Amendment No. 1- RFP 72029424R00002 TIF signed.pdf

Issuance Date: May 23, 2024

SUBJECT: Amendment No. 1 to Request for Proposals (RFP) RFP No.:

72029424R00002.

Activity Title: Trade, Facilitation and Investment Activity.

Dear Prospective Offerors, The purpose of this amendment is to:

1. Extend the closing date for the RFP from June 10, 2024, to June 18, 2024 (9:00 A.M. Jerusalem Time). Therefore, the following information on the cover page of the RFP is amended as follows (please also see the amended RFP-Appendix II):

“Technical and Cost Proposals Submission Due Date: June 18, 2024, 9:00 A.M. Jerusalem Time”.

2. Provide responses to written questions received from potential Offerors by email (see Appendix I to this Amendment - Questions and Answers); and

3. Amend the RFP as follows: All amendments to the RFP are highlighted in yellow in the RFP, Amendment No. 1 document (See Appendix II). Any strikethrough text has been removed from the RFP. Changes to the RFP are noted in USAID’s responses to questions under Appendix I).

All other terms and conditions of this RFP remain unchanged and in full force and effect.

Thank you for your interest in USAID’s programs.

Sincerely, Deborah Perlman Contracting Officer USAID/West Bank and Gaza

Appendix I

Questions and Answers

Request for Proposal (RFP) Number - 72029424R00002 Trade Facilitation and Finance Activity

Q.1 Sections B.1, Purpose, Page 12; C.B Overview, Page 17; C.D Statement of Work, Page 19;

and Section D.3 Branding Strategy, Activity Overview, Page 36, mention support for policy reform.

Would USAID please articulate how policy reform in the economic sector could be achieved without engaging with the Palestinian Authority?

A.1 While USAID is restricted from funding any activities that support the Palestinian Authority (PA), TIF can collaborate with private sector actors and civil society organizations (CSOs). USAID expects to meet regularly, together with project staff, with PA officials, as well as other stakeholders, to align activities and maximize impact. Enhancing private sector and CSO capacities ensures these entities can be empowered to advocate for and influence economic policy reforms.

Q.2 Section C.a., page 17 references an inclusive growth diagnostic that was conducted in 2017.

We have searched extensively on the DEC for this report but do not find it. We request that USAID make it available to all offerors.

A.2 Please see Attachment J.5 West Bank and Gaza Inclusive Growth Diagnostic- May 2017 which is added to the RFP-see Amended RFP Appendix II.

Q.3 Section Statement of Work, Page 20, the theory of change suggests that affordable finance, investment, and trade are proxies to mitigate the economic drivers of conflict. Would the mission kindly please articulate the specific measures and indicators expected to be targeted to address economic conflict drivers? For example, youth unemployment.

A.3 The Mission expects the potential bidders to propose specific measures and indicators that will meet this goal.

Q.4 Section C, Objective 1: Fostering New Markets and Eliminating Systemic Trade Barriers, Page 22, requires an outcome of “facilitation of expedited movement of goods and people, such as increased cargo traffic and reduced transit times at border crossings.” Given the persistent challenges at border crossings, how can USAID facilitate coordination with the Israeli civil administration to achieve these goals? What improvements are targeted specifically at the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge versus other crucial crossings?

A.4 USAID expects to expand existing coordination with COGAT by conducting regular meetings and advocating for specific policy reforms identified by the TIF Activity.

The Allenby/King Hussein Bridge holds specific importance as the sole gateway for Palestinians in the West Bank. The crossing connects the West Bank to Jordan and other trading partners across the region and world. Streamlining operations at the bridge and advocating for extended hours at the commercial terminal are crucial. Currently, the Mission is assisting with the design of the Gate 128 complex, the main entrance to the bridge, and advocating for the construction of a dedicated road to the commercial terminal, in addition to other upgrades at the bridge.

Q.5 Section C Statement of Work, Objective 1, page 21, Under Section D. Statement of Work:

Objective 1, the RFP states that “TIF is dedicated to actively cultivating new markets for Palestinian products.” Would USAID consider including Palestinian services to Objective 1, such as digital services, outsourcing services, and freelance consulting services to leverage the growth of the IT sector?

A.5 Potential bidders can include these interventions and/or others that would lead to achieving the goals of objective 1, which aims to increase the penetration of competitive Palestinian products and services to new markets and increase exports from the WBG. Please see revised sentence on page 24 of the RFP- Amended RFP Appendix II.

Q.6 Section C, D. Statement of Work pages 19-32, Does USAID envision TIFA working with organizations or firms that operate outside of WBG, including in major markets such as the US, EU, and the GCC (e.g. importers/importers association/investors)? For example, would the contractor be able to offer guidance and support to outside organizations and facilitate their liaison with the Palestinian private sector on trade and investment?

