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["INSTRUCTIONS"]
[1,"All questions pertaining to this Funding Opportunity Announcement should be emailed to T2M@ee.doe.gov."]
[2,"All questions pertaining to EERE Exchange should be emailed to EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov. Include FOA name and number DE-FOA-0001703 in subject line."]
[3,"All questions and answers pertaining to this FOA will be posted on EERE Exchange within this spreadsheet."]
[4,"DOE will attempt to respond to a question within 3 business days, unless a similar question and answer has already been posted in this spreadsheet. "]
[5,"All questions should be submitted not later than 3 business days prior to the application due date. Questions submitted after this date will not be answered."]
[6,"Questions are assigned a number in accordance with when they are reviewed by DOE.  "]
[7,"Questions are assigned a topic area by DOE when reviewed."]
[]
["TIPS"]
[1,"Applicants may sort questions and answers in the question tab of this spreadhseet by selecting the drop-down box arrow on the column headers and selecting any of the listed attributes."]
[2,"Applicants may search for questions and/or keywords by holding CTRL+F on the keyboard and typing in a phrase or keyword."]

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["ADMINISTRATIVE QUESTION AND ANSWER LOG"]
["DE-FOA0001703 - Innovative Pathways"]
["Question #","Date Submitted","Topic","Question","Answer"]
[1,"2016-12-22","Eligibility","Can a DoD FFRDC be the lead for a proposal for this program?","Please see FOA Eligibility section III.A.ii. for non-DOE FFRDC eligibility information."]
[2,"2016-12-30","Technical Topics","I have an idea to prolong the life of batteries by reducing their Stress Charge-Discharge-Recharge Energy Gaps. It can also be used in complementary ideas of Hydrogen Production, and for that also I have ideas. Does this qualify for the potential grant?","Please see FOA Section I.B. Topic Areas/Technical Areas of Interest. The decision whether to submit a Letter of Intent and Full Application lies solely with the Applicant. DOE will not pre-screen proposal ideas before the Full Application review."]
[3,"2017-01-02","Technical Topics","Please advise if (our) framework would be of interest to T2M for deployment.","Please see FOA Section I.B. Topic Areas/Technical Areas of Interest and III.G Questions Regarding Eligibility. The decision whether to submit a Letter of Intent and Full Application lies solely with the Applicant. DOE will not pre-screen proposal ideas before the Full Application review."]
[4,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","I have few designs for generating energy, which can be consider innovative. I am wondering if your respective institution can adopt the designs to be applied on the ground.","Please see FOA Section I.B. Topic Areas/Technical Areas of Interest. The decision whether to submit a Letter of Intent and Full Application lies solely with the Applicant. DOE will not pre-screen proposal ideas before the Full Application review."]
[5,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Is there a hotline or Point of Contact that can assist with the application?","No, please refer to the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA). The document has a great deal of information in addition to the Applicant Webinar. In the interest of fairness, DOE cannot help one group more than any other. If you have general questions you can email the FOA inbox at T2M@ee.doe.gov."]
[6,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","If you already have a working prototype, is a CRADA still the only required option for the testing and analysis of scalable models?","It appears that this question is referring to a specific technology solution. The Innovative Pathways FOA is looking to fund new approaches that create more efficient pathways to market across clean energy technologies, rather than to fund a specific technology project directly. There are other funding opportunities on EERE Exchange that fund specific technology projects directly."]
[7,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Is software that does in-depth analysis and models financial viability of energy projects to fund asset-backed securities for underwriters of interest?","Please refer to the language in the FOA that emphasizes mechanisms of interest under Topic 2's Area of Interest. Mechanisms of interest will enable either conventional venture capital to participate in deals that they are not currently participating in, or enable new capital to take part in financial investments that are not occurring. DOE is looking to fund comprehensive solutions.  DOE would certainly consider a proposed solution that addresses the objectives of this FOA that incorporates a software tool.  Applicants must determine if their solution has the potential to generate outcomes of interest to EERE."]
[8,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","When you use the term \"stress-test\" does this imply something other than program evaluation?","Yes, the term \"stress-test\" does imply something other than program evaluation.  This term indicates that applicants should design a process that will allow the applicant and external partners to evaluate whether or not a model is viable after initial modeling or testing in Phase 1. At the end of year one, applicants should have determined if their idea was successful or not. EERE is only interested in funding ideas that have the ability to be proven untenable. Additionally, applicants are expected to present the background, testing, and data and partner testimonials that prove or disprove the viability of a model."]
[9,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Can applicants test the proposed model on an existing DOE funded program in Phase 1?","Applicants could test the proposed model on DOE-funded projects if they are implementing some new aspect to the DOE-funded work. EERE is not looking for independent evaluations of current programs that are already underway and funded by DOE.  However, if applicants have an addition or a modification to a program that is currently or previously supported by DOE, and the application proposes to augment that program in some meaningful and novel way that could contribute to the FOA goals, that could potentially be of interest."]
[10,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Based upon the FOA, travel will be large expense burden, is there a maximum percentage of travel that is capped?","There is not a cap on travel expenses. All expenses must be reasonable, allowable under 2 CFR 200, and allocable to the project. Recipients may be required to provide invoices/receipts for all travel. Foreign travel costs are not allowable under this FOA."]
[11,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","What will be the split of awards between Topic 1 and 2? How many proposals will be selected for each Topic?","There is currently no planned split between Topics 1 and 2. The split will be determined based on the merit of the proposals that are received. EERE is open to any number of awards spread across Topics 1 and 2. For additional information, please refer to the Award Overview section II.A.i. Estimated Funding."]
[12,"2017-01-04","Eligibility","Is there a set number of applicants that are to be awarded or is it a free-for-all?","EERE anticipates making approximately seven Phase 1 awards under this FOA, with the expectation that up to three of the original Phase 1 awards will continue into a second-year Phase 2 project. Additionally, EERE may issue one, multiple, or no awards. Please refer to the Award Overview section II.A.i. Estimated Funding for further information."]
[13,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Is it possible to submit an application with components which are conditional upon making it to Phase 2?","Yes, and applicants are requested to provide a full vision for Phase 1 and Phase 2 in their Full Application. Phase 1 should entail testing and/or verification of the model, and Phase 2 should entail full implementation of the model (assuming the model was tested and verified successfully in Phase 1). Details of a model may change as applicants learn throughout execution of Phase 1. "]
[14,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","How long do applicants have to run the first year \"experiment\" before you want to review results?","Approximately one year after awards are made, each of the pilot projects will undergo a continuation review. This review will evaluate whether or not the model was tested and the results, as well as the potential for impact if the project were to continue for a second year at a budget level of up to an additional $700,000. Please refer to Award Administration Information section VI.C. Program Down-Select for further information."]
[15,"2017-01-04","Cost Sharing","Can existing funding for an existing program which is used to support start-up companies for energy technology be used as Cost Share?","Please refer to FOA section III.B. Cost Sharing. Note that Federal funding may not be used as Cost Share."]
[16,"2017-01-04","Cost Sharing","Can DOE funds be used to invest in companies? Can non-DOE cost share be used to invest in companies?","DOE funds and recipient cost share funds included in the project budget may not be used for direct equity investment in companies. If the funds from an equity investment are expended on allowable activities, such expenditure of funds may be considered as cost share.   DOE encourages applicants to use outside, non-project funds for investment in companies in order to test new models. Program policy factors related to industry involvement and impact of funding may be considered during the review process to value such contributions. External funds solely attributed to equity investment in companies would be outside the official project budget, but could be described in the Full Application and included in project metrics."]
