Amendment 1_RFP 72038823R00001_IAF_signed_10.11.2023.pdf

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT 1. CONTRACT ID CODE PAGE OF PAGES

1 17

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO.

3. EFFECTIVE DATE

See Box 16C

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO 5. PROJECT NO. (If applicable)

6. ISSUED BY CODE 7. ADMINISTERED BY (IF OTHER THAN ITEM 6) CODE

USAID/Bangladesh Office of the Acquisition & Assistance C/O American Embassy Madani Avenue, Baridhara, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh

Same as Box 6

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., Street, County, State, and Zip Code)

To All Potential Offerors

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO. 01

9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11) 10/11/2023

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

CODE: FACILITY CODE: 10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

The above numbered, solicitation is amended as set forth in item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers is extended X is not extended.

Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended by one of the following methods:

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning 1 copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted; or (c) By separate letter or telegram which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers, FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY

RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by telegram or letter, provided each telegram or letter makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If Required)

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS,

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO., AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14

A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify Authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT

ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43,103 (b).

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority)

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is NOT is required to sign this document and return copies to the issuing office.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.

This is Amendment No. 01 for Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 72038823R00001 and:

(a) Amends relevant RFP sections that are reflected in the track changes RFP as attached hereby (a clean version of the RFP is also furnished for ease of reference);

(b) Publishes the submitted questions from interested offerors and corresponding responses.

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER 16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER

Jerome Robinson, Jr.

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

(Signature of person authorized to sign)

15C. DATE

SIGNED

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

16C. DATE

SIGNED

NSN 7540-01-152-8070 STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 10-83)

Previous Edition Unusable Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

Amendment # 1

RFP # 72038823R00001

FtF Bangladesh Inclusive Access to Finance Activity

Questions Received Pertaining to RFP No. 72038820R00007 and corresponding USAID Answers

1. Page 1 of the Cover Letter states, “Phase Two Submission Due Date: 45 days after NOTICE to proceed to Phase Two”. Page 73, Section L.4 General Instructions, under subsection (l) Solicitation Conditions, states, “USAID is providing 30 days for Phase Two proposals so that Offerors have time to decide whether or not it is in their interest to prepare a Phase Two proposal after they receive a notice regarding Phase One.”

Question: The Offeror respectfully requests confirmation from USAID/Bangladesh that Offerors will be given 45 days to prepare and submit a Phase Two proposal after receiving notice to proceed to Phase Two.

USAID Answer: USAID confirms that upon being invited to participate in Phase Two Offerors will have at least 45 days to prepare Phase II proposals. Accordingly, the relevant section, L.4.(l).4 has been amended and reflected in the attached track changes RFP.

2. Page 77, Section L.6, Instructions for the Preparation of the Technical Proposal – Phase One, under subsection Factor 1 – Introduction, states, “Describe the Offeror’s consortium if any and provide a high-level vision of how to address the needs and objectives described in Section C.” However, no objectives are described in Section C, which states that the Performance Work Statement will be “instead at time of award”.

Question: The Offeror respectfully requests USAID/Bangladesh confirm that the objectives referenced are those found in Attachment J.1: Statement of Objectives.

USAID Answer: USAID confirms that the objectives referenced are those found in Attachment J.1.

Accordingly, the stated section above (and section L.6, Factor 1) has been modified and reflected in the attached amended track changes RFP.

3. Attachment J.2, Budget Template, includes a pre-filled total of $13,500,000 for GUCs under both the Budget Summary and Detail tabs. Page 84, section L.8, Instructions for the Preparation of the Cost Proposal, under subsection g) Catalytic Funding, states, “The Offeror may propose a figure as a line item and/or an alternative form of financing based on the Offeror's approach.

Question: The Offeror respectfully requests confirmation from USAID/Bangladesh that the $13.5 million figure for GUCs is illustrative and that the Offeror may propose an appropriate total amount for GUCs in accordance with their proposed technical design.

USAID Answer: USAID is not prescribing the use of GUCs of any amount, but has authorized the use of Catalytic Funding or GUC or any other Alternate form of Financing up to $13.5 million or an alternate amount based on the offeror’s approach. Offerors should propose the most effective technical approach for achieving the objectives outlined in Attachment J.1. Such approaches may or may not include the use of GUCs. The line item, “GUC” has been replaced with “"Catalytic Funding/Alternate form of Financing/GUC" in the revised Attachment J.2, Budget Template, and section L.6, Factor 4

4. The Budget Summary tab of Attachment J.2, Budget Template, lists “Fees for TA (CLIN 1, 2, 3).

The Personnel tab of Attachment J.2, Budget Template requires “Personnel Proposed under CLIN 1 (or if a subcontractor, under CLIN 3”. However, there are no references to CLINs elsewhere in the RFP or budget template.

Question: The Offeror respectfully requests confirmation from USAID/Bangladesh that the budget template does not utilize CLINs.

FtF Bangladesh Inclusive Access to Finance Activity

USAID Answer: Confirmed that the budget template does not utilize CLINs. A revised budget template has been provided as “Attachment J.2, Revised Budget Template”.

5. In the Budget Summary tab of Attachment J.2, Budget Template, line K lists the cost category “Fee-Profit (Non=GUCs)”. It also states, “Fixed fee should be broken down for Fee for GUCS (0);Fee for Subcontracts and Fees for TA (CLIN 1, 2, 3)”.

