The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering the FY24 Recovery Implementation funding opportunity to support the implementation of recovery actions for federally endangered and threatened species. The primary goal is to advance the recovery of these species by implementing high-priority actions outlined in recovery plans. Projects may include stabilizing species on the brink of extinction, improving habitat, conducting population surveys, removing threats, and other actions that directly contribute to achieving recovery milestones such as downlisting or delisting species from the Endangered Species Act (ESA) list.

The total funding available for this opportunity is $14,000,000, with individual awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,000,000. The award type can be either a grant or a cooperative agreement, where the latter involves active participation from the awarding agency in project activities. Awards are expected to be announced on a rolling basis starting February 28, 2024. The number of awards varies by region, reflecting regional priorities in endangered species conservation.

Eligibility for this funding is broad, including state and local governments, tribal governments, public housing authorities, non-profit organizations, for-profit entities, educational institutions, and individuals. Projects must not serve to satisfy regulatory requirements under the ESA or other federal permits. Additionally, land acquisition and easement purchases are not permitted under this funding opportunity. Although there is no cost-sharing requirement, projects that demonstrate leveraging of resources from partners are prioritized.

Applicants must submit a project narrative detailing the proposed activities, including the methodology, project objectives, timetable, and criteria for success. The narrative should also include information on project participants, their qualifications, and the project's potential contributions to recovery. Applications must be submitted by December 31, 2024, through Grants.gov or GrantSolutions, and it is encouraged that applicants consult with their local Ecological Services office before submission to ensure alignment with regional conservation priorities.

Projects will be evaluated based on their potential impact on species recovery, technical merit, qualification of the applicant, project costs, and the degree of partnership and cost-sharing. Scoring criteria are focused on the relevance and effectiveness of the proposed recovery actions, as well as the clarity and feasibility of the project's objectives and timeline. Projects that provide direct benefits to endangered species and leverage additional funding sources are given higher priority.

Award recipients will be required to comply with standard federal reporting and administrative requirements, including financial and performance reporting. They must also adhere to the Buy America requirements for infrastructure projects and ensure compliance with federal laws, including NEPA, NHPA, and ESA, among others. Final awards will be communicated through written notices, and projects will undergo continuous evaluation to ensure alignment with federal recovery objectives.