[17,"2017-01-04","Cost Sharing","Is there any additional value in providing more than 20% Cost Share?","While there is no specific scoring criteria that addresses additional Cost Share, the program policy factor related to the impact of Federal funding could be applied in this case. For example, it may demonstrate strength in partnerships and greater return on EERE investment if applicants have other project participants that are willing to provide more Cost Share. "]
[18,"2017-01-04","Cost Sharing","Can Cost Share be \"in-kind\"?","Cost share can be in-kind as long as it meets the cost share requirements. Please refer to FOA section III.B.iii. Cost Share Types and Allowability."]
[19,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Can applicants submit a proposal to more than one DOE program for the same renewable technology?","Yes, this is allowed if applicants have a proposal that might apply to multiple Funding Opportunities. "]
[20,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Can a single entity apply for both Topics under this FOA?","Yes, a single entity can apply for both Topics under this FOA. Please refer to the Eligibility Information sections III.A. Eligible Applicants and III.F. Limitation on Number Full Applications Eligible for Review for further information. "]
[21,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Would a company be an eligible applicant, if the company that is requesting the funds is also the same company that is pushing a new paradigm/process?","Yes, assuming other eligibility requirements are met.  Rather than funding individual technology solutions directly, EERE seeks to fund mechanisms that create more efficient pathways to market for clean energy technologies. "]
[22,"2017-01-04","Eligibility","Is it correct to state that no companies should be applying for this FOA?","Companies are welcome to apply as long as they meet the eligibility requirements and are proposing a mechanism that creates more efficient pathways to market for clean energy technologies. A company developing a single specific technology and seeking funds to commercialize that technology, should not apply to this funding opportunity."]
[23,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Can a company that is technology based receive funds? If a technology company cannot utilize the funds then what type of entity can receive the funds?  ","Companies are welcome to apply as long as they meet the eligibility requirements and are proposing a mechanism that creates more efficient pathways to market for clean energy technologies. This funding opportunity could result in technology companies utilizing the funds if the awardee has a mechanism for deploying these funds in a more efficient, productive, or cost-effective manner. This funding opportunity should test new approaches to overcoming common barriers facing all clean energy technologies. Please refer to the Funding Opportunity Description section I.B. Topic Areas/Technical Areas of Interest in the FOA document for multiple examples. "]
[24,"2017-01-04","Labs/FFRDCs","Can you confirm that FFRDCs participating will be direct funded from DOE on the project? ","Most FFRDCs would be funded directly from DOE, if FFRDCs participate in a selected project."]
[25,"2017-01-04","Labs/FFRDCs","For FFRCs: would innovations in tech transfer be considered responsive?  Can sustainable be considered self-sustaining within a national lab (i.e. the formation of a new Center/Program/Institute that give funding from private and new government sources?","It is not within the guidelines to comment if a specific idea is responsive or not, but the FOA was not intended to restrict applications from national laboratories. It is important to note that under this FOA, the goal is to create self-sustaining models outside of Federal funding."]
[26,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Is funding for both Phases covered in the FY17 appropriation?","Phase 1 funding is available under the approved FY16 budget. Funding for Phase 2 is subject to the availability of appropriated funds under the current FY17 continuing resolution and/or a final FY17 budget."]
[27,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Will the change of Presidential Administrations potentially affect this funding opportunity?","Funding for Phase 2 is subject to the availability of appropriated funds under the current FY17 continuing resolution and/or a final FY17 budget."]
[28,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Is there a risk that with the new Congress, funding will not be authorized for this opportunity?","Funding for Phase 2 is subject to the availability of appropriated funds under the current FY17 continuing resolution and/or a final FY17 budget."]
[29,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","For sustainability of the program, would ongoing local or state government support be a \"sustainable\" model or does it truly need to be privately supported after the 2 year period?","This funding opportunity seeks to build more viable pathways to market for clean energy technologies, which in many cases may require private sector support for long-term success. Therefore, this opportunity is not intended to create a product, organization, service, or other entity or item which requires continued government support. All projects must demonstrate the ability to be sustainable without Federal support after the two-year period. While there is no specific scoring criteria that addresses the nature of follow-on support, the program policy factor related to industry involvement could be applied in this case. Please refer to the Funding Opportunity Description section I.C. Applications Specifically Not of Interest for further information."]
[30,"2017-01-04","Cost Sharing","Can the investment be in non-U.S. companies if they are part of the model?","Foreign companies are eligible to apply to this FOA. This FOA will not invest Federal funds in specific companies. Non-Federal investor capital may be deployed to U.S. or non-U.S. startups; however, non-Federal capital invested in companies for equity is not allowable as cost share. New investment models must be applicable to the U.S. market to be eligible."]
[31,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Will LOI's get feedback (encourage/discourage?) prior to the Full Application submission? If so when will the feedback be provided?","No, feedback will not be provided on Letters of Intent (LOIs) to guide whether or not an application should be submitted. The LOI is not the same as a concept paper that is either encouraged or discouraged, which is sometimes employed by other EERE funding opportunities. The primary use of the LOI is to allow EERE to formulate an efficient merit review process. The decision is fully with the applicant, after submitting an LOI, whether or not to submit a Full Application. The Letter of Intent requirement was removed in FOA modification 000002 on 1/18/2017. LOIs are no longer required; only a Full Application is required by 2/15/2017."]
[32,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","If the LOI description evolves somewhat before the Full Application is submitted, is this okay? How closely must the full application match the LOI?","The LOI information will primarily be used to help identify reviewers and understand the volume of applications that are expected. While some changes to fields of the LOI are allowed, such as Project Title, details of the abstract, and teaming partners, EERE expects that applicants will not completely change their application. The Letter of Intent requirement was removed in FOA modification 000002 on 1/18/2017. LOIs are no longer required; only a Full Application is required by 2/15/2017."]
[33,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Did you say you need to submit a LOI for each application submitted?","Applicants are eligible to submit one Full Application per Topic as a Prime Applicant. The Letter of Intent requirement was removed in FOA modification 000002 on 1/18/2017. LOIs are no longer required; only a Full Application is required by 2/15/2017."]
[34,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","How is this funding opportunity differentiated from the recent Technology Commercialization Fund proposal call?","The Technology Commercialization Fund funds the maturation or commercialization of individual technology solutions, on a project-by-project basis. The Innovative Pathways funding opportunity is not intended to fund individual technology solutions directly. Rather than funding individual technology solutions directly, EERE seeks to fund mechanisms that create more efficient pathways to market for clean energy technologies.  "]
[35,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Given that the award is made in September 2017 and there is a review process for the down selection, when do you expect to do the reviews for the down selection? When would you have to have results ready for that review process?","The review process for the down selection is expected to begin in September 2018. "]
[36,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","How do applicants stress-test the model without funding specific technologies?  Is this where leveraging existing T2M projects comes into play?","This funding opportunity could result in technology companies utilizing the funds indirectly, if the purpose is to test a more efficient, productive, cost-effective, or otherwise improved way to deploy or utilize funds en route to market. This FOA is primarily intended to test new approaches to overcoming common barriers facing all clean energy technologies. Applicants must clearly describe the novelty of the proposed approach. EERE is only interested in funding ideas that have the ability to be proven untenable. Applicants must determine how best to stress-test their own model in order to provide a clear answer on whether the proposed model is viable."]
[37,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Will the measurement of success be Investment or Return on Investment?","The measurement of success is the extent to which proposed models demonstrate the ability to unlock significant additional capital and/or improve the way in which clean energy technologies achieve market entry. Please refer to the Application Review Information section V.A. Application Review Criteria for further information."]
[38,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","What is the typical turnaround time to be matched with a partner?","EERE is not making any matches among partners and EERE is not attesting to the quality or viability of any individual partner. It is up to applicants to reach out directly to the teaming partners listed if they are interested in collaborating on a proposal. Please refer to the Teaming Partner List subsection of the Funding Opportunity Description section I.A. Description/Background for further information."]