Question: Consistent with FAR 15.404-4, Profit, contract cost risk is a factor in determining the appropriate level of fee. The use of grants increases the liability to the contractor, and therefore would be a factor to consider for fee. As such, the Offeror respectfully requests USAID/Bangladesh Confirm that fee can be applied to GUCs.

USAID Answer: Confirmed that fee can be applied to Catalytic Funding or any Alternate form of Financing or GUC form of Financing. A revised budget template has been provided as “Attachment J.2, Revised Budget Template”.

6. In the Budget Summary tab of Attachment J.2, Budget Template, item 2 states, “Fixed fee should be broken down for Fee for GUCS (0); Fee for Subcontracts and Fees for TA (CLIN 1, 2, 3);Total Fee.” However, Line K on the same tab below lists only , “Fee-Profit (Non=GUCS).”

Question: The Offeror respectfully requests confirmation from USAID/Bangladesh that the Fee breakdown subcategories are: Fee for GUCs and fee for non-GUCs.

USAID Answer: Confirmed that the Fee can be charged at the same rate on GUC and non-GUC. Please see the revised budget template provided as “Attachment J.2, Revised Budget Template”.

7. Attachment J.3, Initial Environmental Examination, on page 4, section 1.3 Geographic Coverage, states, “The FTF efforts covered in this IEE will continue to be country-wide, specifically regarding research and policy activities, but the programs primarily focus on the 21 south central and southwest districts of the country, which is called FTF Zone of Influence (FTF ZOI) and two districts in the southeast part of the country which is FTF Zone of Resilience (FTF ZOR).” However, the geographic coverage of the IAF Activity is not specified in the RFP or in Attachment J.1: Statement of Objective.

Question: The Offeror respectfully requests that USAID/Bangladesh confirm that the intended geographic coverage of the IAF Activity is all 23 districts of the FTF ZOI and ZOR?

USAID Answer: USAID confirms that the intended geographic coverage for the IAF activity is the Feed the Future Zone of Influence (the 21 districts of southeast and south-central Bangladesh), while noting that the Mission is in the process of finalizing an updated Global Food Security Country Plan, which may entail adjusting the Zone of Influence. Areas located outside the Zone of Influence should have a link to the Zone of Influence (i.e., a processor who purchases commodities from farmers in the Zone of Influence). USAID also acknowledges that some of the constraints to access to finance may be at the policy level, which will entail working with the Government of Bangladesh in Dhaka. Accordingly, the SOO has been revised with a language incorporated. Please see the updated/revised SOO (track changes) as “Attachment J.1: Statement of Objective (SOO)”.

8. Attachment J.4, Page 1, AID 1420-17: Contractor Biographical Data Sheet, states, “Expiration Date: 3/31/2021”.

Question: The Biodata sheet provided in attachment J.4 is an outdated version with an expiration date from 2021. The Offeror respectfully requests confirmation from USAID/Bangladesh that the latest version published with an expiration date of 11/30/2024 should be used for submission.

FtF Bangladesh Inclusive Access to Finance Activity

USAID Answer: An updated “Attachment J.4 AID 1420-17: Contractor Employee Biographical Data Sheet” has been included in the amendment of the RFP.

9. Pg 72, L.4.h, - In reference to Section L.4.h, could USAID please reconsider allowing a questions and answer period for Phase Two?

USAID Answer: The sentence – “Please note, there will be no question answer session in Phase Two.” has been deleted in section L.4.g. See the attached track changes RFP amendment 1.

10. Pg 1, L.4.l.4 - Could USAID please clarify the inconsistency on the Phase Two due date? Page 1 says 45 days after notice, while Section L.4.l.4 says that USAID is providing 30 days for Phase Two proposals.

USAID Answer: See answer to question 1.

11. Pg 8, D.2 & C.3.a (Att J.1) - Section D.2 says that the goal is to catalyze over $400,000,000, while C.3.a says $420,000,000. Can USAID clarify their minimum target?

USAID Answer: The minimum target is $420,000,000. Accordingly, the RFP has been amended with the updated/revised language in the track changes RFP in section D.2.

12. C.3 (Att J.1) - To facilitate the provision of creative and alternative financing approaches, would USAID consider changing all references to loans and credit to “financing”?

USAID Answer: USAID encourages Offerors to think broadly about expanding access to finance. The indicators outlined in the Att. J.1 are minimum indicators related to credit. Offerors are free to propose other potential avenues to generate increased access to finance not included under the definition of loans and credit.

13. J.1, C.1 - In J.1 USAID ask Offerors to “submit targets as to the financing which it anticipates it will generate—taking into account the minimum targets (in J.1’s table of indicators).” Additionally, in the table C.3.a, the RFP mentioned that TBD indicators targets are “to be developed post-award with USAID”. Are Offerors to propose additional customized indicators in Phase 2 beyond the minimum indicators provided in J.1?

USAID Answer: The resulting contract will be administered by adaptive management. It may be possible the offerors may need to propose additional customized indicators, however, it depends on the offeror’s’ approach.

14. Pg 77, L.6 / Pg 78, L.7 - Before the Tables of Contents, may Offerors include a cover letter within the Phase One and Phase Two technical proposals?

USAID Answer: Yes (see L.6 & L.7).

