This Notice of Funding Opportunity requests proposals for projects that support efforts to plan a response or deploy response measures to a new detection of a potentially invasive species. Response efforts must target an aquatic invasive species, defined as non-native plants or animals that reside in fresh, wetland, estuarine, or marine waters. A detailed list of Eligible Activities can be found in the Program Description subsection, which can be generalized as any activity that supports the planning or response to a confirmed detection of a recent invasion by an aquatic species. Activities outside this scope, including species identification, risk evaluation, or public outreach are not eligible for funding from this award. Projects to plan a response to a species that has not yet been detected in the area of concern are also not eligible. Funds cannot be used for long-term management, monitoring, or remediation.This award is open to Federal or state agencies, U.S. territory agencies, interstate organizations or Federally recognized Indian Tribal Governments or Native American Organizations. Non-federal applicants are strongly encouraged to apply though GrantSolutions, however, applications will also be accepted through Grants.gov. Federal applicants should submit their complete applications and applicable supplemental material to the Rapid Response Coordinator at anstaskforce@fws.gov" by the closing date for applications. (See SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES for further instruction).This Notice of Funding Opportunity will remain open until September 30, 2025, or until the Rapid Response Fund is depleted. Proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis and be evaluated on a quarterly basis:Proposals submitted from November 1, 2024 December 31, 2024, will be evaluated with an anticipated award date of February 15, 2025.Proposals submitted from January 1, 2025 March 31, 2025, will be evaluated with an anticipated award date of May 15, 2025.Proposals submitted from April 1, 2025 June 30, 2025, will be evaluated with an anticipated award date of August 15, 2025.Proposals submitted from July 1, 2025 September 30, 2025, will be evaluated with an anticipated award date of October 15, 2025.
