Citizen Engagement Program - APS Addendum 01 15 2021.pdf

U.S. Agency for International Development Embassy of United States of America, Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad

Tel: [+92-51) 208-0000 Fax: [+92-51) 287-0310 www.usaid.gov/pk

Issue Date: Jan 15, 2021

Questions Due: February 2, 2021 at 16:30 PM (PST)

Pre-Concept Note Applicant Conference: February 09, 2021

Mode of Pre-Concept Conference: Virtual through Google Meet

Responses to Questions: February 18, 2021

Closing Date & Time for Receipt of

Concept Notes: March 15, 2021 at 16:30 PM (PST)

Subject: Conflict Prevention & Recovery Program (CPRP), New Partnerships

Initiative (NPI), Annual Program Statement (APS) No.:

7200AA20APS00012

Opportunity Title: CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 98.001

Dear Applicants, The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is seeking concept notes (See Attachment 1) from eligible entities to implement the Citizen Engagement Program described in this Addendum to the Conflict Prevention & Recovery Program (CPRP), New Partnerships Initiative (NPI), Annual Program Statement (APS) No.: 7200AA20APS00012 (See Attachment 2).

Eligible applicants interested in applying for this funding opportunity are encouraged to read this Addendum thoroughly, as well as its overarching APS, in order to understand the type of program sought, the application submission requirements, and the award selection process.

USAID intends to issue one or multiple awards to the applicant(s) who best meet the objectives of the program, based on the merit review criteria described in this Addendum. Prospective awardees are also subject to a risk assessment.

To be eligible for an award, the Applicant must provide all information as required and meet eligibility requirements of this Addendum. This funding opportunity is posted on www.grants.gov, and will be amended based on the applicants questions and pre-concept http://www.usaid.gov/pk http://www.grants.gov/ conference. Amendment(s) to this Addendum will also be posted on www.grants.gov. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the entire Addendum and attachments, thereon, has been downloaded from www.grants.gov in its entirety as USAID bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from a transmission or conversion process. It is the responsibility of the applicant to regularly check the www.grants.gov to ensure they have the latest information pertaining to this notice of funding opportunity. In case of difficulty registering on www.grants.gov or accessing the Addendum, please contact the grants.gov Helpdesk at 1-800-518-4726 or via email at support@grants.gov. Please send any questions by the due date to the point of contact identified in this Addendum. Responses to questions received prior to the deadline will be furnished to all potential Applicants through an amendment to this notice posted on www.grants.gov.

Issuance of this Addendum to the NPI-CPRP APS does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. Government nor does it commit the Government to pay for any costs incurred in preparation or submission of concept notes, comments/suggestions or an application.

Concept notes are submitted at the risk of the applicant. All preparation and submission costs are at the applicant’s expense.

Thank you for your interest in USAID programs.

Sincerely, Robert Parnell

Supervisory Agreement Officer

USAID/Pakistan http://www.grants.gov/ http://www.grants.gov/ mailto:support@grants.gov

Table of Contents

ACRONYMS

I. OVERVIEW

II. ELIGIBLE ORGANIZATIONS

III. AWARD TYPES

IV. OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION

V. INFORMATION ON APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

VI. MERIT REVIEW CRITERIA

VII. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

APPENDIX A - DEFINITIONS:

APPENDIX B - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ACRONYMS

AO Agreement Officer AOR Agreement Officer's Representative APS Annual Program Statement ADS Automated Directives Systems CSO Civil-Society Organization CDCS Country Development Cooperation Strategy CPRP Conflict-Prevention and Recovery Program CSR Corporate Social Responsibility DO Development Objective EPP Environment Partnership Program EPPR Effective Partnering and Procurement Reform FAA Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended GDA Global Development Alliance IEE Initial Environmental Examination IR Intermediate Result LEP Locally Established Partner MEL Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning MOU Memorandum of Understanding NAP National Action Plan NPI New Partnerships Initiative PAD Project-Appraisal Document PPP Public-Private Partnership USAID United States Agency for International Development USD U.S. Dollars USG United States Government SAM System for Award Management DUNS Data Universal Numbering System CFR Code of Federal Regulations VEO Violent Extremist Organizations OMB Office of Management and Budget KP Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

U.S. AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

USAID PAKISTAN OFFICE OF ACQUISITION & ASSISTANCE

ADDENDUM

CALL FOR PARTNERSHIP CONCEPT PAPERS for CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT

PROGRAM IN PAKISTAN

UNDER

NEW PARTNERSHIP INITIATIVE (NPI): CONFLICT PREVENTION AND

RECOVERY PROGRAM ANNUAL PROGRAM STATEMENT (CPRP)

Annual Program Statement No. 7200AA19APS00012

All interested organizations should carefully review this Addendum and the APS (See Attachment 2). This addendum is focused on requirements as they relate to USAID/Pakistan’s Citizen Engagement Program in Pakistan. This program is authorized in accordance with the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended (FAA).

