Complete Government Funding Package

Federal & State Grant Application
for Pulse For Good

A complete, copy-ready grant application covering every required section for HUD, HHS, SAMHSA, CDBG, ESG, and state department of housing funding. Fill in the bracketed fields and paste directly into your proposal.

HUD / CoC / ESG HHS / ACF / SAMHSA CDBG / HOME State Housing Depts 12 full sections
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How to use this application

Each section contains copy-ready language for a specific part of a government grant application. Blocks are labeled by funder type — use only the variants that match your grant. Replace every [bracketed field] with your organization's specifics before submitting. Sections follow the standard federal application flow (SF-424 cover, narrative, evaluation, budget, certifications). For state applications, align section headings to your RFP's required format.

Sections in this application
01
Applicant Organization Profile
SF-424 / cover page language
02
Executive Summary
Abstract & program overview
03
Statement of Need
Community need & gap analysis
04
Project Description & Program Design
Service delivery & feedback integration
05
Target Population & Eligibility
Participant definition & unduplicated count
06
Goals, Objectives & Performance Measures
SMART outcomes & GPRA/APR metrics
07
Evaluation Plan & Data Management
Data collection, HMIS, privacy
08
Organizational Capacity & Key Personnel
Staff qualifications & infrastructure
09
Partnerships & Community Coordination
MOU, CoC participation, referral networks
10
Budget Narrative & Cost Justification
Line-item justification, 2 CFR Part 200
11
Sustainability Plan
Long-term funding strategy
12
Certifications & Assurances Language
Civil rights, HIPAA, compliance
Section 01

Applicant Organization Profile

Use on the SF-424 cover form, grant portal application page, or any funder cover sheet. This language establishes organizational identity and positions Pulse For Good as a core operational tool.

Regulatory reference: SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance), Box 8c (Type of Applicant) and Box 15 (Descriptive Title of Applicant's Project). Complete all required form fields separately; use this narrative text in any free-text "organizational description" or "applicant profile" field.
Universal — all grant typesSF-424 / Cover Page

Best placement: Organizational overview, SF-424 description field, or application cover page

[Organization Legal Name] is a [501(c)(3) nonprofit / government entity / tribal organization] incorporated in [State], with principal offices located at [Address, City, State, ZIP]. Founded in [Year], [Organization Name] has provided [primary mission, e.g., emergency shelter, transitional housing, behavioral health services, or wraparound social services] to [target population] in [service area/county/region] for [X] years. The organization is governed by a [X]-member Board of Directors and employs [X] full-time equivalent (FTE) staff. [Organization Name] holds [relevant accreditations, licenses, or certifications — e.g., CARF accreditation / state Department of [X] licensure / HUD-approved housing counseling agency status]. Our annual operating budget is approximately $[X], with [X]% derived from government contracts and grants. [Organization Name] has a current Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) of [UEI] and an active SAM.gov registration (expiration: [date]). [Organization Name] utilizes Pulse For Good, a purpose-built participant feedback platform for human services organizations, as a core component of our program quality and accountability infrastructure. This technology enables real-time participant feedback collection, trend analysis, and funder-aligned reporting across all programs we operate.
[Organization Legal Name][entity type][State & Address][Year founded][mission description][FTE count][accreditations][annual budget][UEI number][SAM.gov expiration date]
Section 02

Executive Summary / Project Abstract

A concise 1–2 paragraph abstract required by most federal and state funders. Must clearly state the funding ask, the problem, the solution, and expected impact. Select the variant matching your funder.

HUD — CoC / ESG / HOME

Best placement: Project Abstract (HUD e-snaps / grants.gov abstract field, max 300 words)

[Organization Name] requests $[award amount] from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development [CoC Program / Emergency Solutions Grant / HOME Investment Partnerships Program] to [brief description of funded activity, e.g., provide rapid rehousing services to 60 individuals experiencing homelessness in [County/Region]]. This grant will fund a [X]-month program period beginning [start date]. A central component of this proposal is the integration of Pulse For Good, a participant-centered feedback platform, into [Program Name]'s service delivery model. HUD's performance standards require grantees to demonstrate client outcomes including housing stability, increased income, and connection to mainstream benefits. [Organization Name] will use Pulse For Good to collect structured participant feedback at intake, [60]-day intervals, and program exit, generating data that directly supports Annual Performance Report (APR) completion and demonstrates continuous quality improvement. We expect to serve [X] unduplicated individuals, achieve housing placement for [X]% of participants, and document [X]% participant satisfaction with services as measured through Pulse For Good's standardized survey instrument.
[award amount][HUD program type][activity description][program period][Program Name][unduplicated count][housing placement %][satisfaction % target]
HHS — ACF / FYSB / SSVF

