AMENDMENT_95332423Q00290001_FE.pdf

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

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

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

STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 10-83)

Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

FACILITY CODE

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

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, 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 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 your 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 ONLY APPLIES TO MODIFICATION OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS.

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

CHECK ONE 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.

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.

15C. DATE SIGNED

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

16C. DATE SIGNED

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

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

PAGE OF PAGES

6. ISSUED BY CODE

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

CODE

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

(Signature of person authorized to sign)

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

NSN 7540-01-152-8070

Previous edition unusable

95332423Q00290001

Summary of Changes

The purpose of this amendment is to (1) change the closing date of this solicitation from 18-OCT-23 15:00:00 to 26-OCT-23 15:00:00;

(2) provide the MCC response and changes to the solicitation based on the questions received; and (3) provide a copy of the MCC PPG. All other terms and conditions remain same.

Header Information

Close Date is changed from 18-OCT-23 13:00:00 to 26-OCT-23 13:00:00.

Section B - Supplies or Services and Prices/Costs

The following clauses are modified:

Clauses incorporated by full text

Section B

B.4 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

Call order pricing will be based on these maximum rates. See Sections C.6 and C.7 for a description of each labor category.

Labor Category Labor Rates (Fully loaded hourly rates)

FY2024 FY2025 FY2026 FY2027 FY2028 FY2029

Project Manager $ $ $ $ $ $

Administrative Support $ $ $ $ $ $

Lead Procurement Specialist $ $ $ $ $ $

Senior Procurement Specialist $ $ $ $ $ $

Junior Procurement Specialist $ $ $ $ $ $

Lead Financial Specialist $ $ $ $ $ $

Senior Financial Specialist $ $ $ $ $ $

Junior Financial Specialist $ $ $ $ $ $

Additional Labor Categories if necessary

Additional Labor Categories if necessary

Additional Labor Categories if necessary

Additional Labor Categories if necessary

Additional Labor Categories if necessary

Additional Labor Categories if necessary

*Note: Each fiscal year (FY) runs from October 1st through September 30th of the following year (e.g., FY2024 runs fromOctober 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024).

B.5 MATERIAL (NON-LABOR) INDIRECT COST RATES

Pursuant to the general provisions of this contract and FAR 52.212-4; Alt. I, the following fixed indirect rate to be applied against Materials is established:

Type Fixed Rate

Indirect Costs (Material Handling, Subcontract Administration, etc.). %

Section J - List of Documents, Exhibits, and other Attachments

Amendment specific attachments:

File Attachments:

Title Description File Name Entity Reference

J.4 MCC

Program

Procurement Guidlines

SOLICITATION J.4 MCC Program Procurement Guidlines.pdf

Header

J.3 PRICE

TABLE

UPDATED

SOLICITATION J.3 PRICE TABLE.xlsx Header

Section L - Instructions, Conditions and Notices to Offerors

COVER LETTER REQUIREMENTS AND IDENTIFICATION OF POINTS OF CONTACT (NOV 2019)

Offerors/quoters must provide a Cover Letter signed by an individual authorized to commit the company to the quote/proposal.

The cover letter must include the Offeror/Quoter's Business Entity Name, Address, Point of Contact, Phone Number, Email and DUNS number and identify all enclosures included in the quote/proposal. In addition, the Offeror/quoter must identify the company's anticipated Contractor Performance and Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) Contractor Representative, to include the individual's full name, telephone number and email address. The letter shall reference the solicitation number and acknowledge that it transmits an offer in response to the solicitation and amendment(s). It shall state:

Quote validity for 120 days after submission.

(End of Clause)

Section L Continued

L.1. SINGLE OR MULTIPLE AWARDS

The Government contemplates award of two (2) or more Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) resulting from this solicitation but reserves the right to award a single BPA. Offerors may submit quotations for the IPA, IFA, or both. NOTE: Provide a response in the cover letter/transmittal whether the proposal is for the IPA, IFA, or both.

L.5. OFFER EXPIRATION

The Offeror shall agree to hold all elements of the quote in its offer firm for no less than 120 days.

L.8. OFFER FORMATTING

L.8.1. Page size 8.5 by 11 inches with one (1) inch margins. Paragraphs will be single spaced. Minimum font size/style 12 point Times New Roman font for text, 9 point font in the Arial family for Tables, and 8 point font in the Arial family for Graphics.

Tables and graphics may be landscape; all other text must be portrait.

