Our process


From idea to initial proposal (6-16 weeks)

1. Express interest

At any point in the year, your team can reach out with a project idea using this form.

2. Learn more

We’ll connect with you to learn more about your project idea and discuss next steps. We may invite you to office hours or share our upcoming proposal submission window.

3. Submit Initial Project Proposal (IPP)

Your team submits a lightweight IPP using this template.This link downloads a document. The TMF PMO and OMB can help you develop your proposal and will review your final submission before it goes to the TMF Board.1

4. Board reviews and votes

The Board will review your proposal and vote whether to advance it to the Full Project Proposal (FPP) phase. You may receive feedback on areas where your proposal needs to be strengthened.

From full proposal to funding decision (18-20 weeks)

workshops

1. Attend workshops

Your team participates in working sessions to strengthen and refine your proposal.

2. Prepare Full Project Proposal (FPP)

Your team prepares a detailed FPP with a breakdown of project milestones and financial plans. Here are previews of the proposal templateThis link downloads a document. and the financial spreadsheetThis link downloads a document. that you will submit. The TMF PMO and OMB will review your proposal before it goes to the Board. The TMF PMO will also help you prepare and practice pitching your idea to the Board.

3. Present to Board for final vote

Your team makes your pitch to the Board. The Board votes on whether to fund your proposal.

4. Sign agreements

If funded, your team and the TMF sign an interagency agreement, notify Congress, and make a public announcement.

Investment engagement

Congratulations! It’s time to dig into your project. In this time, you can expect:

Funding

Your first transfer occurs after the Board recommends an investment in your project and your agreements are signed by the TMF and your Agency. Additional transfers will follow as your team achieves project milestones. Your repayments to TMF typically begin within one year of the first transfer.1

Support

Your team joins a community of other TMF investments to share lessons learned and problem solve together.

Reporting

Your team has regular touchpoints to report on key metrics and investment progress, ensuring Board oversight of your project.2

  1. Learn more about funding and repayment, including OMB review Link opens in new tab.
  2. For Active TMF Investments – or to preview these forms – please visit the TMF Investment Collaboration page on MAX.gov using your government account to gain access. You can also access the TMF Investment Guide, IAA Examples, Accounting Resources, TMF Quarterly Update Reporting, Multi-Agency Meetings Resources, and Closeout ResourcesLink opens in new tab..