Through this Addendum to the NPI:CPRP APS, USAID/Pakistan is making a special call for the submission of Concept Papers focused on strengthening citizen engagement in governance processes to advance peace in targeted communities of Pakistan. It will be implemented in specific districts of either Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) or South Punjab or in both regions with a history of conflict, where there is a commitment to advance peace and address relevant grievances by both civil society and government actors. This Addendum is also intended to diversify and broaden USAID’s partner base, as described in the APS announcement.

Subject to the availability of funds, USAID may allocate up to $16 million over the course of the next year to make an award to one or multiple applicants. The proposed period of performance of each activity is proposed for up to five years. Priority will be placed on supporting the most promising approaches to the objective described in this Addendum.

All terms and conditions of this Addendum and the NPI: CPRP APS will apply.

I. OVERVIEW

Background Information

Terrorism initiated by violent extremist organizations (VEOs) in Pakistan has extracted a mammoth economic, social, and political price on the country and its citizens over the past two decades. According to the most recent Economic Survey of Pakistan, incidents of terrorism cost https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=315424 the country’s economy $126.79 billion over 17 years. A Brown University report, “Costs of War Project,” noted that over the past 17 years, terrorism related violence killed 65,000 people in Pakistan, including 23,000 civilians and 9,000 security personnel.

Pakistan has made significant progress in enhancing stability and promoting peace at the local level. However, violations of human rights, marginalization of women, youth and other excluded groups, and inequitable delivery of basic services, continue to fuel beliefs and perceptions among citizens that the Pakistani state is ineffective and weak. Limited channels for interaction between highly-centralized government institutions (at both the federal and provincial levels) and citizens are a key driver of negative citizen perception of government institutions.

Inequitable service delivery, long-term marginalization and social exclusion, corruption, and gender inequality exacerbate perceptions of inequality and injustice.

The limited space for citizens’ participation in government processes, unequal access to resources both within provinces and among provinces at the federal level, and perceptions of exclusion and resentment among citizens has created space for malign actors, including VEOs, to portray themselves as benefactors, thus influencing the local communities for their tactical and/or strategic goals. These malign actors portray Pakistan’s diversity as a threat to their group’s religious, ethnic, or cultural identity, incite violence against “the other,” and use these differences to recruit new members and supporters. Some regions, such as the Newly Merged Districts (NMDs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and the Southern districts in Punjab have historically been more prone to these problems and experienced greater threats to peace and social cohesion.

Citizens residing in KP’s NMD have historically been disempowered and disengaged from civic participation in government decision-making. This long-standing marginalization created a trust deficit between citizens and government actors, further complicating productive engagement in this region. The merger of the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas with KP in 2018, was intended to provide mechanisms to include NMD residents in governance processes. However the full integration of the NMDs with Pakistan’s legal and administrative systems will take time.

In the meantime, unmet expectations, the slow pace of reforms, and incomplete governing mechanisms create a fertile ground for instability. The high rates of unemployment exacerbate this instability. Young people in particular see limited life prospects, motivating some to seek financial benefits from extremist groups or by engaging in illicit activity. Improved citizen engagement with new governance actors in KP is critical to building trust in new governance institutions and mechanisms, so that these systems will be effective in addressing the needs of NMD residents.

In Southern Punjab, malign actors continue to use hate narratives rooted in extreme religious ideologies to discredit legitimate state structures and the rule of law. Hate speech against non- Muslims, Muslims of other sects, or other ethnic cleavages, is propagated by extremist groups as well as some religious leaders and right-wing conservative local media. Certain political parties with links to these VEOs amplify the same narrative using extreme versions of religious interpretations to gather support from the populace and foment feelings of resentment toward the legitimate government. This hate speech has been identified as a direct driver of violence in Pakistan.

These persistent threats to stability in KP and southern Punjab could result in backsliding on democratic governance gains and potentially undermine development gains. Strong collaboration between citizens and governments will play an important role in addressing these challenges.

The Government of Pakistan’s (GoP) National Action Plan (NAP) (See Attachment 3) from 2014 highlights the government’s commitment to enhancing peace and security by countering extremism. This 20-point NAP for countering terrorism and extremism was developed by the National Counter Terrorism Authority / Ministry of Interior in consultation with stakeholders and approved by the Parliament in December 2014. In 2018 the GoP released the National Counter Extremism Policy Guidelines. These guidelines outline areas where civil society, civil institutions, citizens, and other institutions can be engaged, and if implemented, present Pakistan with a unique opportunity to more effectively prevent violent extremism and widen ownership at the national, provincial, and local levels. USAID seeks means to support Pakistan’s counter-extremism policy.

Objectives and Funding Opportunity

Through this Addendum, USAID/Pakistan intends to seek new approaches to prevent or reduce the likelihood of conflict and build resilience, in partnership with a wide variety of stakeholders and partners. USAID/Pakistan invites applications to propose innovative approaches that may mitigate conflict and the drivers of conflict emerging from the lack of strong citizen-government engagement, and that will address local challenges to building peace in targeted communities.

