Community Stormwater Solutions- Mini Grant Program
Funding Amount
Varies
Deadline
Rolling / Open
Grant Type
foundation
Overview
Overview
_Note: Applicants must submit applications at least eight weeks before their projected start date._
Chesapeake Bay Trust
The Chesapeake Bay Trust (Trust) is a nonprofit, grant-making organization dedicated to improving the bays, streams, rivers, forests, parks, and other natural resources of our local systems, from the Chesapeake to the Coastal Bays to the Youghiogheny River. The Trust, supported in large part by Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay License Plate, and partnerships with other regional funders, engages and empowers diverse groups to take actions that enrich natural resources and local communities of the Chesapeake Bay region. Since 1985, the Trust has awarded over $160 million in grants to municipalities, nonprofit organizations, schools, and public agencies throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Community Stormwater Solutions Mini- Grant Program
The Community Stormwater Solutions Mini- Grant Program (CSS) is funded by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). The objectives of this Mini-Grant are to:
* Provide entry-level grants to new or inexperienced applicants, serving as a trial for managing and applying for future funding.
* Fund traditionally underrepresented groups, such as communities of color.
* Fund projects that increase awareness about stormwater runoff and participation on stormwater management and watershed protection efforts.
The Community Stormwater Solutions Grant Program provides funding for innovative and community centered projects, that improve the District of Columbia’s waterways, reduce litter, and raise awareness about what we can do to restore our rivers, streams, and parks.
Eligibility
_We've imported the main document for this grant to give you an overview. You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's [website]().
_
Application Details
Introduction and Program Goals
At A Glance
The Chesapeake Bay Trust (Trust) is a nonprofit, grant-making
organization dedicated to improving the bays, streams, rivers, forests,
parks, and other natural resources of our local systems, from the Program Summary:
Chesapeake to the Coastal Bays to the Youghiogheny River. The Trust,
supported in large part by Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay License Plate, and The Community Stormwater Solutions
partnerships with other regional funders, engages and empowers diverse Grant Program provides funding for
groups to take actions that enrich natural resources and local
innovative and community centered
communities of the Chesapeake Bay region. Since 1985, the Trust has
projects, that improve the District of
awarded over $160 million in grants to municipalities, nonprofit
organizations, schools, and public agencies throughout the Chesapeake Columbia’s waterways, reduce litter, and
Bay watershed. raise awareness about what we can do to
restore our rivers, streams, and parks.
The Trust is committed to the advancement of diversity and inclusion in
its award-making and environmental work. For a full description of the
Deadline: Rolling
Trust’s efforts to engage under-engaged groups, see our strategic plan at
www.cbtrust.org/strategic-plan and https://cbtrust.org/diversity-
Eligible Project Locations:
inclusion/.
The Community Stormwater Solutions Mini- Grant Program (CSS) is District of Columbia
funded by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE).
Request Amounts:
The objectives of this Mini-Grant are to:
1. Provide entry-level grants to new or inexperienced applicants, Up to $5,000
serving as a trial for managing and applying for future funding.
2. Fund traditionally underrepresented groups, such as Submit Your Application:
communities of color.
Follow the instructions online at
3. Fund projects that increase awareness about stormwater runoff
https://us.grantrequest.com/application.aspx?sid=
and participation on stormwater management and watershed
protection efforts. 1520&fid=35542
Contact:
Marylin Veiman Echeverría, Program Officer 410-
The Trust recognizes that application processes can be
974-2941 ext. 130, mveiman@cbtrust.org
complicated and time-consuming; the Trust continues to work
to simplify our application processes where possible. New
This Request for Applications was released on
applicants, new organizations, small organizations, or any
3/27/2025
group that is experiencing capacity challenges or other
barriers to applying, is eligible to receive guidance on the
application process. Please contact the Program Officer,
Marylin Veiman Echeverría for assistance in English or in
Spanish at mveiman@cbtrust.org
Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Trust staff to
discuss applications.
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Key Questions for Applicants
Is My Organization Eligible?
Eligible Applicants:
institutions, Private enterprises
Priority Applicants:
Hispanic, Latino, Native American, Asian/Pacific Islander, and women).
Ineligible Applicants:
incorporation papers).
Applicants are encouraged to review DOEE’s RiverSmart programs or reach out to Marissa O’Neill at
Marissa.oneill@dc.gov with any questions.
What Is the Funding Availability?
What are the eligible Project Types?
Projects should:
the active involvement of historically excluded groups (e.g., communities of color and people with
disabilities).
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- Projects involving meaningful partnerships with communities facing systemic barriers to participation. What Is the Project Timeline?
- Completion: Projects should be completed within 12 months of receiving the award. Extensions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. What Is the Application Deadline?
- Deadline for Applications: Rolling How long until I know if I am awarded or declined? Applications for mini grants have a four-week turnaround period. If you are not informed of a decision within four weeks, please contact the program officer Marylin Veiman Echeverría at mveiman@cbtrust.org How Should I Prepare My Budget?
- Use the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s Financial Management Spreadsheet (FMS) for budget uploads.
- Include a descriptive budget narrative justifying costs and indicating reliance on other funding if applicable. What Are the Terms and Conditions?
- Applicants must agree to comply with federal and local employment and non-discrimination laws.
- All project outcomes will be owned by the funding partners and may be used or distributed at their discretion.
- Applicants must sign and submit the “Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances” form, which includes certification of compliance with obligations to the District. 2
Eligible Applicants
The Department of Energy and Environment and the Trust welcome requests from the following
organizations:
♦ Applicants physically located in the District of Columbia are Nonprofit organizations; Faith-based
organizations; Government agencies; Universities/educational institutions; or Private Enterprises.
♦ Eligible applicants will have and maintain in full force and effect during the term of the proposed
project liability insurance coverage in connection with the performance or failure to perform
services proposed.
Funding Availability
Funding for this program comes from the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). The funding
partners anticipate funds available in FY25 of $36,199.
Eligible Project Types
All applications submitted under this Request for Applications (RFA) must describe a project that
aims to educate a priority audience, increase knowledge, or lead to behavior change that ultimately
improves the health of the District’s waterways, including reducing the impacts of stormwater
runoff and pollution to restore local waterways.
Image source: Stormwater Smart Outreach Materials - EPA https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2022-
10/Stormwater%20Smart%20Materials%20How-to%20Manual_508.pdf
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Applicants should propose projects that involve meaningful engagement; to ensure the proposed
methods reflect and respond to the community’s needs and goals. Projects should demonstrate the use
of participatory methods in engagement and use culturally inclusive and tailored engagement
strategies to promote inclusive involvement with the priority audience. Some communities, such as
communities of color, have been less involved in natural resource topics due to historical exclusion and
systemic barriers, but could be a part of the solution in restoring healthy waterways today. When
partnering with historically excluded communities, applicants are strongly encouraged to develop
meaningful and mutually beneficial partnerships that honor the strengths of community leaders but do
not burden them. It is recommended that these leaders and organizations be programmatically and
financially recognized for their contributions to the programming. Appropriate costs can be included in
the project budget. Additionally, it is important to utilize inclusive and equitable strategies to reduce
barriers to participation. Strategies to consider include providing childcare, transportation and stipends
for participation. Stipends should not be in the form of gift cards (please reach out to Trust staff for
clarity on stipend options). Applicants proposing to work with residents with limited or no English
proficiency (LEP/NEP) are encouraged to provide translated documents and translation services as
needed.
The Trust is available throughout the application period to provide guidance and assistance. Priority will
be given to Small (25 full time equivalents (FTE) or less), New (have not received a CSS grant), and
Historically Excluded (SHNE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)/ Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE):
51% owned, operated, capitalized, and controlled by a member(s) of the following groups: Black,
Hispanic, Latino, Native American, Asia and Pacific Islander, Women organizations.
Project Areas
We encourage projects that deliver multiple benefits, such as opportunities for public engagement with
both educational and actionable components. Applicants should propose innovative and creative ideas
focused on stormwater management, watershed protection education, community engagement, and
ecological restoration.