A.6 The contractor can work with organizations or firms that operate outside of the WBG in order to achieve the goals of the TIF Activity. This work can be in the form of a legal contractual arrangement or general coordination.

Q.7 Section C, D. Statement of Work, Objective 1, Illustrative Tasks/activities, 1. Logistics Service Hub, page 22: Does USAID intend to fund construction of the physical infrastructure of this hub directly? Would this funding come out of the Grant Fund? How would such a hub evolve to include bonded warehouse services?

A.7 No construction activities are permitted under this contract. The contractor may, however, provide USAID with referrals and advice on the feasibility of any construction projects. If necessary, the Mission may support such projects through other engineering and construction mechanisms. Should the logistics hub be deemed feasible and established, its services may expand to include bonded warehouse services, pending stakeholder agreement.

Q.8 Question: With regard to Objective 1, specifically the reduction of trade transaction costs, I have a question concerning the role of the Israeli authorities, who control all Palestinian border crossing points. Could you elaborate on the type of support that the USAID Mission in Israel might provide to facilitate engagement with the Israeli government?

Effective collaboration with Israeli officials will be crucial in designing and implementing any trade facilitation initiatives that might expedite the movement of Palestinian goods across borders.

A.8 See response to question 4.

Q.9 Section C.D. Scope of Work, Objectives, Page 20 includes a number of very specific targets that may be overly ambitious in light of the current context, e.g. “$150 million increase in exports to international markets”, “Export a minimum of 150 products from over 100 Palestinian businesses”, “Align at least 100 companies with foreign laws and standards”, and “Promote an increase in foreign direct investment …exceeding $100 million”. Would USAID please provide information on how these targets were determined? Also, would USAID be open to adjusting/codesigning these targets based on the outcome of the Political Economy Assessment?

A.9 These targets are informed by the outcomes of previous USAID projects. The contractor is expected to work toward these results.

Q.10 In section C, p. 21, the SOO states that: "The Activity targets securing at least $100 million in additional term loan financing, with a minimum tenure of three years to support capital expenditure." Can this include term loan financing that is foreign direct investment? Additionally, can USAID consider removing the requirement of a three-year term and capital expenditures so that financing may better serve the Activity's objectives?

A.10 The term “loan financing” as described in the SOW is intended to refer to those that originate from local financial institutions operating in the WBG. USAID has removed the requirement of a three-year term and has amended the language as follows: “The Activity targets securing at least

$100 million in additional term loan financing to support capital expenditure and trade activities.”

Please see the amended RFP in Appendix II.

Q.11 Section C, Statement of Work, Page 21, states, “A cross-cutting blended finance facility will support all three objectives and will be used where the initiative of local organizations and conveners has the potential to extend the activity’s reach or augment its results.” Section C, D.

Statement of Work, Grants Under Contract, page 29 states, “ a cross-cutting blended finance facility (GUC facility) to local organizations will support all three components and will be used where the initiative of local organizations and conveners have the potential to extend TIF’s reach or augment its results.”

a. Would USAID please confirm that the $7.5 million GUC mechanism is intended for the establishment of a blended finance facility?

b. Would USAID please confirm that the $7.5m should be allocated toward the blended finance facility, or may offerors allocate part of the GUCs for the blended finance facility and part for other GUC activities?

A.11 $7.5 million should be allocated towards the blended finance facility and other GUC activities that support all three objectives of the Activity.

Q.12 In Section C, p. 21, the SOO states: "TIF is dedicated to actively cultivating new markets for Palestinian products, diversifying trade opportunities, nurturing strategic partnerships, reinforcing mechanisms to ensure seamless alignment with international standards in the practices of the Palestinian private sector, promoting regulatory compliance at both the firm and institutional levels, and enhancing the global reputation of Palestinian goods and services.“ Can USAID please clarify what it means by "institutional level." Is this a reference to government institutions?

A.12 Please note that Section C is an SOW and not a SOO as indicated in the question above.

Institutional levels refer to private sector institutions/associations and local institutions not related to the PA. No support will go to PA institutions.

Q.13 In Section C, p. 21, the SOW states: "The Contractor should focus on industries positioned for resilience and expansion, taking into account factors such as export potential, profitability, systemic influence, and practicality." Can USAID please clarify what it means by "systemic influence"?

A.13 Systemic influence in an economic sector refers to the impact that changes or disruptions within that sector can have on the broader economy. This influence can stem from several factors, including the size of the sector, its interconnectedness with other sectors, and its role in critical economic functions.

Q.14 In Section C, sub-section E(a) Geographical Targeting, USAID states “The West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem will be the geographical area targeted by this activity.” However, in Section F.3 Place of Performance USAID states “The place of performance under this contract is the West Bank and Gaza.” Will USAID please clarify if Offerors should include East Jerusalem in the coverage area of TIF activities or if East Jerusalem is included under Geographical Targeting to enable Offerors to propose expatriate staff based in East Jerusalem while the Activity’s coverage area remains the West Bank and Gaza?

