Evaluation and funding criteria

Unless otherwise specified, proposals are evaluated upon a basis of one hundred points, according to the following criteria: 1. Preference is given to applications that demonstrate a high probability of job and wealth creation. While the commission does not make any specific requirements for jobs created per dollar granted, a close review must be made of return-on-investment and job enhancement. 2. The commission shall review each proposal as to its technical and commercial feasibility. Proposals that feature outcomes that are innovative as well as commercially plausible will receive preference. Within this criterion, the relative competence and technical qualifications of project principals are assessed. Proposals or components of proposals which can be construed as subcontracts or contracts for service, and which provide information that the process by which contractors are selected has been competitive are more highly favored. 3. Preference is given to proposals demonstrating a high probability of rapid commercialization or address an imminent need, or both. 4. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate a shared commitment for funding from other private or public sources or from the applicant, or both. Matching funds may be in the form of cash or in-kind services, or both. Approved indirect costs may qualify as matching funds. Disbursement of funds is contingent upon evidence that matching funds have been allocated to the proposal. 5. Preference is given to the proposals that center efforts on nonurban locales. When the proposal requires specific research activities that cannot possibly be carried out in rural North Dakota, consideration is given to the ultimate development and commercialization of the results of the proposal, with the same rural preference. Favorable community support is considered. 6. Commissioners shall provide their judgment on the probable success and relative importance of the proposed research.