(a) Evaluation criteria. NIFA shall evaluate project proposals according to the following factors:
- (1) Relevancy.
- (2) Technical merit.
- (3) Achievability.
- (4) The expertise and track record of one or more applicants.
- (5) The adequacy of plans for the participatory evaluation process, outcome-based reporting, and the communication of findings and results beyond the immediate target audience.
- (6) Other appropriate factors, as determined by the Secretary.
- (b) Partnership and collaboration. In making awards under this subpart, NIFA shall give priority to partnerships and collaborations that are led by or include nongovernmental, and community-based organizations, and school-based agricultural educational organizations with expertise in new agricultural producer training and outreach.
- (c) Regional balance. In making awards under this subpart, NIFA shall, to the maximum extent practicable, ensure geographical diversity.
[74 FR 45970, Sept. 4, 2009, as amended at 81 FR 6415, Feb. 8, 2016]