L.8.2. If the Offeror uses a different format (font size, margin, etc.), the Government reserves the right to adjust the Offer to fit the parameters of the format as stated in the RFQ, and if this results in the quotation exceeding the page limitations in any one area, the Government will not consider those excess pages. The Transmittal/Cover Letter and Executive Summary will not count against the page count. See Table B for page limitations.

TABLE B – Page Limitations:

Volume Section Page limit

1 - Technical A Transmittal/Cover Letter N/A

Executive Summary

B Subfactor 1: Technical and Management Approach 30

C Subfactor 2: Recruitment and Retention

D Subfactor 3: Personnel Qualifications

E Subfactor 4: Corporate Capability

F Subfactor 5: Quality Management Plan

G Organizational Chart N/A

H Resumes and Letters of Commitment

2 - Past Performance N/A

3 – Business A Transmittal/Cover Letter N/A

B Completed Solicitation Section B

C Business Quote Supporting Documentation

D Disclosure of Lobbying Activities

E Organizational Conflict of Interest Statement

L.8.3. All electronic submissions should comply with the FAR regarding timeliness. The electronic submissions of Offers shall state the solicitation number in the subject line and shall be in the following format:

L.8.3.1. The electronic text shall be in Microsoft Word 2010 or later (.doc or .docx), uncompressed files. A directory identifying the file names and contents of each file shall accompany the submission. The price information shall be submitted as a separate file.

L.8.3.2. The electronic versions of spreadsheets shall be in Excel 2010 or later (.xls or .xlsx) format. The electronic spreadsheets shall not be compiled or password protected. All cells and formulas shall be visible, and unprotected. Offerors shall not establish links within these files.

L.8.3.3. All Offer data (e.g., graphs, figures, tables) shall be in a format capable of being highlighted, copied, and pasted into another application using any standard Windows software.

L.8.3.4. Each document must be less than 20MB in size and the file name should not exceed more than 30 characters in length (recommend using less than 50 characters file name and path combined). Document names cannot contain special characters such as ~ " # % & * : < > ? / \ { | }

L.10. TECHNICAL VOLUME SECTIONS

L.10.1. ADMINISTRATIVE

L.10.1.1. TRANSMITTAL AND COVER LETTER

The Transmittal and Cover Letter must be signed by an officer authorized to make a binding commitment for the firm(s) making the Offer.

The letter shall include the following:

1. The RFQ Number;

2. Unique Entity ID number, CAGE code, and TIN;

3. Company Name mailing address, and website address;

4. Date submitted;

5. A statement signaling your firm is proposing to the IPA, IFA, or both;

6. A statement to the effect that it is firm for a period of at least 90 days from the date of receipt thereof by the Government.

7. All of the above-cited information for each entity on the proposed team, if a team is proposed;

8. Type of Company (i.e., small business, 8(a), woman owned, veteran owned, etc.) as validated via the System for Award Management (SAM). All Offerors must register in SAM located at:

http://www.sam.gov/;

9. A statement specifying the extent of agreement with all terms, conditions, and provisions included in the solicitation and agreement to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set opposite each item;

10. Names, titles, and phone and facsimile numbers and e-mail addresses of persons authorized to negotiate on the Offeror's behalf with the Government in connection with this solicitation and;

http://www.sam.gov/

11. Name, title, and signature of person authorized to sign the quote. Quotes 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;

12. In addition, the Offeror shall identify the company's anticipated Contractor Performance and Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) Contractor Representative, to include the individual's full name, telephone number and email address;

13. This letter shall include acknowledgement of all amendments issued by the Government; and

14. Offeror Summary Table: The Offeror shall complete the table below. The Offeror should include all subcontractors and team members who will be involved with the performance or management of the program work and should list all sites where the work will be performed. If a teaming or subcontracting arrangement is proposed, identify the work share, distribution elements, and ratios that each contractor will perform using the table below. Also provide a definition of the legal relationship between the entities if it is other than a Prime/subcontractor relationship.

Contractor Name (Indicate Prime, Team Member or

Sub)

Place of Performance/UEI# if applicable

Brief Work Description and/or Program Responsibility

% of Total Proposed Price

L.10.2.4. SUBFACTOR 4: CORPORATE CAPABILITY

The Offeror must demonstrate it has the necessary capability and commitment to perform this contract. The Offeror must provide information concerning the corporation's origin, operational philosophy, facilities, resources (fiscal and physical), services and experience. The Offeror must specifically describe the impact on its capabilities in terms of resources, experience, expertise and organization structure in the event the Offeror is awarded this contract.