Best placement: Project Abstract (grants.gov / HHS GrantSolutions system, max 300 words)

[Organization Name] requests $[award amount] from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [Administration for Children and Families / Family and Youth Services Bureau / other HHS office] to [brief description, e.g., expand trauma-informed case management services for youth experiencing homelessness in [County]]. [Organization Name] will integrate Pulse For Good's participant feedback platform to ensure that service delivery remains continuously responsive to participant needs throughout the program period. HHS performance expectations require grantees to report on GPRA measures and demonstrate participant-reported outcomes. Pulse For Good enables [Organization Name] to collect, analyze, and report participant experience data in a format aligned with federal reporting requirements. We anticipate serving [X] unduplicated participants, achieving [X]% successful completion of individualized service plans, and documenting measurable improvement in participant-identified areas of need — all captured through structured survey data and reported in required semi-annual and annual progress reports to [HHS office/program officer].
[award amount][HHS office/program][program description][unduplicated count][service plan completion %]
State / County Housing or Social Services Dept.

Best placement: Project Summary / Application Cover Narrative (state RFP response)

[Organization Name] respectfully submits this application to the [State] Department of [Housing / Community Development / Social Services / Health] for $[award amount] to support [Program Name], which provides [program description] to [target population] in [service area]. [Organization Name] proposes to deploy Pulse For Good as the program's primary participant feedback and quality assurance mechanism. This cloud-based platform will allow program staff to administer brief, accessible surveys to participants at key service milestones, generating real-time data on service quality, participant satisfaction, and unmet needs. Aggregate reports produced by Pulse For Good will fulfill [State Agency] performance reporting requirements, support contract compliance monitoring, and demonstrate the program's commitment to continuous quality improvement and participant-centered practice. Over the [X]-month contract period, [Organization Name] will serve [X] unduplicated participants and submit [monthly / quarterly / semi-annual] performance data to [State Agency name] as specified in the contract scope of work.
[State Agency name][award amount][Program Name][program period][unduplicated count][reporting frequency]
Section 03

Statement of Need

Document community need with local data, gap analysis, and system context. Replace all placeholder statistics with real, cited local data before submitting.

Universal — all grant types

Best placement: Statement of Need / Community Need / Problem Statement section

Community Need [County/Region] faces a significant and persistent [housing instability / behavioral health / domestic violence / food insecurity — select as applicable] crisis. According to [data source, e.g., the [Year] Point-in-Time Count / [State] Housing Needs Assessment / County Social Services Annual Report], [X] individuals experienced [homelessness / housing instability / the identified need] in [County] during [year]. This represents [an increase of X% / a persistent unmet need compared to available capacity] relative to [prior year or comparison period]. [Add 1–2 additional local data points — e.g., rental vacancy rates, shelter waitlist lengths, median income levels, or demographic data that establish severity and scope.] Among this population, [X]% are [describe priority subpopulation, e.g., chronically homeless / survivors of domestic violence / veterans / unaccompanied youth / individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders], who face compounded barriers to housing stability and self-sufficiency. Current service system capacity — including [X] emergency shelter beds, [X] transitional housing slots, and [X] permanent supportive housing units across [County] — falls far short of documented need, with a gap of approximately [X] units/slots as of [date of data]. Gap in Feedback Infrastructure A critical and underrecognized gap in existing service delivery is the absence of systematic, real-time participant feedback. Without structured feedback mechanisms, service providers cannot identify emerging service gaps as they occur, demonstrate person-centered practice to funders, or generate the participant-reported outcome data required for federal and state performance reporting. [Organization Name] addresses this infrastructure gap through Pulse For Good, a participant feedback platform purpose-built for human services organizations, which enables continuous quality improvement, transparent reporting, and accountability to the people we serve.
[County/Region][need type][data source & year][local statistics — replace all][priority subpopulation][capacity gap data]
Section 04

Project Description & Program Design

Describe how your program operates and how Pulse For Good is embedded as a core function — not an add-on. Select the variant matching your funder type.

