AYL Solicitation_72044222R00004_Amendment 0001.pdf

(x)

72044222R00004 x x copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted ; or (c) By separate letter or electronic communication which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 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 letter or electronic communication, provided each letter or electronic communication makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

x

N/A

Not Applicable

12202 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

720442

Khan Daun Penh #1 Street 96 Office of Acquisition & Assistance USAID/Cambodia

08/29/20220001

13. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO MODIFICATION OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS. IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required) is not extended.is extended, Items 8 and 15, and returning

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

The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

FACILITY CODE CODE

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

CODE

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., street, county, State and ZIP Code)

7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 6)CODE 6. ISSUED BY

PAGE OF PAGES

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO.3. EFFECTIVE DATE2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO. 5. PROJECT NO. (If applicable)

1. CONTRACT ID CODE

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

08/29/2022

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

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority) appropriation data, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

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

ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

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

The purpose of this amendment is to provide responses to the potential offerors’ questions and make necessary changes in the solicitation.

(continued on page 2)

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

15C. DATE SIGNED 16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR 16C. DATE SIGNED

(Signature of person authorized to sign) (Signature of Contracting Officer)

Paul Martin

STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 11/2016)

Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

Previous edition unusable

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

RFP No.: 720442R00004, Amendment 0001 Advancing Youth Leadership (AYL) Activity

Specifically, this solicitation is amended as follows:

SECTION A – SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM

1) Standard Form (SF) 33, in block 12, ADD “180 days” as the offer validity.

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

2) In Sections F.5(a)3 and F.5(g)3, REVISE key personnel title TO READ “Youth

Engagement Advisor”.

SECTION I – CONTRACT CLAUSES

3) In section I.10 (a)(1), DELETE number “16”.

SECTION L – INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS

4) In Section L.7.1 (a), DELETE Cover Page in its entirety, and INSERT the following:

“(a) Cover Page (not included in the page limitation): In addition to the Cover Page or First Page requirements required in Section L.2.c (2), include the following (i) Name of any Consortium Members/Partnerships/Subcontractors, (ii) Date of Submission, and (iii) Offeror’s Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Number.”

5) In Section L.7.1(e), Section 1 (Annex B), DELETE number “5”, and INSERT number “8” as a revised number of pages for Section 1 (Annex B) – Activity Monitoring and Evaluation Plan (AMELP).

6) In Section L.7.1(f), Section 2(Annex D), DELETE number “9”, and INSERT number “12” as a revised number of pages for Section 2 (Annex D) – Resumes of Proposed Key Personnel.

7) In Section L.7.1 (h), Section 4, Annex G (a)1, ADD “and/or assistance award” in the first sentence.

8) In Section L.7.1 (h), Section 4, Annex G (a)2, ADD “and/or assistance award” in the last paragraph.

9) In Section L.7.1 (h) (b), bullet number 2, DELETE number “5”, and INSERT number “8” as a revised number of pages for Annex B – Activity Monitoring and Evaluation Plan

(AMELP).

10) In Section L.7.1 (h) (b), bullet number 4, DELETE number “9”, and INSERT number “12” as a revised number of pages for Annex D – Resumes of Proposed Key Personnel.

[END OF AMENDMENT 0001]

ANNEX 1: QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Solicitation Number 72044222R00001, Advancing Youth Leadership (AYL) Activity

1. Question: Considering the solicitation denotes the Cambodia USAID Mission is “seeking proposals from U.S. or non-U.S. non-profit or for-profit organizations” and that this “procurement will be conducted under full and open competition procedures pursuant to Part 15 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) (48 CFR Chapter 1).” Considering the “authorized geographic code for the procurement of goods and services under this acquisition is 937”, and that a Locally Established Partner would offer services in the country through teams already present (or to be hired for this purpose), therefore, compliant with the Source and Nationality application of 22 CFR 228.

a. Can such Locally Established Partners apply as Prime and/or Sub?

Answer: Yes. Locally Established Partners may apply as Prime and/or Sub.

b. Can a European (Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Nordic) international NGO be eligible to apply?

Answer: The eligible organizations must comply with the authorized geographic code for this Activity, which is 937 (the United States, the Recipient country, and developing countries other than advanced developing countries, but excluding any country that is a prohibited source) as specified in the solicitation.

2. Question: Are there any past or existing relationships with Cambodian entities that USAID has partnered with in the past that are preferred over others?

Answer: There is no preference. This solicitation is considered a full and open competition.

3. Question: We would like to know if USAID could provide any insight into groups with the capacity to deliver the establishment of a sustainable leadership education program in the identified territories delivered by in-country groups after the grant has expired.

Answer: USAID will not provide information on any groups with the capacity to deliver a sustainable leadership education program but expects Offerors to conduct their own market research.

4. Question: Page 153 of the RFP lists a set of requirements for the first page of the proposal, while page 161 of the RFP lists a slightly different set of requirements for the cover page. Could USAID please confirm the requirements for the cover page?

Answer: Page 161 Cover Page Requirements have been revised to reflect the requirements.

