The Libyan Economic Acceleration Project (LEAP/Aqfuz) aims to support vulnerable Libyans in achieving sustainable financial security over three years, with an anticipated budget of approximately $15 million. This initiative, managed by USAID, addresses the major economic challenges faced by Libya, primarily its reliance on the oil and gas sector, which accounts for 80% of GDP. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated economic downturns, projecting GDP to fall from $50 billion in 2019 to possibly as low as $15 billion in 2020, coupled with high unemployment rates, especially among youth and women.
LEAP/Aqfuz focuses on promoting private sector development through Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), aiming to increase employability among marginalized groups, including youth, women, and indigenous populations. By fostering entrepreneurship and offering business development services through local organizations, the program seeks to create job opportunities and diversify the economy. Key expected outcomes include growth in MSMEs, improved business skills for potential entrepreneurs, and enhanced capacity of business incubators. This initiative underscores the importance of inclusive economic participation as a means of stabilizing Libya and mitigating risks of conflict among disenfranchised populations.
USAID/Libya is soliciting responses to identify suitable development interventions for supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and entrepreneurship in Libya, particularly in a context marked by political and economic instability. The document presents a series of questions aimed at gathering insights on opportunities for MSMEs, challenges faced by various demographics, and the roles of business incubators, non-governmental partners, and vocational training. Key topics include the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on entrepreneurship, potential sectors for business growth, and structural challenges affecting private sector development. Respondents are encouraged to provide specific recommendations for enhancing sustainability of initiatives and addressing the financial stability of local communities. The overall objective is to gather information that informs USAID's approach to fostering economic growth through MSMEs, while recognizing the unique circumstances and diverse populations within Libya.
The Sources Sought request by USAID/Libya is aimed at gathering market intelligence regarding organizations capable of implementing a planned private sector development initiative in Libya. The agency is reaching out to entities either currently engaged in or recently having operated in Libya to submit a capability statement. This statement should outline the organization’s qualifications, expertise in collaborating with Libyan communities, and applicability of their experience to the proposed activity. Responses should be limited to three pages and include the organization’s name, contact person, type of organization, and relevant details. The overall goal is to assess interest and readiness of potential partners in executing the planned development activity effectively.