A.14 The main place of performance for this Activity is the West Bank and Gaza. Activities in East Jerusalem could be considered under this contract.

Q.15 In Section C, Measurable Economic Impact at Reasonable Cost, on page 31, USAID states:

"The Contractor must establish objective baselines for all specific tasks and deliver technical solutions whose costs and benefits can both be quantified". Will USAID please clarify if the Offeror is expected to establish baseline data post award or if the Offeror is expected to establish this in their technical proposal?

A.15 The Contractor shall establish a baseline data post award.

Q.16 Section C, Objective 1, Page 22 requires facilitation of expedited movement of goods and people. How does USAID envision IPs to facilitate this movement of goods and people in the territories of Area A, B, and C in the West Bank and the logistical challenges between the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza? Are there any policy plans to engage with the government of Israel to increase cargo traffic and reduce transit times at border crossings?

A.16 The Contractor shall identify and recommend policy reform initiatives, after consultation with relevant stakeholders. USAID will facilitate dialogue with Israeli authorities when and if needed.

Q.17 Section C, Objective 1: Fostering New Markets and Eliminating Systemic Trade Barriers, Page 23 states that TIF will, “in full compliance with US government policies, introduce technology-driven solutions to automate customs clearance processes to reduce paperwork and processing time.” Would USAID please clarify which specific policies the USAID is referring to and how TIF will remain in compliance?

A17. In this particular case, reference is made to Mission Orders on vetting (e.g., Mission Order 21), publicly stated U.S. Foreign Policy objectives, as well as legal requirements such as the Taylor Force Act preventing assistance to the Palestinian Authority. In general, of course, the Contractor should always be compliant with USG policies such as procurement and other relevant policies.

Q.18 Section C Statement of Work, Objective 2, page 25, Under Section D. Statement of Work:

Objective 2, the RFP states that one of the required tasks/activities will be to “organize and host investment forums that serve as platforms for potential investors to connect with viable projects in the WBG.” Can USAID please confirm if the contractor is required to host these forums in WBG?

Can these forums be hosted online or outside of WBG?

A.18: These forums may be hosted in the WBG, outside the WBG, or online.

Q.19 Section C, Objective 3: Access to Finance and Financial Services Improved, Page 26 requires the TIF Activity to support the operations of the existing Loan Guarantee Facility. Would USAID please provide more details regarding the expectations for support to the operations of the Loan Guarantee Facility? Are Offerors permitted to provide GUCs for this?

A.19 The operational expenses for running the Loan Guarantee Facility by MEII are estimated at $580,000 each year ($2.9 million for the five-year performance period), and are expected to be covered by the TIF Activity through a legal contractual arrangement with MEII.

Q.20 Section C, Objective 3: Access to Finance and Financial Services Improved, Page 27 includes mobile banking and ATMs as illustrative activities. Would USAID please clarify why expanding the financial infrastructure to include more ATMs is an effective strategy? ATM are less cost efficient.

A.20 While USAID aims to rapidly advance various digital financial services in the WBG, and this should be prioritized by the TIF Activity, ATMs remain a potentially viable option to expedite the outreach of financial services in underserved areas. Expanding ATMs enhances accessibility and convenience, supports cash-based economies, and offers a cost-effective alternative to opening new branches. They provide 24/7 access, improve security, and strengthen the financial institution’s presence and customer service.

Q.21 Section C Statement of Work, Objective 3, page 27, Under Section D. Statement of Work:

Objective 3, the RFP states that one of the required tasks/activities will be to “support the DFC-backed Loan Guarantee Facility implemented by MEII and support the operating expenses of the Facility.”

Can USAID please confirm which operating expenses shall be supported? Will any expenses, such as facility rental costs, be covered by DFC or should the offeror include budget for all operational expenses?

A.21: Offerors should include a budget for all operational expenses to run the loan guarantee facility, with an estimated annual budget of $580,000.

Q.22 The Objectives in the Statement of Work state: “Facilitate an approximately $150 million increase in exports to international markets by firms supported by the activity over a five-year period to enhance global economic relationships” (p. 20). Does this dollar value also include services, such as WBG-based IT companies providing services to customers outside their territory?

A.22 Yes; this dollar value can include services such as Palestinian IT companies providing services to customers outside the WBG.

Q.23 The deliverables in Section F.7., page 46 and page 52 include a Political Economy Analysis due 45 days from the start of the contract. We request that this deliverable be due at least 90 days from the start of the contract, as it will take time to mobilize the field office team and agree with USAID on the exact scope and plan for the PEA. Conducting a high quality PEA is a sensitive assignment, particularly in the complex environment in WBG. It will require careful planning and execution.

