usaid/vietnam vietnam disabilities annual program statement …€¦ · submission of concept paper...

USAID/Vietnam Vietnam Disabilities Annual Program Statement (APS)

APS-440-14-000001 Issuance Date: June 03, 2014 Closing Date: June 02, 2015

Contact: [email protected]

Pursuant to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended, the United States Government, as represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) – USAID/ Vietnam Mission, invites U.S. and non-U.S. non-governmental organizations to submit concept papers for the purpose of supporting a more inclusive Vietnam by expanding opportunities for persons with disabilities. Specifically, USAID/Vietnam hopes to fund multiple awards to local (Vietnamese) and international organizations through this APS to enhance the health and well-being of Vietnamese persons with disabilities through higher quality and sustainable services, awareness, and advocacy strengthening Please submit any questions regarding this APS by Thursday, June 12, 2014 electronically (by email) to the USAID/Vietnam Office of Acquisition and Assistance at: [email protected]. Questions will be answered via an Amendment to this APS. This APS will be conducted as follows:

1. Submission of Concept Paper 2. Compliance review 3. Concept Paper evaluation 4. Selection of highest ranked Concept Papers and notification of request for submission

of Full Applications 5. Submission of Full Applications 6. Evaluation and selection for award

All Concepts received will be evaluated according to the evaluation criteria specified in this APS. Only successful applicants (i.e. selected Concepts) will be requested to submit a Full Application. The Full Application will offer the applicant the opportunity to explain its technical approach in more detail. Please read through the following pages for detailed information and instructions. Interested Applicants Conference: For participation, all interested applicants shall register at [email protected]. The conference will take place on Tuesday, June 10, 2014 in Hanoi, Vietnam. Interested applicants must register in advance by emailing [email protected] with the subject: “participation in conference” and must provide the name of the participants, their titles, e-mail addresses and the name of the organization they represent; not later than Monday, June 9, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. Hanoi local time. Attendance may be limited to no more than two individuals per organization. Details on location of the conference will be provided upon confirmation of attendance.

USAID Vietnam APS-440-14-000001 Disabilities Annual Program Statement

Important Dates: DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF QUESTIONS: First round Thursday, June 12, 2014, 4:00 p.m. Hanoi local time DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF CONCEPT PAPERS:

First Round Friday, June 27, 2014, 4:00 p.m. Hanoi local time Subsequent Rounds Rolling submissions accepted until the APS Close Date

The amount of available funding and the number of awards is variable and subject to change. USAID reserves the right to fully or incrementally fund selected application(s), as well as to partially fund selected application(s). If all funding is exhausted prior to the end date of the APS and at any point throughout the cycles mentioned, USAID may post a notice on grants.gov indicating that the opportunity is closed. Award(s) will be made to that responsible applicant(s) whose application(s) best meets the requirements of this APS and the selection criteria contained herein. This APS and any future amendments can be downloaded from http://www.grants.gov. Select “Find Grant Opportunities,” then click on “Browse by Agency,” and select the “U.S. Agency for International Development” and search for the APS. In the event of an inconsistency between the documents comprising this APS, it shall be resolved at the discretion of the Agreement Officer. This APS is issued under the U.S. Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended. Awards shall be in accordance with U.S. federal regulations and agency policy. Awards shall be made and administered in accordance with the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-122 (for non-profit organizations), OMB Circular A-133 (Audits of States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations for other than U.S. NGOs), USAID Automated Directive System (ADS) Chapter 303, USAID Standard Provisions, and Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 31 (for-profit organizations). Potential applicants should note that USAID policy prohibits the payment of fee/profit to the prime recipient under assistance instruments. It is permitted to mention sub-grantees within an application. Joint applications with multiple primes are not permitted. Non-U.S., non -governmental organizations are also welcome to apply. Issuing this APS does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. Government, nor does it commit the U.S. Government to pay for the costs incurred in the submission of an application. Further, the U.S. Government reserves the right to reject any and all applications received, or to negotiate separately with an applicant, if such an action is considered to be in the best interest of the U.S. Government. Cordially, Javier O. Castano Agreement Officer USAID/ Vietnam


SECTION I – FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION A. INTRODUCTION

Through the Disabilities Annual Program Statement (APS), USAID/Vietnam intends to support a more inclusive Vietnam by expanding opportunities for persons with disabilities. Specifically, USAID/Vietnam hopes to fund multiple awards to local and international organizations to enhance the health and well-being of Vietnamese persons with disabilities through higher quality and sustainable services and awareness and advocacy strengthening. This will be achieved through support of policymaking at the national level and more comprehensive programming in provinces of Vietnam targeted according to characteristics discussed in the APS. Eligible organizations interested in receiving funding are invited to carefully read this APS in its entirety and to follow the application guidance in Section III in order to apply for funds. There is a two-stage application process, consisting of the submission of a Concept Paper and then, upon invitation by USAID, the submission of a Full Application.

B. USAID/VIETNAM’S DISABILITIES APS OBJECTIVES

As part of the U.S. Government's broader assistance program in Vietnam, USAID has been working to help Vietnamese persons with disabilities, regardless of cause, and that policy is not expected to change. As resource limitations require USAID to be geographically selective, target areas would likely be those where disability prevalence and poverty rates are high, including areas of the country that historically were heavily sprayed with Agent Orange, in an attempt to address the priorities of some stakeholders. The envisioned program could involve a mix of implementing instruments, and would prioritize local implementing partners. With this APS, USAID aims to address challenges for persons with disabilities through provision of direct assistance to improve their well-being, independence, and participation in economic and social life. Support for disability advocacy, policy, and systems strengthening will complement and sustain such assistance. The program will particularly focus on upgrading existing physical, occupational, and speech therapies (POS) for persons with disabilities, which is an entry point to fuller disability service but is currently largely lacking. Quality and affordable POS services will enable persons with disabilities to manage daily life activities and functions, and open up opportunities for education and employment. The POS service strengthening components are developed so that they serve as entry points to services, POS can promote mobility, functional abilities, develop or recover daily living routines, learning or working skills, or modification of their surrounding environment to increase person with disabilities participation and performance, in order to be contributing members of society. This APS represents a new phase of assistance begun under the Leahy War Victims Fund in 1989 to focus resources on particularly challenging aspects of disability while continuing support for the policy environment to allow persons with disabilities access to services and opportunities. Assistance to persons with disabilities in the new five-year program centers on: 1) fostering the enabling environment for disability issues to be addressed by national and sub-national policymakers and service providers, including the private sector; 2) delivering assistance and POS services to persons with disabilities and expand opportunities for their economic and social participation; and 3) improving the abilities of POS service providers and training institutions. The Vietnam Mission aims to address key challenges for persons with disabilities by building on prior work through provision of direct assistance to improve the well-being, independence, and participation in economic and social life. This APS will focus on strengthening the enabling environment and expanding the supply of


qualified practitioners and strengthening institutions to that can provide effective services to persons with disabilities. In addition, increasing access to these facilities will enable persons with disabilities to obtain services that will improve their well-being, independence, and inclusion in economic and social life. USAID will also continue to finance and provide direct assistance to persons with disabilities to improve their health, access to education, economic opportunity, independence, and social inclusion.

