Opportunity Information: Apply for STX 100 FY20 003
The U.S. Department of State, through the U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat, is funding a single cooperative agreement to run a short-term U.S. exchange program for five biotechnology experts from Turkmenistan. The core activity is a two-to-three-week study visit in the United States, organized by the awardee, with the broader grant performance period lasting 6 to 12 months (and in any case intended to be completed within 12 months or less). The program is framed as a capacity-building effort for Turkmenistan's Academy of Sciences and its affiliated research centers, which are facing reduced government support and are being pushed to sustain operations by commercializing their research. Applicants are encouraged to pick U.S. program locations that make practical sense for Turkmenistan's desert climate and soil constraints, so the exchange is directly relevant to conditions participants will face at home.
The grant sets a clear outcome-oriented goal: within 18 months after the exchange ends, participants are expected to be actively working on adapting at least two new biotechnologies to Turkmenistan's local conditions and to be marketing biotechnology solutions or services to at least five agricultural companies or producers. Progress is meant to be demonstrated through tangible indicators such as new projects launched and documented follow-up consultations between the participants and potential local clients or partners. In other words, the exchange is not just about professional exposure; it is designed to lead to applied research, field use, and a measurable increase in outreach to the agricultural sector in Turkmenistan.
Program content is expected to cover both technical biotechnology applications and the practical business side of turning research into marketable services. On the technical side, the exchange should expose participants to how U.S. institutions develop and apply biotechnologies related to crop protection against insects, bacteria, and other pests; artificial selection and crop improvement; soil quality improvement and salinity reduction; livestock breeding; and the use of halophytes (salt-tolerant plants) as livestock feed and as a tool for improving soil quality. On the commercialization side, participants should learn concrete methods for moving research toward real-world adoption, including how U.S. universities and research institutions structure technology transfer, industry engagement, partnerships, and service offerings. The NOFO also emphasizes learning through observation of real deployment, so site visits to agricultural facilities where biotechnology is being used in practice are part of the intended design. Two-way exchange matters as well: participants are expected to share Turkmenistan's experience with U.S. counterparts, establish professional networks, and lay groundwork for future research partnerships.
Because this is a cooperative agreement rather than a standard grant, the Embassy anticipates being more hands-on during implementation. The Embassy plans to be involved in soliciting and selecting participants, coordinating program dates, and recommending certain U.S. sites and venues. That structure signals that the awardee should be prepared for ongoing coordination with U.S. government staff and should design a program that can incorporate Embassy input while still delivering the full itinerary, training content, and follow-on planning needed to meet the program's outcomes.
Funding is expected to range from $35,000 to $55,000 for one award, using FY20 Fulbright-Hays Public Diplomacy funds, with an anticipated program start around October 2021 (subject to funding availability). A notable restriction is that award funds may not be used in any countries other than the United States and Turkmenistan, which affects how travel, events, and any third-country stopovers or subcontracted activities can be planned. Payment is expected by wire transfer in a single installment, and the awardee can only begin incurring costs starting on the official start date shown in the executed award document signed by the Grants Officer.
Eligible applicants are limited to U.S.-based nonprofits (including think tanks and NGOs) and U.S. public or private educational institutions. Cost sharing is not required, but it is treated as a competitive advantage and can add points in the evaluation (up to 10 percentage points, depending on the level of cost share). Organizational applicants must have the required federal registrations, including a unique entity identifier (noted as DUNS in the NOFO), an NCAGE/CAGE code, and an active SAM.gov registration. Organizations also need to ensure they are not listed on the Excluded Parties List System in SAM, since debarred or suspended entities cannot receive funds or participate in award activities. Each organization may submit only one proposal; submitting multiple proposals makes all submissions from that organization ineligible.
The application package is fairly prescriptive. Submissions must be in English, budgets must be in U.S. dollars, pages must be numbered, and documents must follow specific formatting expectations (8.5 x 11 pages; Word documents single-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman, with at least one-inch margins). Required components include standard federal forms (SF-424, SF-424A, SF-424B), a summary cover sheet with key identifying details and a brief program purpose, a narrative proposal that clearly explains what will be done and how it aligns to the NOFO goals and objectives, and a budget justification narrative that explains each cost item in detail. Required attachments include one-page CVs or resumes for key personnel, letters of support from program partners that spell out roles and responsibilities, and a current NICRA document if indirect costs are included. Any official permission letters needed for activities should also be provided.