HUD CoC / ESG / Rapid Rehousing

Best placement: Program Design / Service Delivery Model section (HUD CoC, ESG, or Rapid Rehousing applications)

[Program Name] is a [program type, e.g., rapid rehousing / permanent supportive housing / emergency shelter] program serving [target population] in [service area]. Program services include [list core services, e.g., housing navigation, rental assistance, case management, connection to mainstream benefits, and life skills coaching]. Participant Feedback Integration Participant feedback collection is embedded throughout [Program Name] as a core program function, consistent with HUD's commitment to client-centered service delivery and the CoC Program's emphasis on using data to improve system performance. [Organization Name] utilizes Pulse For Good to administer brief, accessible surveys at program intake, [30/60/90]-day intervals, and program exit. Surveys are available in [languages] and can be completed via [tablet kiosk / SMS text / staff facilitation], ensuring accessibility for participants regardless of literacy level or technology access. Aggregate survey data is reviewed by [Program Director / Data Manager] on a [weekly / monthly] basis. Findings are used to: (1) make immediate adjustments to individual service plans when participants identify unmet needs; (2) identify program-wide service gaps for leadership review; and (3) generate performance data for HUD APR reporting, including client-reported outcomes related to housing stability, safety, and goal progress. HMIS Integration [Organization Name] will enter all required participant data into the [Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) / Comparable Database], as required by HUD CoC Program regulations (24 CFR Part 578). Pulse For Good data exports are structured to complement HMIS data entry workflows, enabling staff to cross-reference survey findings with case record data without duplicating effort.
[Program Name][program type][core services][survey intervals][languages][delivery method][responsible staff title][review frequency]
HHS / ACF / SAMHSA

Best placement: Program Design / Service Delivery Model section (HHS, SAMHSA, ACF applications)

[Program Name] provides [service description, e.g., trauma-informed case management, substance use recovery support, or family stabilization services] to [X] [target population] annually in [service area]. The program model is grounded in [evidence-based practice, e.g., Motivational Interviewing / Trauma-Informed Care / Housing First / Critical Time Intervention], and aligns with [funder program model requirements, e.g., SAMHSA's Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care / ACF's Family Self-Sufficiency framework]. Integration of Participant Feedback [Organization Name] operationalizes person-centered practice through systematic participant feedback using Pulse For Good. At [intake, 30-day, 60-day, and exit] points, participants are invited to complete brief, anonymous surveys assessing their experience with staff, service quality, safety, and progress toward self-identified goals. Survey instruments are low-barrier and accessible to individuals with limited literacy; they are available in [languages] and administered via [delivery method, e.g., tablet kiosk / SMS / staff-facilitated interview]. Feedback data is aggregated in the Pulse For Good dashboard and reviewed [monthly] by [Program Director and Quality Assurance Coordinator]. Findings directly inform program adjustments and are documented in the program's continuous quality improvement (CQI) log. This process supports compliance with [SAMHSA's National Outcome Measures (NOMs) / ACF GPRA performance indicators] and provides auditable evidence of the organization's commitment to participant voice and responsive service delivery. Participant feedback data will be included in all required progress reports submitted to [funder name].
[Program Name][service description][evidence-based model][survey intervals][languages][delivery method][reporting measures]
CDBG / HOME / Housing Trust Fund

Best placement: Program/Activity Description section (CDBG, HOME, Housing Trust Fund)

[Program Name] will use [Community Development Block Grant / HOME / Housing Trust Fund] funding to [describe eligible activity, e.g., provide tenant-based rental assistance and housing stability case management to low- and moderate-income households at risk of homelessness in [Census Tract(s) / service area]]. This activity qualifies as an eligible use under [24 CFR 570.201(e) — Public Services / 24 CFR 570.206 — Program Administration / other applicable citation]. As part of [Organization Name]'s quality assurance framework, all participants enrolled in [Program Name] will be offered the opportunity to complete a brief feedback survey at key service milestones using Pulse For Good. The platform generates automated aggregate reports that allow program supervisors to monitor satisfaction trends, flag individual concerns for follow-up, and document continuous improvement activities. Data collected through Pulse For Good supports compliance with performance reporting requirements under the HUD Integrated Disbursement and Information System (IDIS) and provides auditable evidence of beneficiary engagement in program monitoring — consistent with the citizen participation requirements of 24 CFR 91.105 and the subrecipient oversight requirements of 24 CFR 570.503.
[Program Name][eligible activity description][CFR citation][service area / census tract]
Section 05

Target Population & Eligibility Criteria

Define who you serve, how participants are determined eligible, and how Pulse For Good supports equitable, accessible feedback collection from your target population.