The following sections outline the specific activity areas to be addressed through this APS. The anticipated results, activities, and indicators are illustrative.

C. APS FOCUS AREAS

Applicants may propose one or more activities in one or more Sub-Purpose areas in one or more targeted provinces or at the national level (see “Geographic Focus” section). Applicants are encouraged to think creatively and may propose different activities and performance indicators than those listed below, as long as they support the objectives of the APS. USAID does not intend to allocate percentages of proportions of available funding to any given component. Purpose: Vietnamese with disabilities improve their independence, social participation, and fulfilment of potential in society through receipt of high quality and sustainable services. Sub-Purpose 1: Foster disability rights policies, advocacy, and coordination, including

the private sector

The project aims to support the development and implementation of disability action plans at the provincial level and below. Activities might include support to public consultations to ensure plans address needs of key stakeholders, development of implementation plans and monitoring measures, provision of limited resources for critical activities, raising public awareness on disabilities to reduce social stigma and discrimination, and training GVN officials on the Law on Disability implementation circulars. Activities developed for this sub-purpose should analyze women’s and men’s different needs, priorities, barriers and opportunities. Activities designed need to address the identified gender needs.

Output 1.1: Support the development and implementation of provincial action plans on disabilities

Since 2010 USAID has supported the development of the Disability Information System (DIS), which collects health, education, and social services data at the individual level. These databases have proved to be useful and practical tools; the system provides coordinated information and also allows for the possibility of regular updates from each ministry, including the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs (MOLISA), Ministry of Health (MOH), and Ministry of Education and Training (MOET). By having information readily available, DIS assists provincial governments to advocate for greater disability resources and services from the national level since it can disaggregate data according to the exact number of persons with disabilities, type of disability, services provided, and follow-up care needs. DIS has expanded into seven provinces by leveraging GVN resources and USAID will support the growth of the DIS into an additional seven focus provinces (see Geographic Focus section). In developing provincial action plan on disabilities, applicants should ensure gender is a part of the analysis to determine different needs, priorities, barriers and opportunities for males and females, and engage with social organizations and associations in the process.


Output 1.2: Support organizations engaged in the concerns of persons with disabilities and their representatives

USAID supports the advocacy of disability rights on issues of importance to persons with disabilities through their own voices. While not exclusive to these groups, Disabled Persons Organizations (DPOs) and Parent Associations (PAs) play a critical role in disseminating service information and providing support for their peers with disabilities. Parents are vital participants in early identification and early intervention for their children with disabilities. All over the world, DPOs and PAs are an important force for disability rights advocacy. However, there has not been a favorable legal environment for social organizations, including DPOs or PAs. In supporting PWD organizations and their representatives, activities to promote equal roles and responsibilities between males and females in providing care for persons/children with disabilities should be included, as well as other means for participatory strengthening of policies and services.

Output 1.3: Management and collaboration across geographic areas

The selected partner(s) should coordinate work on a geographic basis with a focus in southern provinces (Dong Nai, Tay Ninh, Binh Phuoc, Binh Dinh) and in central provinces (Quang Nam, Hue, and Thai Binh in the north) as cluster hubs. While activities under this APS will be implemented primarily in rural communities, collaboration will be required at the national and cluster hub levels in order to solidify the partnership and ensure harmonization of development outcomes. However, there are several way to organize these dynamics and the options are left open to applicants to propose.

Harmonization of action plans to render them systematic may be one approach, however in relation to service systems there may be other options. For instance, while USAID encourages economies of scale by developing training methodologies for POS that are adaptable yet standardized, these also need to take national-level strategies into consideration. Management does not necessarily entail daily supervision over direct assistance and POS system strengthening. Local NGOs or government institutions are encouraged to participate in the process to continue to develop their organizational systems while providing services. Activities may be located in universities’ POS education programs to draw on their expertise while strengthening systems at the sub-national level. Sub-activities would also provide relevant local partners, such as DPOs and parents’ activities, with resources. Smaller activities are anticipated to address specific needs of persons with disabilities in targeted provinces, or a targeted POS education program. Best practices should also be collated as part of management responsibilities.

Sub-Purpose 2: Deliver services to assist persons with disabilities to participate in society

Seeking sustainability through an investment in longer-term solutions to barriers to a more engaged disabled population will further the objective of improved health and well-being by enabling expanded opportunities. The project is designed to improve direct services and support to persons with disabilities, and at the same time increase the skills of a cadre of professionals in order to provide higher quality, more comprehensive, in-depth POS care. This will be complemented by the improved capabilities of communities and families to support persons with disabilities.

Output 2.1: Provide POS services to persons with disabilities

Persons with disabilities, particularly those with severe conditions, often have limitations in daily living, working, and communication functions. The project aims to develop a therapy


intervention system that focuses on promoting mobility and independence, improving functional abilities, adapting the environment, modifying the tasks, teaching skills, and educating persons with disabilities and their families in order to increase participation in, and performance of daily activities, particularly those that are meaningful to the persons with disabilities. While these are important as first steps, according to the MoH these services are reported missing largely at district and commune levels. MoH reported that among 63 provinces, there are only ten that provide some rehabilitation services at district level and only six that established rehabilitation facilities at commune level. Services provided at provincial level are too distant to the places where persons with disabilities are actually living, which is in the communes. As therapies usually require extended-term treatment, distance is physically a challenge for many disabled persons. In addition, the cost of transportation is another constraint. To address the unmet needs of persons with disabilities in POS, the project aims to address the enhancement of service provision for persons with disabilities. Interventions could be varied—from transportation support to the provision of specialized and home-based consultations, as well as outreach for early detection and prevention/education through health promotion campaigns to promote healthy and independent living.

Output 2.2: Support services to families and care providers

The new program aims to develop multiple family and caregiver trainings to support them in providing care for persons with disabilities. Early detection, early intervention, and palliative care will be key elements for the training. The project should also aim to support the sharing and exchange of information and experience among family members and caregivers.