Project Area 1: Revitalizing Green Infrastructure:
Revitalizing existing sites that require planting, weeding, or other maintenance, including previous
recipients of DOEE programs like RiverSmart Schools and RiverSmart Communities.
DOEE runs several programs that fund green infrastructure projects across the District. Over time, these
sites require maintenance to ensure they continue to effectively reduce stormwater runoff that harms
the District’s waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. Funding can be used to remove trash and debris,
weeding, planting or re-planting, cleaning, and installing educational or other amenities, purchase new
native plants, tools, and other supplies that will improve the function of the space and pay labor costs
for maintenance, among others. Revitalization efforts can occur on public and private property, but the
applicant must receive approval from the property owners and include a letter of support from the
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landowner in their proposal. See appendices for proposals for projects that would take place on District
of Columbia Public School (DCPS) or Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) property.
Project Area 2: Connecting Communities to Nature:
Engaging community members with green spaces and natural resources in the District through
accessible and impactful programming. Applicants are encouraged to explore opportunities for
programming on Kingman and Heritage Islands.
Kingman and Heritage Islands are a unique conservation area in the District that can serve as a great
gathering place for small and accessible community events or a host site for public art installations.
Events and art installations must align with one or more of the three goals for the island: environmental
conservation, environmental education, and low-impact recreation. All public events must be free and
open to the public. Public art installations should raise awareness and inspire behavior change related to
stormwater management and watershed protection.
While we welcome a range of creative ideas for programming, at this time the following activities are
prohibited:
• Vending
• Hunting
• Fishing without a license
• Swimming, unless with a special permit
• Off-leashed dogs and other pets
• Movie nights
• Campaign activities
When planning events, please keep in mind:
1. The Islands have limited infrastructure. They do not have electricity or running water. There are
two compostable toilets near the Benning Road entrance.
2. Small-scale events should expect to gather less than 200 people to minimize the impact of
wildlife on the islands.
3. Events must respect the natural resources of the Islands. Applicants must address how they will
“leave no trace” in their proposal and include a waste management plan.
4. Depending on the scope and activities of the event, there may be additional permitting required
through Department of Buildings, Department of Health, and Fire and Emergency Medical
Services. Applicants should address this in their proposals.
5. Additional event insurance coverage may be required depending on the scope and activities of
the event.
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6. Applicant must include a pedestrian safety plan if the event requires vehicles on the island for
loading in and loading out as will be subject to permitting, insurance, and DOEE approval.
Learn more about the Islands and what they have to offer on the Kingman + Heritage Island website.
Applicants are encouraged to reach out to Marissa O’Neill at marissa.oneill@dc.gov with any questions
about whether a specific activity aligns with Kingman and Heritage Islands’ conservation, environmental
education, and recreational goals or other questions about the islands.
Project Area 3: Innovative Pilot Projects
We encourage applications for innovative pilot projects that explore new community-driven approaches
to stormwater management in Washington, DC. This category seeks experimental solutions that engage
local residents, organizations, and stakeholders in testing and refining creative methods.
Past Examples
While the above project areas are high priority for funding partners, applicants are welcome to propose
other community-centered and creative projects that support the funding program’s goals for
stormwater management and watershed protection implementation, education, community
engagement, and ecological restoration.
For inspiration, you can visit DOEE's website, the Trust’s “Impact of our Work” map or the Trust’s
District of Columbia Community Stormwater Solutions Grant website and scroll down to see “Project
Highlights” to browse past Community Stormwater Solutions grant program projects (grants up to
$35,000).
Project Timeline
Project Timeline: Projects should be completed in approximately 12 months upon receipt of the award.
Requests to extend the project completion period will be reviewed and considered on a case-by-case
basis. When a project is complete, grantees are required to submit a final report and include supporting
materials/products.
Online Application Submission Instructions
The Trust uses an online system for the application process, and if awarded, project management. To
apply for an award, go to https://cbtrust.org/grants/district-of-columbia-community-stormwater-
solutions/ and click on “Get Started” to begin a new application. This will open a new window asking you
to log in or create an account on our online system. If you have applied in the past, use your existing
username and password (if you have forgotten either of these use the ‘forgot password’ feature). If you
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have not used our online system before, click on “New
Applicant” and follow the instructions. More information Watch our video on how to apply and how
to submit an application using our online
can be found in Appendix A: Ready to apply?
system at https://cbtrust.org/grants/.
By submitting an application to this program, applicants ____________________________
acknowledge that: 1) they are compliant with federal
employment and non-discrimination laws and 2) they have
not been debarred, convicted, charged or had a civil Definitions
judgment rendered against them for fraud or related
offense by any government agency (federal, state or local)
The Executive Officer is the individual
or been terminated for cause or default by any that oversees the organization (e.g.,
government agency (federal, state, or local). In addition, all Executive Director, Chief Executive
Officer, Mayor, President or Vice
final products will be provided to the funding partners for
President, Principal (for schools), etc.)
use and distribution at the sole discretion of the funding
and has the authority to sign/execute
partners. award agreements on behalf of the
organization. The Executive Officer
Deadline information is tied directly to all the
organization’s applications and should
not vary from application to
Applicants must submit applications at least eight weeks
application. If the Executive Officer
before their projected start date. could be listed as the Project Leader
in a future proposal, we recommend
listing a Board Member or other
Proposals are accepted on an on-going basis until funds
higher-ranking position of the
are fully used for that year; check our website and sign up
organization as the Executive Officer
for our grantee newsletter in order to reduce the variation in the
(https://cbtrust.org/newsletters/) for the most up to date Executive Officer across applications.
information about the status of this rolling program
The Program Leader is the individual
(available all year until all funds are committed to
will be responsible for all project
projects). We need a few weeks to review your
coordination and correspondence
application, work together on any missing items, and with the Trust for the duration of the
draft the award agreement. project. The email address entered
here MUST be the same as the email
address you used to log in to the
Evaluation Criteria
online system. The Project Leader is
the primary point of contact for the
The following criteria will be used by reviewers to evaluate application, and the email address
your proposal: used to submit the application via the
online system must be that of the
Project Leader. Applications in which
the email address associated with the
Project Leader in the applicant
information tab of the online
opportunity does not match the email
address used to submit the
application will not be considered for
funding. The Trust cannot conduct any
official correspondence with
contractors or other project partners.
If at any time the Project Leader
cannot continue in the position, the
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organization must contact the Trust
and assign a new qualified Project
Leader.
Scoring Criteria Description of Scoring Criteria
Application Components • Are all required application components included for sound
evaluation of the application? E.g., community engagement plan,
letters of commitment, planting plan, and native plant list.
Consistency with the • Is the proposed project aligned with the RFA?
Request for Applications
(RFA)
Justification (Project • Does the applicant justify the need for the project (the
Need) problem to be addressed and the potential benefits or value
of the project)?
Likelihood of Project • What is the likelihood of success if this project were to be
Success funded? Success should be defined as the accomplishment of
outcomes proposed.
• Has the applicant proposed metrics to monitor progress and
evaluate results (a mechanism to assess success)?
Cost • Is the budget appropriate and cost effective?
Effectiveness/Budget • Are the line items budgeted justified in the budget narrative?
In-kind and cash match is not required but can be included, if
necessary, to accomplish project goals.
• Are project partners being resourced appropriately?
Partnership and • Does the organization have experience working in the
Community specific communities that they are prioritizing?
• Are any key partnerships required, and if so, are the
selected partnerships appropriate?
• Are considerations included to improve access and
implement accommodations for people with disabilities
and limited English proficient or non-English proficient
residents?
• Is the community to be served involved or going to be involved
in the project? i.e., were community members involved in the
development of the project, was community buy-in obtained,
were community needs and desires assessed, and are there
individual(s) in the community committed to serving as
community leads?
• Does the applicant provide letter(s) of commitment from
project partners?
• Has/will a consultant be hired and has a contractor been
selected?
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Sustainability • Has the applicant addressed future project sustainability?
• Will the impact of the work be felt after the grant period
has ended?