15. Pg 77, L.6 - Factor 3, Question 1, asks: What problems would your organization focus on solving in order to sustainably improve access to finance for “USAID’s priority sectors and populations”? Is it USAID’s intention that Offerors look across all USAID/Bangladesh priority sectors and populations (the CDCS), or is USAID asking for Offerors to look only at priority sectors and populations referenced in the SOO (namely, agribusiness MSME, farmers, rural populations, women, youth (18-29 years of age), first-time borrowers, indigenous and ethnic minorities, and the LGBTIQ+ community)?

Similarly, Question 2 asks: What tools and approaches would your organization use to increase access to finance “in Bangladesh”? Is it USAID’s intention that Offerors answer this question generally for a wide

FtF Bangladesh Inclusive Access to Finance Activity range of Bangladesh sectors and populations or those referenced in the SOO, (namely, agribusiness MSME, farmers, rural populations, women, youth (18-29 years of age), first-time borrowers, indigenous and ethnic minorities, and the LGBTIQ+ community)?

USAID Answer: Offerors should look only at priority populations referenced in the SOO.

16. Pg 78, L.7 - For Phase two submission, may Offerors switch the order of the Executive Summary and the Table of Contents?

USAID Answer: The Offerors need to follow the required orders as stated in the RFP.

17. Pg 78, L.7 - Section L.7 requires a different font size for the CVs. Would USAID please consider utilizing the formatting from L.5 for the CVs as well?

USAID Answer: Yes, Accordingly, the RFP is amended with this change, section L.7,bullet 10, subsection 2 (see Track changes version of the RFP).

18. Pg 90 and 92, M.3.2 / Pg 79, L.7 - Regarding the evaluation criteria for Factor 5 (M.3.2), could USAID please confirm that the criteria is only applied to Year 1 plans?

USAID Answer: Yes the criteria is only applied to Year 1 plans.

19. Pg 90 and 92, M.3.2 / Pg 79, L.7 - Could USAID please confirm that, in Factor 5, if Offerors should specify annual and end of program results, even though the section title suggests that this section only includes Year 1?

USAID Answer: The work plan should specify both annual and end of program results.

20. Pg 79, L.7 - Could USAID confirm that the 10-page maximum for Factor 5 could include both a narrative and a Gantt Chart?

USAID Answer: Yes. 10-page maximum including any narrative

21. Pg 90, M.3.2 / Pg 92, M.3.2 / Pg 79, L.7 - Could USAID please confirm that Offerors are not to include the organigram (also referred to as graphic representation and organization chart in the RFP) in the 4 pages of Factor 6 (see language on page 79), but instead include the organizational chart as an annex, per L.4's required order?

USAID Answer: Any organizational chart must be included as an Annex (see section L.7, 1 of bullet #10).

22. Pg 80, L.7 / Pg 81, L.8 / Pg 84, L.8.c(f) - Section L.7, Factor 8, defines a major subcontractor as one "whose proposed cost exceeds 25% of the Offeror's total proposed cost", while Section L.8 says that for the purpose of the cost proposal, major subcontractors as one "whose costs exceed 25 percent of the Offeror's total proposed cost or who are otherwise defined by the prime to be essential to successful project implementation" and Section L.8.C.f say "whose proposed cost exceeds 25% of the Offeror’s total proposed cost or one that is proposed as a consortium member and will be responsible for a core or major component of objectives 1-3 in the SOO on a medium to long-term basis."

Could USAID please confirm the definition of a major subcontractor?

USAID Answer: USAID will define a major subcontractor as one whose proposed cost exceeds 25% of the

FtF Bangladesh Inclusive Access to Finance Activity total proposed cost. It is evident that the proposed subcontractor must be included in the proposal or be part as a consortium member in the proposal in order to perform a part of the technical component as described in the SOO and in the subsequent proposed PWS. Accordingly, the RFP has been modified to delete the 2nd paragraph of “Section L.8 f) Subcontracts” in the amended RFP. See the changes in the attached amended RFP (track changes version).

23. Pg 80, L.7 - Could USAID please clarify what information is required in the 8-page limit of Factor 8: Past Performance versus what information is to be listed in the annex?

USAID Answer: Past performance information can be included in the Attachment J.6 Past Performance Information (PPI) and can be submitted as an annex as stated in section L.7, 1 of bullet # 3, and L.7, Factor 8 of the RFP.

24. Pg 80, L.7 - In Factor 8, Past Performance, USAID states that Relevant contracts would be those with a total cost of $30,000,000 or higher (for prime). We respectfully ask USAID to remove the threshold to allow Offerors the flexibility to highlight both similar priced contracts as well as those that are more technically relevant.

USAID Answer: As per section M.3.3, past performance will be evaluated based on “Satisfactory / Unsatisfactory/ Neutral” basis. The offeror will not be evaluated favorably or unfavorably in absence of required past performance information. However, USAID has hereby removed the $30,000,000 threshold from the RFP as reflected in the amended track changes RFP (see section L.8, Factor 8, (i)). RFP amended to reflect section number correction to “M.3.3 Evaluation of Past Performance”.

25. Pg 87, L.10 - Section L.10 says that the BIP and MP should be submitted in separate emails, per Section L.7.4. We do not see “Section L.7.4” in the RFP. Could USAID please provide clarity around the BIP and MP submission instructions?

