USAID/Mali is calling for concept paper submissions from local actors to support its development objectives, focusing on sectors such as Peace, Democracy, and Governance; Agriculture and Economic Growth; Health; and Education and Youth. The deadline for submissions is August 16, 2024, and proposals should not exceed three pages, submitted in French. Eligible applicants are local entities based in Mali, which cannot have received more than $5 million in prior USAID funding.
The objectives aim to empower local communities by integrating their input into developing solutions, thereby fostering sustainable interventions. Selected concepts may lead to fixed-amount awards of at least $250,000, with potential renewal for up to five years.
The concept should highlight how it promotes locally led development, the feasibility of achieving outlined outcomes, and demonstrate the organizational capacity to implement the approach. USAID emphasizes expanding local capacities and reducing dependence on foreign assistance. Successful candidates will undergo a co-creation process starting in October 2024, where they will further refine their proposals with USAID support. Inquiries regarding the announcement can be directed to USAID by July 15, 2024.
The USAID/Mali has issued an Addendum to solicit concept submissions focused on local development that aligns with its development strategy in Mali, under APS No.: 7200AA24APS00006. Interested entities are invited to submit proposals addressing critical areas such as Peace, Democracy, Governance, Agriculture, Economic Growth, Health, and Education. The deadline for submissions is August 16, 2024, with a minimum grant of $250,000, potentially renewable for up to five years.
The document outlines Mali's various developmental challenges, including weak governance, poverty, and health crises, impacting stability and growth. USAID aims to create healthier, more educated populations capable of addressing urgent needs and improving resilience. Applicants are encouraged to propose concepts emphasizing locally-driven solutions that facilitate community engagement and decision-making, fostering partnerships among local organizations. Criteria for eligibility include being a legally recognized local entity, and certain financial limitations apply.
Submissions should clearly articulate their approach to empower local actors and include a narrative addressing the local development impact, feasibility, and organizational capacity. The selection process entails eligibility verification followed by a technical evaluation, with a co-creation phase anticipated post-evaluation to refine selected concepts. This opportunity underscores USAID's commitment to locally-led development efforts in Mali.
The document pertains to a modification of the USAID Mali Request for Proposals (RFP) numbered 72068824APS00002, primarily focused on local development projects supporting USAID's objectives in Mali. Issued on July 18, 2024, this modification includes answers to questions from potential partners related to the original RFP dated July 3, 2024. Key points include specifications for project areas limited to Kayes and Mopti, eligibility for organizations without active Unique Entity Identifiers (UEI), and flexibility in project duration of up to three years.
Organizations can submit proposals covering multiple areas and should detail project designs separately for each component. The RFP encourages partnerships, allowing national and international NGOs to collaborate in a consortium. Although there is no ceiling on funding, the USAID recommends that applicants propose realistic budget requests related to their projects. The document emphasizes compliance with submission guidelines and the necessity for clear project outcomes in areas such as health and education, with special consideration for the engagement of local partners. Overall, the modification reiterates the framework for effectively submitting project proposals aligned with USAID's priorities in Mali.
The document details the April 18, 2024 Localization Industry Day held by USAID, addressing questions and concerns from local NGOs and businesses regarding the application process for upcoming funding opportunities. Key topics include eligibility for proposals, required documentation, and the financial parameters of grant applications. Responses clarify that both new and established organizations can participate, with no minimum operational history required. The document emphasizes that USAID will not share presentation materials externally but remains open to providing ongoing support and answering queries.
Participants expressed gratitude for USAID's initiative to support local organizations, raising questions about funding caps, the possibility of multiple submissions by a single entity, and the nuances of consortium applications, which require legal status in Mali. The responses reassure that funding amounts can vary considerably based on project needs, and USAID encourages collaboration between local and international NGOs while maintaining strict eligibility requirements.
Overall, the document reinforces USAID's commitment to transparency in the grant process, highlighting its goal of empowering local entities through direct funding while fostering effective partnerships for community development.