5. Question: Page 160 of the RFP states that “Offerors may also send an Adobe portable document format (.pdf) for electronic submission.”

a) Would USAID please clarify if a PDF document is acceptable in lieu of a Microsoft Word submission, or if both formats must be submitted?

Answer: A PDF document is acceptable.

b) For example, since Annex C is required to be a spreadsheet, can Offerors combine all technical proposal documents into one PDF file?

Answer: Yes. Offerors can combine technical proposals into one PDF file.

6. Question: For Annex D (Resumes of Proposed Key Personnel) on Pg. 162, the page limit is stated as 9 pages total. However, if each Resume can be a maximum of 3 pages, could USAID confirm that the Annex for this page limit is 12 pages, given there are four key personnel positions?

Answer: The page limit for Annex D is revised to 12 pages. Pages 162 and 165 have been revised to reflect the change.

7. Question: For Annex E (Key Personnel Letters of Commitment) on Page 162, the RFP states that Offerors must indicate the dates that each key personnel candidate is available to start work full-time with the project, or the number of days after the award that the candidate is available to start work.

a) Could USAID please confirm the anticipated award date?

Answer: USAID confirms that the anticipated award start date is June 1, 2023.

b) We note the business forecast stated June 1, 2023, for the anticipated award date, and the Initial Environmental Examination stated on or around June 2023. Given this, should Offerors use June 1, 2023 as the anticipated start date?

Answer: Offerors should use June 1, 2023 as the anticipated start date.

8. Question: For Annex F (Organizational Chart and Staffing Plan Matrix) on Page 163 of the RFP, three charts are required. Would USAID please confirm that the difference between the first chart and the third chart is that the first chart only includes full-time project staff, while the third chart includes both full-time project staff and short-term consultants/technical assistance?

Answer: First chart is for Organization Chart showing lines of reporting among long-term project staff. Third chart is for the Staffing Plan, showing titles and positions (including consultants and Short-Term Technical Assistance (STTA) positions that will form part of the activity team.

9. Question: a) Would USAID please clarify if Annexes in the Technical Proposal should be interspersed throughout the technical narrative as shown on pages 161-164 of the RFP, or should they be compiled at the end of the technical narrative as shown on page 165 of the RFP?

Answer: Annexes may be interspersed throughout the technical narrative as shown on pages 161-164. Annexes were listed on Page 165 only to provide a summary of all annexes.

b) If the Annexes are to be compiled at the end of the technical narrative, would USAID please confirm that the technical narrative should begin with the Key Personnel and Staffing Plan, or if Annex A (Performance Work Statement) should remain at the beginning of the technical narrative since it counts towards the 30-page limit?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 9a.

10. Question: Given that the Performance Work Statement may comprise a significant portion of the Technical Proposal, could USAID please provide additional instructions on this. For example, does USAID have a preferred PWS structure, format, or outline?

Answer: No, USAID does not have a preferred PWS structure, format, or outline.

11. Question: The Government of Cambodia applies a 20% tax on international staff salaries and fringe benefits. Could USAID please clarify if there is a tax waiver in place from the Cambodian government for this Activity?

Answer: USAID/Cambodia has a bilateral agreement with the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) which includes income tax exemption for expatriate staff temporarily residing in Cambodia. Based on USAID understanding of the income tax exemption process, each implementing partner is responsible for requesting the exemption from the applicable Cambodian authority. Implementing partners may work with USAID to facilitate a letter request to confirm that the implementing partner has an agreement with USAID/Cambodia.

12. Question: On page 106, the RFP states “Such leadership program must include a complete package through which an active alumni and network, a paid internship program, and/or, as applicable, employment support is established.” Can you please clarify whether the intention here is to establish an active alumni network?

Answer: Yes, the intention is to establish an active alumni network.

13. Question: Do tables, graphics, charts, and graphs need to adhere to the 12-point Times New Roman requirement indicated on page 160?

Answer: 12-point Times New Roman must be used for narratives only.

14. Question: Should the Performance Work Statement be submitted separately as Annex A or included in the 30-page technical proposal?

Answer: The Performance Work Statement must be submitted as Annex A and included in the 30-page technical proposal.

15. Question: The RFP lists four key personnel, and on page 162 says that key personnel resumes must not exceed 3 pages in length. However, the instructions for Section 2 Annex D says that this section should be 9 pages, not 12 pages. Please confirm the page limit for this Annex.

Answer: Please see the answer to question No. 6.

16. Question: The description of the Staffing Plan at the top of page 163 of the RFP is listed under Annex E. Is the Staffing Plan intended to be included in the 30-page technical proposal, or as a separate Annex?

Answer: Staffing Plan must be included in the 30-page technical proposal.

17. Question: Are international NGOs working in Cambodia eligible to receive grants-under-contract for this activity?

Answer: Organizations must comply with the authorized geographic code for this Activity, which is 937 (the United States, the Recipient country, and developing countries other than advanced developing countries, but excluding any country that is a prohibited source).

18. Question: On page 110, sub-section (e), the RFP states “when identifying sub-grantees, the Contractor will consult with USAID/Cambodia which has already identified a number of potential sub-grantees through its previous work….” Does USAID expect the contractor to wait to identify potential sub-grantees until after award?