Universal — all grant types

Best placement: Target Population / Eligibility / Participant Selection section

Target Population and Eligibility [Program Name] serves [primary target population, e.g., adults experiencing chronic homelessness / youth aged 18–24 experiencing housing instability / survivors of domestic violence / low-income families at risk of eviction] in [service area]. To be eligible for services, individuals must meet the following criteria: (1) [first eligibility criterion, e.g., meet HUD's definition of homelessness under 24 CFR 91.5 / have household income at or below [X]% of the Area Median Income]; (2) [second criterion]; and (3) reside in or have a nexus to [County/service area]. [Organization Name] anticipates serving [X] unduplicated individuals during the [X]-month grant period. Of these, we project: [X]% will be members of racial or ethnic minority groups; [X]% will be veterans / LGBTQ+ individuals / persons with disabilities [select applicable]; and [X]% will be households with children — consistent with our commitment to prioritizing the most vulnerable and underserved members of our community. [Adjust demographic projections to reflect your actual population based on prior-year data.] Participant Outreach and Accessibility [Organization Name] employs [outreach method, e.g., street outreach workers / community health workers / partner referrals via Coordinated Entry] to identify and engage eligible individuals. All program materials, including Pulse For Good participant surveys, are available in [languages] to ensure full access for individuals with limited English proficiency. Staff trained in trauma-informed communication administer surveys to participants who require assistance, ensuring that feedback collection is an inclusive, non-coercive process that does not create additional barriers for individuals experiencing complex trauma or disability-related needs.
[Program Name][target population][eligibility criteria][unduplicated count][demographic projections][outreach method][languages]
Section 06

Goals, Objectives & Performance Measures

SMART goals and measurable outcomes aligned to federal reporting frameworks. Pulse For Good metrics are included as formal performance indicators.

Regulatory reference: HUD APR measures include housing placement, income increase, and connection to mainstream benefits. HHS GPRA measures include housing status, employment, and social connectedness. SAMHSA NOMs include substance use reduction, mental health, and recovery support indicators. Replace all placeholder percentages and targets with your program's specific projections based on prior-year performance data or evidence-based benchmarks.
Universal — all grant types

Best placement: Goals, Objectives, and Outcomes / Performance Measures / Logic Model section

Goal 1: Provide direct services to [X] unduplicated individuals during the grant period. Objective 1.1: Enroll [X] eligible participants within [X] days of program launch. Objective 1.2: Maintain an active caseload of [X] participants at any given time throughout the grant period. Measure: Unduplicated participant count tracked in [HMIS / case management system]; reported [quarterly / semi-annually / annually] to [funder]. Goal 2: Achieve measurable positive outcomes for program participants. Objective 2.1: [X]% of participants will achieve [primary outcome, e.g., stable housing placement / increased income / connection to mainstream benefits] by program exit. Objective 2.2: [X]% of participants will demonstrate documented progress toward at least one self-identified goal by [30/60/90]-day program review. Measure: [HMIS data exports / case file review / APR/GPRA outputs]; reported per funder schedule. Goal 3: Maintain high levels of participant satisfaction and service responsiveness through systematic feedback. Objective 3.1: Collect Pulse For Good feedback surveys from a minimum of [X]% of active participants per [month / quarter]. Objective 3.2: Achieve a participant satisfaction rating of [X]% or above on Pulse For Good's standardized service quality survey throughout the grant period. Objective 3.3: Within [X business days] of identifying a participant concern flagged in Pulse For Good, document a service plan adjustment or staff follow-up action in the participant's case record. Measure: Pulse For Good dashboard aggregate reports and individual flag logs; included in all progress reports to [funder name]. Goal 4: Demonstrate continuous quality improvement throughout the grant period. Objective 4.1: Conduct [monthly / quarterly] CQI review meetings using Pulse For Good data to identify trends and inform program adjustments. Objective 4.2: Document at least [X] program-level improvements per [quarter / year] attributable to participant feedback data, including a description of the change made and the feedback finding that prompted it. Measure: CQI log maintained by [Program Director / Quality Assurance Coordinator]; reviewed by leadership [annually / quarterly] and summarized in funder progress reports.
[unduplicated count][primary outcome %][survey response % target][satisfaction % target][response timeframe (days)][CQI review frequency][# program improvements/period]
Performance measure alignment by funder
Funder / Reporting SystemRequired MeasureHow Pulse For Good Aligns
HUD CoC (APR)Housing placement, income at exit, connection to benefitsExit survey captures participant-reported housing status and service satisfaction
HUD ESGPersons served, housing outcomes, rapid exit rateIntake and exit surveys supplement HMIS data entry with participant-reported data
HHS / ACF (GPRA)Housing status, employment, health insurance coveragePeriodic surveys capture intermediate progress toward GPRA indicators at non-APR intervals
SAMHSA (NOMs)Substance use, mental health, employment, housing, social supportSurvey items can be mapped to NOM domains; aggregate trend data supports NOMs reporting
CDBG (IDIS)Low/mod income beneficiaries served, public service output countSatisfaction surveys provide beneficiary engagement documentation for monitoring visits
State housing contractsUnits/slots served, retention rate, participant satisfactionAutomated aggregate reports support monthly/quarterly state contract submissions
Section 07

Evaluation Plan & Data Management

Describe how your organization will collect, analyze, protect, and report program data — including the specific role of Pulse For Good in your evaluation methodology and data privacy compliance.