The Offeror shall demonstrate the ability and experience to manage multiple BPA calls and task orders concurrently in multiple locations at a scope, size, and complexity similar to this BPA, multiple countries desired. To demonstrate this capability and experience, the Offeror shall provide no less than two (2), but no more than four (4), BPAs, IDIQs, or contracts for similar services performed concurrently in multiple countries awarded to the Prime Offeror no later than 10 years from the date of this solicitation. Failure to provide at least two (2) such references will result in not being eligible for award.

L.12. BUSINESS VOLUME INSTRUCTIONS

L.12.3. Volume 3 shall also contain the following administrative items:

•Transmittal (May be the same as submitted in Volume I) •Signed/completed SF-1449 (page 1 of solicitation) •Signed SF-30 for all solicitation amendments (or written acknowledgement of such amendments in a cover letter) •A completed and executed copy of Section K - Representations, Certifications and Other Statements of Offerors or

Respondents, must be included as part of your business quote.

•Copy of the Quoter's Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA), if applicable •Significant cost/price assumptions for the BPA •Description of each proposed additional BPA labor category (if applicable), including minimum education and experience requirements.

•Offerors shall include a completed copy of the Price Template (J.3 Price Table) in its offer. MS Excel version.

L.12.4 Cost or Pricing Data

(a) Submission of certified cost or pricing data is not required.

(b) Provide the data described below:

The Offeror shall submit a offer adequate to determine whether the proposed pricing is consistent with the technical quote and level of effort anticipated.

a. Financial Capacity - The Offeror shall indicate if it has the necessary financial capacity, working capital, and other resources to perform this contract without assistance from any outside sources. (If not, indicate the amount required, the anticipated source, and associated costs for such support.) The Offeror shall submit any information deemed relevant to convincingly demonstrate its ability to perform the requirement from a financial point of view; this may include providing a copy of the Offeror's most recent financial statement.

L.12.5 DISCLOSURE OF LOBBYING ACTIVITIES

In accordance with FAR 3.808 Policy, Offerors shall submit Standard Form LLL, "Disclosure of Lobbying Activities". The form can be accessed in the GSA Forms Library at:

http://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/download/116430.

A copy (J.2 FORM SFLLL) has been provided as an attachment.

L.12.6 ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURE/MITIGATION

Offerors are required to identify actual and potential organizational conflicts of interest (OCI) related to the services described in the statement of work for itself, as well as employees, consultants and subcontractors proposed. This includes, but is not limited to:

•The existence of conflicting roles that might bias judgment; and •Access to nonpublic information that will give the Offeror an unfair competitive advantage.

Offerors shall include an explanation of the process used to identify OCIs. If an actual or potential OCI is identified, the Offeror shall submit a mitigation plan as part of its quote.

Offerors shall submit with their quote an OCI affirmation, using the following language:

"I, (Name and Title), warrant that: 1) I am an official authorized to bind the entity; and 2) to the best of my knowledge and belief , actual and potential organizational conflicts of interest have been identified, and disclosed to the Contracting Officer (identify section of quote) as of (Date)."

(End of Section L) http://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/download/116430

Section M - Evaluation Factors for Award

Section M Continued

M.4.4 SUB-FACTOR 4: CORPORATE CAPABILITY

The Government will evaluate the Offeror's ability to manage multiple BPA calls and task orders concurrently in multiple locations at a scope and size similar to this BPA, multiple countries desired.

MCC Response to Questions Received

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference

Question MCC Response

Section B4 and Section

C7 (respectively

5; 11 N/A

Can MCC clarify and update the list of required positions?

For example, in the Labor Category table under section B.4, there is one Project Manager and one Administrative Support position, but there is one BPA Program Manager and two Project Managers listed under section C.7 and no Administrative Support position listed.

In accordance with Section C.7.1.2, the BPM may not be directly billed to BPA calls, but instead shall be billed as an indirect cost/G&A unless used as key personnel on a specific BPA Call as an expert. MCC does not currently have minimum qualifications for Administrative Support at the Master BPA level, but may include qualifications at the BPA Call level.

2 Section B4 5 Administrative Support

Is there a minimum qualification requirement for an Administrative Support position?

MCC does not currently have minimum qualifications for Administrative Support at the Master BPA level, but may include qualifications at the BPA Call level.

3 Section C.7.1. 11

This BPM must be fully familiar with the full scope of the services provided under the various Calls issued under the

BPA.

Can MCC clarify what you mean by "fully familiar with the full scope of services provided"? Does this mean the BPM should hold the same level of technical expertise as the IPA and/or IFA, for example? Or does it rather mean that the BPM should possess more of an operational understanding needed to manage the project?

The BPM should have at least an operational understanding needed to manage the program. See Section C.7.1.3 for minimum qualifications.