Answer: The sub-grantees mentioned in this section are part of the Grants Under Contract implementation and therefore identified after the award.

19. Question: Can USAID please confirm that the cost categories in the Price/Cost Schedule in Section B.4 will not be considered separate Contract Line Items?

Answer: USAID confirms that the cost categories will not be considered separate Contract Line Items.

20. Question: What is the envisioned start date for this activity?

Answer: Please see the answers to question No. 7 (a & b).

21. Question: On page 10, Section B.4, the solicitation indicates a $5,000,000 plug figure for Grants Under Contract (GUCs); is this a floor that can be exceeded?

Answer: Offeror must use the plug figure of $5,000,000 and cannot be exceeded or lowered.

22. Question: On page 76, Section H.35(c), the solicitation requires concurrence from the COR for meetings with “other organizations.” Can the Mission provide greater specificity as to the meaning of “other organizations” (e.g., PIOs, any non-Cambodian government organizations)?

Answer: Other organizations means organizations other than its subcontractors/sub-recipients.

23. Question: On page 103, Section J1, youth are identified as between 10 and 29. For the purposes of this project, could the Mission clarify a narrower age band that should be considered the primary beneficiaries of activities to target?

Answer: USAID will not consider a narrower age band to be considered the primary beneficiaries of activities.

24. Question: On page 106, Section J.1, the solicitation requires the offeror to “support existing innovative leadership programs.” Can the Mission provide the names of such programs, activities, and implementer(s)?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 3.

25. Question: On page 108, Section J.1, the solicitation requires the offeror to harmonize its activities with other donors and civil society organizations. Can the Mission provide greater specificity with respect to other programs that the offeror must engage or coordinate?

Answer: USAID will not specify the programs that the Offerors must engage with but expects Offerors to conduct their own market research.

26. Question: On page 160, Section L.7 the solicitation indicates "Times New Roman font not less than 12 points in size" however will USAID make an exception for tables, graphics, charts, graphs to be submitted in Times New Roman 10 point font?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 13.

27. Question: On page 162, Section L7, the solicitation indicates 9 pages exclusive of the 30-page limit for Annex D Resumes of Proposed Key Personnel yet each resume must not exceed three pages in length for the four key personnel named. Would USAID please consider increasing the overall page limit for Annex D to 12 pages in length?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 16.

28. Question: Attachment J.1 (Statement of Objectives), Subsection VI, Part (b) states: “The Contractor must not provide in-kind grants, technical assistance, and other activities provided to the host government.” However, regulations allow contractors to execute solely in-kind grants to government entities. Would USAID confirm that solely in-kind grants to government entities will be allowed under this contract, pursuant to ADS 302.3.4.13?

Answer: In-kind grants to government entities are not authorized in the resultant contract.

29. Question: We respectfully request that USAID remove the following sentence from Attachment J.1, Subsection VI, Part (n) — “Copies of all reports received from grantees will be promptly forwarded to the COR” — given there is no requirement for the contracting officer’s representative (COR) to receive grantee reports in the grants-under-contract authorizing language for ADS 302. We also request that USAID remove the following sentence from the same section: “At the conclusion of the contract, the Contractor shall consult with the Contracting Officer for direction as to which records shall be transferred to USAID.” While USAID retains visitation and inspection rights for three years after the grant completion date, all records under this contract are considered property of the contractor and must be retained in accordance with the contractor's records-retention policies that originate from audit requirements.

Answer: FAR 52.227.14(b) Rights in Data – General, the Government shall have unlimited rights in- (i) Data first produced in the performance of this contract. USAID will not delete the sentence.

30. Question: Would USAID please confirm that Attachment J.6 (Local Compensation Plan Pay Ranges) is denominated in U.S. Dollars?

Answer: The attached Local Compensation Plan is denominated in US Dollars.

31. Question: Attachment J.1, Subsection V states: “…the Contractor must build in a requirement for each of its sub-grantees to promote and create paid internships in the sub-award program agreement.” We appreciate USAID’s emphasis on paid internships as they are an important step towards expanding opportunities for youth in line with AYL’s objectives and results. However, would USAID consider removing paid internships as a requirement for all grantees? We want to ensure qualified organizations would be able to access the Activity's grants without undue caveats.

Answer: The New Partnerships Initiative (NPI) helps the Agency reach its partnering potential by improving collaboration with new, nontraditional, and local actors—while enhancing local leadership, capacity, and accountability in all that we do. The requirement is USAID’s commitment to principles of the Agency’s Acquisition and Assistance Strategy, primarily diversifying USAID’s partner base and changing how the Agency partners.

32. Question: Cambodia’s public holiday Pchum Ben Day falls the week of September 26th. Given the holiday falls during the proposal timeline and the country and organizations are typically closed during the week, would USAID consider giving an extension to the proposal deadline?

Answer: USAID will not extend the proposal deadline.

33. Question: Page 4, section B.4 of the solicitation provides a table that outlines budget categories.

Can USAID confirm that offerors should use the budget categories outlined in section B.4 of the solicitation?