• Will the project be well maintained and continue to
function as designed?
Creative Solutions • To what degree does the project utilize art, placemaking,
dance, oral histories, or another creative solution to
engaging the audience in the project?
District MS4 Area • Does the majority of the project take place in the
District’s MS4 area? To determine the project's watershed,
go to this website and
https://dcgis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.
html?id=d872faed1f8642d190c45befed97c760and enter
the site address.
New Applicant • Has the applicant previously been awarded funds through the
Community Stormwater Solutions Grant Program?
Exception: if the applicant has previously been funded
through this program, but its primary role is to serve as
the fiscal agent for another entity or individual that has
not previously received funding, then the proposal may
receive these additional points.
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Application Review Process
All submitted applications are reviewed based on the evaluation criteria listed in the “Evaluation Criteria”
section above. The funding partners reserve the right to fund projects and budget items that advance
their missions and meet specific funding priorities and criteria.
Awards and Notifications
All applicants will receive a letter stating the Trust’s decision. An application may be declined, partially
awarded, or fully awarded. If awarded, the Trust will send an award agreement with award conditions and
due date of final reports. The Trust will mail the full award payment to the requesting organization
following: satisfaction of any award contingencies, including upload of the signed award agreement. In
cases where the awardee fails to submit a final report by the due date, the Trust reserves the right to
terminate the award agreement and require a refund of funds already transferred to the awardee.
When the project is complete, awardees are required to complete final reports and submit final products
and supporting materials for the project. Organizations with outstanding final, progress, or status reports
will not be awarded additional grants.
Appendix A: Ready to Apply? Online Application Form
You will be asked to provide the following information on the online application form. Some items are
required to submit your application. Refer to the online application for details.
Eligibility Quiz: This three-question quiz is meant to assist you in determining if your project meets the
requirements of this award program and that your staff/organizational structure best supports a
successful application.
Applicant Information Tab: Provide the organization’s name, mailing address, phone number,
organization type, mission, EIN number. Provide the Executive Officer and Project Leader’s name, title,
address, phone, and email address.
• Both an Executive Officer and a Project Leader, two separate individuals, must be identified for all
applications.
• The Executive Officer and Project Leader must both be able to make decisions on behalf of the
organization either as a board member, an employee, or in other approved position recognized by
the organization but not a contractor of the application.
• To avoid conflict of interest issues, individuals associated with for-profit entities to be engaged in
the project cannot serve in either role.
Project Information Tab: Provide a project title; project abstract; the watershed, county, and legislative
district in which the project is located; and the latitude and longitude coordinates of the project location.
Timeline Tab: Add the project start and end date. Provide a project timeline that includes major tasks and
their associated start and end dates.
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Deliverables Tab: Provide estimated metrics for your proposed project such as project participants and
outreach and restoration outcomes.
Volunteers Tab: Provide a description of volunteer activities, the number of volunteers, and total number
of volunteer hours.
Project Partnerships: Provide a list of project partner organizations or contractors, individuals, their areas
of expertise, and their role(s) in your project.
Applicants are encouraged to upload a letter of commitment for the project from each partner describing
in detail the partner’s role or contribution to the project. Applications including strong letter(s) of
commitment often receive higher scores. If not submitted with the application, letter(s) of commitment
may be required prior to the release of any awarded funding. To better understand the Trust’s definition
of and policy on Letter(s) of Commitment, visit our Forms and Policies webpage: www.cbtrust.org/forms.
Narrative & Supporting Documents Tab: Use the links below to download the required narrative
questions template for the track you are applying to. Complete all questions and upload the completed
document as a Microsoft Word or PDF file.
Required Documents: Note: Some documents take a while to obtain, so you are advised not to
wait until the last minute to review these critical requirements.
• Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances: Each applicant must sign and submit
the “Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances” (“PCA”) in Appendix B. Signing the
PCA is a condition of eligibility for this grant. If the Applicant is not prepared to sign the PCA,
it should not apply for a grant. Compliance with the promises, certifications, and assurances
in the PCA is a continuing condition of eligibility for this grant.
The PCA must be signed by the Applicant or, if the Applicant is an organization, by a
duly authorized officer of the organization. The PCA also includes a sworn statement
verifying that the Applicant is not in arrears (i.e., is “current”) on all obligations
outstanding to the District, including all District agencies. The Applicant must be
“current” as of the date of the application and the date of a grant award. DOEE
requires, as a condition of continuing eligibility, that a grantee stay current on such
obligations during the period of the grant.
This form is administered by DOEE. Questions can be directed to Marissa O’Neil
marissa.oneill@dc.gov and phone number: (202) 535-2679.
• IRS W-9 Tax Form: The Applicant must submit a current completed W-9 form prepared for the
U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). DOEE defines “current” to mean that the document was
completed within the same calendar year as that of the application date.
• Tax Exemption Affirmation Letter: The tax exemption affirmation letter is the IRS’s
determination letter of non-profit status. If this letter is not available, then the Applicant
should provide its most recent IRS Form 990 tax return if one was submitted. If no return has
yet been filed, the organization can submit its application for tax-exempt status. If the group
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has a supporting organization with an IRS tax-exempt status determination, then that
organization’s tax exemption affirmation letter should also be submitted.
• If there is no IRS tax exemption affirmation letter because the organization is a religious
organization, then the Applicant may submit the best evidence it can of its status. Examples of
potential best evidence for this purpose include, but are not limited to (i) a letter from the
leader of the organization verifying that the organization is a religious group; (ii) a letter from
the group’s board chair or similar official, verifying that the organization is a religious group;
(iii) the Applicant’s most recently submitted state sales or other tax exemption form, if it
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exists (Form 164 in the District of Columbia); or (iv) the state’s issued tax exemption
certificate or card, if it exists. (See IRS publication no. 1828, Tax Guide for Churches and
Religious Organizations.)
Budget Tab:
1. Financial Management Spreadsheet – Application Budget Upload
a. You will be asked to upload your budget using the “Application Budget” worksheet of the
Chesapeake Bay Trust’s Financial Management Spreadsheet (FMS), an excel file
template. The template can be found by visiting https://cbtrust.org/forms-policies/ where
you can watch a video with instructions on how to complete the FMS.
2. Financial Management Spreadsheet – Application Budget Information
a. This online application component will ask you to enter budget category and request
totals. These totals will be automatically calculated in the FMS Application Budget, so you
will only need to copy and paste the values from the FMS to the Online Application.
3. Additional Budget Justification
a. This online application component will ask you to provide a descriptive budget narrative
to justify and explain costs. If the success of the work is contingent upon award of other
funds, make this clear in your budget justification section.
Terms and Conditions Tab: Agree to the specified terms and conditions for the program for which you are
applying.
Demographics Tab (optional): Provide voluntary demographic information. Provide information about
your organization’s current diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) efforts and future goals.
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Appendix B: DOEE Grant Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances
DC Grant Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances (Rev. 2-12-2019)
GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Department of Energy and Environment
Table of Contents
True statements
.......................................................................................................................................................................
20
Resources and record
.......................................................................................................................................................................
20
Tax status/organizational form
.......................................................................................................................................................................
21
Obligations to the District/good standing
.......................................................................................................................................................................
21
Not suspended or debarred
.......................................................................................................................................................................
21
Criminal charges or investigations, or other legal proceedings
.......................................................................................................................................................................
22
Taxes due and related liabilities
.......................................................................................................................................................................
22
Conflicts of interest
.......................................................................................................................................................................
22
Books and records
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.......................................................................................................................................................................
23
Property owner permission
.......................................................................................................................................................................
23
Termination/new grantee
.......................................................................................................................................................................
23
Compliance with laws
.......................................................................................................................................................................
23
Compliance with general terms
.......................................................................................................................................................................
25
MEANING OF SIGNATURE ON THE PCA……………………………………………………………………………………………………
............................................................................. 19
SPECIFIC ASSURANCES…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
............................................................................. 20
SIGNATURE
ANDCERTIFICATIONOFTHEAPPLICANT………………………………………………………………………………………26
An Applicant must agree in writing, by signature below, to comply with the following promises,
certifications, assertions, and assurances, made in support of the grant application.