Applicants must demonstrate that the proposed interventions support improved local capacity for both citizen and government institutions to respond to the emerging changes and citizen needs in the identified areas through a conflict sensitive approach. Building resilient and inclusive local systems requires engagement across multiple levels with an array of stakeholders and influencers.

In support of USAID/Pakistan’s Country Development and Cooperation strategy (CDCS) [See Attachment 4], the proposed activities will focus on building trust and a shared vision for a common future among and between communities and government institutions in key geographic areas located in either South Punjab or Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Some engagement at the provincial https://nacta.gov.pk/nap-2014/ https://nacta.gov.pk/nap-2014/ https://nacta.gov.pk/nap-2014/ and federal levels may be incorporated into applications as appropriate. Priority will be placed on supporting locally led interventions that aim to promote peaceful communities. A conflict sensitive approach is essential for all activities and implementation approaches. Based on USAID’s practice, gender sensitivity is a key element of conflict sensitivity. Since women, men, and youth play different roles in their communities, applicants must describe how their activities and approaches will be tailored to address the needs of women, men, youth, and other vulnerable populations.

USAID intends to complement existing government efforts and source new ideas, by working through a diverse set of stakeholders and partners to achieve the following goal and objectives:

Goal: Strengthening citizen engagement in governance to advance peace

Objective 1: Effectiveness of citizen-led interventions strengthened

Objective 2: Government responsiveness to citizens concerns improved

USAID and its partner will further refine the proposed hypothesis during the co-creation process and incorporate the principles of Collaboration, Learning and Adapting throughout implementation.

By operating at the national, provincial, and local levels, the new Program will develop and strengthen horizontal and vertical networks of civil society, government, and private sector partners. Activities will have to coordinate closely with relevant government institutions and other relevant interventions by development partners for maximum effectiveness, and most specifically activities implemented by USAID/Pakistan.

USAID will prioritize applications that enable USAID to partner with new and under-utilized development actors as described below and in the APS, based on the belief that a larger and more diverse partner base will expand the available ideas, capabilities and networks to address shared development challenges. Any proposed intervention or activity must have an explicit and direct link to the achievement of USAID/Pakistan programmatic objectives as defined herein as well as the objectives set forth in the NPI: CPRP APS.

II. ELIGIBLE ORGANIZATIONS

The Global NPI:CPRP APS provides details on the type of organizations eligible to apply for awards under the Addendum, including requirements for:

● defining a measurable impact;

● having an implementation plan that will achieve the proposed programmatic objectives within a maximum of 60 month period; and

● a commitment to the principles of Collaborating, Learning and Adapting.

To be eligible, all implementing partners must be legally registered entities under applicable and relevant laws to receive funding from a foreign source. In addition to any requirements listed in the NPI:CPRP APS, this Addendum further requires the following:

Sr. # Type of Partnership Eligibility Requirements

1 New and Underutilized Local Entities

See APPENDIX A - DEFINITIONS

2 New and Underutilized Locally Established Partners (LEP)

3 Prime Partner Award with sub-awards to LEPs and Local Entities

4 Leverage Partner Award

III. AWARD TYPES

USAID has a number of assistance award types to choose when providing funds to successful Applicants. The type of award and terms and conditions included therein is based upon recipient organization type, program factors, and other due-diligence matters (including responsibility determinations). The following types of awards may be issued by USAID/Pakistan:

Award Type:

Generally used when: Characterized by: More Information:

Fixed- Amount Award

Milestones can be defined; Adequate pricing information is available; Recipient has limited financial and management capacity.

Must be a grant - not a cooperative agreement.

Advantages for both USAID and the Recipient (when used appropriately).

Milestones with fixed amounts assigned to each. Focus is on output and results, limits risk for both parties. USAID pays the grantee when the Agency concurs that milestone is completed. Minimizes administrative burden on USAID and the grantee, since payment is not cost-reimbursement. Assists in building the institutional capacity of new grantees.

https://www.us aid.gov/ads/pol icy/300/303saj

Cooperative Agreements

Recipient has adequate financial and

Recipient is free to pursue its sponsored program, with USAID’s https://www.us aid.gov/ads/pol https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/303saj https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/303saj https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/303saj https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/303 management capacity to operate on a cost-reimbursement basis with the U.S.

Government

Agreement Officer’s Representative (AOR) involved in defined technical areas (referred to as “substantial involvement”). Such involvement may include approval of annual work plans, approval of key personnel, authority to halt a construction project, and joint collaboration and participation (defined in the award and specific to the project) icy/300/303

Award Type:

Generally used when: Characterized by: More Information:

Cooperative Agreement/ Grant with Continuing Application

Recipients have adequate financial and management capacity to operate on a cost-reimbursement basis with the U.S.

Government and USAID will engage in and fund multiple years/an expanded program based on the success of the efforts and program during the initial year of the award.