Output 2.3: Provide quality and affordable assistive devices

Wheelchairs, hearing aids, prosthetic, and orthopedic devices are rehabilitative equipment that help persons with disabilities perform daily functions, however these are not the only essential devices that could be offered. While numbers of devices have been produced locally, quality and affordability remain low. The applicants should address the need by providing devices for those who cannot afford them, while at the same time working with the producer to improve the quality of the devices.

Output 2.4: Enhance accessible information on service provision

The project should promote POS practices that enhance living, learning, and working functions that are relevant to rural settings, accessible and practical for males and females with disabilities, and their families. Supporting guidance in simple language may be produced in the form of brochures, pamphlets, posters, or other common communication materials. Outreach efforts of the hospitals, education or health centers should be supported, and these may be further enhanced by the social workers network that are planned to be developed concurrently with the POS service system. In providing service information and communication strategies, ensure that communication strategies and materials reach both females and males with disabilities. Naturally, the more remote areas where persons with disabilities are located will tend to also be where the greatest needs exist. While this presents an added challenge, USAID expects strong efforts to expand the reach of services beyond population centers. According to the MoH, more than 50% of persons with disabilities are not aware of the existence of rehabilitation services in their provinces. Access to service information is


extremely low while POS programs have not been paying attention to disseminating information, partly because due to resource constraints. The applicants are encouraged to develop the service information system and support local governments and sub-departments to reach the commune level. Essential information on early detection and prevention can also be disseminated through DPOs or PAs.

Sub-Purpose 3: Improve ability to provide quality POS services and training institutions

Overall, it is critical for rehabilitation needs to focus on the person as a whole rather than on discrete components. Practical application on a sustained level is essential in order to move beyond providing a “light touch” to solving major problems. Though Vietnam has developed a system for community-based rehabilitation (CBR) to try to make up for the shortage of POS practitioners, this is not sufficient to alleviate the major problems that extend beyond what a family or local level provision can handle. Hospitals report that in order to provide therapies at home there needs to be better quality CBR in the first place. For instance, every commune is supposed to have CBR staff, however in practice these positions do not exist. Facilities would like to see themselves as part of the network that can assess a PWD’s overall situation, including after they are discharged and are out in the public sphere looking for a job, trying to exercise to overcome or lessen pain, and seeking educational opportunities. It is through these steps that impact is most likely to be actualized. Assistance to children and young persons with disabilities is encouraged to be an emphasis, as this will allow for their greater participation in society through access to education, employment, and other services to increase their independence.

Output 3.1: Develop POS training of practitioners and technicians

According to a MoH rehabilitation sector assessment, the number of trained POS therapists at provinces is extremely limited. There are several provinces that do not have any trained personnel at undergraduate level. MoH's survey on 51 provinces provided the average number of POS personnel per province at different levels as followings: 0.2 at PhD/specialized level; 3 medical doctors with short training on rehabilitation, 3 physical therapists, 17 physical therapy assistants, 0.7 occupational therapists, and 0.4 speech therapists, to serve approximately 100,000 persons with disabilities per province. In many cases, identifying severe problems in the education environment or with case workers can result in disappointment to families if solutions are not within the realm of possibility for families. These are critical interventions in the medical care of persons with disabilities, which also require an enabling environment to ensure quality and access are sustained beyond the clinical environment, through the enforcement of disability legislation and the network of case management and social workers. The new program aims to address the shortage of POS human resources at district and commune levels so that persons with disabilities have greater access to POS services. The project should upgrade the knowledge of the current physical therapists and supporting training of occupational and speech therapists who have been and will be working with current services facilities. Several district health centers have established rehabilitation units, which could be enhanced and serve as a center for community outreach service programs. What is needed is the strengthening of the current curricula where POS education is provided so that they can produce a larger number of qualified, well-trained cohorts who are equipped to serve the vast numbers of people in need. The program should provide community training with guidance from health professionals on environmental adaptations, devices production with local materials, palliative care and peer support among family/caregivers. In strengthening POS curricula, applicants should consider integrating training modules on gender and people


with disabilities to provide participants with enough information on the rights and opportunities for males and females with disabilities. A longer-term investment should be through the work with POS educational institutions, to improve the quality of the current training programs. Both pre-service and in-service education programs are to be targeted. The support could be upgrading teaching curricula, developing teaching materials, and faculty development. Applicants should consider mainstreaming activities to improve POS professionals’ potentially biased views in relation to disabled males and females.

Output 3.2: Provide equipment and improve technology for POS facilities at district and lower levels

MoH's assessment revealed that most of the equipment currently used at rehabilitation facilities is of limited quantity and quality. At district and commune levels, there has not been a well-established service network. Applicants will have as an aim to provide essential equipment for facilities to increase the provision of services to persons with disabilities at district and commune levels.

Output 3.3: Advocate policies to increase availability and quality of POS services

While district and provincial government rarely support the planning and allocation of resources for POS activities, whether due to misunderstanding or because of prioritization of other services, there is a distinct role that NGOs can take in dialog with local governments to improve long-term planning. Technically sound strategies are needed for the development of the rehabilitation sector. For areas where strategies and plans have been developed, implementation remains inadequate and could also be actualized.

Applicants should aim to support targeted provinces to develop their long-term plan for POS system development, and promote better budget allocation for services. This could be done through the comprehensive provincial disability assistance plans. The MoH is also working with the National Action Plan on Rehabilitation (NAPR), which could be used as a framework for service development.

Output 3.4: Establish effective referral system (case-management) to connect with other health, education, and employment services

From 2011, USAID began work with MOLISA, provincial People's Committees, local departments, and social work universities to develop a network of social workers and case managers who work with persons with disabilities. USAID’s future project aims to build the case management system and to raise the competencies of social workers and case managers to be able to work at the commune level and, at the same time, coordinate with USAID’s separate assistance in the social work education sector.

D. GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS

Target areas will be those where disability prevalence and poverty rates are high and with significant gaps in services. The project should also emphasize target groups where early intervention has the greatest impact. Rural communities in provinces will include, but not be limited to Tay Ninh, Binh Phuoc, Quang Nam, Binh Dinh, Dong Nai, Hue, and Thai Binh, building on the achievements of USAID’s current disability program. Depending on the current status in each province, the level of investment may vary and may not be standardized across the board. USAID will make adjustments as appropriate in response to changing needs.