Since the BIP and MP do not contribute to the award decision, would USAID please consider asking only the “apparently successful offeror” for the BIP and MP during contract negotiations or upon award?

USAID Answer: Instructions for BIP and MP are provided in section L.7, subsection 4 under bullet # 10, and L.10, and section D.

USAID agreed that BIP and MP will be requested only from the “apparently successful offeror” (ASO), and accordingly the languages have been amended in the track changes RFP in section L.7, subsection 4 under bullet # 10, and L.10.

26. Pg 89, M.2 - Within Section M.2 (ii) Phase 2 and M.3.2, the texts mention seven factors, where M.3.2 Phase 2 and other areas of the RFP list eight factors. Could USAID please correct this inconsistency?

USAID Answer: Section M.2.a.ii and Section M.3.2 are hereby modified. See the attached amended track changes RFP.

27. Attachment J.2 - Budget Template, includes staff position titles, suggests head and field offices, and details other cost elements throughout. Could USAID please confirm that these are illustrative?

USAID Answer: USAID confirms that the budget template is purely illustrative. The Personnel tab has been deleted in the revised Attachment J.2 - Budget Template, and language has been updated to provide more clarity on the budget template in section L.8, Part 3.A in the attached track changes RFP.

28. Attachment J.2 - In the Detail tab in Attachment J.2, Program Activities; Design, Monitoring and

FtF Bangladesh Inclusive Access to Finance Activity

Evaluation; Consultants; and Subgrants are to be summed up under Cost Category f. “Subcontracts/ contractual” of the Budget Summary. If the Prime intends to take on some of the program activities, MEL, and consultants directly, would Offerors still sum these up under “Subcontracts/contractual”?

USAID Answer: Yes, consultants can be summed up under Subcontracts line item of the summary budget, however, in the detailed budget it must be shown or broken down in separate row/s under Subcontracts.

The budget template is purely illustrative and not meant in any way to influence Offerors’ development of their proposals.

29. Attachment J.2 - Includes Construction cost categories in the Budget Summary tab (cost category g) and in the Detail tab. Can USAID please provide guidance on the types of construction envisioned under this Activity?

USAID Answer: USAID does not envision construction activities under this activity. Categories included in the budget summary are purely illustrative. Please see the revised budget template provided as “Attachment J.2, Revised Budget Template”. Offerors can mark “0” if no construction is proposed.

30. Attachment J.2 - Budget Template, includes a "Personnel" tab that is not referenced elsewhere in the RFP. This tab also references CLIN 3, which is inconsistent with the SOO. Can USAID please confirm that Offerors are not required to submit this tab?

USAID Answer: Offerors are not required to submit this tab. See response to question 27.

31. Pg 82, L.8.C.a - Does USAID envision the compensation plan required in L.8.C.a.ii as part of the budget narrative or as part of Part 10 - Policies and Procedures?

USAID Answer: As per L.8.C.a.ii, compensation plan is required as part of the cost proposal, and as per Part 10, personnel policy is required if requested to provide.

32. Pg 3, H.5.c - Regarding the requirements outlined in H.5.c, will USAID please confirm that the LCP is only to be applied to CCN and TCN salaries (and not to international salaries)?

USAID Answer: Yes, H.5.c applies to CCN and TCN salaries

33. Pg 83, L.8.C.b - Can USAID confirm under which Part of the cost volume Offerors should include their

NICRA?

USAID Answer: As mentioned in section L.8 of the RFP, Offerors should include their NICRA as part of Part 3 of the Cost volume.

34. Pg 84, L.8.C.f - Could USAID please clarify if only those subcontractors that are identified as Major Subcontractors are required to submit a budget?

USAID Answer: Budgets must be submitted for all identified subcontractors or sub awardees.

35. Pg 84, L.8.C.f - Page 83, Part 3 instructions, says "Add additional tabs (summary and detail) for all proposed subcontractors." We kindly ask USAID to make an exception for firm fixed price subcontracts that would not be cost reimbursable and therefore would not have the same detailed budget structure.

USAID Answer: For fixed price subcontracts, additional tabs are required with summary CLINs.

FtF Bangladesh Inclusive Access to Finance Activity

36. Pg 84, L.8.C.f - We respectfully note that there is a reference to Objective 3 in Section L.8.C.f, page 84. As there is no Objective 3 included in the SOO, please confirm that there is no Objective 3 and that offerors should disregard this reference.

USAID Answer: There is no Objective 3. Please disregard this reference. The paragraph has been deleted and reflected as track changes in the amended RFP. (See section L.8. Part 3, B.f)

37. Pg 84, L.8.C.g / Att J.2 – In Attachment J.2, Budget Summary tab, there is a $13,500,000 plug figure in the GUC line; however, the instructions in L.8.C.g say that the Offeror may propose a figure. Could USAID please confirm that, per L.8.C.g and L.9, Offerors should propose the value and mechanisms (GUC, subcontract, etc.) for the Catalytic Fund based on the Offeror’s technical approach?

USAID Answer: See answer to question 3.

38. Could you provide more detailed information on the expected deliverables and milestones for this project?

USAID Answer: As this is a Statement of Objectives, USAID has outlined its objective of catalyzing $420,000,000 in financing, while expanding access to finance for priority sectors and populations. Offerors should outline their approach to achieving those objectives, including any milestones if applicable. Section F includes a comprehensive list of deliverables.