The characteristics are the same as above, but the “continuing application” feature of this award means that implementers will “re-apply” for continuation of the program through an oral presentation of the annual report of previous years’ results and work plan for the next year. This type of award allows USAID to extend and expand the program easily, since this feature is built-in. It also allows USAID to end programs that do not meet the potential or have the impact described during the Concept Paper and original award phase.

Cooperative Agreements/ Grant with Adaptive Modules

Recipient has adequate financial and management capacity to operate on a cost-reimbursement basis with the U.S.

Government, and USAID will engage in and fund multiple years/an expanded program based on the

A grant that uses a modular construct that consists of a series of blocks of work or modules. Each module stands alone and produces some result, which could be administrative or technical. They could be deliverables or simply indicators that the proposed intervention(s) is/are on the right track. The important point is that the module can be defined by when it success of the efforts and program during the initial year of the award.

starts and when it stops. It can be time-based (for example, six-months long) or event-based (when the materials are ready). Each module is unique -- the type of result, method of measure, and time or event based depends on the needs of that specific module. At the conclusion of each module is a decision point. By examining the data and assessments, stakeholders, and decision-makers use the decision point to determine the direction of the subsequent module. During the implementation of the module, there is a parallel process for assessment, learning, and design for the subsequent module going on. The implementer must design Module 2 based on what was learned in Module 1.

USAID reserves the right to make or not to make awards through this APS Addendum. The actual number of assistance awards, if any, under this APS Addendum is subject to the availability of funds, the interests and requirements of USAID, and the viability of applications received. There is no pre-defined minimum or maximum number of partners or partnerships USAID will support through this APS Addendum. However, USAID will not provide funds under this APS Addendum for products and services that it would otherwise purchase through a contract. If USAID identifies opportunities to strengthen or fund a Concept Paper or application by connecting it with other USAID mechanisms, other potential funders, and/or external partners, USAID may make that Concept Note or application available internally or externally for appropriate consideration.

IV. OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION

A. Establishment Clause

Faith-based organizations may also apply for funding under this Addendum, however, it is important to note that the U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment's “Establishment Clause” prohibits the U.S. government from unduly favoring one religion or sect over another. It also prohibits the government from unduly preferring religion over non-religion, or non-religion over religion. Foreign assistance funds may be used to support activities promoting non-violence, tolerance, and acceptance of religious and cultural diversity. However, these funds may not be used to provide religious instruction, including programs to teach a more moderate religious belief as the correct religious interpretation of any religion’s tenets. In addition, religious activities must not be mandatory for any beneficiaries of U.S. government-supported programs.

Activities permitted under the above principles have included training for religious and other community leaders to help them recognize the risks of radicalization to violence in their communities; support for lectures by religious leaders that focus on secular objectives such as peaceful conflict resolution; and support for “round table” discussions to engage members of affected communities, including religious groups, in peaceful dialogue.

B. Applicant Conference (Pre-concept note conference)

USAID/Pakistan will host a virtual Applicants Conference on February 9, 2021 at 10:00am for all interested applicants. This will be an opportunity for applicants to reach an understanding of the requirements for submitting a qualifying application for assistance through this APS Addendum. USAID/Pakistan will not accept or discuss specific applications at the conference.

All applicants must submit their questions, if any, relating to this addendum by the date and time specified in the cover letter of this addendum. USAID/Pakistan will issue an amendment to this addendum for providing responses to questions posed by the applicants. Questions and answers provided during the conference will also be shared with the potential applicants through an amendment and will be posed on www.grants.gov USAID/Pakistan will not consider the questions shared after the due dates.

Applicants interested in attending the conference should register by clicking on the Google form or pasting https://forms.gle/hD2VtJdZk1gx6cmE8 directly in your browser. The last date to register for the applicant conference is February 2, 2021. USAID will send a calendar invite with a Google Meet link for the conference to the registered participants.

C. Restrictions in Funding

While USAID seeks to work on a broad range of activities, there are several types of activities the Agency cannot fund under this opportunity:

1. Construction. USAID cannot directly fund construction activities under this mechanism.

“Construction” in this context means: construction, alteration, or repair (including dredging and excavation) of buildings, structures, or other real property, and includes, without limitation, improvements, renovation, alteration and refurbishment. The term includes, without limitation, roads, power plants, buildings, bridges, water-treatment facilities, and vertical structures.

“Improvements, renovation, alteration and refurbishment” includes any betterment or change to an existing property to allow its continued or more-efficient use within its designed purpose (renovation), or for the use of a different purpose or function (alteration). Improvements also http://www.grants.gov/ https://forms.gle/hD2VtJdZk1gx6cmE8 https://forms.gle/hD2VtJdZk1gx6cmE8 include improvements to, or the upgrading of, primary mechanical, electrical, or other building systems.