[39,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Where is the link to submit your name as a potential partner?","Any organization that would like to be included on the teaming partner list should submit the information provided in the Teaming Partner List subsection of the Funding Opportunity Description section I.A. Description/Background to T2M@ee.doe.gov with the subject line “Teaming Partner Information.”"]
[40,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","How specifically do you define \"energy industry\"? Does it include companies that are developing energy efficiency measures for, say, the built environment?","“Energy industry” is defined broadly in this funding opportunity. It includes adopters, customers, and any entity along the energy industry value chain that is necessary to integrate a new solution into the overall energy system, such as manufacturers, strategic partners, suppliers, distributors, customer channel partners, etc. The relevant industry partner(s) for any one particular proposal would depend on the model being proposed. "]
[41,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Does the scope of investment include Angel to Venture Capital or only Venture Capital?","The definition of investors is defined broadly in this funding opportunity. We endeavor to use the term 'capital provider' to emphasize that EERE is not interested in any one type of investor, but rather in the amount of capital flowing into the sector. All types of investors are of interest. The goal is to either render investment deals more viable for capital providers, and/or to identify and unlock new sources of capital for whom existing investment deals are viable."]
[42,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Could you please explain how your office sees \"clean energy\"? Does water sustainability count?","This FOA is limited to funding efforts that will support EERE-relevant technology areas. Applicants should refer to the EERE website to learn more about the technology sectors represented under this portfolio. Water sustainability is often relevant as it relates to power generation, manufacturing, and other water-intensive processes that dovetail with energy production and use. "]
[43,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Can you give examples of \"new capital sources\" that have emerged to replace older sources (VCs, etc.)? These would seem to be the target for sustained support after Phase 2. ","It is up to applicants to determine what should be the target for sustained support. The FOA includes direct language and citations providing examples of new capital sources. They include philanthropic foundations, high net worth individuals, family offices, sovereign wealth funds, insurance pension funds, and other entities that have not traditionally invested in this arena but have been identified as potential participants by external practitioners. EERE is looking for applications that can convert this interest and potential into action through new financial mechanisms. "]
[44,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","What resource mechanisms have been tested in the past and failed? Is there a lessons learned publication? ","EERE released a Request for Information to the innovation community at large that asked this question. A short summary of the responses is contained within the FOA. A longer version of this document, which will more directly address this question, will be published on or around January 15. This document will be uploaded to EERE Exchange along with the rest of the relevant documents to the FOA.  "]
[45,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Could you expand on the expectation for future private sector adoption, especially for Topic 2? Does this mean the model must be profitable, or that it can stand on its own without further government support, for example as a non-profit?","The FOA intends to fund projects that demonstrate the ability to be sustainable without Federal support after the two-year period. EERE is not setting metrics for profitability, but rather for sustainability. In certain cases, especially when considering private-sector support, demonstration of profitability may be necessary for sustainability. However, applicants are encouraged to explore alternate routes to sustainability. "]
[46,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","How does EERE envision testing a model/mechanism without investment in companies (say, in a portfolio) or a loan (to test a financial instrument)?","This funding opportunity could result in the awardee supporting technology companies if the purpose is to test a more efficient, productive, cost-effective, or otherwise improved way to deploy or utilize funds en route to market. However, DOE funds and recipient cost share funds included in the project budget may not be used for direct equity investment in companies. DOE encourages applicants to use outside, non-project funds for direct equity investment in companies in order to test new models. Program policy factors related to industry involvement and impact of funding may be considered during the review process to value such contributions. External funds solely attributed to equity investment in companies would be outside the official project budget, but could be described in the Full Application and included in project metrics. Alternately, in certain cases models or mechanisms could be tested without equity investments either through financial modeling or via other demonstrated commitments from investment or industry partners."]
[47,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","If no dollars are to be spent for a specific project, what would the incentive for the investors be to put in their time?","Please note that this funding opportunity could result in supporting technology projects indirectly if the purpose is to test a more efficient, productive, cost-effective, or otherwise improved way to deploy or utilize funds en route to market. Applicants must determine how to best incentivize engagement from practitioners such as investors or industry partners. "]
[48,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Can an applicant submit a proposal as a prime for each Topic Area?","Applicants may only submit one Full Application for each Topic of this FOA. This limitation does not prohibit an applicant from collaborating on other applications (e.g., as a potential Sub-recipient or partner) so long as the entity is only listed as the prime applicant on one Full Application per Topic. Please refer to Eligibility Information sections III.A. Eligible Applicants and III.F. Limitation on Number of Full Applications Eligible for Review for further information."]
[49,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Can you give examples for some models that would be relevant for Topics 1 and 2?","Applicants should refer to the list of examples provided within the FOA document in the Funding opportunity Description section I.B. Topic Areas/Technical Areas of Interest for several examples under Topics 1 and 2. "]
[50,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Would a proposal that seeks to align project resource (energy assessment or renewable assessment auditors), project funding resource alignment, community-based marketing outreach resources, and prequalified contractors (construction phase) be considered under Topic 2?","EERE is interested in supporting new models that optimize access to the capital and physical resources needed to develop technologies into products. If the proposed alignment achieves these objectives, it is potentially of interest for this funding opportunity. "]
[51,"2017-01-04","Technical Topics","Can you please give an example of what you would consider an excellent metric out of a program that addresses Topic 1?","An example of an excellent metric for Topic 1 would be licensing, joint development agreements, or investment agreements between startups and corporate partners as a direct result of programmatic activities. "]
[52,"2017-01-04","Webinar","Is the Applicant Webinar presentation available to download and where will it be posted?","Yes, the Applicant Webinar presentation and questions and answers are available on EERE Exchange for download. The Applicant Webinar is available on Exchange in the Documents section listed under this FOA, which can be accessed at: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx?Search=DE-FOA-0001703&SearchType="]
[53,"2017-01-04","Webinar","When will the Applicant Webinar presentation slides be available?","The Applicant Webinar slides are currently available on Exchange in the Documents section listed under this FOA, which can be accessed at: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx?Search=DE-FOA-0001703&SearchType="]
[54,"2017-01-04","Webinar","Will a recording of this webinar be sent to participants? If not where will it be posted?","A transcript of the Applicant Webinar will be made available on Exchange in the Documents section listed under this FOA, which can be accessed at: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx?Search=DE-FOA-0001703&SearchType="]
[55,"2017-01-04","Webinar","Where can I find the questions I submitted in the Q&A section of the Applicant Webinar WebEx?","The Applicant Webinar questions submitted via the Chat and Q&A sections in WebEx during the Applicant Webinar can be found on Exchange in the Documents section listed under this FOA, which can be accessed at: https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/Default.aspx?Search=DE-FOA-0001703&SearchType="]
[56,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Are the funds able to provide no direct investment in any company or no investment in a company?","DOE funds and recipient cost share funds included in the project budget may not be used for direct equity investment in companies. If the funds from an equity investment are expended on allowable activities, such expenditure of funds may be considered as cost share.   DOE encourages applicants to use outside, non-project funds for investment in companies in order to test new models. Program policy factors related to industry involvement and impact of funding may be considered during the review process to value such contributions. External funds solely attributed to equity investment in companies would be outside the official project budget, but could be described in the Full Application and included in project metrics."]
[57,"2017-01-04","Application Content/Format","Could there be any direct investment from the Federal funds that would be provided in a specific company that is technology based? ","DOE funds and recipient cost share funds included in the project budget may not be used for direct equity investment in companies. If the funds from an equity investment are expended on allowable activities, such expenditure of funds may be considered as cost share.   DOE encourages applicants to use outside, non-project funds for investment in companies in order to test new models. Program policy factors related to industry involvement and impact of funding may be considered during the review process to value such contributions. External funds solely attributed to equity investment in companies would be outside the official project budget, but could be described in the Full Application and included in project metrics."]