Universal — all grant types

Best placement: Evaluation Plan / Data Collection and Management / Program Monitoring section

Evaluation Design [Organization Name] will use a [descriptive / pre-post / mixed-methods] evaluation design to assess program effectiveness and participant outcomes during the grant period. Data will be collected through three complementary systems: (1) [HMIS / agency case management database] for participant demographics, enrollment data, service milestones, and outcome tracking; (2) Pulse For Good for structured participant feedback surveys; and (3) [any additional sources, e.g., intake assessments, employment verification records, housing placement documentation]. Role of Pulse For Good Pulse For Good serves as the program's primary instrument for participant-reported experience data. [Organization Name] will administer Pulse For Good surveys at the following intervals: [list each touchpoint — e.g., within 72 hours of intake; at 30-day program review; at 60-day program review; and within 7 days of program exit]. Each survey takes approximately [X] minutes to complete and consists of [X] items assessing [list domains: service quality, staff responsiveness, physical safety, progress toward self-identified goals, unmet needs, and overall satisfaction]. Survey data is aggregated automatically in the Pulse For Good dashboard. [Program Director / Data & Evaluation Manager] generates trend reports [monthly / quarterly], filters data by participant subgroup, and exports data in CSV and PDF formats for inclusion in required funder progress reports. Target survey response rate: [X]% of active participants per [quarter]. Data Privacy and Security All participant data collected through Pulse For Good is [collected anonymously / de-identified / stored with informed consent — select as applicable to your program design]. [Organization Name] will ensure that Pulse For Good survey administration follows the organization's written data privacy policy and participant rights procedures, consistent with [HIPAA / 42 CFR Part 2 / applicable state privacy law]. No personally identifiable information will be stored in Pulse For Good without documented participant consent. Reporting Schedule [Organization Name] will compile Pulse For Good data into progress reports submitted to [funder name] on a [monthly / quarterly / semi-annual / annual] basis. Each report will include: (1) aggregate participant satisfaction scores for the reporting period; (2) a summary of key themes identified in feedback; (3) any program adjustments made in response to feedback during the period; and (4) trend data comparing current-period results to prior periods.
[evaluation design type][data systems list][survey touchpoints/intervals][survey length & item count][response rate target][data collection approach][privacy framework][reporting frequency]
Section 08

Organizational Capacity & Key Personnel

Demonstrate the administrative, financial, and technological capacity to implement and sustain Pulse For Good. Name specific staff where possible — federal reviewers require accountable individuals, not just titles.

Universal — all grant types

Best placement: Organizational Capacity / Management Plan / Key Personnel section

Organizational Qualifications [Organization Name] has [X] years of experience providing [program type] services to [target population] in [service area]. The organization has successfully administered [X] federal and state grants and contracts totaling approximately $[X] over the past [X] years, including [list 1–2 relevant prior grants — e.g., a HUD CoC grant continuously since [year] / an ACF FYSB award from [year] to [year]]. [Organization Name] maintains clean financial audits with no material findings, a current and active SAM.gov registration (UEI: [UEI number], expiration: [date]), and all required federal registrations for award recipients. Technology and Data Infrastructure [Organization Name] maintains the operational and technological infrastructure required to implement and sustain Pulse For Good throughout the grant period. Pulse For Good is a cloud-based SaaS platform requiring no on-site server infrastructure; it is accessible via any standard web browser on internet-connected devices. [Organization Name]'s current IT environment includes [X staff computers / X tablet kiosks / other devices] capable of supporting full platform access. Pulse For Good provides all organizational users with dedicated onboarding support, staff training materials, and ongoing technical assistance at no additional cost. Key Personnel [Name], [Title — e.g., Program Director]: [Name] will serve as the primary Pulse For Good platform administrator and will oversee all aspects of participant feedback collection, data review cycles, and reporting. [He/She/They] holds [relevant credential, e.g., MSW / MA in Public Administration] and has [X] years of experience managing federally funded programs, including [briefly note relevant prior experience with data, evaluation, or federal reporting]. [Name or "TBD — to be hired within 30 days of award"], [Title — e.g., Data and Evaluation Coordinator]: This position is responsible for maintaining the Pulse For Good dashboard, generating aggregate reports, and compiling performance data for funder submissions. The position requires experience with [HMIS / nonprofit data management / program evaluation]. All key personnel will complete Pulse For Good platform onboarding within [X weeks] of grant award notification. Full participant survey administration under this grant will begin no later than [target date].
[years experience][prior grants/contracts][UEI number & SAM expiration][IT infrastructure description][Program Director name & credentials][Data Coordinator name or TBD][onboarding timeline][implementation start date]
Section 09

Partnerships & Community Coordination

Describe your role in the local Continuum of Care, referral networks, and formal partnerships. Reference how Pulse For Good supports coordinated, system-level service delivery and data sharing.