39. Blended Finance: The RFI mentions the use of blended finance to incentivize financial institutions. Could you elaborate on the specific blended finance models or structures that USAID is considering?

USAID Answer: USAID encourages Offerors to conduct their own research on the types of blended finance models that would be effective in the context of Bangladesh. There are numerous case studies and technical guides included in Attachment J.1.

40. Target Populations: While the RFI mentions various target groups, including women-owned businesses and first-time borrowers, are there specific quotas or percentages for each group that partners should aim for?

USAID Answer: As noted in the RFP, sub-indicators and criteria for gender inclusion, food security and nutrition, first-time borrowers, climate-smart agriculture, and youth inclusion will be developed post-award with USAID.

41. Geographical Focus: The RFI mentions activities within the FTF Zone of Influence (ZOI) or Zone of Resilience (ZOR). Could you provide a detailed map or list of these zones for better clarity?

USAID Answer: See answer to question 7 above. The map should be available in this internet portal -https://www.feedthefuture.gov/resource/global-food-security-strategy-gfss-bangladesh-country-plan/

42. Technical Assistance: Will USAID provide any technical assistance or capacity-building support to the selected partners during the project implementation?

USAID Answer: No. However, technical assistance may be provided to the contractor if aligned with the Offeror’s technical approach. Nonetheless the question is not very clear to USAID and lacks specifics(?)

43. Monitoring and Evaluation: What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) that partners should be aware of, and what monitoring and evaluation mechanisms will be in place?

FtF Bangladesh Inclusive Access to Finance Activity

USAID Answer: The minimum indicators for the activity are outlined in Section J. Additional performance indicators will be developed post-award as part of the MEL plan. As noted in section C.3, of the SOO (Attachment J.1) one of the objectives of the contract is to “add to the important evidence base about agricultural finance in low-income countries through a rigorous impact evaluation, measuring the cost-effectiveness of one or more interventions with a counterfactual. To that end, Offerors should identify in their proposal which interventions would be useful to evaluate as a public good, and which would be best suited for evaluation, ideally under some kind of randomization.”

44. Budget Allocation: Given the budget range of $20-$40 million, are there specific allocations for different components of the project, such as capacity building, loan disbursement, or monitoring?

USAID Answer: USAID does not have any specific allocations for different components of the project. This is the offeror to propose based on their proposed approach, such as capacity building, loan disbursement, or monitoring.

45. Timeline: Could you provide a tentative timeline for the project, from inception to completion, including any key milestones?

USAID Answer: This is a five-year project. Anticipated start date is March/April 2024 through March/April 2029. The offerors to propose key milestones based on the SOO.

46. Can USAID kindly provide the anticipated award date for this activity?

USAID Answer: USAID anticipates awarding it in March/April, 2024

47. Section B.7 (page 5) states that payment of fixed fee will be based on completion of deliverables in accordance with an approved fee schedule. However, deliverables set as part of the proposal process may change during implementation due to evolving technical needs, newly emerged opportunities, and stakeholders’ priorities. To account for these potential shifts, would USAID consider adding the following language to Section B.7: “The Fixed Fee Schedule may be adjusted during annual work planning to reprogram any unpaid fees from partially completed or non-accepted deliverables from the past year into other or additional deliverables as mutually agreed to between the COR and the contractor, ensuring the fee remains fixed.” Adjusting the fee distribution plan with each annual work plan will allow the contractor to readjust and reallocate effort and resources as needed to achieve the most results attainable within the total estimated cost.

USAID Answer: Although USAID remains open to modifying any terms of the contract, if necessary, we will not add any additional language in the RFP other than what has been given.

48. Section D.4 (page 9) of the RFP indicates the contractor must flow down the branding and marking requirements in 2 CFR 700.16 to grantees. Since 2 CFR 700 is not applicable to non-U.S. grantees, would USAID revise this reference to the branding and marking requirements outlined in ADS 303 and the standard provisions?

USAID Answer: The references of ADS 303 and the standard provisions have been included in Section D.4 and hereby the RFP is amended as reflected in the track changes RFP.

49. The RFP indicates that offerors may propose the use of grants under contract under this activity;

however, clauses from the ADS 302 that authorize grants under contract are not included in Section H of the RFP. Can USAID kindly incorporate ADS 302.3.5.6 and ADS 302.3.4.13 in Section H of the RFP?

FtF Bangladesh Inclusive Access to Finance Activity

USAID Answer: If an apparent successful offer proposes a GUC component, specific ADS requirements will be added in the resulting contract. USAID is not prescribing the use of GUCs of any amount but has authorized the use of Catalytic Funding or GUC or any other Alternate form of Financing up to $13.5 million or an alternate amount based on the offeror’s approach. Offerors should propose the most effective technical approach for achieving the objectives outlined in Attachment J.1. Such approaches may or may not include the use of GUCs.

50. Section H.25 (page 39), Audits of Subcontracts with Non-U.S. Organizations, is a section primarily included in assistance instruments. Can USAID confirm that this section does not apply to this procurement?

If this section is applicable, could USAID please clarify how it is intended to apply under this contract mechanism?

