The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) issued the Global Development Alliance (GDA) Annual Program Statement (APS) to stimulate partnerships with the private sector aimed at addressing significant development challenges. This solicitation invites organizations to propose Global Development Alliances through concept papers, focusing on leveraging private sector resources to achieve mutual business and development goals. The GDA promotes sustainable development, requiring private contributions to equal or surpass USAID's funding requests on a 1:1 basis. The document outlines a multi-step co-creation process involving exploration of USAID priorities, engagement with potential private sector partners, and development of innovative solutions collaboratively. Key evaluation criteria include alignment with USAID objectives, depth of private sector involvement, feasibility, sustainability, and scalability of proposed initiatives. The GDA APS emphasizes extensive collaboration, mutual benefit, and the transformation of development interventions through a market-driven approach. USAID asserts that no funding commitment is made until formal agreements are signed, underlining the importance of comprehensive communication and joint problem-solving in alliance development.

This document serves as a Q&A guide for the USAID/Colombia Addendum to the Global Development Alliance (GDA) Annual Program Statement (APS), issued on October 31, 2017. It addresses various inquiries from potential applicants regarding the submission and criteria for concept papers related to funding opportunities. Key details include the availability of documentation online, language requirements for submissions, targeted geographical areas (Priority 1 and 2), and exceptions regarding the necessity of a DUNS number at the initial submission stage. USAID/Colombia emphasizes equal consideration for alliances targeting both priority areas and allows for proposals beyond these geographies, provided they align with development goals. Importantly, a 1:1 private sector leverage requirement is emphasized, with a preference for proposals exceeding this ratio. The document clarifies that there are no industry-specific restrictions and that private contributions from local government do not count toward leverage but may be included in total resource assessments. The outlined process supports transparency in partnership creation, with the potential for modifications in concept papers between submission phases. Overall, this guide aims to facilitate understanding of the GDA framework while fostering innovative partnerships for sustainable development in Colombia.