E. INTEGRATING GENDER

USAID’s Gender Equality and Female Empowerment Policy outlines three outcomes that should be adapted and translated into specific results with associated targets and indicators. These include: 1) Reduce gender disparities in access to, control over, and benefit from resources, wealth, opportunities, and services; 2) Reduce gender-based violence and mitigate its harmful effects on individuals and communities; and 3) Increase the capability of women and girls to realize their rights, determine their life outcomes, and influence decision-making in households, communities, and society. See USAID’s full Gender Equality and Female Empowerment Policy for more information.

For more guidance on gender analysis and integration, see the following references:

ADS 201.3.9.3 “Gender Considerations” (http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/200/201.pdf)

ADS 201.3.11.6 “Project/Activity Planning Step 2: Conduct Project-level Analysis as needed” (http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/200/201.pdf)

ADS 205 “Integrating Gender Equality and Female Empowerment in USAID’s Program Cycle“ (http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/200/205.pdf )

Achievement of the Millennium Development Goals relies upon the full inclusion of women and girls. Women and girls cannot be said to be fully included where women and girls with disabilities are not meaningfully involved and their specific issues not taken into account. Women with disabilities make up a sizeable proportion of the global population, and a majority of the population of persons with disabilities in developing countries.

In Vietnam, from the age of five, the percent of females with disabilities (8.4% of the female population) is higher than men (7%). There is limited data on persons with disabilities disaggregated by types of disabilities and sex. Per a gender assessment conducted by a USAID-funded project, although women with disabilities generally know more about health care than men (55% vs. 35%), women with disabilities did not seek health services, particularly reproductive counseling and care due to their fears of being incorrectly perceived as unfit to be mothers. In rural areas, women with disabilities have additional constraints accessing services due to multiple roles and responsibilities in the household, and lack of social participation.

Limited adequate health care services and facilities, long distances from homes to health care centers, and limited social participation were the three barriers for women’s health care access mentioned by the Hanoi Association of People with Disabilities. In terms of social participation, the assessment reported women with disabilities were twice as likely (68.4%) to have never taken part in any activities than men with disabilities (37%). Various sources reported when a household has a person with disabilities, the burden of care often falls on women. Vietnam passed a number of laws that set a legal foundation for the promotion of gender equality and the advancement of women, including the 2006 Gender Equality Law and the 2007 Law on Domestic Violence Prevention and Control. The 2010 Law on Person with Disabilities that aims to improve persons with disabilities living conditions overlooks the issues of gender equality and gender-based violence (GBV) related to persons with disabilities. Further, a USAID-funded study indicated that about 69% of men with disabilities are aware of the Vietnam Disabilities Law, while only 31% of women with disabilities know about it. Overall, there is an information gap and lack of implementation on the part of service providers on the law on persons with disabilities, gender equality, and domestic violence. Sex disaggregated figures on rehabilitation technicians, therapists, doctors, CBR workers, and social workers are unknown. Although data is limited, most leadership roles in PWD clubs are


male, while women are far less likely to participate in such social structures and activities.

USAID/Vietnam asks that applicants consider the following guidance and actions to address these gaps:

Additional gender interventions for consideration could include:

Public education and awareness raising efforts in provincial action plans must challenge

negative perceptions and attitudes to disabled women and men by identifying positive role models that dispel misconceptions about the capabilities of people with disabilities;

Promote training of young disabled women through home-based training or through peer support groups to develop functional skills, provide technical aids and adaptation to the home and surrounding environment such as low-level trolleys to facilitate completion of household tasks and support greater social participation;

Fitting of orthotics or prosthetics by men has been identified as a particular problem for disabled women from cultures where contact between the sexes is restricted. Increasing the cadre of women workers or community development workers can have a significant impact on improving access to services for disabled women;

Promotion of self-help groups for disabled women and men helps to reduce isolation, fight social stigma and improve participation in service program as well as other social and community life; and

Activities also need to work with partner organizations working in disability issues to increase awareness of gender issues as a key aspect of disability rights and advocacy.

USAID/Vietnam also requests that applicants propose indicators to monitor and evaluate progress in addressing gender gaps and issues. Below is the list of USAID standard gender indicators to consider:

GNDR-1 Number of laws, policies, or procedures drafted, proposed or adopted to promote gender equality at the regional, national or local level;

GNDR-2 Proportion of female participants in USG-assisted programs designed to increase access to productive economic resources (assets, credit, income or employment);

GNDR-3 Proportion of females who report increased self-efficacy at the conclusion of USG supported training/programming;

GNDR-4 Proportion of target population reporting increased agreement with the concept that males and females should have equal access to social, economic, and political opportunities;

GNDR-5 Number of laws, policies, or procedures drafted, proposed, or adopted with USG assistance designed to improve prevention of or response to sexual and gender based violence at the regional, national or local level;

GNDR-6 Number of people reached by a USG-funded intervention providing GBV services (e.g., health, legal, psycho-social counseling, shelters, hotlines, other); and

GNDR-7 Percentage of target population that views Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as less acceptable after participating in or being exposed to USG programming.


SECTION II – AWARD INFORMATION A. ANTICIPATED FUNDING AVAILABILITY AND PROGRAM DURATION

It is anticipated that multiple awards will be made under this APS. The initial funding range per award will vary between $200,000 over a two to five year period of performance. The total estimated funding amount over the life of this APS is as much as $21,000,000 subject to the availability of funds. A cost-share or match from non-government sources of 10% or more for local organizations is required. A cost share of 15% or more is required for international organizations. Period of performance will vary depending on which cycle is used for award. Issuance of this APS does not constitute an award or commitment on the part of the U.S. Government to make any awards, nor does it commit the U.S. Government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of an application.

USAID reserves the right to fund any or none of the applications submitted.

B. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

Place of performance for this award is Vietnam. C. TYPE OF AWARD(S)

USAID will determine the appropriate mechanism type, in consultation with the applicant, based on the nature and amount of the funded application and the type of relationship to be established. Where feasible, USAID will use grants or fixed obligation grants (FOGs). USAID may also use Cooperative Agreements. No construction activities will be funded under assistance agreements resulting from this APS. Some of the information listed below applies to either FOGs or simplified grants.

D. Grant Disbursement and Financial Management

Recipients under this APS will be required to open a separate bank account before any funds are transferred from USAID. Recipients must have an acceptable financial system to manage and account for receipt and expenditure of USAID funds, and must prepare and submit accurate quarterly financial reports. When the payment method is advance payment, monthly liquidation reports will be required.

