Eligibility
Can a Federal Employee apply for the grant?
No, federal employees cannot be the primary applicant, but can be a partner in a proposal.

Are projects outside the United States eligible for funding?
The Ernest F. Hollings Ocean Awareness Trust Fund grants are primarily focused on
domestic projects. For efforts in the Caribbean, see our grant announcement under White
Water to Blue Water.

Matching requirement
Can Federal funds be used for matching?
Yes, Federal funds may be used to meet the matching requirements.

Can in kind services be used to meet the matching requirement?
Yes.

Use of Funds
Can I use funds for salaries, overhead, etc.? Is there anything I cannot use funds for?
The proposal must include a budget that clearly identifies how funds will be spent. Funds
may be used to support salaries, overhead, conferences, travel, etc. However, overhead
costs should not exceed 25%. Funds may not be used to lobby or provide entertainment.

Application
Does my resume count as part of the 5 page limit for the project narrative?
No, resumes may be in addition to the 5 pages.

Do I need letters of support from partners?
Yes, letters of support will help reviewers confirm the participation of your partners, and
should be submitted with your proposal package.

Issues of Interest
Where can I find information on the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy?
The U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy final report can be found at
www.oceancommission.gov.

Where can I find information on the Administration’s response to the Ocean Commission
recommendations?
The Administration’s response is the U.S. Ocean Action Plan and can be found at
http://ocean.ceq.gov/actionplan.