[58,"2017-01-04","Cost Sharing","Can state funding be used for Cost Share?","Project teams may use funding or property received from state or local governments to meet the cost share requirement, so long as the funding was not provided to the state or local government by the Federal government. See FOA section III.B.iii. Cost Share Types and Allowability."]
[59,"2017-01-05","Webinar","We received the information on the Innovative Pathways FOA from the DOE and we would like to join the webinar on February 7, 2017 at 2:00pm ET. Can you please provide with the information on how to attend this webinar?","To register to attend this Webinar please go to EERE Exchange 'General Details' Description' under the FOA."]
[60,"2017-01-05","Technical Topics","(You've) emphasized the importance of stress testing the viability of the pilot methodology we would like to propose. We’d like clarity on what proving viability means. Does it mean seeing results, such as signed agreements between start-ups and corporate partners, or are you looking for milestone achievements along the way, such as due diligence being done, connection meetings occurring?","Applicants must propose a specific testable idea, and applicants must also propose a way to evaluate whether or not the idea will have been shown to be successful by the end of year one. In general, milestone achievements such as due diligence being conducted or connection meetings occurring would not qualify as strong proof of viability. EERE is only interested in funding ideas that have the ability to be proven untenable. It is up to the applicant to propose metrics for proof of viability. Some examples of proof of viability, depending on the model, could include financial results modeled, data collected, legal frameworks constructed, letters of commitment secured, and/or tangible commercialization outcomes achieved such as signed agreements between start-ups and corporate partners."]
[61,"2017-01-05","Technical Topics","Does testing the viability need to relate to the replicability of the model or just to the effectiveness in the initial year? In other words, is it the model that is being tested or the replicability/scale-ability potential?","Testing the viability relates to the effectiveness of the model in the initial year, not its replicability. Models should be inherently replicable in the case that they are proven to be successful, but there is no burden of proof for replicability as part of the scoring criteria."]
[62,"2017-01-05","Application Content/Format","I have been working on a project with clean cities and have a project in mind for my invention. I am hoping to get a little help in applying for a grant for vehicle innovations.  Please send anything you think would help.","Please see www.Grants.gov and EERE Exchange for all funding opportunity announcements."]
[63,"2017-01-06","Webinar","Would it be possible to obtain a video copy of the January 4 webinar used for the presentation, if such a copy exists and is available?","A video copy or transcript is not yet available at this time. A second Informational Webinar providing an overview of this FOA will be held February 7, 2017 at 2:00pm ET. To register to attend this Webinar, please see the link in the FOA general description above the FAQs spreadsheet."]
[64,"2017-01-06","Webinar","I found this link to the webinar's powerpoint.  Can you confirm this is in fact the presentation used during the January 4 webinar?","See \"Innovative_Pathways_FOA_Pre-Application_Webinar\" link under FOA Documents for the PowerPoint from the Informational Webinar held on January 4, 2017."]
[65,"2017-01-06","Eligibility","Is there any other information that we might have missed, outside of information provided on the site and the linked pages?","All of the information is available to applicants under DE-FOA-0001703 in EERE Exchange."]
[66,"2017-01-09","Eligibility","Are registered 501c3 non-profits eligible for funding?","Please see the FOA III. Eligibility Information, A. Eligible Applicants, ii. Domestic Entities. "]
[67,"2017-01-11","Technical Topics","I am looking for support to implement a project on construction and operation of a novel power plant to generate electricity and district heat/cooling  based on hydrogen.\n\n","Please see FOA Section I.B. Topic Areas/Technical Areas of Interest. The decision whether to submit a Letter of Intent and Full Application lies solely with the Applicant. DOE will not pre-screen proposal ideas before the Full Application review."]
[68,"2017-01-11","Technical Topics","We have an idea that we believe fits your needs and would like your opinion as to whether you think we should pursue this.","DOE will not pre-review applications prior to the Full Application due date. The decision whether to submit an application lies solely with the Applicant."]
[69,"2017-01-11","Registration Requirements","Do you have any templates for LOI's I can use, and where do I submit the letter?","Please see the FOA IV. Application and Submission Information, i. Letter of Intent Requirments for details on LOI requirements, and please see  IV. Application and Submission Information, A. Application Process and G. Submission Dates and Times on where/how to submit the LOI."]
[70,"2017-01-11","Application Content/Format","Will you please send us a list of partners interested in teaming for the proposal.","See the 'FOA Teaming Partner List' link under FOA Documents in EERE Exchange. "]
[71,"2017-01-12","Registration Requirements","We are wondering if there is a longer letter of intent requirement. Is the 200 word abstract the only place where we describe our product/idea or will we later be prompted to upload a PDF with a longer letter or concept paper?","Effective 1/18/2017, Letters of Intent are no longer required to apply to this Funding Opportunity Announcement. Please see IV. Application and Submission Information, C. Content and Form of the Full Application, i. Full Application Content Requirements."]
[72,"2017-01-12","Technical Topics","We are contacting your office, regarding a large waste to energy project. We currently have a  hedge fund committed to initial financing, we are seeking equity partners.","DOE will not pre-review applications prior to the Full Application due date. The decision whether to submit an application lies solely with the Applicant. Project budget funds may not be used to directly invest in company equity."]
[73,"2017-01-12","Application Content/Format","We’re seeking the actual application package as we don’t see it listed. ","Please see the FOA section IV., A. Application Process and G. Submission Dates and Times."]
[74,"2017-01-12","Technical Topics","I want to know if anything was submitted (for this FOA) and what is the plan on follow up. Can the RFI lead please contact me to discuss the findings from this project.","FOA applications are being accepted until February 15, 2017. Results of the selected Phase I projects may be made available beginning in early 2019, after the 1-year projects are completed in late 2018."]
[75,"2017-01-13","Due Dates","We have a question on the Due Dates checklist. Can we still submit for the grant if final registration for FedConnect and Grants.gov is after January 18th, but well before the February 15th Application Deadline?","Yes, Applicants may still submit Full Applications if FedConnect and (optional) Grants.gov registrations are still in progress."]
[76,"2017-01-13","Due Dates","Can I update the Abstract before the Letter of Intent (LOI) deadline on my current submission? Will the update to the abstract be reflected in the LOI evaluation?","Effective 1/18/2017, Letters of Intent are no longer required to apply to this Funding Opportunity Announcement, but are encouraged. "]
[77,"2017-01-18","Technical Topics","I am wondering whether our proposal can be considered for funding by the DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). A complete proposal will be submitted promptly if we are fundable by the EERE, and it is still possible to submit a letter of intent.","DOE will not pre-review applications prior to the Full Application due date. The decision whether to submit an application lies solely with the Applicant. Effective 1/18/2017, Letters of Intent are no longer required to apply to this Funding Opportunity Announcement. "]
[78,"2017-01-18","Application Content/Format","I have spent several hours attempting to submit the attached LOI for DE-FOA-0001703. What are my options for resolving this error?","Effective 1/18/2017, Letters of Intent are no longer required to apply to this Funding Opportunity Announcement. "]
[79,"2017-01-18","Application Content/Format","Although Letters of Intent are no longer required, would it still be good to submit one for internal review and to give you an idea of our project?","Letters of Intent are encouraged, but not required."]
[80,"2017-01-18","Application Content/Format","Has the requirement for Letters of Intent for this program been completely dropped?","Letters of Intent are encouraged, but not required."]