Applications were due by August 21, 2020, and had to be submitted by email to AshgabatCulturalAffairs@state.gov. After the program ends, the recipient must submit both a financial report and a program report within 30 days of completion. The State Department also notes that publishing the opportunity does not guarantee an award, does not reimburse proposal preparation costs, and does not commit the government to future or additional funding beyond what is awarded. For applicant questions, the point of contact is the same embassy email address, and the NOFO document itself is positioned as the controlling source for the full set of requirements and expectations.Apply for STX 100 FY20 003
- The Department of State, U.S. Mission to Turkmenistan in the science and technology and other research and development sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Exchange program for biotechnology experts" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 19.040.
- This funding opportunity was created on Jul 20, 2020.
- Applicants must submit their applications by Aug 21, 2020. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
- Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $55,000.00 in funding.
- The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 1 candidate(s).
- Eligible applicants include: Others (see text field entitled Additional Information on Eligibility for clarification).
[Watch] Creating a grant proposal using the step-by-step wizard inside the applicant portal:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is this funding opportunity?
This opportunity is a U.S. Department of State-funded cooperative agreement administered through the U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat to run a short-term U.S. exchange program for biotechnology experts from Turkmenistan.
How many awards will be made?
The opportunity anticipates a single award (one cooperative agreement).
What is the expected funding amount?
Funding is expected to range from $35,000 to $55,000 for one award, using FY20 Fulbright-Hays Public Diplomacy funds (subject to funding availability).
What is the key activity funded under this program?
The core activity is a two-to-three-week study visit in the United States for five biotechnology experts from Turkmenistan, organized by the awardee.
How long is the overall grant performance period?
The broader grant performance period is expected to last 6 to 12 months and is intended to be completed within 12 months or less.
When is the anticipated program start date?
The anticipated start is around October 2021, subject to funding availability.
Who are the participants?
The program is designed for five biotechnology experts from Turkmenistan, with a focus on capacity building for Turkmenistan's Academy of Sciences and affiliated research centers.
What is the program trying to achieve (overall goal)?
The program is framed as a capacity-building effort to help Turkmenistan research institutions sustain operations by commercializing their research and expanding applied use in the agricultural sector.
What outcomes are expected after the exchange?
Within 18 months after the exchange ends, participants are expected to (1) be actively working on adapting at least two new biotechnologies to Turkmenistan's local conditions, and (2) be marketing biotechnology solutions or services to at least five agricultural companies or producers in Turkmenistan.
How should progress be demonstrated?
Progress is expected to be shown through tangible indicators such as new projects launched and documented follow-up consultations between participants and potential local clients or partners.
What technical topics should the exchange cover?
Expected technical content includes U.S. approaches to: crop protection against insects, bacteria, and other pests; artificial selection and crop improvement; soil quality improvement and salinity reduction; livestock breeding; and the use of halophytes (salt-tolerant plants) as livestock feed and for improving soil quality.
What commercialization or business topics should be included?
The program is expected to teach practical methods for moving research toward adoption, including how U.S. universities and research institutions structure technology transfer, industry engagement, partnerships, and service offerings.
Are site visits part of the intended program design?
Yes. The NOFO emphasizes learning through observation of real deployment, and site visits to agricultural facilities where biotechnology is being used in practice are part of the intended approach.
Does the exchange include networking and two-way engagement?
Yes. Participants are expected to share Turkmenistan's experience with U.S. counterparts, establish professional networks, and lay groundwork for future research partnerships.
How should U.S. locations for the program be selected?
Applicants are encouraged to choose U.S. program locations that make practical sense for Turkmenistan's desert climate and soil constraints so the exchange content is directly relevant to conditions participants will face at home.
What does it mean that this is a cooperative agreement?
Because this is a cooperative agreement rather than a standard grant, the U.S. Embassy anticipates being more hands-on during implementation, including involvement in soliciting and selecting participants, coordinating program dates, and recommending certain U.S. sites and venues.
What should applicants assume about coordination with the Embassy?
