OpportunityTitle: New Era Rural Technology Competitive Grants Program (RTP)
AdditionalInformationOnEligibility: Applications may be submitted by either: (1) public or private nonprofit community colleges, or (2) advanced technological centers, either of which must:  a.be located in a rural area (see definition in Part VIII, E.);   b.have been in existence as of June 18, 2008;   c.participate in agricultural or bioenergy research and applied research;   d.have a proven record of development and implementation of programs to meet the needs of students, educators, and business and industry to supply the agriculture-based, renewable energy or pulp and paper manufacturing fields with certified technicians, as determined by the Secretary; and   e.have the ability to leverage existing partnerships and occupational outreach and training programs for secondary schools, 4-year institutions, and relevant nonprofit organizations.
Description: Purpose: The RTP will make grants available for technology development, applied research, and/or training, with a focus on rural communities, to aid in the development of a workforce for bioenergy, pulp and paper manufacturing, or agriculture-based renewable energy. Please refer to Part VIII (E) of this RFA for definitions relevant to this program. Priorities: The RTP shall give preference to eligible entities working in partnership within rural communities: &#149; to improve information-sharing capacity; &#149; to maximize the ability to meet the requirements of this RFA; &#149; to address Evaluation Criteria found in Part V. B. of this RFA; and &#149; to address the following two RTP Program Goals: 1. To increase the number of students encouraged to pursue and complete a 2-year postsecondary degree, or a certificate of completion, within an occupational focus of this grant program; and 2. To assist rural communities by helping students achieve their career goals to develop a viable workforce for bioenergy, pulp and paper manufacturing, or agriculture-based renewable energy.
GrantorContactEmailDescription: For questions regarding this RFA.
GrantorContactText: CSREES Help Desk  &lt;br/&gt;Phone: 202-401-5048  &lt;br/&gt;Business hours are M-F, 7:00 am -5:00 pm ET, &lt;br/&gt;