The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative - Mekong Leadership Program (YSEALI-MLP) Request For Information outlines USAID's expectations for a pilot program aimed at enhancing leadership capabilities among youth in the Mekong region. There are no set parameters for the number or duration of cohorts; applicants can propose their solutions. The program will begin with participants from Vietnam, with plans to expand to other ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste. Applicants must assess VNU-HCM's capacity and establish an MOU for collaboration. The $5.5 million budget is intended for the prime Implementing Partner and associated costs, with no specified funds for VNU-HCM unless otherwise agreed. The program's focus themes include climate change, environment, and biodiversity, targeting youth leaders aged 18-35 across participating countries. USAID encourages partnerships with VNU-HCM and local organizations to foster developmental capacity. The implementing partners do not need a physical presence in Hanoi but are expected to be actively engaged in co-designing and implementing the program. The document emphasizes a structured but flexible approach to engaging youth leaders, all within a collaborative framework aimed at substantial local impact.