4 Section C.7.1. 11

A Bachelor's degree in business, economics, finance, accounting, public administration, or related field is required.

The stated requirement for the BPM is a Bachelor's degree in business, economics, finance, accounting, public administration, or a related field. Would you accept BPMs with Bachelor's degrees in other subjects (unrelated fields) with an accompanying Master's degree and/or several years of experience?

If the Master's degree is in business, economics, finance, accounting, public administration, or a related field, that would obviate the need for the bachelor's degree to be in any of those fields.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

5 Section B4 4 Labor Rates Should the contractor propose a daily rate or hourly rate for each proposed labor category?

An hourly rate is required for each labor category. See Amendment

6 General Quest N/A N/A

Does the nationality of proposed staff for different roles matter or can they be based in any country?

No, the nationality of proposed staff will not be evaluated.

7 General Quest N/A N/A

Can MCC provide some guidance on the specific countries or regions where MCC expects to need the interim procurement and financial management support?

Countries in the present pipeline for which support may be required in Kenya, Kiribati, and Mauritania. New country selection are generally made by the MCC Board of Directors at their December Board meeting. It is also possible that support to one or more countries presently supported by the original IPA contract will require support beyond the period of that contract.

8 General Quest N/A N/A

Can a firm bid on either the IPA or IFA technical area alone, or must firms bid on both together?

In accordance with Section L.1, the Government contemplates award of two (2) or more Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) resulting from this solicitation but reserves the right to award a single BPA.

Offerors may submit quotations for the IPA, IFA, or both.

9 General Quest N/A N/A

Given that MCC has only given 3 weeks between the release date and the submission date for bid response preparation, can MCC extend the due date for submission by one week?

See Amendment

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

10 General Quest N/A N/A

Can two firms submit a proposal (quotation) either as a Joint Venture or as Prime and Sub partners?

Yes, joint ventures and subcontracting are allowed.

11 C.1 6 N/A Is there an incumbent for these services? No, this is a new requirement.

12 C.2.1 7 The BPA Calls for IPA and/or IFA services

The BPA Calls for IPA and/or IFA services. Can you confirm whether a respondent can propose for the service areas separately?

In accordance with Section L.1, the Government contemplates award of two (2) or more Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) resulting from this solicitation but reserves the right to award a single BPA.

Offerors may submit quotations for the IPA, IFA, or both. See Amendment

13 C.2.7.1.1 8 Language Requirements

Would proposals still be considered if the respondent does not currently have French-fluent personnel?

In accordance with Section C.2.7, fluency (reading, writing, and speaking) in French will be required for the personnel who will be directly supporting the AE in Francophone countries.

All other experts are required to be fluent in English. The fluency in French requirement will be required at the BPA Call level, but will be considered in the evaluation of proposals for this solicitation.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

14 C.2.8.1 8 Level of Effort (LOE)

In reference to the assignment duration and variability, can MCC share historical knowledge of prior staffing cycles for when a higher level of staffing may be required?

Staffing levels vary with the number of countries supported.

The workload and corresponding staffing level requirements for each supported country vary according to the program development timeline applicable to that country. Each has a workload and schedule that is independent of all others. Expert specialists may be able to support more than one country simultaneously, but there are expected to be brief intermittent intervals when IPA or IFA support to a particular country will require more than one full-time equivalent.

15 L, 52.212-1( c 63 Period for Acceptance of offers

On page 63, it states 30 days for the price validity, then on page 66 it states the quote must be valid for 90 days post submission, and on page 67 in L.5, it states to hold our offer firm for no less than 120 days.

Can you please clarify what the validity of the quote should be?

The Offeror shall agree to hold all elements of the quote in its offer firm for no less than 120 days.

15A L, MCC 52.20 66

CV Letter Requirements and Identification of Points of Contact

15B L.5 67 Offer Expiration

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

16 C.7 11 Personnel Qualifications Please confirm Administrative Support experience and qualification.

MCC does not currently have minimum qualifications for Administrative Support at the Master BPA level, but may include qualifications at the BPA Call level.

17 C.7 11 Personnel Qualifications For IFA only bidders, please confirm how administrative support should be treated.

MCC does not currently have minimum qualifications for Administrative Support at the Master BPA level, but may include qualifications at the BPA Call level.

18 F.2 8 Place of Performance

Please provide a list of target countries where work might be performed as part of this engagement

Countries in the present pieline for which support may be required in Kenya, Kiribati, and Mauritania. New country selection are generally made by the MCC Board of Directors at their December Board meeting. It is also possible that support to one or more countries presently supported by the original IPA contract will require support beyond the period of that contract.