“Improvements, renovation, alteration and refurbishment” does NOT include non-structural, cosmetic work, including painting, floor covering, wall coverings, replacement of windows that does not include changing the size of the window opening, replacement of plumbing or conduits that does not affect structural elements, and non-load bearing walls or fixtures (e.g., shelves, signs, lighting, etc.). These types activities do not qualify as construction, and USAID may fund them under the award.

Although USAID cannot fund construction activities, the Agency can finance the purchase of supplies and materials to be given as in-kind grants or directly to beneficiaries.

2. Government Services. Funds under this opportunity cannot be used in providing service-delivery functions of the Pakistani Government. Advocacy activities or activities that include a component for government advocacy, are allowed.

3. Real Property. USAID cannot fund the purchase of any real property under this mechanism.

“Real property" means land, including land improvements, structures and appurtenances thereto, but that the adjacent material is new or excludes movable machinery and equipment.

V. INFORMATION ON APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION

a. Agency Point of Contact

Questions and Answers: Questions regarding the Addendum should be directed to Mr. Sufyan Javed, Acquisition & Assistance Specialist at NPIPakistan@usaid.gov by the date mentioned on the cover page. In order to better understand, FAQs are shared with potential applicants as Appendix B to this Addendum.

b. Concept Paper Instructions

Applicants are required to follow the Application and Submission Information instructions set forth in this addendum and submit Concept Papers using the Concept Paper Template in Attachment 1. The Eligibility Certification Form in Attachment 5 must also be completed and submitted.

Each organization must submit only one concept paper based on their expertise for either of the geographic regions identified above.

The Concept Paper Content:

mailto:NPIPakistan@usaid.gov

● Applicants should submit the information and materials requested in the Concept Paper Template (Attachment 1).

● Concept Papers must be written in English.

● Concept Papers must not exceed five (5) pages, using 1” page margins with 12 point font.

The five page limit does not include the completed Eligibility Certification Form.

● Concept Papers must be submitted electronically in Word 2000 or Word 2003 text accessible or Adobe PDF.

Clarity and specificity are important. Applicants should become familiar with the USAID/Pakistan strategy (See Attachment 4) and priorities. Information provided in the Concept Paper should address the objectives and criteria presented below. USAID will reject those Concept Papers that are vague or merely restate language found in the Addendum.

The Concept Paper (including any Supporting Information) should be submitted to:

NPIPakistan@usaid.gov. Concept Papers must be submitted by the deadline in order to be considered. Please indicate in the e-mail subject line “CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM'' when submitting the Concept Note.

Concept papers can be submitted based on the below timeline:

Acceptance Period: Will be reviewed by a USAID Selection Committee convening o/a:

After the issuance of this Addendum and before March 15, 2021 (the Acceptance Period). March 15, 2021 is the Concept Note Submission Deadline.

March 16, 2021 - April 23, 2021 Merit Review Period.

USAID/Pakistan will confirm receipt of Concept Paper within 4 business days of submission. As detailed in the section below, after a Concept Paper is reviewed, USAID/Pakistan will inform the Applicant whether further development discussions are warranted, and, subsequent to those discussions, whether a full application will be requested.

c. Application Process

The following provides an outline of the three-phase process:

Phase 1: Concept Paper Submission & Review

Applicants may submit a Concept Paper in response to this Addendum during the Acceptance Period. Concept Papers will be reviewed against the merit review criteria detailed in Section VI below during the Merit Review Period. USAID will notify potential Applicants of significant https://www.usaid.gov/pakistan/cdcs mailto:NPIPakistan@usaid.gov changes in the review process timeline through a written amendment to this Addendum. USAID, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to review Concept Papers out of cycle.

USAID anticipates three (3) possible initial responses from the Concept Paper merit review process:

● Conditional Acceptance - Invited for Co-Creation: Concept Paper received a strong rating against the Merit Review Criteria. USAID/Pakistan will invite Applicants to engage in Co-Creation.

● Evergreening: USAID may identify opportunities to strengthen or fund a concept note or application by connecting it with other USAID operating units, mechanisms, or as sub-awards to USAID activities. In such a case the Agency may make that concept note or application available internally for appropriate consideration. Concept notes or applications that are evergreened will remain available for potential consideration for a period of up to one year after the close of this solicitation.

● Rejection: Concept Paper received an average to low rating against the Merit Review Criteria and was not selected to move forward with Co-Creation at this time.

Phase 2: Co-Creation

Applicants whose Concept Papers are invited for the initial Co-Creation stage will engage with USAID/Pakistan to work through areas of weakness and to respond to USAID/Pakistan questions and clarify aspects of the concept that are not clear.

The Co-Creation process builds on the selected Concept Paper that has strength and potential; it is not intended to supplant Applicant initiative or build new concepts from the ground up.

Within one week after conditional acceptance, Applicants will be provided more details regarding the Co-Creation process, which may include a series of in-person or virtual strategic design and planning sessions. These sessions can include consultations with government partners and stakeholders other than USAID. During this phase, Applicants will also work with USAID technical teams to discuss applicants’ costs and needs as well as address issues such as environmental concerns, gender integration, impact indicators, regulatory requirements, and evaluation of their application.

