The following evaluation criteria will be used in reviewing applications submitted for the Biodiesel Fuel Education Program:

Relevance of proposed project to current and future issues related to the production, use, distribution, fuel quality, and fuel properties of biodiesel, including:

Demonstrated knowledge about markets, state initiatives, impacts on local economies, regulatory issues, standards, and technical issues;

Demonstrated knowledge about issues associated with developing a biodiesel infrastructure; and

Quality and extent of stakeholder involvement in planning and accomplishment of program objectives.

Reasonableness of project proposal, including:

Sufficiency of scope and strategies to provide a consistent message in keeping with existing standards and regulations;

Adequacy of Project Description, suitability and feasibility of methodology to develop and implement program;

Clarity of objectives, milestones, and indicators of progress;

Adequacy of plans for reporting, assessing and monitoring results over project's duration; and

Demonstration of feasibility, and probability of success.

Technical quality of proposed project, including:

Suitability and qualifications of key project personnel;

Institutional experience and competence in providing alternative fuel education, including:

Demonstrated knowledge about programs involved in alternative fuel research and education;

Demonstrated knowledge about other fuels, fuel additives, engine performance, fuel quality and fuel emissions;

Demonstrated knowledge about Federal, State and local programs aimed at encouraging alternative fuel use;

Demonstrated ability in providing educational programs and developing technical programs; and

Demonstrated ability to analyze technical information relevant to the biodiesel industry.

Adequacy of available or obtainable resources; and

Quality of plans to administer and maintain the project, including collaborative efforts, evaluation and monitoring efforts.

[Reserved]