19 J.3 Sheet Price Table

Based on the budget and engagement goals how many resources does MCC estimate will be required for each labor category?

One (1) each.

20 L.8 69 Offer

Please confirm that only the resume and letter of commitment (subcontractor) for the Program Manager is required to be submitted as part of proposal

Correct, at a minimum the resume of the BPA Program Manager is required for response to this solicitation.

However, resumes of additional personnel are acceptable.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

21 L.8 69 Offer Formatting

Please confirm that an Organizational Structure is not needed to be included as part of the proposal response.

In accordance with Section L.10.2.1, T\the Offeror shall describe the current management structure and supply an organization chart for executing this BPA.

22 L3 67 Offer Submission Due Date Will MCC consider extending submission due date to Monday October 23rd?

See Amendment

23 Addendum 14

Phase II-PA and FA Services

"At its sole discretion, an AE may invite an IPA and/or IFA firm to negotiate a PA or FA contract respectively for Phase II purposes, provided (a) the firm has received a performance rating of "Very Good" or higher in its CPAR (Contract Performance Assessment Report) under the BPA (FAR-based) contract with MCC, and (b) it proposes to field a team of experts who commit to stay to perform in the country according to the schedule required in the invitation to negotiate. If the AE invites the firm to negotiate a PPG-based contract, both the technical proposal and price will be negotiated by the AE (not MCC). The AE shall have no obligation to enter negotiations with or contract with any firm for Phase II services. Phase II PA and FA services are outside the scope of this BPA with MCC."

This would appear to indicate that an MCA can simply chose to directly negotiate with an IPA/IFA firm for the full compact term if it so choses (presumably, and most likely, allowing it to bypass PPG Competitive procedures and simply negotiate a contract with the incumbent country IPA/IFA). We assume that this would also result in non-IPA BPA holders no longer being able to compete for MCA PA/FA contracts (as we would imagine most, if not all, MCAs would prefer to avoid the competitive procedures prescribed in the PPG and directly negotiate with the BPA holder).

We would therefore assume, based on the above, that non- US firms would very likely be unable to participate in any future PA/FA work for MCC despite successful experience on MCC Compacts.

Please confirm if this is the intent of this clause?

There is no requirement for firms proposing for this solicitation to be US firms.

While the possibility of an Accountable Entity negotiating a contract directly with the MCC BPA holder providing IPA or IFA services is contemplated, it is not intended to imply whether this will be a frequently requested and approved course of action.

There is no intent to eliminate competitive procurements by Accountable Entities for such services.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

24 L.2 66 Inquiries/Due Dates

Will MCC extend the due date for the submission of the proposal by 2 weeks after responses to questions are posted?

See Amendment

25 C.6.1 11 Personnel Qualifications

Can MCC provide the guidance on the number of similtaneous multiple assignments a contractractor may need to be prepared to undertake?

There are many variables, including, but not limited to, the number of countries in MCC's program development pipeline, the number of BPA holders, and whether the BPA holder provides IPA services, IFA services, or both.

26 C.6.2 11 Personnel Qualifications

Will MCC consider other procurement specialists with the years of experience that do not have the international experience?

Procurement specialists are required to be proficient in international public procurement procedures, such as practiced by the World Bank, MCC, and/or other multi-lateral aid agencies. The expertise needs to be demonstrated through both training and substantive practical experience. Specific requirements and qualifications will be provided for individual BPA Calls.

27 Section C 8 C2.7 Language Requirement

Please clarify that in the quotation a bidder does not need to indicate knowledge of the French but if a BPA is issued in a French speeking county the bidder will have to provide teams able to speak French to support the AE in that country.

In accordance with Section C.2.7, fluency (reading, writing, and speaking) in French will be required for the personnel who will be directly supporting the AE in Francophone countries.

All other experts are required to be fluent in English. The fluency in French requirement will be required at the BPA Call level, but will be considered in the evaluation of proposals for this solicitation.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

28 Section C 8 C.2.8 Level of effort

Given that the level of effort required is varying in nature and that the billing has to be based on actual, please confirm that the bidders do not require to show that they have the required labour categories in their employment but is able to show that they can indeed get such labour categories.

Although having the labor categories currently on staff is preferred, Offerors are not required to show that they have the required labour categories currently in their employment but are able to show that they can recruit and hire such labour categories.