A.23 USAID will adjust the number of days to conduct a Political Economy Analysis to 60 days.

The analysis should concurrently be done with the work planning preparation and should inform the Annual Work Plan. Please see the amended RFP in Appendix II.

Q.24 The deliverables in Section F.7., page 46 and page 52 include a Change Management Plan due 45 days from the start of the contract.

a. This plan will flow from the Work Plan, as developed in close consultation with USAID.

The Work Plan will determine the key stakeholders with whom the Activity will engage, and from there, the contractor will be able to develop a useful Change Management plan that is tailored to this group of stakeholders. Therefore, we request that this deliverable be due at least 30 days after the Work Plan and PEA are approved by USAID.

b. Would USAID kindly please provide more clarity regarding the requirements for the Change Management Plan, particularly how it differs from the Work Plan?

A.24 A change management plan under the TIF Activity should span the period of the Activity and be updated annually, whereas the annual work plan covers one year at a time. The change management plan will look at stakeholders involved in the Activity. After identifying the stakeholders involved, the change management plan will ensure smooth transitions and successful outcomes through several key components. It starts with a stakeholder analysis to identify and assess impacts. This is followed by a comprehensive communication plan to keep stakeholders informed. An assistance plan, if needed, is then developed to help stakeholders adapt to new processes. The plan includes risk management to address potential challenges and outlines an implementation timeline for executing changes. Lastly, monitoring and evaluation processes track progress and measure the effectiveness of the changes, allowing for necessary adjustments to achieve the Activity's goals.

The solicitation has been amended and this deliverable will be due 30 days after the Work Plan and PEA are approved by USAID. Please see the amended RFP in Appendix II.

Q.25:

I. We respectfully request an extension of at least two weeks to the submission due date of June 10, in part to take into account the Memorial Day Holiday on May 27. Since there was limited information about the Scope of Work available to bidders prior to the release of the RFP, offerors will use the extra time to refine their partnership strategies, technical approaches, and staffing choices to match the requirements in the RFP. The result will be better proposals and better outcomes.

II. Given that responses to questions have a significant impact on proposal design, we request that USAID consider issuing an extension at least 10 days in advance of the submission deadline to allow Contractors to plan.

III. Given the complexity of the scope of work and the highly fluid operating environment in West Bank/Gaza which constrains the ability of Offerors to rapidly consult with key stakeholders, would USAID please consider extending the proposal deadline by an additional 10 days?

A.25 The closing date for this RFP is hereby amended to June 18, 2024.

Q.26: The RFP lists the due date for technical and cost/business proposals as June 10, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. Jerusalem Time. However, the SAM.gov record specifies a due date of June 10,2024, at 9:00 a.m. EDT. Can USAID please clarify whether the proposal is due EDT or Jerusalem Time?

A.26: The proposal due date is being amended to June 18, 2024 at 09:00 A.M Jerusalem Time.

Q.27: Per Section B.7, USAID notes that subcontractor level of effort (LOE) will be added to the 38,880 days required for prime contractor employees and consultants (p.15). Given that no estimate is provided for subcontractor LOE in the RFP, which may result in offerors proposing drastically varied amounts of subcontractor LOE and resulting budgets, would USAID please confirm that any subcontractor LOE will not contribute to the contractual LOE ceiling and subsequent payment of fixed fee?

A.27: Offerors are requested to propose the LOE anticipated under their proposed subcontractors.

The fixed fee ceiling applies to the prime contract and all cost reimbursement subcontracts, please refer to section B.8 “fixed Fee”. A budget range is provided on the first cover page of the RFP.

Within this budget estimate, offerors should propose a level of LOE that, combined with other proposed costs, is realistic given their technical approach.

Q.28: B.7 Level of Effort (LOE), page 15: Section B.7 indicates that the 38,880 person-days of

LOE

does not include subcontractors' LOE. Would USAID consider revising this so that LOE is inclusive of the total prime and subcontractors’ LOE?

A.28: The proposed LOE of the subcontractors must be identified by the offeror and will be added to section B.7 in the award document. The amount of LOE listed in the resulting contract will be inclusive of both prime and subcontractor(s) LOE.

Q.29: Would USAID kindly please provide the anticipated period of performance (start and end dates)?

A.29: Please refer to section F.2 of the RFP. The anticipated start date is o/a September 30, 2024.

Q.30: Does USAID intend for the contract to begin before the Israel-Hamas conflict ends?

A.30: There is no relationship between the commencement of the contract and the status of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Q.31: Section F.5 Key Personnel, page 42, notes 5 key personnel positions. Would USAID please confirm that Offerors are only required to provide candidates for the Chief of Party and the Deputy Chief of Party, and are NOT required to name and provide candidates for the other three Key Personnel?

