impact of cost issues on technical aspects of the grant.