29 Section L 66 L.1 Single or multiple awards and L.3 - offer submission

The Government has indicated that a bidder can bid for both IPA and IFA but also you have indicated that a bidder can only sumit one bid. Please then clarify if the offeror will have to combine the offer for IPA and IFA? If so will this not affect the page limit? Also will the offeror require to separet the BPM for IPA and for IFA?

A statement in the Executive Summary and only providing labor rates for the specific labor categories will suffice. The BPM will not have to be separated as only one is required for key personnel.

30 Section L 69 L.8.3.1 Quoation submission

You have indicated that a director identifying each file some accompany the submission. Please clarify what you mean by directory given that the submission will be indicating the file names on the submission mail.

A list of all files may be included in the email body.

31 Section L 71 Transmital letter item 13.

You have indicated that the offeror should indicate all sites where the work will be performed. Given that there is no BPA issued, which sites should the offeror provide, the current offices or?

The UEI can be provided instead of the place of performance.

32 Section L 72 Management structure you have indicated that the offeror shall indicate the current managemenbt structure and supply an organization chart for executing this BPA. Please clarify if your want the offerors management structure as currently constituted or the struucture proposed to manage the BPA?

The management structure proposed to manage the BPA to include subcontractor support.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

33 C.2.6. 8 General Requirements

Can the Government clarify if individuals currently engaged in contractual commitments within the Threshold and Compact Programs with other MCC are eligible for inclusion in the personnel roster for the forthcoming offer?

Eligibility depends on the nature of the work perfomed on the other commitments. See L.12.8 Organizational Conflict of Interest Disclosure / Mitigation

34 C.2.6. 8 General Requirements

Can the Government clarify if personnel who do not hold key positions and have previously contributed to successful proposals within other Compact or Threshold Programs possess eligibility for inclusion in the present offer and consideration for distinct positions within IFA or IPA BPAs?

Eligibility depends on the nature of the work perfomed on the other commitments. See L.12.8 Organizational Conflict of Interest Disclosure / Mitigation

35 C.2.6. 8 General Requirements

Can the Government clarify with respect to the coordination of requirements, activities, and effective communication with all MCC personnel, is it permissible for a Procurement Agent Manager under an existing contract within another program to assume the role of a BPA Program Manager?

The level of effort, quality of performance, and workload, at a minimum, for the personnel on the existing contract will be considered during the evaluation.

36 C.2 6 SCOPE

Could the Government provide clarification regarding the anticipated number of BPA calls for both IPA and IFA on an annual basis, and if possible, extend this information to cover a five-year period of solicitation calls?

Countries in the present pipeline for which support may be required in Kenya, Kiribati, and Mauritania. New country selection are generally made by the MCC Board of Directors at their December Board meeting. It is also possible that support to one or more countries presently supported by the original IPA contract will require support beyond the period of that contract.

37 C2 6 SCOPE

Could the Government provide clarification regarding whether the BPA calls pertain to the current MCC Programs that involve IPA and IFAs?

For most programs currently using IPA support, that support is expected to be completed with the period of performance of the current IPA contract, but there could be excpetions.

There is no present IFA service provider.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

38 BLOCKS 12, 1 1,2

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/O

RDER FOR COMMERCIAL

ITEMS

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE

BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

Could the Government provide clarification if the offeror has to complete the Blocks 17, 23, 24, or is it sufficient to have the B.4 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE and the J3 Price Table ? If this has to be completed, could Government provide clarification if the unit price should be provided for each labor category?

Offerors shall sign blocks 30a and 30b and return Section B and J.3 Price Table. If additional labor categories are proposed, please add them to J.3

39 B.4 5 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

Could the Government provide clarification which is the form to be used given that this table is different with J3 Price Table?

B.4 and J.3 are identical.

40 B.5 6 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

Could the Government provide clarification if these are daily rates?

Hourly rates. See Amendment

41 J3 Price Table Could the Government provide clarification if these are daily rates?

Hourly rates. See Amendment

42 Section J J.3 Price Table

Price Table requests a labor rate for the Program Manager job field. It is our working assumption that this aligns to the Project Manager roles referenced at Sections C.7.2 and C.7.3 of the Solicitation?

Could MCC please confirm this is correct.

Correct

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

43 Secetion L 71

L.10.2.4. SUBFACTOR 4:

CORPORATE CAPABILITY

For small businesses that has past experience working with other countries such as NATO and other U.S. partners. Would this experiece be excepted as past performance?

Acceptance would be based on the place of performance.

44 Section B 4 NAICS Code: 541990 All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

Can you add NAICS Code:

541611 Administrative Management and General Management Consulting

No

45 B.3 5 The contract type awarded is a Blanket Purchase Agreement.

As a follow-on BPA contract, who is the incumbent vendor and what is the current contract number?