E. Audit

If the recipient organization already performs an annual audit, the recipient will submit a copy of the audit report to USAID within thirty (30) days of receipt of the report. In addition, USAID shall maintain the right to arrange for an independent financial audit to be financed directly by USAID. Should the recipient expend more than $300,000 annually in USAID funds, it is the responsibility of the recipient to conduct an audit under the USAID Guidelines for Financial Audits Contracted by Foreign Recipients, as required by the USAID Inspector General. A copy of this audit shall be submitted to USAID within thirty (30) days of its completion.

F. Reporting

The grant agreement will detail the reporting requirements. Recipients must adhere to the reporting schedule and requirements.


G. Monitoring and Evaluation

USAID will monitor programmatic and financial performance. USAID reserves the right to review finances, expenditures, and any other relevant documents at any time during the project period and for three after the project’s completion and closeout. All original receipts must be kept for five years after the formal closeout has been completed. Performance monitoring continues to be an ongoing, collaborative process that includes the participation of USAID, implementing partners, counterparts, and other stakeholders. The Mission has begun to implement the key principles and tasks of performance monitoring through a variety of measures as outlined in the updated ADS 203 and the Performance Monitoring Mission Order to ensure collection of consistent and high quality data. The rollout of AIDTracker+ will also allow for mission-wide standardized methods of monitoring data collection and storage.

To ensure timely and quality implementation of evaluation work, the Mission will initiate a mission-based M&E mechanism, to be in place by mid-2014. It will enable the Mission to obtain services of conducting external/independent performance and impact evaluations over the course of five years (in parallel to CDCS1) in line with USAID evaluation policy, based on USAID requirements and through building the local capacity in the field of evaluation. Each evaluation team will also involve local organizations or consultants in the study. The mechanism is anticipated to support performance monitoring through targeted surveys capturing behavior change and perceptions related to the DO/SpO level results.

Disability activities under this project will apply an innovative learning approach that draws on regular analysis of the contextual dynamics to improve the impact of activities. Given the contextual changes in the political, economic, and social landscape of Vietnam that affect disability programming, continual assessment of the methodologies and practices to achieve results will be necessary. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to propose a mixture of output and impact indicators.

The Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan will provide the basis for assessing progress against the overall USAID Vietnam Performance Management Plan (PMP). Notional indicators in the project logical framework will measure progress at the DO, IR, and sub-IR levels. Ambitious targets that reflect outcomes will be set that convey the impact of the significant resources invested into this project. It is expected that IPs will report on results against targets through AidTracker+ to help facilitate the sharing and analysis of data. Portfolio reviews, the Performance Plan and Report, and other reviews will help review progress against targets at the outcome and operational levels to ensure the effectiveness of interventions. Approval of IP work plans will be contingent upon alignment with the indicators and targets the Mission has set forth in the CDCS and PMP.

H. APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY

The APS is intended to expand and diversify the pool of partners USAID collaborates with by providing grants to local NGOs, as well as international NGOs. Prospective partners must be organizations with a reputation for integrity and the highest standard of conduct, with a proven track record in their particular area of expertise. They should demonstrate a respect for gender sensitivity and inclusion of people with disabilities, fair labor practices, and environmental consciousness. All partners must meet standard U.S. Government procurement policies for financial management and audits.

1 http://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1861/CDCS_Vietnam_public_version_final.pdf


Eligibility Information for local Vietnamese Organizations: To be eligible for this program as a local NGO, an organization must meet the following criteria.

1. USAID’s definition of local organization requires that the organization:

a. be organized under the laws of the recipient country, b. have its principal place of business in the recipient country, c. be majority owned by individuals who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of

the recipient country or be managed by a governing body, the majority of whom are citizens or lawful permanent residents of the recipient country, and

d. not be controlled by a foreign entity comprised of individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents of the recipient country.

The term “controlled by” in (d) means a majority ownership or beneficiary interest as defined in (c), above, or the power, either directly or indirectly, whether exercised or exercisable, to control the election, appointment, or tenure of the organization’s managers or a majority of the organization’s governing body by any means, e.g. ownership, contract or operation of law.

“Foreign entity” means any organization that fails to meet any part of the “local organization” definition.

2. The organization must be a non-profit, non-governmental local organization, or a local for-

profit organization that is willing to forgo profit. These may include Vietnam non-governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, foundations, professional associations, networks, and consortia/coalitions of the above. In the case of consortia and coalitions, one organization must be identified as the “prime partner”.

3. The organization must have basic accountability, financial management, and program

implementation structures in place.

4. The organization must not have any pending disciplinary or legal action against them from another USAID or another U.S. agency.

5. The organization must be willing to participate in an organizational capacity assessment

process and in subsequent strengthening to improve its organizational systems and technical abilities.

6. The organization (or its key personnel) must have demonstrated skills and experience in the

programmatic area in which it is proposing to work.

7. All Applicants must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM), unless exempt under 22 CFR 25.100, to be eligible to receive an award under this APD. SAM is the U.S. Government federal repository into which an entity must provide information required for the conduct of business as a Recipient. Additional information about registration procedures can be found at the SAM internet site (www.sam.gov) Organizations that apply and do not have an exception must ensure they have the necessary processes and systems in place to comply with the reporting requirements of 2 CFR 170, should they receive funding. See also the Standard Provisions entitled, “Central Contractor Registrations and Universal Identifier” and “Reporting Sub-Awards and Executive Compensation at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/303maa.pdf

8. Applicants must have a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number unless exempt

under 22 CFR 25.100 to be eligible to receive an award under this APS. A DUNS number is


a nine-digit number established and assigned by Dun and Bradstreet, Inc. (D&B) to uniquely identify business entities. A DUNS number can be obtained from D&B by internet:

Access the webpage: http://www.dnb.com Follow the instructions.

Questions with regard to DUNS numbers should be directed to D&B. Applications may be submitted under this APS without a DUNS number or SAM registration. However, the successful awardee will be required to obtain both of them and submit evidence of registration to USAID before an award is made. The registration process may take many weeks to complete. Therefore, Applicants are encouraged to obtain them early so that, if selected, the award will not be delayed. Completion of an early registration does not constitute any commitment on the part of the U.S. Government to make an award. This APS will only fund organizations, not individuals. USAID/Vietnam will consider applications that propose partnering arrangements with international organizations. The prime partner, however, must meet the aforementioned local organization definition. An organization may submit multiple Concept Papers over the life of this APS, and organizations may submit different Concept Papers that address different APS objectives. Entities that are not current USAID implementing partners are also encouraged to apply.