MEANING OF SIGNATURE ON THE PCA
This Appendix B – DC Grant Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances (PCA) contains
terms that apply to: the undersigned Applicant (Applicant) and its application (Application) and,
upon award of the grant applied for (Grant), to the successful applicant (Grantee). This PCA is
incorporated into the Request for Applications (RFA) and each Grant Award Notice. The
Applicant signifies its agreement to the PCA terms by signing below in the Signature and
Certification of the Applicant section.
1. The Applicant, either personally if a natural person or through an authorized
representative if a legal entity, must read the terms of this PCA, state that the terms are
understood, and agree to them.
2. Specifically, the Applicant is:
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a. Giving the stated assurances;
b. Asserting facts as true and accurate;
c. Certifying or promising as stated;
d. Agreeing to comply with the terms, as stated, for purposes of the Application and
throughout the period of the Grant; and
e. Agreeing that the statutes, rules, regulations, and industry practices stated, apply, and
promising to comply with them, as applicable.
SPECIFIC ASSURANCES
As the Applicant, or the duly authorized representative of the Applicant, I certify that:
True statements
All communications to DOEE have been and will continue to be truthful. For statements regarding
matters for which the Applicant lacks direct personal knowledge, the Applicant has undertaken a
reasonable inquiry to determine if any and all such statements at the time they are made are true
and correct.
Resources and record
The Applicant has or will have during the entirety of the grant period:
a. The financial resources and technical expertise necessary to perform all activities required
by and identified in the Application, project proposal and grant, or the ability to obtain
such resource or expertise in advance of performing the proposed matters;
b. The ability to comply with the proposed delivery or performance schedule, taking into
consideration all other existing and reasonably expected organizational commitments;
c. A satisfactory record performing activities similar to those proposed or, if the grant
award is intended to encourage the development and support of organizations without
significant previous experience, the skills and resources necessary to perform as
proposed; and
d. A record of integrity and business ethics.
Tax status/organizational form
If it applied for the grant as a nonprofit organization, the Applicant will maintain its tax status as a
nonprofit organization during the grant period.
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Obligations to the District/good standing
The Applicant, at the time of filing of the Application, is current on all obligations outstanding to
the District, including all District departments or agencies, and will stay current on such
obligations during the period of the grant. The Applicant shall at all times have and maintain a
valid District business license, and if requested by DOEE, shall provide an updated Certificate of
Good Standing from the District Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs or its successor.
Not suspended or debarred
1. None of the identified persons or entities is:
a. Proposed for debarment or is presently debarred, suspended, or declared ineligible, as
required by Executive Order 12549, "Debarment and Suspension," and implemented by
2 CFR 180, for prospective participants in primary covered transactions; or
b. Proposed for debarment or presently debarred as a result of an action by the District of
Columbia Contract Appeals Board, the Office of Contracting and Procurement, or another
District contract regulating agency.
2. The identified persons or entities are:
a. The Applicant, its subsidiaries, or affiliates;
b. An officer of Applicant;
c. A member of the Applicant’s governing board; and
d. A Grant-related:
(1) Vendor;
(2) Contractor; or
(3) Subcontractor.
Criminal charges or investigations, or other legal proceedings
1. Within the three (3) years immediately preceding the date of the application, neither
the Applicant nor any of its officers, partners, principals, members, associates, or key employees,
has:
16
a. With respect to criminal matters:
(1) Been indicted or had charges brought against them (if still pending); and/or
(2) Been convicted of:
(a) A crime or offense arising directly or indirectly from the conduct of the
applicant's organization; or
(b) A crime or offense involving financial misconduct or fraud; or
b. With respect to services by the organization, been subject to legal proceedings.
(Note: For the purpose of this section, “member” means a decision-maker of an organization, not
a natural person or entity who just pays dues, and “associate” means a direct supplier of a
business service pursuant to the grant.)
2. If the Applicant cannot certify that one or more assertions in paragraph 1 of this section are
true and correct, the Applicant has attached to this PCA a statement explaining for each
assertion that is not true (a) why the assertion is not true and correct and (b) why each such
matter is relevant, or not, to the Application or Grant. The attached statement shall be treated as
incorporated into the PCA.
Taxes due and related liabilities
The Applicant will, upon award of the Grant and with respect to payments made under the Grant:
e. Be solely responsible for taxes owed, if any, to a taxing authority, whether federal, state
or local;
f. Defend, indemnify and hold harmless the District with respect to liability to a taxing
authority, whether federal, state or local; and
g. Ensure that each of its contractors, subcontractors, and subgrantees agree to and/or
understands that, with respect to payments under the Grant, they are also subject to
the tax-related requirements of this section, including agreeing to defend, indemnify, and
hold harmless the District with respect to liability to any taxing authority, whether federal,
state or local.
Conflicts of interest
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The Applicant will establish safeguards to prohibit employees from using their positions for a
purpose that constitutes or presents the appearance of a personal or organizational conflict of
interest, or personal gain during the period of the Grant.
Books and records
1. The Applicant will give DOEE, or its designee, timely access to, and the right to examine all,
records, books, papers, or documents related to, the Grant.
2. The Applicant will continue or establish a proper accounting system in accordance with
generally accepted accounting standards or DOEE directives.
Property owner permission
The Applicant hereby gives permission, and will secure, in advance of work to be performed by the
Applicant as Grantee, its contractors, its subcontractors, subgrantees, or its relevant vendors,
permission in writing from relevant property owners, for DOEE, or its designee, to access project
sites at reasonable times to inspect work performed under the Grant.
Termination/new grantee
As a condition of acceptance of the Grant, the Applicant agrees that:
h. It will cooperate to enable a smooth transition to another grantee if:
(1) DOEE determines that the grant period will end without the grant activities having
been completed;
(2) DOEE so notifies the Applicant; and
(3) DOEE identifies as successor another grantee or DOEE staff to finish the activities.
i. The Applicant’s cooperation will include:
(1) Identification, and offer to transfer ownership, of Big Purchase Equipment as defined
in RFA Appendix B – General Terms and Conditions (GT&C); and
(2) Preparation of a transition plan for DOEE review, by a DOEE-specified date, prior to
the grant period end date.
Compliance with laws
1. The Applicant will comply with all applicable District and federal statutes and regulations, as
amended, including:
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a. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Pub. L. 101-336, July 26, 1990; 104 Stat. 327 (42
U.S.C. § 12101 etseq.)
b. Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Pub. L. 93-112, Sept. 26, 1973; 87 Stat. 355 (29 U.S.C. § 701et seq.);
c. The Hatch Act, ch. 314, 24 Stat. 440 (7 U.S.C. § 361a et seq.);
d. The Fair Labor Standards Act, ch. 676, 52 Stat. 1060 (29 U.S.C. § 201 et seq.);
e. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Pub. L. 91-596, Dec. 29, 1970; 84 Stat. 1590 (26
U.S.C. § 651 et seq.);
f. The Hobbs Act (Anti-Corruption), ch. 537, 60 Stat. 420 (see 18 U.S.C. § 1951);
g. Equal Pay Act of 1963, Pub. L. 88-38, June 10, 1963; 77 Stat. 56 (29 U.S.C. § 201);
h. Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Pub. L. 94-135, Nov. 28, 1975; 89 Stat. 728 (42
U.S.C. § 6101 et seq.);
i. Age Discrimination in Employment Act, Pub. L. 90-202, Dec. 15, 1967; 81 Stat. 602 (29
U.S.C. § 621 et seq.);
j. Military Selective Service Act of 1948; ch. 625, 62 Stat. 604 (50 U.S.C. § 3801 et seq.);
k. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Pub. L. 92-318, June 23, 1972; 86 Stat. 235 (20
U.S.C. § 1001);
l. Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, Pub. L. 99-603, Nov 6, 1986; 100 Stat. 3359, (8
U.S.C. § 1101);
m. Executive Order 12459 (Debarment, Suspension and Exclusion);
n. Medical Leave Act of 1993, Pub. L. 103-3, Feb. 5, 1993, 107 Stat. 6 (5 U.S.C. § 6381
et seq.);
o. Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, Pub. L. 100-690, 102 Stat. 4304 (41 U.S.C. § 701 et seq.).