[81,"2017-01-18","Registration Requirements","Using my own EERE Exchange submittal page, I have submitted two LOIs, one for each topic area. Am I allowed to submit a second LOI using my EERE Exchange account in one of the topic areas, but listing a separate organization as lead? ","Letters of Intent are encouraged, but not required. Please email EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov regarding your Exchange account question. "]
[82,"2017-01-18","Application Content/Format","I am having issues with modifying our submitted Letter of Intent (LOI) to DE-FOA-0001703. I do not appear to have access to the LOI to make modification; I only have access to the Full Application section. The deadline for submission of the LOI is 3PM (Eastern) today, so I am on a tight deadline.  ","Effective 1/18/2017, Letters of Intent are no longer required to apply to this Funding Opportunity Announcement, but are encouraged. Please email EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov regarding your issues with accessing the Letter of Intent within the FOA on Exchange. "]
[83,"2017-01-18","Application Content/Format","I have registered (our organization) on a few of the mandatory sites and received our DUNS and SAM PIN numbers, but I am unable to get into all the sites to finish the registration process. ","Please contact each respective site that you are having issues with via the links provided at III. Eligibility Information, C. Compliance Criteria in the FOA. "]
[84,"2017-01-20","Webinar","My manager would like to attend the Information Webinar for the Innovative Pathways FOA on February 7, 2017 at 2:00pm ET.  Can you please send me the login in information for this webinar or let me know where I would be able to find it.","To register to attend this Webinar please go to the February 7th Webinar Registration Link in EERE Exchange under the FOA DE-FOA-0001703."]
[85,"2017-01-20","Cost Sharing","In reference to the term “Lead Organization Percent of Effort.” Does this refer to Effort under the EERE funding or Total Effort including the 20% cost share?","The Letter of Intent is no longer required. The “Lead Organization Percent of Effort.” referred to total effort on the project."]
[86,"2017-01-23","Due Dates","While going through the document explaining the opportunity in detail, we came across the checklist for full applications on page 35. Here it is mentioned that the due date for obtaining the DUNS number and SAM registration, FedConnect registration and Grants.gov registration was January 18th. We have not obtained any of these registrations to date. Are we eligible to submit the full application as long as we obtain these prior to the date of the submission of the full application?","Yes, Applicants may still submit a Full Applications if SAM, FedConnect, DUNS Number (Registration can take up to 2 weeks), and (optional) Grants.gov registrations are still in progress."]
[87,"2017-01-27","Application Content/Format","1. We submitted a Letter of Intent (the opportunity has since been modified to specify LOI are not required). Are we required to still submit under the topic we listed in the LOI, or are we able to address another topic?\n2. If we submit one application that addresses both Topic 1 and 2, are they reviewed by the same criteria as those with one focus, or is there a separate criteria used for joint topic focus?\n","Since the Letter of Intent requirement has been removed, Applicants who may have submitted a Letter of Intent for a Topic Area may instead address a different Topic Area in their Full Application. Each application will be reviewed according to the defined criteria for the Topic Area under which the application is submitted; there is no separate criteria for applications with a \"joint topic\" focus."]
[88,"2017-01-30","Application Content/Format","We cannot find the following documents required by this FOA: \n1. Nondisclosure and confidentiality agreement\n2. Authorization from cognizant Contracting Officer for FFRDC, if applicable\n","FOA modification 000003 on 1/26/2017 deleted the Nondisclosure and confidentiality agreement requirement for applicants. The Authorization from the cognizant Contracting Officer for FFRDC, if aplicable, does not have a template form; the Authorization can be in the form of a formal letter on letterhead signed by the FFRDC's cognizant Contracting Officer."]
[89,"2017-01-31","Cost Sharing","Are subrecipients also responsible for securing cost share, or is that just the responsibility of prime recipients?","Per FOA section III.B. \"Cost Sharing,\" the cost share must be at least 20% of the total allowable project costs and must come from non-federal sources. Cost share may be provided by the prime recipient and/or subrecipients. Although the cost share requirement applies to the project as a whole, including work performed by members of the project team other than the Prime Recipient, the Prime Recipient is legally responsible for paying the entire cost share."]
[90,"2017-02-01","Application Content/Format","As initial funding is for Phase 1, should we prepare a budget just for one year at $300,000, or should we submit a budget including Phase 2, for a total of $1,000,000 over two years? ","The application Technical Volume Workplan section should include a high-level overview of the estimated project budget listing the first and second year budget estimates including federal share and recipient cost share, separated by teaming partners and high level activities (i.e., travel, contractual vendors, personnel time and costs, etc.). Applicants may propose budgets less than the maximum potential funding levels."]
[91,"2017-02-02","Application Content/Format","There are two types of registrations on SAM. One covering all procurement types, the second for grants and support. Is the latter sufficient for this FOA?","Yes, the latter should be sufficient for the FOA; however, applicants should contact SAM Support through the Federal Service Desk at www.fsd.gov or 1-866-606-8220 for assistance with SAM."]
[92,"2017-02-02","Application Content/Format","Can team assignments be altered after the letter of interest is submitted? That is: if we submitted a LOI with our organization as the prime, and in the full proposal, another organization would be prime, is that acceptable?","FOA modification 000002 on 1/18/2017 deleted the Letter of Intent (LOI) requirement for applicants. The organization listed as the Prime applicant on the Full Application will be considered."]
[93,"2017-02-03","Technical Topics","1. Are regional or geographically focused efforts of interest for this FOA?\n2. Is a research project to diagnose the problems in the ecosystem and explore potential solutions, of interest for this FOA?\n","1. This FOA is not seeking regional-based approaches. New mechanisms or models should be tested with technology developers and startups of greatest interest to the market.\n2. DOE is not funding research projects under this FOA. The funding opportunity seeks novel mechanisms that address common structural challenges that face promising energy technologies on the pathway to market. \n"]
[94,"2017-02-03","Technical Topics","It is stated on page 16 of the FOA that applicants may apply with concepts outside of the areas of interest to EERE as highlighted within the topic descriptions, if they are still within the scope of the overall topic: Technical Community and Industry Collaboration, and Lowering Barriers to Resource Access. I therefore wonder if applying with our idea would fall under concepts outside of the areas of interest to EERE as highlighted within the topic descriptions, but is still within the scope of the overall topic areas of Technical Community and Industry Collaboration, and Lowering Barriers to Resource Access.","DOE will not pre-review applications prior to the Full Application due date. The decision whether to submit an application lies solely with the Applicant.  Please see FOA Section I.B. Topic Areas/Technical Areas of Interest."]
[95,"2017-02-03","Registration Requirements","We would like to apply for DE-FOA-0001703, but we are being prevented from logging into the EERE Exchange system. Is there any help you can offer?","If you have any technical problems with eXCHANGE, please send an email to EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov with the FOA name and number in the subject line."]
[96,"2017-02-06","Application Content/Format","Are you looking for a completed SF424 detailed budget for both years to be submitted in addition to the budget overview we will provide in the Technical Volume Workplan section? Or is it sufficient to provide an SF424 detailed budget of just the first year of funding? ","For the Full Application, It is sufficient to provide a high-level overview of the estimated total project budget listing the first and second year budget estimates together in the SF-424, as the document does not allow for separate budgets by years. The high-level overview separated by years will be provided in the Technical Volume Workplan section. If selected as an awardee, greater budget detail separated by year and task will be required."]