Universal — all grant types

Best placement: Partnerships / Community Collaboration / Coordinated Entry / Systems Coordination section

Community Partnerships and System Participation [Organization Name] is an active participant in the [Name] Continuum of Care (CoC) and has maintained membership since [year]. [Organization Name] participates in [Coordinated Entry system / HMIS governance committee / CoC planning committee / subpopulation workgroups — list applicable] and is committed to the CoC's strategic goals for [year], including [note 1–2 relevant CoC goals from current strategic plan]. [Organization Name] maintains active referral relationships with the following partner organizations: [list 3–5 partners with a brief description of the partnership — e.g., "[Partner Name] — emergency shelter provider; receives and makes referrals for transitional housing placement"; "[Partner Name] — workforce development program; co-enrolls shared clients"]. Letters of support from key partners are included as Exhibit [X] to this application. Formal Partnership Agreements [Organization Name] has executed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with [list MOU partners] governing referral protocols, data sharing, and joint service delivery for the period [dates]. Copies of all current, signed MOUs are included as Exhibit [X]. Coordinated Entry Integration [Organization Name] participates in the [CoC / [County]] Coordinated Entry (CE) process as [a referral source / a receiving agency for shelter/housing placements / both]. All participants referred through Coordinated Entry are enrolled in [Program Name] and incorporated into Pulse For Good's feedback survey cycle. Where authorized by participant consent, aggregate Pulse For Good satisfaction data is shared with CoC leadership as part of [Organization Name]'s contribution to system-level performance monitoring. This practice positions [Organization Name] as a data-informed partner within the [County/Region] homeless services system, and supports the CoC's ongoing use of client-level data to improve housing outcomes across the system.
[CoC name][CoC participation roles][partner organizations & roles][MOU partner names & dates][Coordinated Entry role]
Section 10

Budget Narrative & Cost Justification

Justify Pulse For Good as an allowable, reasonable, and allocable program cost under 2 CFR Part 200 or applicable state cost principles. Select the variant matching your grant type.

2 CFR Part 200 reference: A federal cost is allowable if it is (1) necessary and reasonable for performance of the award; (2) allocable to the award; (3) consistent with applicable cost principles; and (4) not otherwise prohibited. Technology used directly in program service delivery meets all four criteria. Reference §200.453, §200.454, or §200.439 as most applicable to your budget category.
Federal — HHS / HUD / SAMHSA / CDBG

Best placement: Budget Narrative — Program Operations / Other Direct Costs / Technology line item

Pulse For Good Subscription — $[annual cost] (Direct Program Cost) [Organization Name] requests $[annual cost] for a 12-month subscription to Pulse For Good, a cloud-based participant feedback and program quality platform. This technology cost is classified as a direct program operations expense and is necessary and reasonable for the performance of [Program Name] under this award. Necessity and Reasonableness: Systematic participant feedback collection is a core program function required to fulfill [HUD APR / HHS GPRA / SAMHSA NOM] reporting requirements and to demonstrate person-centered practice consistent with [funder]'s program model. To truly replicate this infrastructure, [Organization Name] would require [X] full-time Data Analyst FTE(s) to manually administer, compile, and analyze equivalent member feedback data across [X] sites – costing upwards of $[X] plus benefits. The platform subscription cost of $[annual cost] represents significant cost savings compared to manual equivalent methods, while providing real-time data across [X] sites simultaneously. Allocability: This cost is [100% / X%] allocable to [Program Name] funded under this award. [If less than 100%, explain: "The remaining [Y]% of the subscription supports [other program(s)] and is funded through [other source(s)]. The [X]% allocation to this grant reflects [Program Name]'s proportional share of organizational platform usage, calculated based on [proportional participant enrollment / direct program staff usage]."] Scope of Subscription: The Pulse For Good subscription covers [X] [wall-mounted / standing] kiosks deployed across [list service site locations], unlimited participant surveys, real-time aggregate dashboards, export-ready funder reporting, and dedicated onboarding and ongoing technical support. The annual cost of $[annual cost] is consistent with published SaaS platform pricing for nonprofit human services organizations; comparable participant feedback platforms range from $[low end] to $[high end] annually. This expense is consistent with 2 CFR §200.454 (Subscriptions and Memberships) / §200.453 (Materials and Supplies — technology used in program delivery) and is not listed as an unallowable cost under [program name] regulations or this NOFO.
[annual cost][Program Name][reporting framework: APR/GPRA/NOM][X] FTE(s)[X] sites[allocation % & rationale][X] kiosks & locations[comparable cost range][2 CFR section]
State / County Contract