Specifically, the Grantee shall no later than 30 calendar days after the date of the Grant Award
notice (unless a longer period is agreed to in writing):
(1) Publish a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution,
dispensing, possession or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the Grantee's
workplace and specifying the actions that will be taken against employees for violations of
such prohibition;
(2) Establish a drug-free awareness program to inform employees about:
(a) The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace;
19
How to Apply
Introduction and Program Goals
At A Glance
The Chesapeake Bay Trust (Trust) is a nonprofit, grant-making
organization dedicated to improving the bays, streams, rivers, forests,
parks, and other natural resources of our local systems, from the Program Summary:
Chesapeake to the Coastal Bays to the Youghiogheny River. The Trust,
supported in large part by Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay License Plate, and The Community Stormwater Solutions
partnerships with other regional funders, engages and empowers diverse Grant Program provides funding for
groups to take actions that enrich natural resources and local
innovative and community centered
communities of the Chesapeake Bay region. Since 1985, the Trust has
projects, that improve the District of
awarded over $160 million in grants to municipalities, nonprofit
organizations, schools, and public agencies throughout the Chesapeake Columbia’s waterways, reduce litter, and
Bay watershed. raise awareness about what we can do to
restore our rivers, streams, and parks.
The Trust is committed to the advancement of diversity and inclusion in
its award-making and environmental work. For a full description of the
Deadline: Rolling
Trust’s efforts to engage under-engaged groups, see our strategic plan at
www.cbtrust.org/strategic-plan and https://cbtrust.org/diversity-
Eligible Project Locations:
inclusion/.
The Community Stormwater Solutions Mini- Grant Program (CSS) is District of Columbia
funded by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE).
Request Amounts:
The objectives of this Mini-Grant are to:
1. Provide entry-level grants to new or inexperienced applicants, Up to $5,000
serving as a trial for managing and applying for future funding.
2. Fund traditionally underrepresented groups, such as Submit Your Application:
communities of color.
Follow the instructions online at
3. Fund projects that increase awareness about stormwater runoff
https://us.grantrequest.com/application.aspx?sid=
and participation on stormwater management and watershed
protection efforts. 1520&fid=35542
Contact:
Marylin Veiman Echeverría, Program Officer 410-
The Trust recognizes that application processes can be
974-2941 ext. 130, mveiman@cbtrust.org
complicated and time-consuming; the Trust continues to work
to simplify our application processes where possible. New
This Request for Applications was released on
applicants, new organizations, small organizations, or any
3/27/2025
group that is experiencing capacity challenges or other
barriers to applying, is eligible to receive guidance on the
application process. Please contact the Program Officer,
Marylin Veiman Echeverría for assistance in English or in
Spanish at mveiman@cbtrust.org
Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Trust staff to
discuss applications.
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Key Questions for Applicants
Is My Organization Eligible?
Eligible Applicants:
institutions, Private enterprises
Priority Applicants:
Hispanic, Latino, Native American, Asian/Pacific Islander, and women).
Ineligible Applicants:
incorporation papers).
Applicants are encouraged to review DOEE’s RiverSmart programs or reach out to Marissa O’Neill at
Marissa.oneill@dc.gov with any questions.
What Is the Funding Availability?
What are the eligible Project Types?
Projects should:
the active involvement of historically excluded groups (e.g., communities of color and people with
disabilities).
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- Projects involving meaningful partnerships with communities facing systemic barriers to participation. What Is the Project Timeline?
- Completion: Projects should be completed within 12 months of receiving the award. Extensions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. What Is the Application Deadline?
- Deadline for Applications: Rolling How long until I know if I am awarded or declined? Applications for mini grants have a four-week turnaround period. If you are not informed of a decision within four weeks, please contact the program officer Marylin Veiman Echeverría at mveiman@cbtrust.org How Should I Prepare My Budget?
- Use the Chesapeake Bay Trust’s Financial Management Spreadsheet (FMS) for budget uploads.
- Include a descriptive budget narrative justifying costs and indicating reliance on other funding if applicable. What Are the Terms and Conditions?
- Applicants must agree to comply with federal and local employment and non-discrimination laws.
- All project outcomes will be owned by the funding partners and may be used or distributed at their discretion.
- Applicants must sign and submit the “Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances” form, which includes certification of compliance with obligations to the District. 2
Eligible Applicants
The Department of Energy and Environment and the Trust welcome requests from the following
organizations:
♦ Applicants physically located in the District of Columbia are Nonprofit organizations; Faith-based
organizations; Government agencies; Universities/educational institutions; or Private Enterprises.
♦ Eligible applicants will have and maintain in full force and effect during the term of the proposed
project liability insurance coverage in connection with the performance or failure to perform
services proposed.
Funding Availability
Funding for this program comes from the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). The funding
partners anticipate funds available in FY25 of $36,199.
Eligible Project Types
All applications submitted under this Request for Applications (RFA) must describe a project that
aims to educate a priority audience, increase knowledge, or lead to behavior change that ultimately
improves the health of the District’s waterways, including reducing the impacts of stormwater
runoff and pollution to restore local waterways.
Image source: Stormwater Smart Outreach Materials - EPA https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2022-
10/Stormwater%20Smart%20Materials%20How-to%20Manual_508.pdf
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Applicants should propose projects that involve meaningful engagement; to ensure the proposed
methods reflect and respond to the community’s needs and goals. Projects should demonstrate the use
of participatory methods in engagement and use culturally inclusive and tailored engagement
strategies to promote inclusive involvement with the priority audience. Some communities, such as
communities of color, have been less involved in natural resource topics due to historical exclusion and
systemic barriers, but could be a part of the solution in restoring healthy waterways today. When
partnering with historically excluded communities, applicants are strongly encouraged to develop
meaningful and mutually beneficial partnerships that honor the strengths of community leaders but do
not burden them. It is recommended that these leaders and organizations be programmatically and
financially recognized for their contributions to the programming. Appropriate costs can be included in
the project budget. Additionally, it is important to utilize inclusive and equitable strategies to reduce
barriers to participation. Strategies to consider include providing childcare, transportation and stipends
for participation. Stipends should not be in the form of gift cards (please reach out to Trust staff for
clarity on stipend options). Applicants proposing to work with residents with limited or no English
proficiency (LEP/NEP) are encouraged to provide translated documents and translation services as
needed.
The Trust is available throughout the application period to provide guidance and assistance. Priority will
be given to Small (25 full time equivalents (FTE) or less), New (have not received a CSS grant), and
Historically Excluded (SHNE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)/ Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE):
51% owned, operated, capitalized, and controlled by a member(s) of the following groups: Black,
Hispanic, Latino, Native American, Asia and Pacific Islander, Women organizations.
Project Areas
We encourage projects that deliver multiple benefits, such as opportunities for public engagement with
both educational and actionable components. Applicants should propose innovative and creative ideas
focused on stormwater management, watershed protection education, community engagement, and
ecological restoration.
Project Area 1: Revitalizing Green Infrastructure:
Revitalizing existing sites that require planting, weeding, or other maintenance, including previous
recipients of DOEE programs like RiverSmart Schools and RiverSmart Communities.
DOEE runs several programs that fund green infrastructure projects across the District. Over time, these
sites require maintenance to ensure they continue to effectively reduce stormwater runoff that harms
the District’s waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. Funding can be used to remove trash and debris,
weeding, planting or re-planting, cleaning, and installing educational or other amenities, purchase new
native plants, tools, and other supplies that will improve the function of the space and pay labor costs
for maintenance, among others. Revitalization efforts can occur on public and private property, but the
applicant must receive approval from the property owners and include a letter of support from the
4
landowner in their proposal. See appendices for proposals for projects that would take place on District
of Columbia Public School (DCPS) or Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) property.