USAID/Pakistan envisages that the product of the Co-Creation phase is a strong draft program description for the full application phase, as well as quantitative and/or qualitative indicators or performance milestones.

If an Applicant does not succeed at the Co-Creation phase, the process ends for that Applicant unless evergreened. If USAID identifies opportunities to strengthen or fund a concept note or application by connecting it with other USAID mechanisms, operating units, or as a sub-awardee, the Agency may make that concept note or application available internally for appropriate consideration. Concept notes or applications that are evergreened will remain available for potential consideration for a period of up to one year after the close of this solicitation.

Phase 3: Co-creation of Full Application

If the Applicant successfully completes the initial Co-Creation, USAID/Pakistan will issue a Request for Application (RFA) for USAID’S considerations. A request for Full Application via RFA should not be interpreted as a commitment to funding or guaranteed issuance of an award.

The invitation will provide complete instructions for what should be included in the submission document. The final product of this phase will detail and expand upon the concept developed and agreed upon through the initial co-creation, expand upon budget requirements, and confirm that the Applicant meets USG requirements to receive funds.

This phase will require the Applicant to complete specific USG forms and to provide some additional information that USAID Pakistan will need to move forward with an appropriate implementing instrument.

Foremost, the Applicant will need to demonstrate that it satisfies the applicable eligibility requirements set forth in Section III: Eligibility Information of the NPI:CPRP APS and Section II Eligible Organizations of this Addendum.

Moreover, pursuant to Part 25.110 of Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations (2 CFR 25.110), an organization must do the following before the AO can accept the final submission:

1. Be registered in the U.S. Government’s SAM system (http://www.sam.gov);

2. Provide a valid DUNS number in its submission; and

3. Continue to maintain an active SAM registration with current information at all times during which it has an active Federal award or an application or plan under consideration by a Federal awarding Department or Agency.

In addition, USAID must evaluate the risks posed by applicants before making an award in accordance with principles established by USAID and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) (see 2 CFR 200.205). Therefore, USAID will conduct an examination to inform a Pre- Award Risk Assessment. USAID may commence this assessment while the initial Co-Creation Phase is on-going or wait until the Applicant is invited to co-create the final submission.

There are reasons why an Applicant may be unsuccessful at the final stage. For example:

● The detailed program does not satisfy the criteria and definitions provided in the Concept Paper;

● A Resource Partner drops out or does not materialize and the partner no longer meets the partner eligibility criteria of this addendum and the Global NPI APS;

● The Applicant cannot provide evidence that it is a legal entity; or

● There are other concerns after conducting due-diligence or pre-award surveys.

http://www.sam.gov/

USAID reserves the right to make no award under this Addendum at any stage of the process.

VI. MERIT REVIEW CRITERIA

USAID/Pakistan will review all Concept Paper applications that comply with the instructions in this Addendum. USAID/Pakistan will use the following merit review elements. Each Merit Review Element is of equal importance:

Merit Review Element Definition

1. Degree to which program provides new or improved access to communities, constituencies, or key stakeholders affected by violence via new or underutilized local and/or locally-established partners.

The extent to which the proposed concept uses one or more new or underutilized partners (local or LEPs) to increase access to target communities, constituencies, or key stakeholders (on a scale of 1 - 3):

1: No or minimal additional benefit towards the accomplishment of the program’s objectives;

2: Some additional benefit toward the accomplishment of the program’s objectives; or 3: Significant additional benefit toward the accomplishment of the program’s objectives.

2. Building Partner Country Capabilities and Commitment toward advancing the journey to self-reliance.

The extent to which the proposed Concept Note’s proposed forms of engagement increase the likelihood that local and locally established partners or the affected communities themselves, will be able to continue the program’s activities and/or maintain its achievements without funding from USAID (on a scale of 1 - 3):

1: No or minimal chance of sustainment;

2: Some chance of sustainment; or 3: Significant chance of sustainment.

3. Technical approach

The extent to which the Applicant’s technical approach demonstrates a strong understanding of local challenges and opportunities, gender integration and inclusive development, experience and partnerships and feasibility of achieving intended results. Applications will be evaluated for their innovation, practicality and potential effectiveness in achieving the goal of the Addendum and the proposed activity’s goals and objectives (on a scale of 1 - 3):

1: None or minimal extent 2: To some extent 3: To a significant extent

VII. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1: Concept Note Template

Attachment 2: NPI - APS

Attachment 3: NAP

Attachment 4: USAID Pakistan Strategy - CDCS

Attachment 5: Eligibility Certification Form

End of Addendum

Attachment 1: Concept Note Template

CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITY - PAKISTAN

CONCEPT PAPER

A. Application Overview (Please complete the following questions below:)

1. Proposed Activity Name/Title: __________________________________________

2. Explanation of Qualification Under Eligibility/Engagement Listed in Global NPI

APS and this Addendum (Please provide as a separate document the completed Attachment 5, Eligibility Certification):