Best placement: Budget Narrative — Program Technology / Quality Assurance line item (state/county contracts)

Pulse For Good Subscription — $[annual cost] (Program Technology / Quality Assurance) [Organization Name] requests $[annual cost] for an annual subscription to Pulse For Good, a participant feedback and program quality assurance platform. This cost is included in the [Program Technology / Quality Assurance / Program Operations] budget category and is directly allocable to [Program Name] at [X]% based on [direct program use / proportional participant enrollment]. This subscription directly supports [Organization Name]'s compliance with [State Agency name]'s performance reporting and quality assurance requirements as specified in the contract scope of work. The platform generates automated aggregate reports documenting participant satisfaction, service quality trends, and continuous improvement activities — data that is required in [monthly / quarterly] performance reports submitted to [State Agency contract monitor's name or office]. The cost of $[annual cost] is reasonable and consistent with published market pricing for comparable SaaS quality assurance platforms serving nonprofit organizations. [Organization Name] has [obtained three vendor quotes / reviewed comparable platform pricing] confirming that Pulse For Good represents a cost-effective approach to meeting contract quality assurance requirements. No portion of this cost is funded by or duplicated in any other grant or contract active during this period.
[annual cost][budget category][allocation %][State Agency name][reporting frequency][cost comparison method]
Budget category guidance by funder / program type
Program / FunderRecommended Budget CategoryNotes and Citations
HUD CoCSupportive Services — Other / Program SuppliesDocument as client assessment and case management support tool; can count toward match at fair market value
HUD ESGProgram Activities — Homelessness Prevention or RRH ServicesDemonstrate direct nexus to eligible activity; classify under "case management support technology"
HHS / ACFOther Direct Costs — Technology / Program OperationsCite 2 CFR §200.454; document necessity and reasonableness in budget narrative
SAMHSAOther Direct Costs — Program Evaluation / Data CollectionAlign to CQI or PBHCI evaluation requirements; reference NOMs data collection needs
CDBG (Public Services)Program Operations — Case Management SupportSubject to 15% public services cap; document as direct service delivery tool, not admin overhead
HOME / HTFProgram Administration or Tenant ServicesClassify as tenant services technology if used to collect tenant satisfaction data
State housing/social services contractProgram Technology / Quality AssuranceAlign to QA language in scope of work; provide vendor quote documentation
ARPA / SLFRFInfrastructure / Technology InvestmentMulti-year subscription qualifies under EC 3.x (Housing) or EC 1.x (Public Health) eligible uses; document as capacity infrastructure
Section 11

Sustainability Plan

Address how both the program and Pulse For Good will continue beyond the grant period. Funders expect a specific, credible plan — not a generic statement of intent.

Universal — all grant types

Best placement: Sustainability Plan / Long-Term Organizational Capacity / Post-Award Plan section

Program Sustainability [Organization Name] has developed a concrete plan to sustain [Program Name] beyond the initial grant period. Following the funded term, program operating costs will be supported through [list at least 2–3 specific, named funding sources — e.g., (1) renewal of the [funder] grant application in [year]; (2) a multi-year performance-based contract with [State/County Agency], currently under negotiation for the [year] contract cycle; (3) allocation from [Organization Name]'s operating reserves, which stood at $[X] as of our most recent audit; and (4) an annual fundraising initiative targeting [individual major donors / corporate sponsors / foundation grants] in [service area]]. [Organization Name]'s [X]-year track record of renewing and sustaining government-funded programs provides strong evidence of our capacity to maintain [Program Name] at full operational scale beyond the initial award period. Sustainability of Participant Feedback Infrastructure The participant feedback infrastructure supported by this grant is designed to become a permanent component of [Organization Name]'s standard operating procedures — not a time-limited project. Following the initial grant period, the Pulse For Good subscription ($[annual cost] per year) will be incorporated into [Organization Name]'s core operating budget as a standard program technology expense, renewed annually alongside other organizational technology investments. Post-award funding for the subscription will be secured through [specific strategy — e.g., allocation of administrative overhead from government contracts / inclusion as a direct cost in all future grant proposals to which it is allocable / unrestricted organizational operating fund]. The data management practices, reporting templates, staff training, and continuous quality improvement processes established during this grant period will remain institutionalized at [Organization Name] regardless of platform funding source. [Organization Name] views participant feedback infrastructure not as a project-specific expense, but as a core organizational competency — one that strengthens accountability, improves outcomes, and demonstrates the value of every program we operate to every funder we serve.
[Program Name][2–3 named post-grant funding sources][operating reserve amount][annual Pulse For Good cost][specific post-grant funding strategy for subscription]
Section 12