I. BRANDING AND MARKING UNDER ASSISTANCE INSTRUMENTS

In accordance with USAID policy (ADS 320.3.1.2 and 320.3.3), the Applicant shall include a draft Branding Strategy and Marking Plan in their Full Application. This Strategy and Plan will be negotiated and finalized as part of the subsequent award to the Recipient. Applicants should note that a branding and marking strategy is not necessary for Concept Papers under this APS.

J. ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE

Please note: This section contains information on environmental compliance which applicants should understand as they develop their application. Applicants should consider any environmental impacts of their activities; however, no environmental documents need to be submitted with Concept Papers.

The Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended, Section 117 requires that the impact of USAID’s activities on the environment be considered and that USAID include environmental sustainability as a central consideration in designing and carrying out its development programs. This mandate is codified in Federal Regulations (22 CFR 216) and in USAID’s Automated Directives System (ADS) Parts 201.3.11.2.b and 204 (http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/200/), which, in part, require that the potential environmental impacts of USAID-financed activities are identified prior to a final decision to proceed and that appropriate environmental safeguards are adopted for all activities. Recipient environmental compliance obligations under these regulations and procedures are specified in the following paragraphs of this Annual Program Statement: In addition, the recipient must comply with host country environmental regulations unless otherwise directed in writing by USAID. In case of conflict between host country and USAID regulations, the latter shall govern.


No activity funded under the APS will be implemented unless an environmental threshold determination, as defined by 22 CFR 216, has been reached for that activity, as documented in an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE), or Environmental Assessment (EA) duly signed by the Bureau Environmental Officer (BEO). Hereinafter, such documents are described as “approved Regulation 216 environmental documentation.” As part of its initial Work Plan, and all Annual Work Plans thereafter, the partner in collaboration with the USAID Agreement Officer’s Representative and Mission Environmental Officer or Bureau Environmental Officer, as appropriate, shall review all ongoing and planned activities awarded under this APS to determine if they are within the scope of the approved Regulation 216 environmental documentation. If the partner plans any new activities outside the scope of the approved Regulation 216 environmental documentation, it shall prepare an amendment to the documentation for USAID review and approval. No such new activities shall be undertaken prior to receiving written USAID approval of environmental documentation amendments. Any ongoing activities found to be outside the scope of the approved Regulation 216 environmental documentation shall be halted until an amendment to the documentation is submitted and written approval is received from USAID. Integrate a completed EMMP or M&M Plan into the initial work plan. Integrate an EMMP or M&M Plan into subsequent Annual Work Plans, making any necessary adjustments to activity implementation in order to minimize adverse impacts to the environment. The recipient will be responsible for periodic reporting to the USAID Agreement Officer’s Representative, as specified in the Schedule/Program Description of this solicitation.

K. APPLICABLE REGULATIONS AND REFERENCES

Standard Provisions will be provided in full text, as applicable, in the resultant agreement. Mandatory Standard Provisions for Non U.S. Nongovernmental Recipients: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/303mab.pdf

ADS Chapter 303, Acquisition and Assistance, located at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/303.pdf

U.S. Government Standard Form (SF) 424, (SF) 424A, (SF) 424B, located at: http://apply07.grants.gov/apply/FormsMenu?source=agency


SECTION III – APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION A. APPLICATION PROCESS

There are two stages to the application process.

1. Step One: Write the Concept Paper. Applicants submit concept papers in the format provided in Annex A, including program description, budget and capability statement to USAID; USAID teams review concept papers based on criteria outlined below.

Concept Papers must be in English and must be accompanied by a total estimated amount. Applicants must use the application format. USAID/Vietnam will notify unsuccessful applicants in writing. Concepts will be evaluated upon submission. Hard Copies and fax submissions will not be accepted. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that files are complete and transmitted by the deadline on the cover page. USAID bears no responsibility for data errors or omissions. USAID may accept applications past the deadline due to transmission difficulties that are not the fault of, or within the control of, the applicant with the approval of USAID/Vietnam’s Agreement Officer.

2. Step Two: Selected applicants are invited to submit full applications.

Do not submit a Full Application unless you receive a formal letter requesting you to do so by USAID. An invitation to submit a Full Application does not constitute an award; USAID may choose not to fund applications even after they have been requested.

If the evaluation by USAID/Vietnam indicates the Concept Paper merits further consideration for funding, USAID will invite the selected applicants to submit a Full Application. Detailed Budget: The detailed budget must include the total estimated amount for the life of the program and a brief cost breakdown of individual line items for specific costs that the applicant expects to incur. The life of the project should be clearly indicated on the budget. Costs can include, but are not limited to: personnel salaries, fringe benefits, office rent, utilities, equipment, communications, workshops, and local travel. The estimated budget template and budget guidance is attached in Annex B. The budget must be created in Microsoft Excel and must be unlocked. All line items must culminate to the total requested amount. Budget Narrative: The applicant must submit, along with their budget, a narrative created in Microsoft Word which clearly explains their budget in detail, consistent with the budget categories detailed in the budget. Budgets should be in US dollars. USAID may request more detailed budget information at a later stage in the review process. If USAID/Vietnam’s evaluation of a full application results in a recommendation for funding, USAID/Vietnam and the organization will enter into discussions to ensure all pre-award requirements are met and significant agreement terms are negotiated and agreed upon. Full Applications that do not meet the deadline may not be reviewed by the evaluation committee during the APS period.


The application must be submitted in two separate electronic files: (1) technical application and (2) cost application. Electronic files, inclusive of any allowed appendices, must be emailed to [email protected] and each email must not exceed 4MB. No hard copies will be accepted for any process involved in this APS. USAID bears no responsibility for data errors or omissions. USAID may accept applications past the deadline due to transmission difficulties that are not the fault of, or within the control of, the applicant with the approval of USAID Vietnam’s Agreement Officer.

A Full Application should be a detailed description of the activities described in the Concept Paper. The Full Technical Application must be specific and complete, and it must be presented in a concise manner. The Full Technical Application should contain all of the elements specified below.

Technical Application:

1. General Format: The Technical Application must:

Be written in English; Be written using Times New Roman, 12 point font; Be written with 1-inch margins; Be paginated with each page consecutively numbered; Not exceed ten (10) pages (not including cover page and annexes). Pages in excess of

this stated limit will not be considered; and All Full Applications should be submitted via email to the address listed on the cover

page. 2. The Technical Application should be developed according to the following format:

Cover Page: (one page - does not count toward the 10 page limit).

