Applicants will be evaluated and selected, at the sole discretion of the Fund, to receive assistance based on a review process, that could include an interview(s) and/or site visit(s), that is intended to:
(a) Ensure that Applicants are evaluated on a merit basis and in a fair and consistent manner;
(b) Take into consideration the unique characteristics of Applicants that vary by institution type, total asset size, stage of organizational development, markets served, products and services provided, and location;
(c) Ensure that each Awardee can successfully meet the goals of its Comprehensive Business Plan and achieve community development impact;
(d) Ensure that Awardees represent a geographically diverse group of Applicants serving Metropolitan Areas, non-Metropolitan Areas, and Indian Reservations from different regions of the United States; and
(e) Take into consideration other factors as described in the applicable Notice of Funds Availability.