Answer: The Offerors should use the budget categories outlined in Section B.4 of the solicitation.

34. Question: On page 4, Standard Form 33 indicates in field 12 that the period of validity is zero days, while on p.158 the RFP indicates the offer validity is 180 days. Please confirm if the offer validity is 180 days.

Answer: The offer validity is 180 days. Standard Form (SF) 33 is revised to include the validity of 180 days.

35. Question: On page 23, Section F.8. one requirement for the Youth Engagement Coordinator is listed as follows: “At least 7 years of demonstrated experience coordinating large and complex or international programs including on soft skill or skill development, youth empowerment, civil society, and, among others, civic education.”

a) Given the number of years of requirement for this role (just one year less than the DCOP), would USAID consider changing the title of the position to “Youth Engagement Advisor” to convey the role’s seniority level?

Answer: USAID will consider the title “Youth Engagement Advisor”. The Key Personnel in Section F.5(a)3. and F.5(g)3 are revised.

b) Alternatively, would USAID consider retaining the title but reducing the number of years of experience required to five (5)?

Answer: USAID will not reduce the number of years to five (5) years.

36. Question: On page 105, attachment J.1. states "the activity emphasizes direct support for and capacity development of local youth, youth-led and youth-serving organizations, and networks nationwide, regardless of registration status." Unregistered entities are typically ineligible for grants under contract, does USAID intend granting special approval for GUCs to unregistered entities under this Activity?

Answer: USAID does not intend granting special approval for GUCs to unregistered entities under this Activity. It is the Offeror’s responsibility to meet the local government’s regulations on registration requirements.

37. Question: On page 106, J.1 Statement of Objectives IV. Scope of Services and Objectives, Objective 1 highlights the importance of the skills and abilities inherent to a PEA approach. We understand this more broadly to include providing Cambodian youth with the skills and abilities to conduct systems analysis and mapping in order to understand and respond to the connections between structures, behaviors, and relationships and then act upon those in a practical manner.

Are we correct in our understanding of the intent of USAID here - and the intent is not for the development of an actual PEA?

Answer: On page 109, under the adaptive management and political economy analysis section, the RFP states: “To meet this requirement the Contractor should offer a rolling research and analysis plan to understand the context and complex issues the activity is attempting to address.”

Thus, USAID also expects the Contractor to conduct a start-of-activity and consecutive political economy analysis on a rolling basis.

38. Question: On page 110, under Attachment J.1 – Statement of Objective, VI – Grants Under Contract, section e notes “Accordingly, the Contractor must identify at least one sub-grantee to administer an emergency assistance grant.” Would USAID please define an “emergency assistance grant”?

Answer: An emergency assistance grant is a grant that may address an unexpected need that requires immediate assistance.

39. Question: On Page 125, Attachment J.4 and Section L.7. Section 4 (Annex G) – Past Performance Information: the annex must include up to five (5) of the most recent and relevant contracts and/or assistance awards but on page 164 in Section 4.A.1 and 2 it states: up to five (5) of the most recent and relevant contracts for efforts similar to the work in the subject proposal.

Please confirm Past Performance Information from both contracts and assistance awards are acceptable.

Answer: Past performance information from both contracts and assistance awards are acceptable. Page 164 Section 4.(a).1 and 2 is revised to reflect past performance information from both contracts and/or assistance.

40. Question: On page 128 in reference to attachment J.11, the Fixed Fee Schedule Template. Can USAID please confirm that offerors may use the template in attachment J.11, Fixed Fee Schedule Template, to reflect additional deliverables?

Answer: The Fixed Fee Schedule Template on page 128, Attachment J.11 is the template to be used as required in Section L.8 Part 2 (13). This should not only reflect additional deliverables but will be used for all deliverables and equivalent fee. The same table will be inserted in Section B.8 of the resultant contract.

41. Question: On page 160, L.7. Instructions for the Preparation of the Technical Proposal it is noted that “Proposals must be written in English and typed on standard 8.5” x 11” paper (216mm x 297mm), single spaced, Times New Roman font not less than 12 points in size.”

Would USAID consider allowing smaller font for tables and graphics?

Answer: Yes, smaller font may be used for tables and graphics and 12-point Times New Roman must be used for narratives in the technical proposal.

42. Question: As according to page 160, we acknowledge the instruction that the technical proposal is limited to 30 pages. The 30 pages incorporate Annex A, Section 2 Key Personnel and staffing Plan, and Section 3 Institutional Experience. These three sections, per the instructions in L.7 are not consecutive in presentation in the proposal and therefore the pagination will not be consecutive. To aid in readability, we propose to keep annexes as labeled but not present them in the order provided in the RFP. Please confirm if this organization and proposal structure is allowable.

Answer: Yes, Offerors may present Annexes as labeled.

43. Question: On page 161, Section 1 (Annex B) – Activity Monitoring and Evaluation Plan (AMELP) currently notes to “not to exceed 5 pages”. To adequately respond to and provide an AMELP would USAID consider increasing the page limit or adding the indicator table as a separate annex?

Answer: Yes, USAID has increased the page limit to eight (8) pages. Section L.7.1 Section 1 (Annex B) is revised to reflect the increase in page limit.