Project Area 2: Connecting Communities to Nature:
Engaging community members with green spaces and natural resources in the District through
accessible and impactful programming. Applicants are encouraged to explore opportunities for
programming on Kingman and Heritage Islands.
Kingman and Heritage Islands are a unique conservation area in the District that can serve as a great
gathering place for small and accessible community events or a host site for public art installations.
Events and art installations must align with one or more of the three goals for the island: environmental
conservation, environmental education, and low-impact recreation. All public events must be free and
open to the public. Public art installations should raise awareness and inspire behavior change related to
stormwater management and watershed protection.
While we welcome a range of creative ideas for programming, at this time the following activities are
prohibited:
• Vending
• Hunting
• Fishing without a license
• Swimming, unless with a special permit
• Off-leashed dogs and other pets
• Movie nights
• Campaign activities
When planning events, please keep in mind:
1. The Islands have limited infrastructure. They do not have electricity or running water. There are
two compostable toilets near the Benning Road entrance.
2. Small-scale events should expect to gather less than 200 people to minimize the impact of
wildlife on the islands.
3. Events must respect the natural resources of the Islands. Applicants must address how they will
“leave no trace” in their proposal and include a waste management plan.
4. Depending on the scope and activities of the event, there may be additional permitting required
through Department of Buildings, Department of Health, and Fire and Emergency Medical
Services. Applicants should address this in their proposals.
5. Additional event insurance coverage may be required depending on the scope and activities of
the event.
5
6. Applicant must include a pedestrian safety plan if the event requires vehicles on the island for
loading in and loading out as will be subject to permitting, insurance, and DOEE approval.
Learn more about the Islands and what they have to offer on the Kingman + Heritage Island website.
Applicants are encouraged to reach out to Marissa O’Neill at marissa.oneill@dc.gov with any questions
about whether a specific activity aligns with Kingman and Heritage Islands’ conservation, environmental
education, and recreational goals or other questions about the islands.
Project Area 3: Innovative Pilot Projects
We encourage applications for innovative pilot projects that explore new community-driven approaches
to stormwater management in Washington, DC. This category seeks experimental solutions that engage
local residents, organizations, and stakeholders in testing and refining creative methods.
Past Examples
While the above project areas are high priority for funding partners, applicants are welcome to propose
other community-centered and creative projects that support the funding program’s goals for
stormwater management and watershed protection implementation, education, community
engagement, and ecological restoration.
For inspiration, you can visit DOEE's website, the Trust’s “Impact of our Work” map or the Trust’s
District of Columbia Community Stormwater Solutions Grant website and scroll down to see “Project
Highlights” to browse past Community Stormwater Solutions grant program projects (grants up to
$35,000).
Project Timeline
Project Timeline: Projects should be completed in approximately 12 months upon receipt of the award.
Requests to extend the project completion period will be reviewed and considered on a case-by-case
basis. When a project is complete, grantees are required to submit a final report and include supporting
materials/products.
Online Application Submission Instructions
The Trust uses an online system for the application process, and if awarded, project management. To
apply for an award, go to https://cbtrust.org/grants/district-of-columbia-community-stormwater-
solutions/ and click on “Get Started” to begin a new application. This will open a new window asking you
to log in or create an account on our online system. If you have applied in the past, use your existing
username and password (if you have forgotten either of these use the ‘forgot password’ feature). If you
6
have not used our online system before, click on “New
Applicant” and follow the instructions. More information Watch our video on how to apply and how
to submit an application using our online
can be found in Appendix A: Ready to apply?
system at https://cbtrust.org/grants/.
By submitting an application to this program, applicants ____________________________
acknowledge that: 1) they are compliant with federal
employment and non-discrimination laws and 2) they have
not been debarred, convicted, charged or had a civil Definitions
judgment rendered against them for fraud or related
offense by any government agency (federal, state or local)
The Executive Officer is the individual
or been terminated for cause or default by any that oversees the organization (e.g.,
government agency (federal, state, or local). In addition, all Executive Director, Chief Executive
Officer, Mayor, President or Vice
final products will be provided to the funding partners for
President, Principal (for schools), etc.)
use and distribution at the sole discretion of the funding
and has the authority to sign/execute
partners. award agreements on behalf of the
organization. The Executive Officer
Deadline information is tied directly to all the
organization’s applications and should
not vary from application to
Applicants must submit applications at least eight weeks
application. If the Executive Officer
before their projected start date. could be listed as the Project Leader
in a future proposal, we recommend
listing a Board Member or other
Proposals are accepted on an on-going basis until funds
higher-ranking position of the
are fully used for that year; check our website and sign up
organization as the Executive Officer
for our grantee newsletter in order to reduce the variation in the
(https://cbtrust.org/newsletters/) for the most up to date Executive Officer across applications.
information about the status of this rolling program
The Program Leader is the individual
(available all year until all funds are committed to
will be responsible for all project
projects). We need a few weeks to review your
coordination and correspondence
application, work together on any missing items, and with the Trust for the duration of the
draft the award agreement. project. The email address entered
here MUST be the same as the email
address you used to log in to the
Evaluation Criteria
online system. The Project Leader is
the primary point of contact for the
The following criteria will be used by reviewers to evaluate application, and the email address
your proposal: used to submit the application via the
online system must be that of the
Project Leader. Applications in which
the email address associated with the
Project Leader in the applicant
information tab of the online
opportunity does not match the email
address used to submit the
application will not be considered for
funding. The Trust cannot conduct any
official correspondence with
contractors or other project partners.
If at any time the Project Leader
cannot continue in the position, the
7
organization must contact the Trust
and assign a new qualified Project
Leader.
Scoring Criteria Description of Scoring Criteria
Application Components • Are all required application components included for sound
evaluation of the application? E.g., community engagement plan,
letters of commitment, planting plan, and native plant list.
Consistency with the • Is the proposed project aligned with the RFA?
Request for Applications
(RFA)
Justification (Project • Does the applicant justify the need for the project (the
Need) problem to be addressed and the potential benefits or value
of the project)?
Likelihood of Project • What is the likelihood of success if this project were to be
Success funded? Success should be defined as the accomplishment of
outcomes proposed.
• Has the applicant proposed metrics to monitor progress and
evaluate results (a mechanism to assess success)?
Cost • Is the budget appropriate and cost effective?
Effectiveness/Budget • Are the line items budgeted justified in the budget narrative?
In-kind and cash match is not required but can be included, if
necessary, to accomplish project goals.
• Are project partners being resourced appropriately?
Partnership and • Does the organization have experience working in the
Community specific communities that they are prioritizing?
• Are any key partnerships required, and if so, are the
selected partnerships appropriate?
• Are considerations included to improve access and
implement accommodations for people with disabilities
and limited English proficient or non-English proficient
residents?
• Is the community to be served involved or going to be involved
in the project? i.e., were community members involved in the
development of the project, was community buy-in obtained,
were community needs and desires assessed, and are there
individual(s) in the community committed to serving as
community leads?
• Does the applicant provide letter(s) of commitment from
project partners?
• Has/will a consultant be hired and has a contractor been
selected?
8
Sustainability • Has the applicant addressed future project sustainability?
• Will the impact of the work be felt after the grant period
has ended?
• Will the project be well maintained and continue to
function as designed?
Creative Solutions • To what degree does the project utilize art, placemaking,
dance, oral histories, or another creative solution to
engaging the audience in the project?
District MS4 Area • Does the majority of the project take place in the
District’s MS4 area? To determine the project's watershed,
go to this website and
https://dcgis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.
html?id=d872faed1f8642d190c45befed97c760and enter
the site address.
New Applicant • Has the applicant previously been awarded funds through the
Community Stormwater Solutions Grant Program?
Exception: if the applicant has previously been funded
through this program, but its primary role is to serve as
the fiscal agent for another entity or individual that has
not previously received funding, then the proposal may
receive these additional points.