The awardee should be prepared for ongoing coordination with U.S. government staff and should design a program that can incorporate Embassy input while still delivering the full itinerary, training content, and follow-on planning needed to meet the outcomes.
Where can grant funds be used geographically?
Award funds may not be used in any countries other than the United States and Turkmenistan. This affects planning for travel, events, and any third-country stopovers or subcontracted activities.
How and when will payment be made?
Payment is expected by wire transfer in a single installment.
When can the awardee start incurring costs?
The awardee may only begin incurring costs starting on the official start date shown in the executed award document signed by the Grants Officer.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants are limited to U.S.-based nonprofits (including think tanks and NGOs) and U.S. public or private educational institutions.
Is cost sharing required?
No. Cost sharing is not required.
Does cost sharing affect competitiveness?
Yes. Cost sharing is treated as a competitive advantage and can add points in the evaluation (up to 10 percentage points, depending on the level of cost share).
What federal registrations are required to apply?
Applicants must have the required federal registrations, including a unique entity identifier (noted as DUNS in the NOFO), an NCAGE/CAGE code, and an active SAM.gov registration.
Are there restrictions related to debarment or suspension?
Yes. Organizations must ensure they are not listed on the Excluded Parties List System in SAM, because debarred or suspended entities cannot receive funds or participate in award activities.
Can an organization submit more than one proposal?
No. Each organization may submit only one proposal. Submitting multiple proposals makes all submissions from that organization ineligible.
What language and currency requirements apply to the application?
Submissions must be in English, and budgets must be in U.S. dollars.
What formatting rules are specified for the application?
Pages must be numbered. Documents must follow specific formatting expectations: 8.5 x 11 pages; Word documents single-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman, with at least one-inch margins.
What standard federal forms are required?
Required standard forms include SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B.
What should be included in the summary cover sheet?
A summary cover sheet is required with key identifying details and a brief program purpose.
What should the narrative proposal address?
The narrative proposal must clearly explain what will be done and how the program aligns to the NOFO goals and objectives.
What is required in the budget justification?
A budget justification narrative is required and should explain each cost item in detail.
What personnel documentation is required?
Applicants must include one-page CVs or resumes for key personnel.
Are partner letters required?
Yes. Letters of support from program partners are required, and they should spell out roles and responsibilities.
What is required if indirect costs are included?
If indirect costs are included, the application must include a current NICRA document.
Are any official permission letters required?
If activities require official permission letters, they should be provided as part of the submission.
What was the application deadline?
Applications were due by August 21, 2020.
How were applications submitted?
Applications had to be submitted by email to AshgabatCulturalAffairs@state.gov.
Where can applicants send questions?
Questions should be directed to AshgabatCulturalAffairs@state.gov.
What reporting is required after the program ends?
The recipient must submit both a financial report and a program report within 30 days of completion.
Does publishing the opportunity guarantee an award?
No. The State Department notes that publishing the opportunity does not guarantee an award.
Will proposal preparation costs be reimbursed?
No. Proposal preparation costs are not reimbursed.
Does this opportunity commit the government to future funding?
No. It does not commit the government to future or additional funding beyond what is awarded.
Which document controls if there is any discrepancy?
The NOFO document is positioned as the controlling source for the full set of requirements and expectations.
Browse more opportunities from the same category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development
Next opportunity: Strengthening Seychelles’ Democratic Institutions
Previous opportunity: U.S. Ambassador’s Special Self-Help FY 2020
Applicant Portal:
Are you interested in learning about about how to apply for this government funding opportunity? You can create a free applicant account and receive instant access to our applicant portal that many business owners like you have benefited from.
