The Tribal Self-Governance Negotiation Cooperative Agreement Program is designed to assist federally recognized Indian Tribes and Tribal Organizations in covering costs associated with negotiating entry into the Tribal Self-Governance Program (TSGP). The TSGP allows Tribes to assume control over Programs, Services, Functions, and Activities (PSFAs) that would otherwise be managed by the Indian Health Service (IHS), providing them with greater autonomy to tailor healthcare services to the specific needs of their communities. This cooperative agreement supports the negotiation process, ensuring that Tribes can effectively prepare for and engage in discussions with the federal government regarding self-governance agreements.

Eligibility for this funding opportunity is restricted to federally recognized Indian Tribes, as defined by 25 U.S.C. 1603(14), and Tribal Organizations, as defined by 25 U.S.C. 1603(26). Applicants must demonstrate approval from each Indian Tribe they intend to serve through a Tribal Resolution or an equivalent official action. Additionally, applicants must show a history of financial stability and sound fiscal management over the previous three consecutive fiscal years. Tribes subject to the Alaska Moratorium under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA) are not eligible to apply. Notably, individual applicants, sole proprietorships, and foreign organizations are also ineligible.

The total expected program funding for this opportunity is $252,000, with an anticipated three awards of $84,000 each. Funding is limited to one-year project periods, and applicants may only receive one cooperative agreement under this announcement. The funding can be used to cover costs associated with the planning and negotiation process, including legal and budgetary research, administrative preparations, and direct negotiation expenses. The grant does not require cost-sharing, but any voluntarily committed funds must be reported.

Applications must include a project abstract, a 10-page project narrative, a five-page budget narrative, and supporting documentation such as a Tribal Resolution, work plan, indirect cost agreement (if applicable), biographical sketches, and audit documentation. The project narrative should address the need for assistance, project objectives, evaluation methods, organizational capacity, and a justification for budget expenses. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on February 19, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered unless an official waiver is granted due to extenuating circumstances.

Evaluation of applications will be conducted through a merit review process, where submissions will be assessed based on five criteria: introduction and need for assistance (25 points), project objectives and approach (25 points), program evaluation (25 points), organizational capabilities and key personnel (15 points), and budget narrative (10 points). In addition to the merit review, IHS will conduct a risk review to ensure the financial and managerial capability of applicants. Final award decisions will also consider geographic diversity, programmatic balance, and past performance of applicants in managing federal funds.

Successful applicants will receive a Notice of Award (NoA) through GrantSolutions, which serves as the official document outlining award terms and conditions. Post-award requirements include compliance with federal regulations, submission of performance and financial reports, and adherence to the terms specified in the NoA. Failure to comply with reporting requirements may result in suspension or termination of funding. For further assistance, applicants can contact the IHS Division of Grants Management or the designated program officer.