44. Question: On page 162, Section L.7. Instructions for the Preparation of the Technical Proposal under Section 2 (Annex D) – Resumes of Proposed Key Personnel it states, “Resumes must not exceed three (3) pages in length” and in total the section is “not to exceed 9 pages”. Given the 4 key personnel, would USAID consider increasing the total page count to 12 pages?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 6.

45. Question: On page 162, RFP Section L.7.1 (f) is Section 2 Key Personnel and Staffing Plan, which is included in the 30-page limitation. However, Staffing Plan instructions then appear on page 163 of the RFP, following Annex E, Key Personnel Letters of Commitment, which is limited to 5 pages. May we assume that Staffing Plans are included in Section 2 and are part of the 30-page limit?

Answer: The narrative for Key Personnel and Staffing Plan are part of the 30-page limitation.

The resumes of proposed Key Personnel and the Key Personnel Letter of Commitment are excluded from the 30-page limitation.

46. Question: On page 166, Section L.8. Part 2 Proposed Costs/Prices, 2) Direct labor-Salary & Wages, states that “Completed Biographical Data forms are required for all named personnel.”

AIDAR Clause 752.7001 Biographical Data states biographical data forms are only required for key personnel and individuals to be sent outside the U.S. Will USAID reconsider requiring biographical data forms for all personnel named in the proposal?

Answer: USAID is not changing its requirements. “Completed Biographical Data forms are required for all named personnel.” The same Solicitation Provision AIDAR Clause 752.7001 Biographical Data also states that “Biographical data in the form usually maintained by the Contractor on the other individuals employed under the contract shall be available for review by USAID at the Contractor's headquarters.”

47. Question: On page 167, Section L.8, part 2, indicates that offerors must include “unit cost, quantities, and quotations, if any, to allow an assessment of realism and reasonableness” for equipment and supplies. Can USAID confirm that offerors should not include quotes with our proposals, but should retain copies of quotes to furnish if USAID requires them?

Answer: The requirement is not changed. On page 167, Section L.8, Part 2, indicates that Offerors must include “unit cost, quantities, and quotations, if any, to allow an assessment of realism and reasonableness”.

48. Question: On page 171, the RFP states, “Upon request of the Contracting Officer, the Offeror will submit policies and procedures, especially regarding salary scales, fringe benefits, merit increases, promotions, leave, differentials, travel, procurement and per diem, etc., as they relate to this project and the CO may determine that a pre award survey is necessary.” Please confirm the policies and procedures are not required as part of the proposal submission.

Answer: The policies and procedures are not required as part of the proposal submission.

49. Question: Listed on page 171, is attachment J.9, Prime and Major Subcontractor Percentage of Work Overview. Is the Prime and Major Subcontractor Percentage of Work Overview required of organizations that are not proposing to include a major subcontractor?

Answer: No, it is not required for organizations that are not proposing to include a major subcontractor.

50. Question: On page 173, Section L.8, part 13 states that offerors may propose indirect ceiling rates, while Section B.6 indicates them as a requirement. Can USAID confirm that the provision of indirect ceiling rates is optional?

Answer: Yes, the provision of indirect ceiling rates is optional.

51. Question: Attachment J.1 VI.(e); p. 110, the RFP notes that "the Contractor must identify at least one sub-grantee to administer an emergency assistance grant."

a) Could USAID please explain what an “emergency assistance grant” is in the AYL context?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 38.

b) Is this intended to be connected to the emergency victim support mentioned in illustrative result 2.3?

Answer: No, the emergency assistance is undetermined at this time.

52. Question: Attachment J.2; pp. 113-123, kindly confirm that it is NOT expected for applicants to submit the QASP with our proposal at this stage.

Answer: QASP is not submitted with the proposal.

53. Question: Attachment J.2; pp. 113-123, if the QASP is required at this stage, please indicate where it should be included and if it is included in page restrictions, as it is 10 pages long.

Answer: Refer to answer No. 52.

54. Question: L.7.1 Organization of the Technical Proposal; p. 160, please confirm that text in tables, graphics, charts, graphs, etc. may be less than 12pt font.

Answer: Refer to answer No. 41.

55. Question: Section 2 (Annex 2); p. 162, the page limit for each resume and references for the four Key Personnel is noted at 3 pages; however, the section is marked at 9 pages. Kindly update the total page allocation for Annex D to 12 pages to account for all four Key Personnel.

Answer: Refer to answer No. 6.

56. Question: L.10. Instructions for the Preparation of Branding and Marking Plan; p. 175, confirm that a Branding and Marking Plan is not required at this stage. If a Plan is required, kindly specify which proposal (technical or cost) to include it in, how to include it, and the page limits, if any.

Answer: Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan is not required at this stage.

57. Question: The RFP in Section J.4 on page 125 mentions that the Offeror must submit five past performances, but section L on page 164 says to submit up to five. Kindly confirm if we are required to submit five past performance records or can submit up to five.

Answer: Offerors must submit information for five (5) past performances.