A.31: USAID confirms.

Q.32: In Section F.5, page 44, when describing the minimum qualifications of the DCOP USAID states candidates must have “Seven (7) years of international experience in managing private sector engagement in a developing country”. Will USAID please clarify if this means candidates must have experience managing private sector engagement in countries outside of their home country, or if candidates must have experience engaging international private sector partners irrespective of the location of the program? In short, may Offerors propose a candidate that has only worked in Palestine but has experience engaging international firms in development programming or must this candidate be an expatriate or third country national?

A.32: The international experience in managing private sector engagement in a developing country also includes experience engaging international partners in the Palestinian context. Offerors may propose candidates who are expatriates, third country nationals or cooperating country nationals.

Q.33 F.5. Key Personnel, pages 42-44 The RFP specifies that the Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) “provides support to the COP... [and] must provide project operational and implementation oversight. The DCOP must have technical experience in project management and must fill in for the COP in his/her absence.” The RFP further specifies that “the DCOP position requires an individual with the following minimum qualifications: including “Seven (7) years of international experience in managing private sector engagement in a developing country” and “Three (3) years of experience in a supervisory role managing economic growth projects in developing countries.” High-level professionals who possess sufficient project management experience to provide meaningful operational and implementation oversight at the DCOP level (including financial and procurement oversight) have usually focused a significant portion of their career on operations and administration. Would USAID consider either: (1) reducing the years required for “managing private sector engagement in a developing country” and “experience in a supervisory role managing economic growth projects in developing countries”, or (2) allow offerors to cover technical expertise under a separate Key Personnel position in the senior management structure.

A.33 Please see amended RFP in Appendix II , on page 44, the 7 years requirement is reduced to 5 years. This is also to clarify that a “supervisory role managing EG projects" is not required to be on the technical side - the "supervisory role" could be related to operations and management.

Q.34 H.2 Authorized Geographic Code, page 66 H.3 AIDAR 752.225-70 Source and Nationality Requirements (Feb 2012), page 67, Section H.2 states that “the authorized geographic code for procurement of goods and services under this Contract is 937”. Section H.3 states that “the authorized source for procurement is Geographic Code 935”. Could USAID clarify which is the authorized geographic code?

A.34 The authorized geographic code for procurement of goods and services under this Contract is

937. Section H.3 is an AIDAR clause that states “The authorized source for procurement is Geographic Code 935 unless otherwise specified in the schedule of this contract.” (emphasis added)

Q.35 Would USAID consider changing the operating code from 937 to 935 to enable the Activity to work with firms in countries that are markets for Palestinian exports, Foreign Direct Investment, and home to the Palestinian diaspora?

A.35 A blanket source and nationality waiver is not contemplated under this contract. Any source and nationality waivers may be discussed with USAID and submitted for consideration during the implementation of the contract.

Q.36 Section H.5.10, Page 73 states that Contractors are responsible for ensuring compliance with Mission Order 21. Would USAID please elaborate whether the vetting procedures under Mission Order 21 will continue to recognize the staff already vetted under former USAID activities?

A.36: PLease refer to the rules and procedures for vetting under Mission Order No. 21 , “Attachment J.2 to the RFP”.

Q.37. Please clarify the below point stated within attachment J 2 Mission Order 21:

“Section B “Further rules on applicability” paragraph (1):

“(1) The $25,000 threshold for contracts and subcontracts is cumulative for multiple awards to the same firm or individual within a 12-month period. For example, if a firm receives a subcontract for $20,000 and later is selected to receive another one for $10,000, the second award would trigger vetting if fewer than 12 months have passed since the first award. To track this threshold, the Office of Contracts Management will provide the PSU, on a monthly basis, with a list of first tier contracts and second tier subcontracts under $25,000 awarded to non-U.S. organizations or individuals for a program purpose in the prior month, or not previously reported, including the name of the contractor,”

Can you please clarify that based on B(1), no more than $25,000.00 can be issued to any individual or entity looking to become involved in this opportunity, be that through potential foreign investment incentives, asset/construction purchases required to facilitate the proposed initiative, or local firms looking to take advantage of schemes such as apprenticeships etc? If this is not the case, can you please clarify who this clause is stated at and for what purpose?

A.37: The above quote from Mission Order No. 21 describes the applicability of the vetting rules and procedures that USAID West Bank and Gaza contractors must follow under USAID funded assistance to ensure that USAID funds do not inadvertently provide support to entities or individuals associated with terrorism. These rules and procedures are not intended to limit or replace the technical and programmatic decisions that the Contractors are required to make. More than $25,000 can be issued to an entity under the resulting contract, but the vetting requirements may be different in that case, depending on the details of the mechanism. Please review Mission Order No. 21 (Attachment J.2 to the RFP) including the entire Section “V. VETTING PROCEDURES” for the detailed explanation.