This is a new requirement.

46 B.4 5 See Section C.10 Personnel Qualifications for a description of each labor category.

Although Section C.10 Personnel Qualification is referenced, only C.6 and C.7 speak to Personnel Qualifiations. Can the Government, please clarify.

See Amendment

47 M.4.4 78

The Government will evaluate the Offeror's ability to manage multiple BPA calls and task orders concurrently in multiple countries at a scope and size similar to this BPA.

Would it be acceptable if Offeror were to demonstrate ability to manage multiple BPA calls and task orders concurrently in multiple states (as opposed to countries) at a scope and size similar to this

BPA?

See Amendment

48A C.7.1.1.1 11

The contractor shall provide a lead Program Manager who will be designated as the BPA Program Manager

(BPM).

According to sections C.7.1.1.1 and C.7.1.1.2, a BPM is required to be supplied and charged as an indirect cost.

However, in section B.5, it is specified that the fixed indirect rate to be applied is set at 0.0%. How can we propose a pricing mechanism for incorporating the BPM cost in

See Amendment

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

48B C.7.1.1.2 11

This BPM must be fully familiar with the full scope of the services provided under the various Calls issued under the BPA. The BPM may not be directly billed to BPA calls, but instead shall be billed as an indirect cost/G&A unless used as key personnel on a specific BPA Call as an expert. this scenario?

48C B.5 5

49A B.4 5

In accordance with Section B.4, there is a single Labor Category (LCAT) designated for Project Manager. However, Sections C.7.2 and C.7.3 necessitate the inclusion of two distinct LCATs, one for IPA and another for IFA. Considering the varying qualification requirements for each of these LCATs, is it advisable to establish distinct LCAT rates instead of assuming a uniform rate for both?

Offeror's are expected to make an independent assessment of the resources required to perform the tasks described in Section C. Offerors should use their own judgment based on their experience and approach to completion of this project to propose the price and level of effort (personnel) appropriate for the requirement. An Offeror could propose 2 distinct ceiliing rates.

49B C.7.2, C.7.3 12

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

50 Section L 73 L.10.2.4 Subfactor 4: Corporate Capability

The solicitation states: "The Offeror shall demonstrate the ability and experience to manage multiple BPA calls and task orders concurrently in multiple countries at a scope, size, and complexity similar to this BPA. To demonstrate this capability and experience, the Offeror shall provide no less than two (2), but no more than four (4), BPAs, IDIQs, or contracts for similar services performed concurrently in multiple countries awarded to the Prime Offeror no later than 10 years from the date of this solicitation." Would the Government consider BPAs, IDIQs, and contracts for similar services sufficient for demonstrating ability and experience managing such contracts if they were not performed in multiple countries?

Considered together, the BPAs, IDIQs, and contracts shall demonstrate the ability and experience to manage multiple concurrent BPA calls/task orders at a scope, size and complexity similar to this BPA.

Considered together, this same set of BPAs, IDIQs, and contracts presented as evidence shall demonstrate the ability and experience to manage such work concurrently in multiple countries.

51 General N/A N/A

Is there an incumbent or predecessors in like for this requirement and value of the same?

This is a new requirement.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

52 General N/A N/A What is the estimated FTE count or LOE for Phase I? (I saw the LOE for Phase II)

Countries in the present pipeline for which support may be required in Kenya, Kiribati, and Mauritania. New country selection are generally made by the MCC Board of Directors at their December Board meeting. It is also possible that support to one or more countries presently supported by the original IPA contract will require support beyond the period of that contract.

Staffing levels vary with the number of countries supported.

The workload and corresponding staffing level requirements for each supported country vary according to the program development timeline applicable to that country. Each has a workload and schedule that is independent of all others. Expert specialists may be able to support more than one country simultaneously, but there are expected to be brief intermittent intervals when IPA or IFA support to a particular country will require more than one full-time equivalent.

53 General N/A N/A Will the government furnish GFE? No

54 General N/A N/A Will the contractor be reimbursed for equipment? No

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

55 General N/A N/A Will the government be providing a plug amount for travel?

Other Direct Costs for travel will be provided at the BPA Call level.

56 General N/A N/A What is the estimated cost of travel?

Other Direct Costs for travel will be provided at the BPA Call level.

57 C 11 C.5.2.1 Reporting to MCC Is safe to assume the verbal presentation via webinar will be monthly?

As required, but monthly is a reasonable estimation.

58 C 11 C.6.2 - Personnel Requirement

Besides the required knowledge of World Bank and MCC procurement procedures and practices, are any specific certifications needed for either IPA or IFA?