58. Question: L.7.1 (e) Section 1 PWS; p. 161, could USAID provide specific guidance regarding the appropriate structure and content for the Annex A PWS? What is USAID's expectation around the differentiation of the content provided in Section 1 versus the content provided in Annex A?

Answer: Section 1 addresses the Evaluation Factor 1, Technical Requirements. Section 1 is composed of Annexes A, B, and C.

59. Question: Attachment J.1; p. 106-107, may Offerors restructure the Illustrative Results (RFP pages 106 and 107) into a different Results Framework, as long as all points in the Illustrative Results are addressed under each Objective?

Answer: Illustrative results are only illustrative.

60. Question: Attachment J.1 VI.(e); p. 110, with reference to page 110 section e, USAID notes that the Contractor will consult USAID/Cambodia about potential sub-grantees through its preparation for this award. Can Offerors propose and name pre-identified grant under contract recipients in the proposal?

Answer: Yes, Offerors may pre-identify recipients of grants in their proposal.

61. Question: Request for Categorical Exclusion, 1.3 Project Description; p. 3, Both the Harpswell Foundation and Future Forum were mentioned in the Request for Categorical Exclusion. Does this reference mean that USAID is expecting both organizations to be GUC recipients?

Answer: USAID does not expect these two organizations to be GUC recipients. The IEE request for Categorical Exclusion was prepared before the final SOO was issued for this RFP.

62. Question: There are two different versions of the Scope of Work included in the RFP, one in Section J and the other in the Request for Categorical Exclusion attachment - both of which use varying language. Can USAID kindly confirm which version of the scope of work should be used for the purposes of the proposal?

Answer: This solicitation included the Statement of Objectives (SOO) in Section J.1. Section J.1 should be used.

63. Question: L.8 Part 1, please confirm that a digital signature may be used to sign SF 33.

Answer: Digital Signature is acceptable to sign the SF-33.

64. Question: L.2 (c)(2)(ii); p. 153, kindly confirm that for the first page of the proposal in requirement ii, the name, address, telephone, and email is of the Offeror's organization.

Answer: Refer to answer No. 4.

65. Question: L.2 (c)(2)(v); p. 153, how would USAID like the evidence of the person authorized to sign the proposal to be furnished? What evidence would USAID find sufficient to support this?

Answer: Section L.2(c)(2)(v) states “Name, title, and signature of person authorized to sign the proposal. Proposals signed by an agent shall be accompanied by evidence of that agent’s authority unless that evidence has been previously furnished to the issuing office.” If the organization will be represented by an agent, the organization shall present the authority for representation.

66. Question: L.7.1 (a) Cover Page (1) & (2); p. 161, in the information required for the cover page, kindly confirm that the "RFP name" and the "project name to which the Offeror is responding" are the same - Advancing Youth Leadership Activity.

Answer: Yes, project name and RFP name is the same – Advancing Youth Leadership Activity.

67. Question: L.7.1 (a) Cover Page (4); p. 161, how does USAID define consortium members/partnerships as requested in the Cover Page? Does this refer to all subcontractors identified, major subcontractors, or any other definition?

Answer: USAID refers to consortium members/partnerships as sub-contractors.

68. Question: Can USAID please define the difference between consortia/partners/teaming and sub-contractors?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 67.

69. Question: What is USAID's guidance to offerors with regard to proposed AYL interactions with government officials on civic engagement at the national, sub-national, and local levels?

Answer: USAID cannot provide any guidance at this stage. It will be dependent on the Offeror's proposed technical approach on the AYL interactions with government officials on civic engagement at the national, sub-national and local levels.

70. Question: Are Offerors allowed to propose an organization as both a sub-contractor and a recipient of a grant under contract?

Answer: Yes, Offerors may propose an organization as a subcontractor and a recipient of grants.

71. Question: Can USAID confirm that an illustrative indicator table is NOT required at this stage?

If yes, will this be included in the 5-page limit for the MEL plan (Annex B)?

Answer: Illustrative indicator table is required and will be included in the 8-page limit for the MEL plan (Annex B).

72. Question: What is the total amount and/or percentage of the budget that should be dedicated towards the fixed-fee schedule?

Answer: There is no percentage of the budget dedicated towards the fixed-fee schedule.

73. Question: Could USAID please confirm if the fixed-fee schedule table is required within the budget narrative and submitted budget?

Answer: Yes, the fixed-fee schedule table is required within the budget narrative.

74. Question: Could USAID please confirm that the contractor has the ability to modify and/or add to the Theory of Change presented in the RFP?

Answer: No, Offerors may not modify and/or add to the Theory of Change.

75. Question: Could USAID confirm whether the contractor is expected to collect individual-level data?

Answer: Yes, the Contractor is expected to collect individual-level data.

76. Question: L.7.1 (e) Section 1 AMELP; p. 161-162, can USAID please specify the difference between the content to be provided in Section 1 for the AMELP and the content to be provided in Annex B?

Answer: There is no difference between the content to be provided in Section 1 for the AMELP and Annex B.