The cover page must include:

USAID APS Solicitation Number Name and address of organization(s)/institution(s) involved with the lead or

primary applicant clearly identified; Any partners or partnerships (if proposed) clearly listed; Type of organization of

the primary applicant (e.g. for profit business, non-profit, university, etc.); Title of application; The total estimated amount, the dollar amount requested from USAID; Length of the proposed program; Contact person (lead contact name, title, telephone number, and e-mail

information). Applicants should also clearly state whether the identified contact person has the authority to negotiate on behalf of the applicant, and, if not, the contact information for the appropriate person with authority to negotiate should also be listed; and

Signature of authorized representative of the applicant.

Executive Summary: (one page - does not count toward the 10-page limit)

The executive summary must summarize the key elements of the applicant’s technical application, but provide NO FINANCIAL FIGURES other than the total amount of funds requested from USAID.


Full Technical Application: (10 pages maximum) Program Description Goal and Objectives Target Audience and Geographic Focus Proposed Outcomes Technical Approach Expected Impact Management Plan (including partnership arrangements where applicable) Implementation Schedule (Milestones, if applicable)

Annexes (Does not Count toward any page limit):

Curriculum Vitae for Key Personnel Performance Monitoring Plan (if applicable)

Cost Application: The Cost Application shall clearly show how funds will be used to support the activities proposed in the applicant’s Technical Application. USAID/Vietnam encourages prospective partners to focus resources on project implementation rather than salaries, equipment, and supplies. Unless the grantee has an official Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) with the U.S. Government, all indirect costs must be considered using a direct allocation method. While there is no page limit for the budget narratives, Applicants are encouraged to be as concise as possible, but still provide the necessary detail to address the following: a. The Applicant must submit a budget and budget narrative that allows the Agreement

Officer to reach the determination that all proposed costs are reasonable and the proposed budget is realistic to carry out the program the Applicant proposed in its technical application. The proposed budget should clearly identify the costs involved to perform the activities identified in the technical approach and the budget narrative should provide evidence that the proposed budget is both reasonable and will achieve the program objectives. A summary of the budget must be submitted using Standard Form 424 and 424A which can be downloaded from the grants.gov website at www.grants.gov

1. The breakdown of all costs associated with the program according to costs of, if

applicable, headquarters, regional and/or country offices. 2. The breakdown of all costs according to each partner organization (or sub-Recipient)

involved in the program. 3. The costs associated with external, expatriate technical assistance and those associated

with local in-country technical assistance. 4. Potential contributions of non-USAID or private commercial donors to this

Agreement. 5. The procurement plan for commodities (if applicable). 6. Indicate the name, annual salary, and expected level of effort of each person charged

to the project. Provide personnel resumes showing work experience and annual salary history for at least the three most recent years for personnel.

7. If not included in an indirect cost rate agreement negotiated with the USG, specify the applicable fringe benefit rates for each category of employees, and explain the benefits included in the rate.


8. The same individual information for consultants must be provided as for regular personnel.

9. Allowances must be broken down by specific type and by person, and must be in accordance with the Applicant's policies.

10. Travel, per diem, and other transportation expenses must be detailed in your cost application to include number of international trips, expected itineraries, number of per diem days and per diem rates.

11. Specify all equipment to be purchased and the expected geographic source. 12. Cost applications for all proposed sub-grants and subcontracts must have the same

format and level of detail as those of the Applicant. Following the Applicant’s detailed budget breakdown, detailed budget breakdowns for each sub-Recipients/(sub) contractor must be presented. Sub-Recipient/(sub) contractor budgets must not be intermingled. The first page must be a summary budget, following the same budget format and line items as are set forth above for the full term of the sub-agreement/subcontract. Detailed budget notes that explain how the subs’ proposed budget was reviewed and how a determination was made that it is fair and reasonable must be provided.

13. Other direct costs such as supplies, communication costs, photocopying, visas, passports and other general costs must be separate cost line items.

14. Cost Share: Amount and source of cost share contribution in cash or in kind, by applicant; submit information indicating the financial and/or in-kind resources to be leveraged. A cost-share or match from non-government sources of 10% or more for local organizations is required. A cost share of 15% or more is required for international organizations. Submit a written commitment by other organizations, partners, donors, or individuals to share costs.

b. Applicants should submit additional evidence of responsibility they deem necessary for

the Agreement Officer to make a positive determination of responsibility. The information submitted must substantiate that the Applicant: 1. Has adequate financial resources or the ability to obtain such resources as required

during the performance of the award; 2. Has the ability to comply with the award conditions, taking into account all existing

and currently prospective commitments of the Applicant, nongovernmental and governmental;

3. Has a satisfactory record of performance. Past relevant unsatisfactory performance is ordinarily sufficient to justify a finding of non-responsibility, unless there is clear evidence of subsequent satisfactory performance.

4. Has a satisfactory record of integrity and business ethics; and, 5. Is otherwise qualified and eligible to receive an award under applicable laws and

regulations (e.g., EEO).

Additional Required Forms:

Forms SF 424, 424A, and 424B should be signed by the applicant and submitted as an electronic file:

SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance SF-424A, Financial Application Information – Non construction Programs SF-424B, Assurances – Non construction Programs A link to these forms can be found at: https://apply07.grants.gov/apply/FormsMenu?source=agency. Search for the form by number reference.

Completed Representations and Certifications


Accessible through: http://inside.usaid.gov/ADS/300/303mav.docx

Mandatory Standard Provisions for Non-U.S. Nongovernmental Recipients applications Accessible through: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/303mab.pdf. The successful organization will be required to implement the program consistent with these USAID Standard Provisions. Timeline and Deadlines For all full applications, USAID/Vietnam will convene a technical evaluation committee

to review applications received and make recommendations for funding. These recommendations will be provided on a rolling basis to the Agreement Officer for negotiation, responsibility determinations, and award.

Prior to award execution, USAID may perform a pre-award survey for organizations that

successfully pass USAID/Vietnam’s evaluation process for full application. This is a standard procedure for organizations that are new to working with USAID or for organizations with outstanding audit findings. Accounting systems, audit issues and management or technical capability questions may be reviewed as part of this process, including a potential site visit. If notified by USAID that a pre-award survey or site visit is necessary, applicants must prepare in advance the required information and documents. A pre-award survey or site visit does not commit USAID to make an award to any organization.