3. Proposed Period of Performance (i.e., start date and end date):

4. Total Program Amount (in USDs):

5. Total Amount of Funding Requested from USAID and total amount leveraged (if applicable), including from what source(s):

6. Applicant Organization Name: __________________________________________

7. Applicant Contact Person (name, phone, e-mail):

8. Full Address for Applicant Organization: _________________________________

9. Type of Organization (e.g., US, non-US, multilateral, private, for-profit, non-profit) date of incorporation, etc.):

10. (If Applicable) Name(s) of Partner(s) Organization(s) (Applicants that are applying as Mentors will name Subpartners here;: ____________________________

Note: All potential applicants must submit one concept note, not more than 5 pages, and address the below sections, at minimum, of this template in appropriate merit review elements of this addendum.

In order to achieve the goal and objectives outlined in this addendum, concept note should:

● Clearly describe the applicant’s approach to conceptualizing, assessing, and identifying solutions to conflict prevention and community resilience, in specific geographic regions with communities that are vulnerable to violent extremism.

● Demonstrate a strong understanding of Pakistan’s interconnected political, social, economic, tribal, legal, provincial, and religious issues. The proposed approach must be inclusive and demonstrate a localized understanding of the complex socio-economic, political, and cultural context.

● Demonstrate how the applicant will mobilize local communities, harness private sector resources and expertise where appropriate, and engage local, provincial and federal governments as required. Build upon previous work that has been done to strengthen citizen engagement, address religious and ethnic sensitivities, community mobilization and increase government responsiveness to grievances undermining peace.

As set forth in the NPI:CPRP APS, Applicant’s Concept Papers must reflect the below requirements while addressing the merit review elements:

1. Define a measurable impact;

2. Have an implementation plan that will achieve the proposed programmatic objectives within the period of perform (no longer than 60-months);

3. Include a commitment to the principles of Collaboration, Learning and Adapting; and

4. Provide a cost estimate for the proposed program in US dollars.

In accordance with the NPI: CRPR APS, Applicants should also reflect thoughtful considerations of any risks that could result by bringing together conflicting parties and should provide sufficient explanation of how it will establish and monitor appropriate safeguards to avoid intensifying the conflict or creating harmful situations for participants. A discussion on Do No Harm (DNH) should not be an isolated discussion; Applicants should address it holistically.

In addition to the above, the applicants should also address the following in the concept note:

● Concept Introduction

● Beneficiaries

● Geographic Location

● Intervention approach

● Intervention results

● Partner roles

● Applicant capacity

B. Signature of individuals with authority to obligate your organization.

Attachment 5:

ELIGIBILITY CERTIFICATION FORM

Please check the appropriate box to certify eligibility for the type of partner that applies:

(For Partners Applying as New/Underutilized Local Partner) We certify that, in line with the criteria enumerated in Section II of this addendum our organization has not received more than $25 million in direct or indirect funding from USG over the last five (5) years.

(For Partners Applying as New/Underutilized Locally Established Partners) We certify that, in line with the criteria enumerated in Section II of this addendum, our organization has not received more than $25 million in direct or indirect funding from USG over the last five (5) years and can demonstrate non-federal funding equal to or greater than the award value of this proposal.

(For Partners Applying for a Limited Mentorship Award) We certify that, in line with the criteria enumerated in Section III, Sub-Section A of NPI-APS (see Attachment 2), our organization will use Modality 3a or Modality 3b to provide sub-awards.

(For Partners Applying as Leverage) We certify that, in line with the criteria enumerated in Section III, Sub-Section A of NPI-APS (see Attachment 2), our organization can demonstrate 50% of the award value of this proposal using non-federal funds.

APPENDIX A - DEFINITIONS:

Local Entity An individual, a corporation, a non-profit organization, or another body of persons that: (1) Is legally organized under the laws of; (2) Has as its principal place of business or operations in; (3) Is majority-owned by individuals who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of; and, (4) Is managed by a governing body the majority of who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of the country or countries in which the organization primarily will perform this award. For purposes of this provision, “majority owned” and “managed by” include, without limitation, beneficiary interests and the power, either directly or indirectly, whether exercised or exercisable, to control the election, appointment, or tenure of the organization's managers, or a majority of the organization's governing body, by any means.

Locally Established Partner

A U.S. or international organization that works through locally-led operations and programming models. LEPs:

● Have maintained continuous operations in-country for at least five years and materially demonstrate a long-term presence in a country through adherence or alignment to the following:

○ Local staff should comprise at least 50% of office personnel,

○ Maintenance of a dedicated local office, - Registration with the appropriate local authorities,

○ A local bank account, and

○ A portfolio of locally-implemented programs.