Q.38: Does USAID require the entire technical volume to be submitted in MS Word in addition to PDF, or will it accept the main proposal sections (Technical Approach, Management Approach and Staffing, Contractor Performance Information) separately in MS Word in in addition to the entire proposal in PDF?

A.38: USAID requires the entire technical proposal volume to be submitted in Ms word and PDF.

Q.39 L.7 (p.122 and 123) May offerors include a cover page in addition to the cover letter?

A.39 The page reference in the question is not accurate. Please follow the instructions in the RFP.

The cover letter should serve as a cover page.

Q.40: Section L states, “The sections and annexes in each of the Technical and Cost proposals must be tabbed and listed in the table of contents” (p. 147). It also states: “Annexes to the Management Approach and Staffing Plan must be separately tabbed and identified and must be limited to the following...” (p. 154). Can USAID clarify what it means by “Tabbed”?

A.40: This word is inadvertently included , please note the edited version on page 147 and page 154 in the attached Appendix II.

Q.41 Section L.7 (a), page 149 requires Offerors and their major subcontractors, to include up to five of their most recent and relevant similar contracts in Annex D: Past Performance Information.

Would USAID kindly please confirm whether the five contracts are in total for the Offeror and major subcontractors, or if the Offeror is to include five and major subcontractors will include an additional five.

A.41 The requirement is to include up to five for the prime offeror and up to five for each proposed major subcontractor.

Q.42 Regarding Contractor Performance Information (page 154), it states the requirement to list up to 5 of the most recent contracts similar to the work in the subject proposal. The point also states to provide performance information for itself, the contractor teaming agreements and each major subcontractor. Can you please confirm whether the 5 most recent contracts are required for each party listed (5 contracts each), or do we require to include 5 contracts to cover all of the parties listed (5 contracts total).

A.42: Please see response to Q.41 above.

Q.43: L.6. (p.148) indicates that offerors should consolidate pieces of the cost proposal into a single attachment whereas L.8.1 (p. 157) requests individual PDF files for various parts of the cost proposal. As directed in section L.6, may offerors consolidate cost proposal pieces to submit one PDF file containing all required elements of the cost proposal along with a separate unprotected Excel file of the budget?

A.43 Please see clarifying language in the amended RFP-Appendix II on page 148. Technical and Cost proposals should each be submitted as a single email. Please consolidate the various parts of a Technical Proposal into a single document before submission. The cost proposal should be submitted in two attachments; i. Budget Spreadsheet; and ii) Budget Narrative (including the annexes and other Parts that are not listed in the annexes).

Q.44: In Section L.7(2)(a), on page 149, USAID lists Contractor Performance Information as Part 7 of the Technical Proposal as well listing Annex D as Past Performance Information. Will USAID please confirm that all Contractor Performance Information required in this section should be included only in Annex D?

A.44: Yes. In addition to Annex D, Offerors should submit Annex E “Performance information on use of small business concerns and Subcontracting reports”. Please see the amended RFP on pages 149 and 155 under Appendix II.

Q.45: L.7 (p.150) May offerors use a different font for tables, textboxes, and graphics as long as it is at least 10pt in size (for instance, a sans serif font like Arial)?

A.45: Offerors may use other than Times New Roman font for Tables, charts, graphics and textboxes, however, the font size must not be less than 10 point.

Q. 46: Section L.2.II Management Approach and Staffing Plan, Page 154 requires annexes to be “separately tabbed”. Would USAID kindly please clarify or remove this reference?

A.46: Please see response to question No. 40 above.

Q.47: Section L.7 (2) II Management Approach and Staffing plan, page 154, states that Annex B shall contain an “Organizational Chart and Staffing Plan (2 pages maximum)” and goes on to list several requirements for the staffing plan. To ensure sufficient space for all positions along with descriptions of their roles, responsibilities, and qualifications, along with the other requirements described, would USAID please confirm that the limit of two pages refers to the staffing plan only, i.e. the total number of pages for Annex B should be three pages maximum, one for the organizational chart and two for the staffing plan?

A.47: Organizational Chart and Staffing Plan must be 3 pages maximum in total. Please note edited sections of the RFP on pages 149 and 154 in the attached Appendix II.

Q.48: L.7 Instructions for the Preparation of the Technical Volume, pages 154 and 155 Would USAID consider including relevant past performance information for cooperative agreements of similar size and complexity?

A.48: Yes, please see amended RFP-Appendix II, page 155.

Q.49: Section L.2.III Contractor Past Performance Information, Page 155 requires Offerors to submit the most recent CPAR. Would USAID kindly please consider removing this requirement, given that these are in the CPAR system?

A.49: This requirement remains unchanged.