9
Application Review Process
All submitted applications are reviewed based on the evaluation criteria listed in the “Evaluation Criteria”
section above. The funding partners reserve the right to fund projects and budget items that advance
their missions and meet specific funding priorities and criteria.
Awards and Notifications
All applicants will receive a letter stating the Trust’s decision. An application may be declined, partially
awarded, or fully awarded. If awarded, the Trust will send an award agreement with award conditions and
due date of final reports. The Trust will mail the full award payment to the requesting organization
following: satisfaction of any award contingencies, including upload of the signed award agreement. In
cases where the awardee fails to submit a final report by the due date, the Trust reserves the right to
terminate the award agreement and require a refund of funds already transferred to the awardee.
When the project is complete, awardees are required to complete final reports and submit final products
and supporting materials for the project. Organizations with outstanding final, progress, or status reports
will not be awarded additional grants.
Appendix A: Ready to Apply? Online Application Form
You will be asked to provide the following information on the online application form. Some items are
required to submit your application. Refer to the online application for details.
Eligibility Quiz: This three-question quiz is meant to assist you in determining if your project meets the
requirements of this award program and that your staff/organizational structure best supports a
successful application.
Applicant Information Tab: Provide the organization’s name, mailing address, phone number,
organization type, mission, EIN number. Provide the Executive Officer and Project Leader’s name, title,
address, phone, and email address.
• Both an Executive Officer and a Project Leader, two separate individuals, must be identified for all
applications.
• The Executive Officer and Project Leader must both be able to make decisions on behalf of the
organization either as a board member, an employee, or in other approved position recognized by
the organization but not a contractor of the application.
• To avoid conflict of interest issues, individuals associated with for-profit entities to be engaged in
the project cannot serve in either role.
Project Information Tab: Provide a project title; project abstract; the watershed, county, and legislative
district in which the project is located; and the latitude and longitude coordinates of the project location.
Timeline Tab: Add the project start and end date. Provide a project timeline that includes major tasks and
their associated start and end dates.
10
Deliverables Tab: Provide estimated metrics for your proposed project such as project participants and
outreach and restoration outcomes.
Volunteers Tab: Provide a description of volunteer activities, the number of volunteers, and total number
of volunteer hours.
Project Partnerships: Provide a list of project partner organizations or contractors, individuals, their areas
of expertise, and their role(s) in your project.
Applicants are encouraged to upload a letter of commitment for the project from each partner describing
in detail the partner’s role or contribution to the project. Applications including strong letter(s) of
commitment often receive higher scores. If not submitted with the application, letter(s) of commitment
may be required prior to the release of any awarded funding. To better understand the Trust’s definition
of and policy on Letter(s) of Commitment, visit our Forms and Policies webpage: www.cbtrust.org/forms.
Narrative & Supporting Documents Tab: Use the links below to download the required narrative
questions template for the track you are applying to. Complete all questions and upload the completed
document as a Microsoft Word or PDF file.
Required Documents: Note: Some documents take a while to obtain, so you are advised not to
wait until the last minute to review these critical requirements.
• Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances: Each applicant must sign and submit
the “Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances” (“PCA”) in Appendix B. Signing the
PCA is a condition of eligibility for this grant. If the Applicant is not prepared to sign the PCA,
it should not apply for a grant. Compliance with the promises, certifications, and assurances
in the PCA is a continuing condition of eligibility for this grant.
The PCA must be signed by the Applicant or, if the Applicant is an organization, by a
duly authorized officer of the organization. The PCA also includes a sworn statement
verifying that the Applicant is not in arrears (i.e., is “current”) on all obligations
outstanding to the District, including all District agencies. The Applicant must be
“current” as of the date of the application and the date of a grant award. DOEE
requires, as a condition of continuing eligibility, that a grantee stay current on such
obligations during the period of the grant.
This form is administered by DOEE. Questions can be directed to Marissa O’Neil
marissa.oneill@dc.gov and phone number: (202) 535-2679.
• IRS W-9 Tax Form: The Applicant must submit a current completed W-9 form prepared for the
U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). DOEE defines “current” to mean that the document was
completed within the same calendar year as that of the application date.
• Tax Exemption Affirmation Letter: The tax exemption affirmation letter is the IRS’s
determination letter of non-profit status. If this letter is not available, then the Applicant
should provide its most recent IRS Form 990 tax return if one was submitted. If no return has
yet been filed, the organization can submit its application for tax-exempt status. If the group
11
has a supporting organization with an IRS tax-exempt status determination, then that
organization’s tax exemption affirmation letter should also be submitted.
• If there is no IRS tax exemption affirmation letter because the organization is a religious
organization, then the Applicant may submit the best evidence it can of its status. Examples of
potential best evidence for this purpose include, but are not limited to (i) a letter from the
leader of the organization verifying that the organization is a religious group; (ii) a letter from
the group’s board chair or similar official, verifying that the organization is a religious group;
(iii) the Applicant’s most recently submitted state sales or other tax exemption form, if it
o
exists (Form 164 in the District of Columbia); or (iv) the state’s issued tax exemption
certificate or card, if it exists. (See IRS publication no. 1828, Tax Guide for Churches and
Religious Organizations.)
Budget Tab:
1. Financial Management Spreadsheet – Application Budget Upload
a. You will be asked to upload your budget using the “Application Budget” worksheet of the
Chesapeake Bay Trust’s Financial Management Spreadsheet (FMS), an excel file
template. The template can be found by visiting https://cbtrust.org/forms-policies/ where
you can watch a video with instructions on how to complete the FMS.
2. Financial Management Spreadsheet – Application Budget Information
a. This online application component will ask you to enter budget category and request
totals. These totals will be automatically calculated in the FMS Application Budget, so you
will only need to copy and paste the values from the FMS to the Online Application.
3. Additional Budget Justification
a. This online application component will ask you to provide a descriptive budget narrative
to justify and explain costs. If the success of the work is contingent upon award of other
funds, make this clear in your budget justification section.
Terms and Conditions Tab: Agree to the specified terms and conditions for the program for which you are
applying.
Demographics Tab (optional): Provide voluntary demographic information. Provide information about
your organization’s current diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) efforts and future goals.
12
Appendix B: DOEE Grant Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances
DC Grant Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances (Rev. 2-12-2019)
GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Department of Energy and Environment
Table of Contents
True statements
.......................................................................................................................................................................
20
Resources and record
.......................................................................................................................................................................
20
Tax status/organizational form
.......................................................................................................................................................................
21
Obligations to the District/good standing
.......................................................................................................................................................................
21
Not suspended or debarred
.......................................................................................................................................................................
21
Criminal charges or investigations, or other legal proceedings
.......................................................................................................................................................................
22
Taxes due and related liabilities
.......................................................................................................................................................................
22
Conflicts of interest
.......................................................................................................................................................................
22
Books and records
13
.......................................................................................................................................................................
23
Property owner permission
.......................................................................................................................................................................
23
Termination/new grantee
.......................................................................................................................................................................
23
Compliance with laws
.......................................................................................................................................................................
23
Compliance with general terms
.......................................................................................................................................................................
25
MEANING OF SIGNATURE ON THE PCA……………………………………………………………………………………………………
............................................................................. 19
SPECIFIC ASSURANCES…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
............................................................................. 20
SIGNATURE
ANDCERTIFICATIONOFTHEAPPLICANT………………………………………………………………………………………26
An Applicant must agree in writing, by signature below, to comply with the following promises,
certifications, assertions, and assurances, made in support of the grant application.
MEANING OF SIGNATURE ON THE PCA
This Appendix B – DC Grant Promises, Certifications, Assertions, and Assurances (PCA) contains
terms that apply to: the undersigned Applicant (Applicant) and its application (Application) and,
upon award of the grant applied for (Grant), to the successful applicant (Grantee). This PCA is
incorporated into the Request for Applications (RFA) and each Grant Award Notice. The
Applicant signifies its agreement to the PCA terms by signing below in the Signature and
Certification of the Applicant section.
1. The Applicant, either personally if a natural person or through an authorized
representative if a legal entity, must read the terms of this PCA, state that the terms are
understood, and agree to them.