[97,"2017-02-07","Cost Sharing","1. Within the context of cost sharing (80 / 20 split), is coverage of the 20% by other funders (i.e. as opposed to by the lead organization) allowable?\n2. In relation to the 80% of project costs potentially coverable by this FOA, are there any limitations? For example, are indirect costs, such as overhead, program branding, administration, among others allowable?\n3. What is the anticipated date for project commencement? Based on information within the full FOA document, it looks like this would occur following the end of the negotiation period, which is targeted for completion in August 2017. Is this correct?\n4. Where other stakeholders are a key to the success of a proposed model, is there a period (i.e. between the application deadline and negotiation period) in which commitment by such stakeholders can be confirmed?\n5. What types of negotiation are expected during the negotiation period? In particular, does an organization's application represent any performance obligation if (1) mutually agreeable funding terms are for some reason not found between the applicant and funder or (2) key stakeholders are unwilling or uninterested in committing? \n6. Should the piloted models evidence potential to produce financially sustainable (i.e. fully market viable) financial instruments to overcome new clean energy technology commercialization barriers in year 1 and/or 2 of the award, would continued funding for the model producing such instruments be considered in any circumstance?\n7. Is an organization allowed to submit more than one application to the FOA?\n","1. Coverage of the 20% mimimum cost share requirement by other third-party funders (i.e. other than the lead organization) is allowable. However, the prime recipient is legally responsible for the entire required cost share.\n2. See 2 CFR 200 Subpart E \"Cost Principles\" at www.ecfr.gov for information on generally allowable costs under federal financial assistance.\n3. EERE anticipates making awards by September 30, 2017. \n4. Project team strength and viability will be examined during the Full Application Merit Review. If an award is made but the prime recipient is unable to complete required tasks within the approved project period, the award may be terminated.\n5. There is no performance obligation if award negotiations do not result in formal approval of an award by the DOE Contracting Officer.\n6. Awards under this FOA are limited to a maximum of two 1-year Phases/Budget Periods.\n7. Organizations are allowed to submit one application per Topic Area under this FOA.\n"]
[98,"2017-02-08","Application Content/Format","1. Will the webinar be rescheduled?\n2. There are no separate, detailed, budget forms that need to be submitted? All that is needed is a high level budget overview in the workplan?\n3. No current and pending support or biosketch documents are needed for the Principal Investigator?\n","1. EERE has rescheduled the Feb. 7 webinar to Friday, Feb. 10 at 1:30 ET. A new registration link has been posted under the FOA in EERE Exchange.\n2. No separate, detailed, budget forms need to be submitted with the Full Application. As stated in FOA section IV.C.ii. \"Technical Volume,\" a high level budget overview in the workplan is required.\n3. See FOA section IV.C.ii. \"Technical Volume\" for resume requirements.\n"]
[99,"2017-02-08","Cost Sharing","When should respondents make known the prior-incurred expenses for which they would like to receive cost-share credit?  During award negotiations?","Costs incurred before an award is formally approved by the Contracting Officer generally are not allowable project costs, whether federal share or cost share. Applicants selected for award negotiations may request prior written approval of pre-award costs incurred after the date of formal selection for award negotiations and up to 90 days prior to formal award approval by the Contracting Officer. See also 2 CFR 200.458 \"Pre-award costs\" at www.ecfr.gov."]
[100,"2017-02-08","Technical Topics","Do proposers under FOA 0001703, Innovative Pathways, need to select one topic area under which to apply, or can a single application be made that addresses both topic areas?","Applicants must select one Topic Area to which they submit an application. Each application will be reviewed according to the defined criteria for the Topic Area under which the application is submitted; there is no separate criteria for applications with a \"joint topic\" focus."]
[101,"2017-02-09","Application Reviews","If an award is made (with or without negotiation) is there a period in which the lead organization has the option to accept or reject the award?\n\n","Selection notification starts a negotiation process. An award is not final until the Contracting Officer formally electronically approves an award, and the recipient acknowledges the award in FedConnect. Please see FOA section VI.A.iii. \"Successful Applicants\" for more information. "]
[102,"2017-02-09","Foreign Entities/Work","In relation to the geography in which work is carried out: If the lead organization is based in the US, but has offices outside of the US, would it be allowable for the lead organization to utilize some of its experts in other offices? If this is generally not allowable, would it be allowable to use experts based in other offices, if they perform the work while physically in the US?","All work under EERE funding agreements must be performed in the United States. There may be limited circumstances where it is in the interest of the project to perform a portion of the work outside the United States. To seek a waiver of the Performance of Work in the United States requirement, the applicant must submit an explicit waiver request in the Full Application. A separate waiver request must be submitted for each entity proposing performance of work outside of the United States. See FOA section III.A. iii. \"Foreign Entities,\" section IV.I.iii. \"Performance of Work in the United States,\" and Appendix C. "]
[103,"2017-02-09","Application Content/Format","\"Please find the attached files\" - A Concept Paper","All Applications must be submitted through EERE Exchange, and will not be accepted via the T2M email box. Concept papers are not required for this FOA."]
[104,"2017-02-09","Technical Topics","We are a team of inventors, entrepreneurs and business personnel. We have been making steady progress with our customer engagement. Our engagement has reached the stage of optimization and scale up. We have been looking for funds to further scale up and would like to discuss our collaboration and get your insight. ","DOE will not pre-review applications prior to the Full Application due date. The decision whether to submit an application lies solely with the Applicant. Project budget funds may not be used to directly invest in company equity. See FOA section I for Topic Areas/Technical Areas of interest, and applications specifically not of interest."]
[105,"2017-02-09","Technical Topics","Will there be a follow up/ similar proposal (to FOA-DE-0001703) later in the year?","EERE does not anticipate issuing another similar FOA in 2017. Current EERE funding opportunities can be found on the EERE Funding Opportunities Exchange website at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/ and at www.Grants.gov."]
[106,"2017-02-10","Technical Topics","1. The FOA envisions two topics and our model focuses on topic 2, but is heavily influenced by topic 1.  Is this OK and if we submit, should we simply submit it under topic 2?  This is our current plan.    \n2. The focus of our model is on clean technology applications, even though the initial model has been developed in the (a) device sector.  I am assuming that this appropriate.  If there are problems with this approach, please let me know.\n3. I understand the down-selection process from year 1 to 2; however, based on my reading of the FOA, you are requesting a full, 2 year proposal and this is what we will be submitting.  If there are problems with this approach please let me know.\n4. The FOA explicitly rules out proposals that request specific technology funding.  I understand this; however, in the second year of our proposal, should we be down-selected, we envision starting to implement the investment model which would include modest funds for seed investments.  If there are problems with this approach, please let me know.\n","1. Proposed mechanisms can relate to one or both topics. Applicants may only submit one Full Application for each Topic of this FOA. If you are submitting more than one Application, see further details in the FOA at III. Eligibility Information, F. Limitation on Number of Full Applications Eligible for Review.\n2. DOE will not pre-review applications prior to the Full Application due date. The decision whether to submit an application lies solely with the Applicant.\n3. In the application Technical Volume Workplan, the applicant should provide a detailed description of the project for the first and final years, including the activities, objectives, and outcomes that will be pursued during the project. The Technical Volume also should include a high-level overview of the estimated project budget listing the first and second year budget estimates including federal share and recipient cost share, separated by teaming partners and high level activities (i.e., travel, contractual vendors, personnel time and costs, etc.). Applicants may propose budgets less than the maximum potential funding levels.\n4. DOE funds and recipient cost share funds included in the project budget may not be used for direct equity investment in companies. If the funds from an equity investment outside the project budget are expended on allowable activities, such expenditure of funds may be considered as cost share.   DOE encourages applicants to use outside, non-project funds for investment in companies in order to test new models. Program policy factors related to industry involvement and impact of funding may be considered during the review process to value such contributions. External funds solely attributed to equity investment in companies would be outside the official project budget, but could be described in the Full Application and included in project metrics."]
[107,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Does Gantt chart count towards the Technical Volume page requirement? If we have included a project schedule that lists milestones, can the Gantt chart be included in Appendix?","Yes, as stated in Section IV.C.ii, the applicant should provide a project schedule (Gantt Chart or similar) for the entire two year period. A Gantt chart would be included in the page requirement."]
