The Department of the Interior (DOI) Experienced Services Program (ESP) offers funding through cooperative agreements to recruit skilled workers aged 55 and older for DOI projects. Administered by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and Budget, the program aims to enhance DOI’s operational capacity through partnerships with nonprofit organizations designated under Title V of the Older Americans Act. The FY25 funding opportunity, with an estimated $25 million in total funding, will award two master cooperative agreements, with task agreements ranging from $1 million to $5 million annually based on federal appropriations.

The program supports activities such as recruiting, screening, onboarding, and compensating older Americans to work on DOI initiatives, including infrastructure, safety, and environmental programs. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status and Secretary of Labor designation under the Older Americans Act. Applications must demonstrate organizational capacity for nationwide recruitment, past performance, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion in hiring.

Applications must include forms SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance), SF-424A (Budget Information), a project abstract, and a project narrative of no more than 20 pages. The budget narrative should outline estimated costs, indirect rates, and compliance with 2 CFR 200 cost principles. Submissions must address potential overlaps or duplications in funding and disclose conflicts of interest.

Proposals are evaluated through an eligibility review, merit review (50% weight on applicant capabilities, 30% on past performance, and 20% on risk management), and a comprehensive risk assessment. DOI staff may negotiate terms with selected applicants before finalizing awards. The initial review will determine eligibility based on compliance with requirements, with only qualified applications advancing for detailed evaluation.

Applications are due by December 2, 2024, via Grants.gov or email. Late submissions or incomplete packages will not be considered. Awards will be announced by January 16, 2025, with project start dates anticipated shortly thereafter. Recipients must comply with DOI reporting requirements, including financial and performance reports, and adhere to federal regulations on conflict of interest, lobbying disclosure, and transparency in subawards.

For technical or programmatic questions, applicants may contact the designated email (AQD_PMB_ESP@ibc.doi.gov) or refer to the Grants.gov help resources. The program also includes specific provisions for geospatial data compliance under the Geospatial Data Act of 2018 and guidelines for using federal systems like ASAP for payment processing.