77. Question: Section I.10 FAR 52.232-40; p. 92, the RFP states in Section I.10 FAR 52.232-40

PROVIDING ACCELERATED PAYMENTS TO SMALL BUSINESS SUBCONTRACTORS

(DEC 2013) that “the Contractor shall make accelerated payments to its small 16 business subcontractors under this contract in accordance with the accelerated payment date established.”

Can USAID please specify the referenced 16 small business subcontractors? Are Prime Offerors required to work with these subcontractors?

Answer: The number “16” is a typographical error. Section I.10 is revised to delete the number “16” in the sentence. The second question is no longer applicable.

78. Question: Section F.2 Period of Performance; p. 19, has US AID identified an estimated start date that can be provided for purposes of budgeting?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 7.

79. Question: Section L.8, 5. Travel, Transportation, and Per Diem; p. 167, the RFP states that “Offeror must provide a consolidated travel chart (including subcontractor travel)” Should this consolidated travel chart be structured as follows: “Costs must be broken down by the number of trips, domestic and international, the estimated cost per trip, per diem and other related travel costs. Specify the origin and destination, purpose for each proposed trip, duration of travel, and number of individuals traveling.”?

Answer: Yes, the consolidated travel chart must be structured and must be broken down by the number of trips, domestic and international, estimated cost per trip, per diem and other related travel costs. Specify the origin and destination, purpose for each proposed trip, duration of travel, and number of individuals traveling.

80. Question: In Attachment J.1, Section VI. Grants Under Contract, USAID notes that “the

Contractor must identify at least one sub-grantee to administer an emergency assistance grant” (page 110). Can USAID please clarify the purpose of the emergency assistance grant?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 38.

81. Question: In Attachment J.1, Section VI. Grants Under Contract, USAID states that “The

Contractor must require each sub-grantee, with the exception of informal groups, to create a paid internship program as part of the sub-grant under the contract” (page 110). Can USAID please clarify the sub-grantees that will be considered “informal groups” in relation to this requirement?

Answer: For the purpose of the AYL Activity, informal groups refer to groups such as community-based organizations and youth groups.

82. Question: Attachment J.5 Certification Regarding Trafficking in Persons Compliance Plan states “the apparent successful Offeror must submit, prior to award, a certification regarding its Trafficking in Persons Compliance Plan. A signed copy of the below certification must be submitted as part of the Offeror’s Cost/Business Proposal” (Page 126). Additionally, Part 10 of the cost instruction states, “The Offeror must submit a signed certification of Section J.4 – Certification Regarding Trafficking in Person Compliance Plan” (Page 173). Can USAID confirm that Offerors should submit the Certification Regarding Trafficking in Persons Compliance Plan when they have been deemed the apparently successful offeror and not with their original cost submission?

Answer: A signed Certification Regarding Trafficking in Persons Compliance Plan must be submitted as part of the Offeror’s Cost Proposal.

83. Question: In L.6 Submission/Delivery Instructions (pages 159-160), USAID limits files to a size of 10 MB and allows up to 10 attachments per email but does not provide the maximum size of the email transmission that offerors may send. Can USAID please provide a maximum email size (if any) to reduce potential transmission errors?

Answer: The email must contain a limited file size of 10 MB.

84. Question: Section L.7.1, Organization of the Technical Proposal, states “Proposals must be written in English and typed on standard 8.5” x 11” paper (216mm x 297mm), single spaced, Times New Roman font not less than 12 points in size” (page 160). May offerors use a different font than Times New Roman and smaller font size for tables, graphics, charts, graphs, and textboxes?

85. Question: Under L.7.1 (e), USAID explains that the Performance Work Statement (PWS), will be an Annex to Section 1 (page 161). Given that the Performance Work Statement comprises a significant portion of Section 1 Technical Requirements and counts towards the overall page limit, can USAID grant offerors the flexibility to include the Annex within the body of the technical volume for structure and formatting purposes with all other non-counting annexes following the technical volume?

Answer: Performance Work Statement must be submitted as Annex A and included in the 30-page technical proposal.

86. Question: In L.7.1 (f), under the instructions for Section 2 (Annex D) – Resumes of Proposed

Key Personnel, USAID provides a 9-page limit, but states “The Offeror must include complete and current resumes of all proposed key personnel. Resumes must not exceed three (3) pages in length . . .” (Page 162). Given that USAID is requiring 4 Key Personnel in Section F.5 Key

Personnel (pages 20-24), can USAID increase the limit to 12 pages to allow offerors to provide 4 resumes that do not exceed the 3-page limit?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 6.

87. Question: In L.7.1 (f), under the instructions for Section 2 (Annex F) – Organizational Chart and Staffing Plan Matrix, USAID states “The third chart must be a Staffing Plan showing titles/positions that will form part of the activity team” (Page 163). Can USAID provide any additional information on what they would like included in the staffing plan matrix that would differentiate it from an organizational chart?

Answer: The Offeror must submit an organizational chart showing lines of reporting among long-term team members (project staff; exclusive of consultants and Short-Term Technical Assistance positions). A Staffing Plan shows titles/positions that will form part of the activity team.