Certifications & Assurances Language

Narrative assurances for civil rights, data security, conflict of interest, and federal compliance. Include this section in the application body or as an organizational compliance attachment. Always execute required standard certification forms (SF-424B, SF-424D) separately.

Note: Most federal applications require execution of standard certification forms (SF-424B / SF-424D, Certifications Regarding Lobbying, Drug-Free Workplace, Debarment and Suspension) in addition to this narrative. Complete all official forms as required by your specific FOA. This language supplements — it does not replace — the standard forms.
Universal — all grant types

Best placement: Certifications and Assurances section or organizational compliance narrative (supplement to SF-424B / SF-424D)

Civil Rights and Non-Discrimination [Organization Name] does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal or state law in the provision of services or in any employment practices. [Organization Name] complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and all applicable federal and state non-discrimination requirements. Participant feedback collected through Pulse For Good is reviewed for demographic disparities in service quality ratings, enabling [Organization Name] to identify and address any patterns of inequitable service delivery on an ongoing basis. Data Privacy and Security [Organization Name] maintains written data privacy and security policies governing the collection, storage, use, and disclosure of all participant information. All Pulse For Good survey data collected under this award will be [collected anonymously / de-identified before storage / stored with documented participant informed consent — select as applicable]. [Organization Name] will not disclose individually identifiable participant information from Pulse For Good to any third party without the participant's prior written consent, except as required by law. The organization's data security practices comply with [HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules / 42 CFR Part 2 / applicable state privacy statute — list as applicable]. Conflict of Interest [Organization Name] has adopted a written conflict of interest policy consistent with 2 CFR §200.318(c) and applicable program regulations. No officer, board member, employee, or agent of [Organization Name] has a financial interest in Pulse For Good or in any other vendor whose products or services are included in this application that would constitute a conflict of interest under [Organization Name]'s conflict of interest policy or applicable federal regulations. Debarment and Suspension [Organization Name] certifies that neither the organization nor any of its principals is presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in federal transactions, as required by 2 CFR Part 180 and applicable program regulations. [Organization Name]'s SAM.gov registration (UEI: [UEI number]) is active and current through [expiration date]. Drug-Free Workplace [Organization Name] certifies compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and maintains a written drug-free workplace policy applicable to all employees, contractors, and volunteers involved in the administration of federally funded programs. Lobbying [Organization Name] certifies that no federal appropriated funds have been or will be paid to any person or organization to influence any federal officer, employee, or Member of Congress in connection with the award, continuation, modification, or extension of this federal award, as required by Section 1352 of Title 31 of the U.S. Code and applicable OMB guidance.
[Organization Name][data collection approach: anonymous/de-id/consented][applicable privacy law(s)][UEI number][SAM.gov expiration date]
Review Tips

Before you submit

Common federal reviewer flags and how to address them using this application package.

Attach exhibit documentation

Include a Pulse For Good sample report or anonymized dashboard screenshot as an Exhibit. Federal reviewers value concrete evidence — a single visual immediately demonstrates platform capability and output format.

Align headings to your FOA

Re-read your Funding Opportunity Announcement (NOFO/NOFA) before assembling sections. Use the FOA's exact evaluation criteria headings as your section titles wherever possible — reviewers score against specific prompts.

Name real people in key personnel

Federal reviewers strongly prefer named individuals over "TBD." If a position is unfilled, name an acting lead and note a permanent hire will be onboarded within 60 days of award — this preserves reviewer confidence.

Replace all placeholder statistics

Section 03's Statement of Need must use real, sourced local data before submission. PIT Count reports, ACS Census data, and state agency annual reports are all acceptable sources. Include in-text citations with year.

Collect MOU signatures early

HUD CoC and many state applications require executed MOUs from key partners. Begin collecting signatures at least 3 weeks before your deadline — late MOU requests are among the most common causes of last-minute application stress.

Justify cost with a staff-time comparison

In Section 10, calculate how many staff hours manual feedback collection would require at your actual staff rates. Comparing that labor cost to the subscription cost directly answers "is this reasonable?" — a standard budget reviewer question.