Q.50: L.7 Instructions for the Preparation of the Technical Volume, pages 149 to 150 and pages 154 to 156 Under III. Contractor Performance Information the RFP states, “the offeror must provide performance information for itself, the contractor teaming arrangements, if any, and each major subcontractor in accordance with...Annex D and Annex E.” The RFP also states the technical proposal must be organized in the following required order: I. Cover Letter, II. Table of Contents, III. List of Acronyms, IV. Executive Summary, V. Technical Approach, VI. Management and Staffing, VII. Contractor Performance Information, VIII. Annexes A through E. The RFP does not list Annexes D and E as part of VII. Contractor Performance Information. The RFP also notes that VII. Contractor Performance is included in the 25-page limitation. Can USAID please clarify what should be included as part of VII. Contractor Performance within the Technical Proposal?

A.50: Please refer to answer to Question No. 44 above.

Q.51: On page 149, Contractor Performance Information is referenced twice – VII Contractor Performance Information, as well as Annexes D and E. Would USAID please confirm that Contractor Performance Information should be included in Annexes D and E only, and not a separate section within the technical proposal subject to the 25 page limitation?

A.51: See response to Q.50 above.

Offerors must follow the instructions outlined in the RFP under section L.7 (2) for the submission of the technical proposal, including the page limit, and the specific annexes listed. It is up to the offeror to determine the contents of their technical proposal,provided the proposal is organized in the same order requested on page 149.

Q.52: Would USAID be able to share the most recent LCP? Can USAID kindly share an updated Local Compensation for the West Bank ?

A.52: For budgeting purposes, please use the maximum daily rate of $392. There is no official local compensation plan for the West Bank or Gaza.

Q.53: Can USAID clarify if the Budget Narrative in Subsection L.8.1 (b)(ii), page 157, and Proposed Costs/Prices in Subsection L.8.4(b), page 159, are the same thing?

A.53: The Budget Narrative in L.8.1(b)(ii) is the same as L.8.3 BUDGET NARRATIVE. L.8.4 provides additional detail on what to include in the budget and budget narrative.

Q.54: Subsection L.8.1 states that SF 33 should be submitted as an annex in the cost/business proposal but does not mention it in Subsection L.8.4 (a) (p. 158). Can USAID confirm that SF 33 be submitted as an annex after the budget narrative in the Cost/Business Proposal?

A.54: A clarification is being added to r to section L.8.4.(a) on page 159 noting that the SF 33 should be included in Annex B. Please refer to the amended RFP-Appendix II page 159.

Q.55: On page 160/161, USAID specifies to include social charges under Fringe Benefits. Would USAID allow budgeting in accordance with Offerors internal Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), which may permit budgeting social charges under ODCs?

A.55 Yes, however the rate and the items it covers must be fully substantiated and explained in the budget narrative information and notes and separately listed under a distinct sub line item under the ODC line item in the proposed budget worksheets.

Q.56: With regards to the following point (I) on page 162, can you please advise (excluding additional program costs), if $2.9m is to be inputted for each year 1-5 ($14.5m total), or only for year 1 to give a total of $2.9 overall for the line item?

Program Costs/Program Activities: Specify all costs associated with the anticipated activities such as evaluations, training, workshops, conferences, seminars, subcontracts, etc. consistent with the proposed technical approach. Offerors must allocate a total amount of $2,900,000 under this line item for an award to MEII during the entire period of performance.

A.56: The amount of $2.9 million is the total amount to be allocated to MEII during the entire period of performance. Offerors may divide this total amount of $2.9 million equally across the five years period. Please see response to question No. 19.

Q.57: Section L.8.4 does not include a sub-section for subcontracts, nor is there a specific cost element included for subcontracts in the summary budget referenced on page 163. Would USAID consider allowing offerors to modify the summary budget to create a specific cost category for subcontracts?

A.57: Offerors may include subcontracts as a distinct sub line item under the cost element of “Program Costs/Program Activities” (as noted under point (I) on page 162) or as a separate cost category in the budget.

Q.58 Can USAID please clarify if “Joint Venture Information” (p. 162); “Indirect Cost Information” (p. 164); and “Information Concerning Workday, Work-week, Paid Absences” (p.

166) must be submitted as annexes to the cost/business proposal?

A.58: The Parts listed under this question, that do not fall under the annexes (Annexes A-G) to the cost proposal, must be included in the cost proposal as part of the Budget Narrative document.

Q.59: Section, L.8.4 (b) (2) (I) Program Costs/Program Activities, page 163, states that “Offerors must allocate a total amount of $2,900,000 under this line item for an award to MEII during the entire period of performance.” Please confirm that this amount for the MEII is in addition to the $7.5m GUC amount, and that none of this $2,900,000 be spent on labor or other expenses for activities such as evaluations, training, workshops, conferences, seminars, subcontracts, etc.