[108,"2017-02-10","Technical Topics","Can this DOE project complement an existing regional program that allows the best clean energy startups across multiple counties to be vetted?","This FOA is not seeking regionally based approaches. Reviewers will be advised to focus on opportunities that are available to innovators across the country, rather than opportunities that are available to innovators in select geographies. "]
[109,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","For the detailed budget, are daily rates allowable or does EERE require cost plus method?","In the Workplan in the Technical Volume, Applicants need to submit a high-level overview of estimated project budget listing the first and second Year estimates, separated by teaming partners and high level activities (i.e., travel, vendors, staff time, etc.).  Financial assistance grants and cooperative agreements do not allow for cost-plus payments to recipients. Unlike federal contracts, financial assistance prime recipients are not allowed to earn fee or profit under an award. Actual expenses on selected projects may be verified by independent and/or federal audits."]
[110,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Do applicants need to attach any additional documents to the SF-424?","No attachments are required to supplement the SF-424 Application form itself."]
[111,"2017-02-10","Technical Topics","When you stated you will not accept approaches that involve pre-selected startups, would that mean that any program used to complement this project would be disqualified?","No. We are interested in seeing an approach that is being tested with solutions of highest interest to the market, without additional constraints being put on top of that such as regional or organizational affiliation. It is alright if the proposed approach complements another program, but the applicant would have to demonstrate that the other program meets the criteria of no additional constraints."]
[112,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","As all the resumes and letters of support are part of a single PDF included with the Technical Volume. Will the resumes and letters of support be included within the 7 page limit?","No; as stated in FOA section IV.C.ii. in the table under Technical Qualifications and Resources. Resumes do not count towards the page limit, but are limited to one page each. Multi-page resumes are not allowed."]
[113,"2017-02-10","Technical Topics","Would you consider bringing solutions to local communities as part of the market?","If one outcome of the proposed mechanism is to increase the deployment of solutions to local communities, that potentially could be of interest. However, note that we are looking for new ways for technologies to reach the market, not just an increase in volume. Also, please note that activities focused exclusively on deployment are not under consideration for this funding opportunity. "]
[114,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","What kind of information are you looking for on the resume?","Resumes should include relevant professional work, education, associations, and activities."]
[115,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Does the budget need to be broken down by task?","As stated in FOA section IV.C.ii., a high-level overview of estimated project budget is needed in the Workplan, listing the first and second year estimates separated by teaming partners and high level activities (i.e., travel, vendors, staff time, etc.)."]
[116,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Does this FOA have a competition identification number?","DE-FOA-0001703."]
[117,"2017-02-10","Webinar","When will the webinar presentation be uploaded to EERE Exchange?","The February webinar presentation has been uploaded to EERE Exchange and can be found in the FOA Documents section of the FOA."]
[118,"2017-02-10","Technical Topics","How explicit should the testable hypothesis be in the application?","The testable hypothesis should be as explicit and clear as possible. Applicants should state a clear solution to a problem that was outlined in the FOA and tell us exactly how you will know whether that solution is a workable one or not. You will be reviewed in part based on the specificity of the hypothesis in the application.  Note that we are not looking to fund research to identify potential solutions; applicants should propose specific solutions that are ready to be built and tested. "]
[119,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Where can I find the up-to-date SF-424? ","An updated SF-424 document form has been uploaded to the FOA Required Application Documents section in EERE Exchange."]
[120,"2017-02-10","Technical Topics","As noted in the webinar, concepts outside of the areas of interest may be submitted if they are inclusive of the scope of the overall topics. Will they be given equal consideration as ideas within the areas of interest, or would topics within the area be prioritized?","All Topics across the broadly defined Topics 1 and 2 for all applications will be given equal consideration. EERE will consider any proposals that address one or both Topics. Please refer to the language in the FOA that discusses the topic areas for further information; see FOA Section I.B. Topic Areas/Technical Areas of Interest."]
[121,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Is it possible that all the awards would be made in only one topic?","It is possible awards could be made to just one topic. As stated in Section II.A.i., EERE may issue awards in one, both, or none of the Topic areas."]
[122,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Are resumes required to be in 11 point Times Roman font? Including Partner resumes?","As stated in Section IV.A., all pages must be formatted to fit on 8.5 x 11-inch paper with margins not less than one inch on every side. Use Times New Roman typeface, a black font color, and a font size or larger (except in figures or tables, which may be 9-point font)."]
[123,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Are applicants required to submit a SF-424A as well as the SF-424?","The SF424 Application is required, but the SF-424A Budget Information form is not required in the Full Application."]
[124,"2017-02-10","Technical Topics","Can an applicant design a solution in Year 1 and then implement in Year 2?","Yes, if the feasibility of the idea is fully tested in Year 1. We are not looking to fund research to identify potential solutions; applicants should propose specific solutions that are ready to be built and tested. Applicants should design a process that will allow the applicant and external partners to evaluate whether or not a model is viable after initial modeling or testing in Year 1. At the end of Year 1, applicants should have determined if their idea was successful or not and Year 2 would entail fuller implementation of the model (assuming the model was tested and verified successfully in Phase 1). Details of a model may change as applicants learn throughout execution of Year 1. "]
[125,"2017-02-10","Technical Topics","What does the term implementation mean?","Implementation means putting theory into practice. For instance, if an applicant proposes a new fund structure under Topic 2, implementation could entail the creation and execution of a small fund that reflects that structure. If an applicant proposes a new partnership structure under Topic 1, implementation could entail forging partnerships between specific innovators and corporate partners. "]
[126,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","In question 9 of the SF-424 Application, applicants are asked to identify applicant type. Should applicants identify the organization type of our partners in this question, or just the lead applicant?","Question 9, Type of Applicant 1, refers to the lead applicant, who will be the prime recipient if selected."]
[127,"2017-02-10","Technical Topics","Would you consider working with local organizations across the country as bringing solutions to the market?","If one outcome of the proposed mechanism is to increase the deployment of solutions to local communities, that could potentially be of interest. However, note that we are looking for new ways for technologies to reach the market, not just an increase in volume. Also, please note that activities focused exclusively on deployment are not under consideration for this funding opportunity. "]
[128,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","When will the Year 2 awards be decided and announced - in September 2018, or prior to September 2018? (We ask so that we can take the potential timing of the second round of funding into consideration as we build our workplan.)","EERE anticipates making initial awards for Year 1 by September 2017. After one year, each of the pilot projects will undergo a continuation review. Up to three of the pilot projects may be granted a one year project continuation. EERE anticipates making Year 2/Phase 2 awards during or around September 2018."]
[129,"2017-02-10","Assistance","Are there DOE coordinators that will assist startup applicants, unfamiliar with compliance, with the EERE application process?","Applicants may submit specific questions through the process described in the FOA, but DOE cannot assist individual applicants beyond the information provided to all applicants under the FOA in EERE Exchange. Applicants may also refer to the DOE Guide to Financial Assistance at https://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/GuidetoFinancialAssistance.pdf."]
[130,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Can you give the exact URL for the SF-424 on this webinar?","Go to the FOA DE-FOA-0001703 in EERE Exchange at https://eere-exchange.energy.gov/default.aspx#FoaIdb39cec84-4023-4e60-9356-08a840765ed0, then see the SF-424 Application form under the Required Applicants Documents section."]
[131,"2017-02-10","Technical Volume","Can applicants list organizations in the applications if they have only promised letters of support but not created the letters and submitted?","If you are not able to obtain letters of support by the due date you can still submit your application. You are welcome to list your intended partners however, intended partners will not be as strong as secured partners. "]
[132,"2017-02-10","Cost Share","If we have partners that will solely be providing their time as match, not receiving funds, do we need to account for the small percentage of their contributions in the overall percentage of contribution to the project section of the full application?","Project partners should be mentioned in the applications. All project costs, whether federal share or recipient/third-party cash or in-kind cost share, should be included in the project budget. "]
[133,"2017-02-10","Webinar","Will the transcript of the February 10 webinar be made available on EERE Exchange?","\"FOA Applicant Webinar Transcript February 10 2017,\" a transcript of the February 10 webinar, is now available on EERE Exchange under the FOA's Documents section."]