USAID Answer: Subcontract audit is a requirement if applicable in accordance with ADS Chapter 591 Financial Audits of USAID Contractors, Recipients, and Host Government Entities

51. Section L.7 (page 80) of the RFP states that relevant past performance “contracts would be those with a total cost of $30,000,000 or higher (for prime), with a period of performance falling within the last four years and involving demonstrated impact across similar work as similar work in Section C.” Could USAID please consider removing the requirement for contracts to exceed $30,000,000, thereby enabling offerors to present a combination of past performance references that demonstrate their ability to implement contracts of similar technical scope and managerial complexity?

USAID Answer: See # 24 above.

52. Section L.7 (page 80) of the RFP states that past performance references must not exceed eight pages in total. The RFP also states past performance references are limited to two pages per record using the same font as the technical proposal. Considering that offerors must list up to five references for the prime offeror and up to two references for each major subcontractor, could USAID please consider increasing the page limitation for Factor 8 so that offerors can prepare a maximum of two pages per past performance record?

Additionally, can USAID confirm that the remaining Factor 8 components, such as performance in using small business concerns and a description of any quality awards or certifications, are not subject to a page limitation?

USAID Answer: USAID does not intend to increase the page limit. The RFP is hereby modified by removing the following bullet point under section L.7, Factor 8

“● Performance in Using Small Business (SB) Concerns (as defined in FAR 19.001)”

Please see track changes copy of the amended RFP

53. Section L.8 (page 81) states the budget narrative “must include a complete breakdown of cost elements associated with each line item and those costs associated with any proposed subcontract or sub grant. The cost information must include the basis of each and every cost, (e.g., current salaries, vendor quotes, market surveys, historical experience, etc.) including the fee (if any).” Noting that the successful offeror will identify, review, vet, and award grants according to its grants manual during implementation, can USAID consider removing the requirement for offerors to “provide information sufficient to determine reasonableness of costs proposed for each grantee?”

USAID Answer: We were unable to find the quoted sentence in the RFP “provide information sufficient to determine reasonableness of costs proposed for each grantee”. However, there is a similar sentence in section L.8, Part 3, B.f - “The Offeror must provide information sufficient to determine the reasonableness of the cost of each proposed subcontract.” USAID does not intend to remove the requirement.

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54. M.3.2 (page 91) states, “At the conclusion of Phase Two, all seven factors from both Phase One and Phase Two will be considered when scoring the Offeror’s submission.” However, the list then includes eight factors. Can USAID please clarify?

USAID Answer: See # 26 above

55. L.4. The Cover page of the RFP indicates that Phase Two proposal submission date will come 45 days after a notice to proceed is issued. Page 73 of the RFP indicates that “USAID estimates notices will be sent out within one month or less after Phase One proposals due date. USAID is providing 30 days for Phase Two proposals so that Offerors have time to decide whether or not it is in their interest to prepare a Phase Two proposal after they receive a notice regarding Phase One.” Can USAID please clarify whether Phase Two submission date will be 30 or 45 days after notices to proceed are issued?

USAID Answer: See answer to question 1 above.

56. We do not see references to FTF zones in the RFP. Can USAID please clarify whether activities should be implemented within the ZOI or ZOR, or else the project will support activities all over the country?

USAID Answer: See answer to question 7 above.

57. Will the project be entitled to award subsidies to state owned financial institutions?

USAID Answer: No. However, technical assistance may be provided to state-owned financial institutions if aligned with the Offeror’s technical approach.

58. Could USAID confirm that livestock is included in the definition of agriculture?

USAID Answer: USAID confirms that livestock is included in the definition of agriculture.

59. Under #1 of section F.6. Key Personnel & Other Staffing (pg. 15) states “The contractor must propose up to four additional Key Personnel positions for the Activity that have the requisite skill set to implement the approach outlined in the proposed PWS.” Would USAID please confirm whether the contractor must propose four additional key personnel, or instead, if the contractor can provide up to 4 additional key personnel but is not required to.

USAID Answer: Offerors must propose four additional key personnel for being evaluated.

60. Could USAID provide their definition of “support personnel” who will not require a Biographical Data Sheet referenced under the a.) Labor section of B. Budget Narrative (pg.83).

USAID Answer: There is no such USAID definition of support personnel. However, they can be secretarial, stenographic, copying personnel, file and records clerks, drivers, receptionist, admin assistant, cooks, technicians, associates etc. It is upto the discretion of the offerors to determine their proposed support personnel and may choose not to provide Biographical Data Sheets as stated in the RFP. However, USAID may request Biographical Data Sheets (1420-17) for any of the proposed support personnel to determine the fair and reasonableness of the proposed salaries.

61. Under (ii) Phase Two section of M.2 Evaluation Procedures (pg. 89), the RFP has the “Management and Staffing Plan” listed as Factor 5, however pages 74, 78, 91 and 92 have it as Factor 6. Could USAID confirm that the “Management and Staffing Plan” is indeed Factor 5.

USAID Answer: This section M.2.a.ii has been modified in the amended track changes RFP with correct language as indicated above. See answer to question 26 as well.

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62. What are the sources of funds to be used for Blended Finance instruments/grants/subsidies for financial products? Are these funds coming from the Activity budget or some other source?

USAID Answer: These funds should come from the Activity budget.

63. The RFP document, page 79, discusses a “Catalytic Fund.” Is this Fund the source of funds used for the Blended Finance? Is the Catalytic Fund operational now and capitalized?