A.59: Yes, USAID confirms

Q.60: Subsection L.8.4 (4)(i) states that “each subContractor must include a complete copy of its most current NICRA” (p. 164) but mentions “major subContractors” in Subsection L.8.4 (4)(ii) on the same page. Can USAID confirm that only major subcontractors are required to submit their

NICRA?

A.60: The Offeror and each proposed major subcontractor must include a complete copy of its most recent NICRA. Please see page 164 of the amended RFP-Appendix II.

Q.61: Can USAID confirm that the “Disclosure of Lobbying Activities” be submitted as an annex (as stated in Subsection L.8.1, p. 157) and not under “Part 5 – Representations, Certifications, and Other Statements of Offerors” as suggested under Subsection L.8.4 (e) (p. 167)?

A.61: Please follow the details provided on page 157. Annex A must include Representations, Certifications, and other statements of Offeror; and Annex D must include the Disclosure of Lobbying Activities.

Q.62: On page 157, USAID lists out a set of annexes, however in pages 166-168, some of the annexes (including SF 33 and the evidence of responsibility) are set as their own parts and not annexes. Can USAID please clarify the ordering of these sections?

A.62: Please see responses to questions 54 and 58.

Q.63: L.8 Instructions for the Preparation of the Cost Proposal, pages 157-169

Under L.8.1 General, the RFP states “the Cost Volume must consist of the following separate files:

Budget Spreadsheet and Budget Narrative.” The RFP also states “the Offeror must submit Cost Volume Annexes as separate attachments limited to the following with no page limitation: Annex A: Representations, Certifications, and other statements of Offeror (see Section K), Annex B - The Standard Form (“SF”) 33, Annex C - Evidence of Responsibility, Annex D - Disclosure of Lobbying Activities – See Attachment J.4, Annex E - Certification regarding Trafficking in Persons Compliance Plan, Annex F- Salary Scale for the various hiring categories, Annex G – Legislative Reporting Information.”

Under L.8.4 Additional Budget Instructions, the RFP lists additional required documents, including “Part 1 – Standard Form (SF) 33, Part 2 – Proposed Costs/Prices, Part 3 – Information Concerning Work Day, Work-Week, and Paid Absences, Part 4 – Evidence of Responsibility, Part 5 – Representations, Certifications and Other Statement of Offerors, Part 6 – Legislative Reporting Information, Part 8 – Waivers under FAR Part 4.2101 Prohibition On Covered Telecommunications And Video Surveillance Services and Equipment (December 2021).” Would USAID please confirm the contents of the Cost Volume and if Offerors should submit supplemental documentation as Annexes or Parts?

A.63: Please see responses to Q.58 and Q.62.

Q.64: L.8 Instructions for the Preparation of the Cost Proposal, pages 157-169, Under L.8.4 Additional Budget Instructions, the RFP lists “Part 3 – Information Concerning Work Day, Work-Week, and Paid Absences and Part 8 – Waivers under FAR Part 4.2101 Prohibition On Covered Telecommunications And Video Surveillance Services and Equipment (December 2021).”

However, under L.8.1 General, the RFP does not include Part 3 – Information Concerning Work Day, Work- Week, and Paid Absences and Part 8 – Waivers under FAR Part 4.2101 Prohibition On Covered Telecommunications And Video Surveillance Services and Equipment (December 2021) as a required Annex. Would USAID please confirm if Offerors should submit Information Concerning Work Day, Work-Week, and Paid Absences and Waivers under FAR Part 4.2101?

A.64: Please see the response to Q.63 above.

Q.65 L.8.4 Additional Budget Instructions (f) and (g), pages 167 and 168, Under Section L.8.4 Additional Budget Instructions the RFP lists (f) Part 6 – Legislative Reporting Information but follows with (g) Part 8 – Waivers under FAR Part 4.2101 Prohibition On Covered Telecommunications And Video Surveillance Services and Equipment (December 2021). Would USAID confirm that (g) should be listed as Part 7?

A.65: Yes, USAID confirms. Please see the amended RFP in Appendix II.

Q. 66: L.8 Instructions for the Preparation of the Cost Proposal, pages 157 and 166, Under L.8.4 Additional Budget Instructions, Annexes to the Cost Proposal, the RFP states, “the Offeror must submit Cost Volume Annexes as separate attachments limited to the following with no page limitation...” However, under L.8.4 Additional Budget Instructions, Part 4 – Evidence of Responsibility, the RFP states it must “not exceed 3 pages.” Can USAID please confirm if the Evidence of Responsibility is subject to a page limitation?

A.66: This annex must not exceed three pages as specified on page 166.

Q.67: Could we confirm whether there are restrictions on an organisation appearing as a sub-contractor in proposals from different lead applicant organisations.

A.67: Organizations may be proposed as subcontractors under more than one proposal.

[End of Appendix I]