B. EVALUATION CRITERIA

The criteria presented below have been tailored to the requirements of this particular APS. Applicants should note that these criteria serve to (a) identify the significant matters which Applicants should address in their applications, and (b) set the standard against which all applications will be evaluated. To facilitate the review of applications, Applicants shall organize the narrative sections of their applications in the same order as the selection criteria. Technical applications will be evaluated in accordance with the Technical Evaluation Criteria set forth below. Thereafter, the cost proposal of all Applicants submitting a technically acceptable application will be opened and costs will be reviewed for general reasonableness, allowability, and allocability. While technical criteria are paramount, cost considerations may be a factor for award. The technical application will be the most important item of consideration in selection for these assistance awards. It should be specific, complete, and presented concisely. Applicants should review all information in this APS prior to preparing applications, especially the program description, eligibility criteria, and evaluation criteria. The technical application should be directly responsive to the terms, conditions, guidelines and provisions of this APS to be assured of consideration. Applications not conforming to this APS may be categorized as not meeting the minimum requirements of the Government, thereby eliminating them from further consideration. The technical application must set forth in detail the conceptual approach, methodology, and techniques for accomplishment of the stated program objectives. The application must define results and benchmarks for monitoring progress in achieving the results. In addition, Full Applications will be reviewed for environmental soundness and compliance in design and implementation, as appropriate.


Applicants are reminded that the U.S. Government is not obligated to make an award on the basis of lowest proposed cost or to the Applicant with the highest technical evaluation score. The Agreement Officer will make award to the Applicants whose applications are judged to be the most advantageous in accomplishing USAID’s foreign assistance objectives. Programmatic diversity as well as other USG strategic and policy priorities will also be taken under consideration in making final award decisions.

1. All Concept Papers will be evaluated using an adjectival rating system based on the

following criteria:

Extent to which Applicant demonstrates understanding of the challenge/opportunity, target population, country, and sector(s) in a creative, logical, and strategic manner; responsiveness to the needs for persons with disability and their independent living/functions;

Degree to which sub-purposes/outputs, methods, and anticipated results are logically connected and represent a reasonable and achievable approach; level of realization to which project design addresses the target population; gender concerns based on an analysis of the gender gaps and disparities; and examines the different impacts on women and men that the project may have.

How the Applicant establishes and demonstrates that it is the right entity for delivery of effective and scalable development impact. Applicant may cite performance of relevant past or current programs or those completed during the past three years, which should be consistent with type and scope of proposed activities.

Adjective Description

Outstanding Concept Paper meets requirements and indicates exceptional approach and understanding of the requirements.

Good Concept Paper meets requirements and indicates thorough approach and understanding of the requirements. Concept Paper contains strengths which outweigh any weaknesses. Risk of unsuccessful performance is low.

Acceptable Concept Paper meets requirements and indicates an adequate approach and understanding of the requirements. Strengths and weaknesses are offsetting or will have little to no impact on performance. Risk of unsuccessful performance is low.

Marginal Concept Paper does not clearly meet requirements and has not demonstrated an adequate approach and understanding of the requirements. The Concept Paper has one or more weaknesses which are not offset by strengths. Risk of unsuccessful performance is high.

Unacceptable Concept Paper does not meet requirements and contains one or more deficiencies.

2. All Full Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria and weighting

using the adjectival ratings :

The below criteria are organized in descending order of importance per award type. The first criterion (Technical Approach) is of highest importance. Criteria two (Management Approach) and three (Past Performance), when combined, are equally as important as the first criterion.


a. Technical Approach Extent to which Applicant demonstrates understanding of the challenge/opportunity,

target population, country, and sector(s) in a creative, logical, and strategic manner; Degree to which sub-purposes/outputs, methods, and anticipated results are logically

connected and represent a reasonable and achievable approach. This includes reviewing the relevance of the approach to the problem to be addressed, whether the proposed activities are consistent with the objectives sought, and how the activities are inter-related; level of realization to which project design addresses gender concerns based on an analysis of the gender gaps and disparities; and examines the different impacts on women and men that the project may have; and roles/responsibility of fathers/male family members.

Responsiveness to needs of persons with disabilities and their independent living/functions.

b. Management Approach USAID will review the effectiveness of the Management Approach in terms of

internal structure, technical ability, and whether they can represent beneficiary interests. Applicants are encouraged to consider partnerships and coalitions, as appropriate, to broaden geographic diversity, promote greater inclusion, and increase program reach. Partnerships that build on the relative strengths of participating organizations with clearly defined roles and responsibilities of each organization in the application will strengthen an application; and M & E Plan.

c. Past Performance Documented Past Performance consistent with type and scope of proposed activities;

emphasis will be on prior activities, if any, which are similar to that which is proposed. If the applicant has no past performance history, the applicant will receive a neutral rating in this category.


ANNEX A - CONCEPT PAPER APPLICATION FORMAT

CONCEPT PAPER APPLICATION

Proposed Project Title

Applicant’s Organization Information ‐ Name ‐ Mailing Address ‐ Main point of contact ‐ Telephone ‐ Email

Total Amount of USAID Funds Requested

Total Cost-Share Amount

Proposed Sub-Partner’s Name and Award Amount

Period of Program (in months)

Brief Description of the Project (up to five sentences): Project’s Main Expected Impact, Outputs, and Activities

Main Impact Expected to be Achieved

Main Results

Please list at least three main results at the output level to be achieved by your project

Main Project Activities

Please include at least three illustrative activities to achieve your outputs

Geographic Location of Proposed Project

Proposed Locations of Activities


ANNEX B - BUDGET TEMPLATE & EXAMPLE NARRATIVE The budget is the financial expression of the program. The following template represents an example of what USAID anticipates to see in a program budget: Name of Applicant: Program Title: Period of Performance: Total Estimated Amount:

Line Item

Cost Element Unit No. of Units

YEAR X

USAID Cost Share 1 I. Personnel 2 Program Director - XX% LOE month 12 3 Admin. Assistant - XX% LOE month 6 4 5 II. Fringe Benefits 6 8 III. Travel 9 12 IV. Office Expenses 13 Office Rent 14 Utilities 15 16 V. Communication 17 18 VI. Local Travel 19 20 VII. Recipient Contracted Audit 21 22 VIII. Program Expenses 23 Workshops each 3 24

25 IX. Indirect Costs 26

EXAMPLE NARRATIVE: D.4.1 Examples of cost breakdown:

Office rent ($X): Since the program exhausts about 25%-30% of the applicant’s staff, work hours and office space a direct cost of 25% will be charged to the program.

Workshops ($360): Nine meetings at a rate of $1 per participant per meeting for 40 participants. Travel ($2,400): This line item includes the costs associated with local travel for four staff members.

The estimate of $10 per month is based on an estimated travel distance of 2Km per month to be reimbursed at a rate of $5 per one Km. Total for two years is: $2,400. ($10*24).

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