Can we refine Project Subrecipient evaluation criteria during the award?

Full question

Do we have to include in our application evaluation criteria for:

i) the project subrecipient’s ability to carry out the project and sustain expected outcomes after the initial projects person is complete;

ii) technical merit and feasibility of their proposed project;

iii) and the proposed project’s linkage to other overarching plans, including but not limited to those identified in the RFA? If we do need to include evaluation criteria for the above in our application, can we refine these criteria after we receive notice that our project has been awarded?

Answer

Section III.C. states that evaluation criteria for the selection of Project Subrecipients is required for an application to meet eligibility requirements of this RFA.

The three items raised in the question were also included in Section V.B. as factors that should be included in the evaluation criteria. Any criteria you describe can be refined following award of your cooperative agreement, provided those changes are consistent with the competition policy and do not materially change the function, purpose, or nature of the originally approved scope of work. As cooperative agreements, the award would allow for substantial involvement between EPA and the selected applicant(s) in the performance of work supported. Although EPA will negotiate precise terms and conditions relating to substantial involvement as part of the award process, the anticipated substantial federal involvement for these cooperative agreements may include reviewing and commenting on content of subaward solicitations. Selected applicants and EPA may choose to refine the subaward solicitation including evaluation criteria after selection and/or during the award agreement period.