[134,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Is this FOA  the last FOA for this Year, or will we have similar FOA later around June August time frame?","EERE does not anticipate issuing another FOA on the same topic in 2017. For other open funding opportunities, please visit EERE Exchange and www.Grants.gov. "]
[135,"2017-02-10","Application Content/Format","Could a portion of the budget be dedicated to software programming or coding to support a platform that helps achieve the goals? ","Yes, a portion of the budget could be dedicated to software programming or coding if it is in line with the objectives laid out in the FOA.  Applicants must determine if their solution has the potential to generate outcomes of interest to EERE."]
[136,"2017-02-13","Eligibility","Our organization does not have a SAM number. Can we make application for the referenced FOA while our application for a SAM number is pending or are we foreclosed from applying under the FOA without the SAM number?\n","Yes, Applicants may still submit a Full Applications if SAM, FedConnect, DUNS Number (Registration can take up to 2 weeks), and (optional) Grants.gov registrations are still in progress. An award cannot be made until all required registrations are successfully completed."]
[137,"2017-02-14","Application Content/Format","1. For the section on Workplan, would the timing of the Q1 milestone start from August 2017 or another date?\n2. We are currently working on being able to deploy investments in second half of the year, and are therefore working actively to build towards that goal. Would you be interested in seeing our work only after the DOE funding potentially comes in or would you have any interest in learning about our progress leading up to deployment of capital?\n3. We have a couple advisors who would not be paid as they are our strategic partners. Do we need to get a Letter of Intent from them if they are not going to be receiving funding from DOE, directly or indirectly? I have clearly articulated their role in the response. \n","1. EERE anticipates making awards by August 2017. The overall work scope is to be divided by quarterly performance periods, including quarterly milestones, that are separated by a discrete decision point one year after the project starts. The Q1 quarterly milestone would begin at the start of the award.\n2. Applications may describe related activities prior to the proposed award project period, but should clearly delineate those from activities proposed for the award project period. Note, expenses incurred prior to award are ineligible for reimbursement with federal project funds and may not be counted as recipient cost share under the award, and project funds (whether federal funds or recipient cost share) may not be used for equity investments.\n3. Relevant partners (e.g., capital providers; industry and supply chain partners; and validation, testing, and manufacturing facilities) should be integrated into the proposed approach in a manner that guarantees their direct involvement. Include any letters of support from partners/end users as an appendix to the Technical Volume (1-page maximum per letter). If partners are providing third-party cash or in-kind cost share in the project budget, letters of commitment for that cost share must be provided in an appendix to the Technical Volume. Letters of support or third-party cost share commitment do not count toward the page limit."]
[138,"2017-02-14","Application Content/Format","1. Do the grant chart and project budget noted in the workplan section count against the page limit?                                                                                                                                                                                   2. Do they need to be in pdf format (attached to the Technical Volume) or uploaded separately in Excel format?","1. The Technical Volume to the Full Application may not be more than 7 pages, including the cover page, table of contents, and all citations, charts, graphs, maps, photos, or other graphics, and must include all of the information in the Technical Volume requirements table in the FOA. If applicants exceed the maximum page lengths indicated in the FOA, EERE will review only the authorized number of pages and disregard any additional pages.\n2. Each submission must be submitted in PDF format, unless stated otherwise."]
[139,"2017-02-15","Application Content/Format","When I upload my technical volume, the EERE Exchange upload renames my organization name to “LeadOrganization.” I have tried to upload the correct file name twice, but this happened both times.","The EERE Exchange system now has been edited to keep the Lead Organization’s actual name as entered in the Technical Volume file name, but it will only be effective for Technical Volumes submitted after 2/14/17. EERE will also accept Technical Volume submissions with “LeadOrganization” in the file name, because the application Control Number on the file name will identify the applicant. There is no need to resubmit a Technical Volume to correct the Lead Organization name. This is not an issue with the Summary Slide file names."]
[140,"2017-02-16","Application Content/Format","If the Letters of Support spill onto a second page, will either of the following happen:\n1. The application will be rejected\n2. The application will be negatively viewed and marked accordingly. \n","Although Letters of Support do not count toward the page limit, the required 1-page maximum per Letter still applies. The application will not be rejected for this specific fault, however, only one page of each Letter of Support will be considered. "]
[141,"2017-02-17","Application Content/Format","We had technical issues and were not able to post the Letter of Intent on the site. As a result, we do not have a Control Number for our application. Could you please help us get a Control Number?\n","1. The Letter of Intent requirement was deleted in FOA mod 000002 on 1/17/2017. \n\n2. As stated in FOA section IV.A. a control number will be issued when an applicant begins the Exchange Full Application process. This control number must be included with all Full Application documents.\n\n3. The EERE Funding Opportunity Exchange system assigns a Control Number to your submission when you do the following:\na. Log into the EERE Funding Opportunity Exchange website (register for an account if you do not already have one).\nb. Open the Funding Opportunity page.\nc. Locate the DE-FOA-0001703 funding opportunity announcement.\nd. Click on the “Apply” button.\ne. Complete the Full Application Details page. \nf. Click the “Create Full Application” button that is located at the bottom of the Full Application Details page.\n\nThe Exchange system will create an application record and assign a Control Number.  Once the Full Application submission deadline passes you will not be able to Apply or submit a full application in the Exchange system.\n"]
[142,"2017-02-17","Application Content/Format","On the Request for Federal Assistance form SF_424, how do we find out the answer to #19 \"State Review\" and how do we get a CRADA number?\n","Per FOA section IV.H. \"Intergovernmental Review,\" this Technology Office and FOA are not subject to Executive Order 12372. Select box c., \"Program is not covered by E.O. 12372.\" This FOA will result in cooperative agreements, not cooperative research and development agreements (CRADAs)."]
[143,"2017-02-17","Application Content/Format","The FOA says to submit the Technical Volume (and other forms) as *.doc or *.docx.  The online application requires them to be in *.pdf format.  Which is it?","The Technical Volume and SF-424 document types can be .pdf, .doc, or ,docx. EERE Exchange has been modified to accept al three of these file types."]
[144,"2017-02-21","Application Content/Format","Would the system allow me to modify the initial submissions if I changed anything in the next 12 hours?","Yes, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their Full Applications at least 48 hours in advance of the submission deadline. Under normal conditions (i.e., at least 48 hours in advance of the submission deadline), applicants should allow at least 1 hour to submit a Full Application. Once the Full Application is submitted in EERE Funding Opportunity Exchange, applicants may revise or update that submission until the expiration of the applicable deadline. If changes are made, the applicant must resubmit (by hitting the submit button again) the Full Application before the applicable deadline. EERE urges applicants to carefully review their Full Applications and to allow sufficient time for the submission of required information and documents. "]
[145,"2017-02-21","Application Content/Format","We’re trying to submit to the above Funding Opportunity and it won’t let us submit because a primary location isn’t selected.  However, the EERE Exchange form won’t let us enter a primary location. How do we correct this problem?","Please contact EERE Exchange at EERE-ExchangeSupport@hq.doe.gov for assistance. "]

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["Pick List"]
[]
["Registration Requirements"]
["Webinar"]
["Eligibility"]
["Labs/FFRDCs"]
["Foreign Entities/Work"]
["Cost Sharing"]
["Due Dates"]
["Application Content/Format"]
["Intellectual Property"]
["Data Management"]
["U.S. Manufacturing Plan"]
["Application Reviews"]
["Technical Topics"]