2. Specifically, the Applicant is:
14
a. Giving the stated assurances;
b. Asserting facts as true and accurate;
c. Certifying or promising as stated;
d. Agreeing to comply with the terms, as stated, for purposes of the Application and
throughout the period of the Grant; and
e. Agreeing that the statutes, rules, regulations, and industry practices stated, apply, and
promising to comply with them, as applicable.
SPECIFIC ASSURANCES
As the Applicant, or the duly authorized representative of the Applicant, I certify that:
True statements
All communications to DOEE have been and will continue to be truthful. For statements regarding
matters for which the Applicant lacks direct personal knowledge, the Applicant has undertaken a
reasonable inquiry to determine if any and all such statements at the time they are made are true
and correct.
Resources and record
The Applicant has or will have during the entirety of the grant period:
a. The financial resources and technical expertise necessary to perform all activities required
by and identified in the Application, project proposal and grant, or the ability to obtain
such resource or expertise in advance of performing the proposed matters;
b. The ability to comply with the proposed delivery or performance schedule, taking into
consideration all other existing and reasonably expected organizational commitments;
c. A satisfactory record performing activities similar to those proposed or, if the grant
award is intended to encourage the development and support of organizations without
significant previous experience, the skills and resources necessary to perform as
proposed; and
d. A record of integrity and business ethics.
Tax status/organizational form
If it applied for the grant as a nonprofit organization, the Applicant will maintain its tax status as a
nonprofit organization during the grant period.
15
Obligations to the District/good standing
The Applicant, at the time of filing of the Application, is current on all obligations outstanding to
the District, including all District departments or agencies, and will stay current on such
obligations during the period of the grant. The Applicant shall at all times have and maintain a
valid District business license, and if requested by DOEE, shall provide an updated Certificate of
Good Standing from the District Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs or its successor.
Not suspended or debarred
1. None of the identified persons or entities is:
a. Proposed for debarment or is presently debarred, suspended, or declared ineligible, as
required by Executive Order 12549, "Debarment and Suspension," and implemented by
2 CFR 180, for prospective participants in primary covered transactions; or
b. Proposed for debarment or presently debarred as a result of an action by the District of
Columbia Contract Appeals Board, the Office of Contracting and Procurement, or another
District contract regulating agency.
2. The identified persons or entities are:
a. The Applicant, its subsidiaries, or affiliates;
b. An officer of Applicant;
c. A member of the Applicant’s governing board; and
d. A Grant-related:
(1) Vendor;
(2) Contractor; or
(3) Subcontractor.
Criminal charges or investigations, or other legal proceedings
1. Within the three (3) years immediately preceding the date of the application, neither
the Applicant nor any of its officers, partners, principals, members, associates, or key employees,
has:
16
a. With respect to criminal matters:
(1) Been indicted or had charges brought against them (if still pending); and/or
(2) Been convicted of:
(a) A crime or offense arising directly or indirectly from the conduct of the
applicant's organization; or
(b) A crime or offense involving financial misconduct or fraud; or
b. With respect to services by the organization, been subject to legal proceedings.
(Note: For the purpose of this section, “member” means a decision-maker of an organization, not
a natural person or entity who just pays dues, and “associate” means a direct supplier of a
business service pursuant to the grant.)
2. If the Applicant cannot certify that one or more assertions in paragraph 1 of this section are
true and correct, the Applicant has attached to this PCA a statement explaining for each
assertion that is not true (a) why the assertion is not true and correct and (b) why each such
matter is relevant, or not, to the Application or Grant. The attached statement shall be treated as
incorporated into the PCA.
Taxes due and related liabilities
The Applicant will, upon award of the Grant and with respect to payments made under the Grant:
e. Be solely responsible for taxes owed, if any, to a taxing authority, whether federal, state
or local;
f. Defend, indemnify and hold harmless the District with respect to liability to a taxing
authority, whether federal, state or local; and
g. Ensure that each of its contractors, subcontractors, and subgrantees agree to and/or
understands that, with respect to payments under the Grant, they are also subject to
the tax-related requirements of this section, including agreeing to defend, indemnify, and
hold harmless the District with respect to liability to any taxing authority, whether federal,
state or local.
Conflicts of interest
17
The Applicant will establish safeguards to prohibit employees from using their positions for a
purpose that constitutes or presents the appearance of a personal or organizational conflict of
interest, or personal gain during the period of the Grant.
Books and records
1. The Applicant will give DOEE, or its designee, timely access to, and the right to examine all,
records, books, papers, or documents related to, the Grant.
2. The Applicant will continue or establish a proper accounting system in accordance with
generally accepted accounting standards or DOEE directives.
Property owner permission
The Applicant hereby gives permission, and will secure, in advance of work to be performed by the
Applicant as Grantee, its contractors, its subcontractors, subgrantees, or its relevant vendors,
permission in writing from relevant property owners, for DOEE, or its designee, to access project
sites at reasonable times to inspect work performed under the Grant.
Termination/new grantee
As a condition of acceptance of the Grant, the Applicant agrees that:
h. It will cooperate to enable a smooth transition to another grantee if:
(1) DOEE determines that the grant period will end without the grant activities having
been completed;
(2) DOEE so notifies the Applicant; and
(3) DOEE identifies as successor another grantee or DOEE staff to finish the activities.
i. The Applicant’s cooperation will include:
(1) Identification, and offer to transfer ownership, of Big Purchase Equipment as defined
in RFA Appendix B – General Terms and Conditions (GT&C); and
(2) Preparation of a transition plan for DOEE review, by a DOEE-specified date, prior to
the grant period end date.
Compliance with laws
1. The Applicant will comply with all applicable District and federal statutes and regulations, as
amended, including:
18
a. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Pub. L. 101-336, July 26, 1990; 104 Stat. 327 (42
U.S.C. § 12101 etseq.)
b. Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Pub. L. 93-112, Sept. 26, 1973; 87 Stat. 355 (29 U.S.C. § 701et seq.);
c. The Hatch Act, ch. 314, 24 Stat. 440 (7 U.S.C. § 361a et seq.);
d. The Fair Labor Standards Act, ch. 676, 52 Stat. 1060 (29 U.S.C. § 201 et seq.);
e. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Pub. L. 91-596, Dec. 29, 1970; 84 Stat. 1590 (26
U.S.C. § 651 et seq.);
f. The Hobbs Act (Anti-Corruption), ch. 537, 60 Stat. 420 (see 18 U.S.C. § 1951);
g. Equal Pay Act of 1963, Pub. L. 88-38, June 10, 1963; 77 Stat. 56 (29 U.S.C. § 201);
h. Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Pub. L. 94-135, Nov. 28, 1975; 89 Stat. 728 (42
U.S.C. § 6101 et seq.);
i. Age Discrimination in Employment Act, Pub. L. 90-202, Dec. 15, 1967; 81 Stat. 602 (29
U.S.C. § 621 et seq.);
j. Military Selective Service Act of 1948; ch. 625, 62 Stat. 604 (50 U.S.C. § 3801 et seq.);
k. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Pub. L. 92-318, June 23, 1972; 86 Stat. 235 (20
U.S.C. § 1001);
l. Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, Pub. L. 99-603, Nov 6, 1986; 100 Stat. 3359, (8
U.S.C. § 1101);
m. Executive Order 12459 (Debarment, Suspension and Exclusion);
n. Medical Leave Act of 1993, Pub. L. 103-3, Feb. 5, 1993, 107 Stat. 6 (5 U.S.C. § 6381
et seq.);
o. Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, Pub. L. 100-690, 102 Stat. 4304 (41 U.S.C. § 701 et seq.).
Specifically, the Grantee shall no later than 30 calendar days after the date of the Grant Award
notice (unless a longer period is agreed to in writing):
(1) Publish a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution,
dispensing, possession or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the Grantee's
workplace and specifying the actions that will be taken against employees for violations of
such prohibition;
(2) Establish a drug-free awareness program to inform employees about:
(a) The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace;
19
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