Apply for STX 100 FY20 003
Applicants also applied for:
Applicants who have applied for this opportunity (STX 100 FY20 003) also looked into and applied for these:
| Funding Opportunity |
|---|
| Evaluating Non-floodplain Wetlands for Flood-Risk Reduction and Nutrient Mediation in the Mississippi River Basin Apply for W81EWF 20 SOI 0037 Funding Number: W81EWF 20 SOI 0037 Agency: Department of Defense, Engineer Research and Development Center Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $250,000 |
| Re-entry to Active Research Program Apply for 20 586 Funding Number: 20 586 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $300,000 |
| DoD Combat Readiness, Rapid Development and Translational Research Award Apply for W81XWH 20 S CRRP Funding Number: W81XWH 20 S CRRP Agency: Department of Defense, Dept. of the Army -- USAMRAA Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
| Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE): Core Programs Apply for 20 591 Funding Number: 20 591 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
| Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Great Rivers CESU Apply for G20AS00128 Funding Number: G20AS00128 Agency: Department of the Interior, U. S. Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $46,200 |
| Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Piedmont South Atlantic Coast CESU Apply for G20AS00131 Funding Number: G20AS00131 Agency: Department of the Interior, U. S. Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $200,000 |
| Notice of Intent to Award Apply for BOR DO 20 N008 Funding Number: BOR DO 20 N008 Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $499,797 |
| 2020 HERO Appendix B: NASA Human Research Program Omnibus Opportunity Apply for 80JSC020N0001 OMNIBUS1 Funding Number: 80JSC020N0001 OMNIBUS1 Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA Johnson Space Center Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $150,000 |
| 2020 HERO Appendix A: NASA Research and Technology Development to Support Crew Health and Performance in Space Exploration Missions Apply for 80JSC020N0001 FLAGSHIP Funding Number: 80JSC020N0001 FLAGSHIP Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA Johnson Space Center Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $1,200,000 |
| Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Great Basin CESU Apply for G20AS00133 Funding Number: G20AS00133 Agency: Department of the Interior, U. S. Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $20,000 |
| Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Southern Appalachian CESU Apply for G20AS00132 Funding Number: G20AS00132 Agency: Department of the Interior, U. S. Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $133,629 |
| Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) Research Initiation Initiative Apply for 20 593 Funding Number: 20 593 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $175,000 |
| Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Rocky Mountain CESU Apply for G20AS00135 Funding Number: G20AS00135 Agency: Department of the Interior, U. S. Geological Survey Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $47,000 |
| Water Reclamation and Reuse Research Projects Apply for BOR DO 20 F009 Funding Number: BOR DO 20 F009 Agency: Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $750,000 |
| Community Instruments and Facilities Apply for 20 596 Funding Number: 20 596 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $1,250,000 |
| Innovations in Graduate Education (IGE) Program Apply for 20 595 Funding Number: 20 595 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $500,000 |
| Computational and Data-Enabled Science and Engineering in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences Apply for PD 20 8069 Funding Number: PD 20 8069 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $1,000,000 |
| 2020 DHS SLA for Minority Serving Institutions Apply for DHS 20 ST 062 001 Funding Number: DHS 20 ST 062 001 Agency: Department of Homeland Security, Office of Procurement Operations - Grants Division Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: $470,000 |
| International Research Experiences for Students Apply for 20 598 Funding Number: 20 598 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
| Plasma Physics Apply for PD 20 1242 Funding Number: PD 20 1242 Agency: National Science Foundation Category: Science and Technology and other Research and Development Funding Amount: Case Dependent |
Grant application guides and resources
It is always free to apply for government grants. However the process may be very complex depending on the funding opportunity you are applying for. Let us help you!
Apply for Grants
Inside Our Applicants Portal
Access Applicants Portal
- Grants Repository - Access current and historic funding opportunities with ease. Thousands of funding opportunities are published every week. We can help you sort through the database and find the eligible ones to apply for.
- Applicant Video Guides - The grant application process can be challenging to follow. We can help you with intuitive video guides to speed up the process and eliminate errors in submissions.
- Grant Proposal Wizard - We have developed a network of private funding organizations and investors across the United States. We can reach out and submit your proposal to these contacts to maximize your chances of getting the funding you need.
Premium leads for funding administrators, grant writers, and loan issuers
Thousands of people visit our website for their funding needs every day. When a user creates a grant proposal and files for submission, we pass the information on to funding administrators, grant writers, and government loan issuers.
If you manage government grant programs, provide grant writing services, or issue personal or government loans, we can help you reach your audience.
Learn More
Request more information:
Would you like to learn more about this funding opportunity, similar opportunities to "STX 100 FY20 003", eligibility, application service, and/or application tips? Submit an inquiry below:
Don't forget to subscribe to our grant alerts mailing list to receive weekly alerts on new and updated grant funding opportunities like this one in your email.