88. Question: Under section L.8 Instructions for the Preparation of the Cost/Business Proposal, USAID states “offerors will use the budget estimate for the grants to be distributed over the contract period and budgeted under Section B.4. The total GUCs budget is $5,000,000” (page 167). Later in the section, USAID states “If the Offeror will deviate from the allocated USAID budget, the Offeror must provide an explanation” (page 167). Can USAID confirm that deviation from the $5,000,000 grant figure is permissible, allowing offerors to divide these funds between grants, program activities and subcontracts to maximizing program flexibility?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 21.

89. Question: Under section L.8 Instructions for the Preparation of the Cost/Business Proposal, USAID states the following on costs associated with environmental compliance “USAID anticipates that environmental compliance and achieving optimal development outcomes for the proposed interventions will require environmental management expertise” (page 168). However, the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) for the Advancing Youth Leadership Activity (pages 182-190) was deemed a Categorical Exclusion. Can USAID clarify the environmental compliance needs that require environmental management expertise in light of the IEE?

Answer: Section H.11, Environmental Compliance Management provides guidance on environmental compliance and management.

90. Question: L.10 Instructions for the Preparation of Branding and Marking Plan states “In accordance with Section D of this solicitation, the Offeror, must submit and negotiate a Branding Implementation Plan (BIP) and a Marking Plan (MP). . . Branding Implementation Plan and Marking plans will be requested of Offerors in the competitive range.” (Page 175). Can USAID confirm that Branding Implementation and Marking Plans will not be required until competitive range?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 56.

91. Question: On page 110, VI. Grants under Contract, point (e), what type of support is envisioned under “an emergency assistance grant” for AYL?

Answer: Refer to answer No. 38.

92. Question: On page 160, L.7.1, is Arial Size 10 acceptable as a font and size for tables, graphics, charts and graphs?

93. Question: On page 161, L.7.1 Organization of the Technical Proposal, point (e): Please confirm that Offerors should not provide any additional narrative in Section 1, beyond the required Annexes (A, B, and C).

Answer: Offerors must comply with Section L.7.1 Organization of the Technical Proposal.

94. Question: a) On page 162, L.7.1., Section 1 (Annex C) – Proposed Deliverables, we would appreciate further clarification on the distinction between the “proposed deliverable and targets for Objectives 1 and 2” and the deliverables listed in F6. Reports and Deliverables or Outputs.

Answer: Section 1 Annex C – Proposed Deliverables are the deliverables identified in your Fixed Fee Schedule but without cost information. Deliverables listed in F.6 Reports and Deliverable are requirements during the contract implementation.

b) In addition, please confirm if the targets required for the “preliminary five-year performance indicator targets” referred to in Section I (Annex B) – Activity Monitoring and Evaluation Plan are the same as those required under F6 and Objectives 1 and 2?

Answer: Section 1 Annex B – AMELP are the targets required for the preliminary five-year performance indicator targets and Section F.6 are requirements during contract implementation.

95. Question: On page 162, L.7.1., Section 2 (Annex D) – Resumes of Proposed Key Personnel, we would appreciate an increase in the number of pages allocated to 12 pages. Given that “(r)esumes must not exceed three (3) pages in length,” this would allow up to three pages for each of the four key personnel listed in section F.5.

Answer: Refer to answer No. 6.

96. Question: To better align with the unique technical approach proposed by the Offeror in the

PWS, would USAID consider waiving the Key Personnel requirements, as currently mandated in Section F, and allow the Offeror to determine Key Personnel requirements for positions other than the Chief of Party?

Answer: USAID will not consider changing the Key Personnel Requirements.

97. Question: In addition to the information provided on page 34 of the RFP, could USAID clarify the objectives of the PGIMS and the intended use of information generated by the system by USAID, given the investment required in developing and maintaining the system?

Answer: USAID has provided sufficient information on this tool on Section F.6.8 of the RFP.

98. Question: On page 163 of the RFP, USAID states: “The third chart must be a Staffing Plan showing titles/positions that will form part of the activity team.” Could USAID please clarify how it defines “activity team?”

Answer: Activity team means the team which will manage the Activity, or the complete staffing.

99. Question: On page 12 section B.6 it implies that ceiling indirect rates are mandatory for offerors unless they are a small business or local organization. However, on page 168 section

12) it notes “The prime…may propose lower overhead rates than their established NICRA.”

Can USAID please confirm that offerors are required to propose ceiling indirect rates?

Answer: Section L.8. Part 13 – Ceiling on Indirect Cost Rates, Offerors may propose a ceiling on indirect cost rates.

100. Question: Given Cambodian labor law requirements related to contract length and termination notice, will USAID please consider including FAR 52.237-9 Waiver of Limitation on Severance Payments to Foreign Nationals as flow-down provision for this RFP?

Answer: FAR 52.237-9 Waiver of Limitation on Severance Payments to Foreign Nationals will not be included because, in accordance with FAR 37.113-2, it can be used when the head of an agency has granted a waiver pursuant to FAR 37.113-1, and no such waiver has been granted.

101. Question: Page 109: Under Adaptive management and political economy analysis section, the

RfP states: “To meet this requirement the Contractor should offer a rolling research and analysis plan to understand the context and complex issues the activity is attempting to address.” Could USAID confirm that it…