The document is Amendment Two (2) to the Higher Education for Leadership, Innovation, and Exchange (HELIX) New Partnerships Initiative (NPI) announced by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Issued on January 10, 2024, with a closing date of April 2, 2025, the amendment outlines significant changes to the program's administration and contact personnel. Key updates include a shift in oversight from the Bureau for Economic Growth to the Bureau for Inclusive Growth, Partnerships, and Innovation. The replacement of specific officials is noted, enhancing the program's direction and support mechanisms. Significant updates are also made to the program description, emphasizing capacity improvement in higher education partnerships and exchanges in recipient countries. Additionally, there is a new provision for compliance regarding transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities, detailing reporting obligations and potential repercussions for violations. The document reinforces that all other terms of the HELIX NPI Annual Program Statement remain unchanged. This amendment aims to enhance program clarity and ensure adherence to legal and operational standards within USAID’s grant agreements.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has issued the Annual Program Statement (APS) No. 7200AA20APS00009 for the Higher Education for Leadership, Innovation, and Exchange (HELIX) under the New Partnerships Initiative (NPI). This initiative aims to enhance collaboration with nontraditional and local actors in higher education to foster sustainable development. The HELIX APS outlines areas where concept notes can be submitted for potential funding, emphasizing partnerships for capacity building, scholarships, exchanges, and research.
The statement details the application process, eligibility criteria, and federal compliance requirements. Eligible applicants include U.S. and non-U.S. organizations legally registered to receive funding, with a focus on promoting equity, inclusivity, and empowerment of marginalized populations. Concept notes submitted must align with USAID's strategic objectives and demonstrate innovative, feasible solutions to identified development challenges.
The HELIX APS serves as a toolkit for various USAID programs aiming to leverage higher education as a central actor in addressing development needs across sectors. The initiative is responsive to the impacts of crises like COVID-19, calling for resilient educational frameworks. Ultimately, USAID seeks to support partnerships that improve educational outcomes and promote local leadership for sustained development in partner countries.