USAID Answer: The “Catalytic Fund” is a pool of capital that the successful applicant will use to expand access to finance via blended finance and other approaches suggested by offerors. The “Catalytic Fund” is not separate from this activity and is therefore neither operationalized nor capitalized at the moment. To be clear, the “Catalytic Fund” should be part of the proposed approach and will become operational and capitalized upon contract award. USAID has no predetermined idea for how the “Catalytic Fund” should be structured or used. Offerors should propose a structure and approach to using that “Catalytic Fund” that Offerors think will best enable them to achieve the objectives of the activity.

64. Is there a connection between the Catalytic Fund and USAID CATALYZE, the USAID Private Sector Engagement (PSE) Hub project? (Found at https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/private-sector-engagement/PSE-at-USAID/PSE-Hub/catalyz)

USAID Answer: CATALYZE is a separate USAID activity. IAF and CATALYZE are connected in the sense that they both are access to finance activities. There is, however, no direct connection between the two activities.

65. Is there a specific goal for Localization efforts (in terms of a percentage of activity allocated for Localization)?

USAID Answer: Although USAID strongly encourages the use of local partners, there is no specific goal for localization efforts. USAID encourages Offerors to review USAID’s general guidance and resources regarding localization, such as those found here.

66. How will Localization activities be evaluated at Phase One and Phase Two?

USAID Answer: USAID will evaluate proposals based on the format and criteria outlined in Section L and M of the RFP. During Phase II, one of the criteria USAID will use to evaluate technical approaches is “The extent to which the approach will leverage and maximize the use of local organizations, professionals, knowledge, and expertise.”

67. Catalytic Funding: Factor 4- Performance Work Statement (PWS)/Technical Approach

Page 79 of the RFP states that a Catalytic Fund shall be integrated into the approach. Please provide clarification regarding any minimum or maximum value required for the total fund if such a fund is included.

USAID Answer: There is no maximum or minimum amount. Offerors should propose a value that aligns for the catalytic fund that aligns with their technical approach.

68. j) Indirect Cost Information

Page 84 of the RFP states that the prime and subcontractors are encouraged to consider proposing lower overhead rates than their established Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA). Please provide clarification regarding if this a mandatory requirement? Additionally, please clarify if proposing a lower overhead rate than their established NICRA will impact the scoring process in any way.

USAID Answer: This is not mandatory. Indirect cost rate is part of cost application. See section M.4 Cost

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Proposal Evaluation to understand how cost will be evaluated.

69. Factor 8: Past Performance

Page 80 of the RFP states that past performance references of the Offeror and its major subs should list in annex relevant contracts with a total cost of $30,000,000 or higher (for prime), with a period of performance falling within the last four years and involving demonstrated impact across similar work as similar work as in Section C. This very narrow requirement will disqualify all but two-three traditional USAID implementing partners (DAI, Chemonics, Palladium). To ensure USAID lives by its own priority outlined under the New Partners Initiative (NPI), would USAID revise their requirements for more bidders to be eligible and competitive to pursue the bid?

Page 80 of the RFP states that past performance reference of the Offeror and its major subs should list in the annex relevant contracts with a total cost of $30,000,000 or higher (for prime), with a period of performance falling within the last four years and involving demonstrated impact across similar work as similar work as in Section C. The Offeror kindly requests clarification regarding if past performance will be considered as an eligibility factor.

Factor 8: Past Performance (8 pages maximum). The RFP notes that the Offeror to “List in an annex to the technical proposal up to five (5) for the prime Offeror, and up to two (2) for each of the major subcontractors (if any), relevant contracts or grants for efforts similar to the work in the subject proposal”.

Can USAID Clarify if the Offeror’s consortium will receive adverse scoring if they submit less than 7 past performance references?

USAID Answer: See response # 24 above.

Past performance is one of evaluation factors. Eligibility to submit an offer is unrestricted for this acquisition

As stated in section M.3.3, Past performance will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 15.305(a)(2). RFP amended to reflect section number correction to “M.3.3 Evaluation of Past Performance”.

70. Past Performance Scoring Question:

There is inconsistent information in the RFP regarding scoring of Past Performance. Can USAID please clarify if there are scoring/points given for Past Performance ratings of satisfactory and neutral?

Cited in the RFP: P. 89 M.2 Evaluation Procedures

(ii) Phase Two – Factors 4 (Technical Approach), Factor 5 (Management and Staffing Plan), Factor 6 (Monitoring and Evaluation Approach), and Factor 7 (Past Performance) will be evaluated in this phase. The selection decision will be a trade-off involving all seven factors, according to FAR 15.101-1, Tradeoff Process.

Risk assessment will be a part of the overall evaluation.M.3.2 Phase Two

p. 91 and 92

At the conclusion of Phase Two, all seven factors from both Phase One and Phase Two will be considered when scoring the Offeror’s submission. Unlike Phase One, during which all factors were considered equally, at the end of Phase Two, the order of importance for each factor will be as follows:

Factor In Descending Order of Importance

Factor 4 Technical Approach

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Factor 3 Responses to Technical Questions Factor 2 Institutional Capacity Factor 5 Draft Year One Work Plan/Gantt Chart Factor 6 Management and Staffing Plan Factor 7 Monitoring and Evaluation Approach Factor 8 Past Performance

Factor 1 Introduction

Can USAID provide clarification which of the Factors will be scored?

