Challenge Cost Share Matching Fund Program
Frequently Asked Questions

What should be entered at the top of the application in the blank that reads FY ________ ?
 
The Challenge Cost Share program was originally developed with National Park units as the only eligible recepients. Occasionally, in both the guidance and the application there are abbreviations and jargon that are clear to those in the National Park Service, but may bewilder rather than enlighten National Landmark Stewards. One of these is FY. It stands for Fiscal Year. At the top of the application, you should either choose 2002 or 2003 depending on whether you are looking for funding from the Federal Fiscal Year that begins on October 1, 2001 or for funding from the Federal Fiscal Year that begins on October 1, 2002.

In the first section of the application, it asks, "Will CCSP funds be transfered to partner with a cooperative agreement"? What does that mean?.
 
All Challenge Cost Share program funds for National Landmark Stewards will be transferred to successful applicants through cooperative agreements. A cooperative agreement is akin to a contract, but with somewhat more flexibility.

In Section 2 of the application it asks for the CCSP Share and applicant share. Is this Federalese?
 
Yes. For those who don't talk Fed Talk, the CCSP (Challenge Cost Share Program) Share is the amount of funding that you are requesting from Federal funds. The applicant share is the amount of the funds for the project that you as the applicant are providing.

In Section 4, what is a Partner Authorized Official anyway?
 
You as the eligible applicant are the Partner Authorized Official.

In Section #5, what is the NPS Office?
 
You can leave this blank. We will fill it in. It is our office, the Philadelphia Support Office.

In Section #10, what is this Applicant Assurance anyway?
 
If funds are awarded to your project, the associated Cooperative Agreement will outline the Scope of Work for the project, including that you as the partner will recognize the contributions of the National Park Service in signage and published materials.