● Have demonstrated links to the local community, including:

○ If the organization has a governing body or board of directors, then it must include a majority of local citizens;

○ A letter of support from a local organization to attest to its work; and

○ Other criteria that an organization proposes to demonstrate its local roots.

Non-U.S. Organization A foreign organization as defined in 2 CFR 200

Recipient An organization that receives direct financial assistance (a grant or cooperative agreement) to carry out an assistance program on behalf of USAID, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the award and all applicable laws and regulations.

Underutilized Partner An organization that has received less than $25 million in direct or indirect awards from USAID over the past five years.

Non-Local Entity A partner that does not meet the definition of a Local as defined by USAID’s Automated Directives System (ADS) Chapter 303.

New Partner: An individual or organization that has not received any funding from USAID as a prime partner over the last five years.

Leverage: Significant resources mobilized from non-U.S. Government sources. USAID seeks the mobilization of resources of other actors on a 1:2 or greater basis (i.e., 50 percent of the proposed value of the award). Leveraged resources may include grants/awards from non-U.S. Government organizations or other donor governments.

Evergreening: If USAID identifies opportunities to strengthen or fund a concept note or application by connecting it with other USAID mechanisms, the Agency may make that concept note or application available internally for appropriate consideration.

Cooperative Agreement A legal instrument used where the principal purpose is the transfer of money, property, services or anything of value to the recipient in order to accomplish a public purpose of support or stimulation authorized by Federal statute and where substantial involvement by USAID is anticipated.

Grant A legal instrument used when the principal purpose is the transfer of money, property, services, or anything of value to the recipient to accomplish a public purpose of support or stimulation authorized by Federal statute, and in which substantial involvement by USAID is not anticipated.

Partner An organization or individual with which/whom the Agency collaborates to achieve mutually agreed-upon objectives, and to secure the participation of ultimate customers or beneficiaries.

Partners include private voluntary organizations, indigenous and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), universities, professional and business associations, and private businesses and individuals.

Partnership An association between USAID, its partners, and customers based on mutual respect, complementary strengths, and shared commitment to achieve mutually agreed-upon objectives.

Sub-award An award of financial assistance in the form of money, or property in lieu of money, made under an award by a recipient to an eligible sub-recipient, or by a sub-recipient to a lower-tier subrecipient. The term includes financial assistance when provided by any legal agreement, even if the agreement is called a “contract,” but does not include the procurement of goods and services, nor does it include any form of assistance excluded from the definition of ‘‘award’’ in this section.

Code of Federal Regulations

Code of Federal Regulations, the codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the executive departments and agencies of the USG.

Co-Creation Co-creation is a design approach that brings people together to produce collectively a mutually valued outcome, by using a participatory process that assumes some degree of shared power and decision-making.

Award A form of implementing mechanism through which USAID transfers funds to an implementing partner, generally selected through a competitive process that results in a contract, grant, or cooperative agreement.

Country Development Cooperation Strategy

The strategy that defines a Mission’s chosen approach in a country and provides a focal point of the broader context for projects and activities. A CDCS presents expected results within a time-defined period, provides a common vision and an organizing framework, and summarizes the status of the ongoing portfolio and how that will be continued, updated, or revised to address new priorities, lessons learned, or changing circumstances.

Gender A social construct that refers to relations between and among the sexes based on their relative roles. It encompasses the economic, political, and socio-cultural attributes, constraints, and opportunities associated with being male or female. As a social construct, gender varies across cultures, is dynamic, and is open to change over time. Because of the variation in gender across cultures and over time, gender roles should not be assumed but investigated. Note that gender is not interchangeable with women or sex.

Gender Integration Identifying and then addressing gender inequalities during strategic planning and the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of projects or activities. Since the roles and relations of power between men and women affect how a project or activity is implemented, it is essential that USAID staff address these issues on an ongoing basis. USAID uses the term “gender integration” in planning and programming.

Gender-Sensitive Indicator

Indicators that point out to what extent and in what ways development programs and projects achieved results related to gender equality and whether/how reducing gaps between males/females and empowering women leads to better project/development outcomes.

Implementing Partner The executing agency (generally a U.S. Government Department or Agency like USAID or a host-government agency) or the implementing entity (contractor, grantee, host government entity, public international organization) that carries out programs with U.S. Government funding through a legally binding award or agreement.

Obligation A term of appropriations law that means some action that creates a definite commitment, or that creates a legal liability of the U.S.

Government for the payment of funds for specific goods or services ordered or received.

Annual Program Statement

Annual Program Statement, a funding solicitation that allows the USG to make multiple awards over a period of time.

Due-Diligence The technical term for the necessary assessment of the past performance, reputation, and future plans of a prospective alliance partner, private-sector firm, or other entity with regard to various business practices and principles. This assessment of a prospective alliance partner would normally involve, at a minimum, examining their social, environmental, and financial track records.

Fixed Amount Award A fixed amount award is a type of grant or cooperative agreement in which USAID provides a…