P. 91-93, M. 2.3. i Evaluation of Past Performance Section (f) Past performance will not be scored and will be evaluated on a “Satisfactory / Unsatisfactory/ Neutral” basis.

USAID Answer: See response # 24, 26, and 69 above. As noted in the RFP, Past Performance will be given a rating of “Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory/Neutral” during Phase II.

71. M6 Source selection:

Page 94 of the RFP states that “the contracting officer shall award the contract to the Offeror whose combined Phase One and Phase Two proposal represents the best value to the U.S. Government. All evaluation factors other than cost or price, when combined, are significantly more important than cost or price.” The Offeror kindly requests clarification regarding if there is a ceiling value that USAID is anticipating for a best value proposal under this RFP?

USAID Answer: USAID is unable to anticipate such an amount. It depends based on the offerors’ proposed approach. However, as stated in the RFP, USAID anticipates that the total estimated cost will be approximately $33 to $35 million.

72. Other Potential Questions

1. Geographic coverage: is there a minimum and/or maximum number of districts from the FTF Zones of Interventions (ZOI) and Zones of Resilience (ZOR) for the applicants?

2. Any indications about the match value? Is this voluntary?

3. When will the phase I process be completed? Projected timeframe?

4. Is USAID limiting the number of applications as Sub under this RFP?

USAID Answer: (1) No. See also the answer to question 7 above. (2) No indications about match value. (3) See Cover Page of the RFP for timeframe. (4) No.

73. The RFP cover page indicates that Phase Two Proposals will be due “45 days after NOTICE”. However, Section L.4 (p. 73) indicates “USAID is providing 30 days for Phase Two proposals”. Please confirm that the turnaround time for Phase Two is 45 days after the notice to proceed.

USAID Answer: See answer to question 1 above.

74. Section L.5 (p. 75-76) states that “Proposals must be sent electronically via Internet email compatible with Microsoft Office 2010 (MS Word or Excel) or in a MS Windows environment” but also that “All attachments must be in MS Word, Adobe PDF, or MS Excel readable format.” Please confirm that Technical Proposals for both phases can be submitted in either MS Word or Adobe PDF format.

USAID Answer: USAID confirms that either MS Word or Adobe PDF formats are acceptable.

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75. In Section L.7 (p. 78) instructions for Phase Two, the “Required order” lists a requirement for “Factor 8:

Past Performance (does not count against the page limit)” as well as an Annex for “Past performance documentation”. Please confirm that “Factor 8: Past Performance” will be addressed through Annex 3 (Past Performance Documentation), and not as a separate stand-alone section of the Technical Proposal.

USAID Answer: USAID confirms that Past Performance will be addressed through Annex 3.

76. Section L.7 (p. 78) indicates “12pt type” for the Key Personnel CVs, which conflicts with the font size requirements for the rest of the proposal. To ensure consistency in proposal submissions, please confirm that the font type and size for Key Personnel CVs can be 11-point Calibri or Arial.

USAID Answer: See answer to question 17 above.

77. In Section L.8 under Part 2 (p. 82), the RFP notes that the offeror must fill in all parts of Section B where “TBD” is listed. Please confirm this instruction does not extend to B.3 (b), B.3 (c), which includes details on obligated funding amounts and period of performance under that obligated funding amount, and B.8, which includes details on cancellation costs.

USAID Answer: Confirmed. For better clarity, the language under Section L.8, Part 2 – Section B , is hereby modified with clarified language which can be found in the amended track changes RFP as attached to this amendment # 1.

78. In Section L.8 under Part 3 (p. 82), the RFP notes “Offeror must provide a complete budget by cost element utilizing the provided budget template in Attachment J.2. Add additional tabs (summary and detail) for all proposed subcontractors.” Can USAID please confirm that summary and detailed budgets are only required for major subcontractors?

USAID Answer: Summary and detailed budgets are required for all proposed subcontractors.

79. In Section L.8 under “f) Subcontracts” (p. 84), the RFP notes that “The information required for the prime Offeror for the cost proposal must be provided for all subcontractors.” Can USAID please confirm that this requirement only extends to major subcontractors?

USAID Answer: Summary and detailed budgets are required for all proposed subcontractors.

80. In Section L.8 “f) Subcontracts” (p. 84), paragraph two states “A major subcontractor can be defined as one whose proposed cost exceeds 25% of the Offeror’s total proposed cost or one that is proposed as a consortium member and will be responsible for a core or major component of objectives 1-3 in the SOO on a medium to long-term basis.” However, the SOO in Attachment J.1 contains only two (2) objectives. Please confirm the phrase should read “major component of objectives 1 and/or 2”.

USAID Answer: USAID confirms there are only two objectives. See also response # 22 above

81. Section L.10 (p. 88) indicates that in Phase Two, the Draft Branding and Marking Plan “must be submitted via separate email as described in Section L.7.4.” However, Section L. 7 (p. 78) indicates “The Draft Branding and Marking Plan must be included with the consolidated proposal submission file, inclusive of the title page and table of contents”. Please confirm that the Draft Branding and Marking Plan should be included in the consolidated technical proposal file.

USAID Answer: See response # 25 above.

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82. In Section M.3.2 (p. 90) under Factor 4 criteria, bullet point one states “The extent to which the technical approach…