Though there are some internationally recognized certifications relevant to the IPA area of expertise, no particular certification is required for the

IPA.

For the IFA, certain personnel may be required to have accountancy certifications, which are referred to in this solicitation and may be required at the Call Level as well.

59 F 29 E. Work Performance Are security clearance required to perform under the BPA?

No

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

60 F 29 E. Work Performance If a facility clearance is required, will MCC sponsor a facility cleance?

Not required

61 L 67 L.5 Offer Expiration Is the quote validity 120 days?

The Offeror shall agree to hold all elements of the quote in its offer firm for no less than 120 days.

62 L 70 L.10 Technical Volume Sections Is the quote validity 90 days?

The Offeror shall agree to hold all elements of the quote in its offer firm for no less than 120 days.

63 L 73 L.11 Past Performance

Will MCC consider resumes with experience and knowledge as past performance for government contracts performed under other entities?

Yes, as long as the resume is for key personnel and the agency fills out the questionnaire.

64 B & L 5; 75 B.4, L.12.5, and J.3

Can the Government please confirm that the offeror should provide Fully Burdened Labor Rates?

Yes, see amendment

65 L 70 L.10.L.L

The cover letter is to identify the company's antcipated CPARS Representative, to include the individuals full name, telephone number and email adress. Please confirm this is a company representative.

Yes, this is a company representative.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

66 L

Section L.1 states "Offerors may submit quotations for the IPA, IFA, or both." Section L.3 states "Offerors shall only submit one quote in response to this solicitation" (no alternate solutions). Is it clear whether the MCC is expecting a single quote from each Offeror, even if they are applying to carry out both types of services? Given that there is a 20-page limit, I would suggest asking to confirm that Offerors may submit separate quotes for each type of service being offered to the Government.

In accordance with Section L.1, the Government contemplates award of two (2) or more Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) resulting from this solicitation but reserves the right to award a single BPA.

Offerors may submit quotations for the IPA, IFA, or both. See Amendment

67 L

The "Clauses Incorporated by Reference" paragraphs of Section L indicate that the cover letter must state that the quote is valid for 90 days after submission. However, Section L.5 (Offer expiration) states that the offer must be valid for 120 days and L.10.1.1 says 90 days. Section L.4 provides an estimated award date of November 17, 2023 – which is just over 30 days after quotations are due. Please clarify the required validity period for quotations.

The Offeror shall agree to hold all elements of the quote in its offer firm for no less than 120 days. See Amendment

68 C.4.1.2 10

Establish and maintain an automated interim financial accounting system for the purpose of accounting for and reporting on the financial transactions of the Program.

Ensure that the financial data recorded in the system is easily transferable to other accounting system using standard data configurations.

Please describe what the other accounting system is (i.e., is it a software application, is it Excel based, etc.)

Each Accountable Entity utilizes a SAP-based procurement and accounting application to manager the compact funding. The integration of this system is initiatied either just before or just after the compact begins, and so interim accounting information from preperatory grants must be transferred to this permanent platform.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

69 L 65

Section 52.212-1(j), page 65, refers to a "cover page" when providing instructions for stating the Offeror's Unique Entity Identifier. This page is not referred to in other paragraphs within Section L. Please confirm that Offerors may include a cover *page* for each volume (in addition to the cover *letter* required for volumes 1 and 3) that will not count against the quote's page limitation.

A cover page is not required.

The requirement stated in Section 52.212-1(j), page 65 will be satisfied by the instructions of Section L.10.1.1.

However, Offerors may submit a cover page for each volume that will not count against the page count.

70 L

Section L.10.2.3 (Subfactor 3, Personnel Qualifications) states "Provide a brief resume and Letter of Commitment. The Letter of Commitment is only required if the BPA Program Manager proposed is a subcontractor. Resumes and letters of commitment are limited to a total of three (3) pages. (Resume + Letter of Commitment)" – if the BPA Program Manager is an employee of the prime contractor (and the LOC is therefore not required), may Offerors re-allocate this page to submit a 3-page resume for the BPA Program Manager?

Yes

71 L

We interpret the instructions in Section L to mean that the 3 pages for the BPA Program Manager's resume and LOC (if required) count against the 20-page limitation for the Technical Volume. To level the playing field between Offerors, will MCC accept the resume and LOC as annexes that do not count against the technical quotation's page limit?

The Transmittal/Cover Letter, Executive Summary, Organizational Chart, and Resumes and Letters of Commitment do not count against the Volume 1 - Technical page count.

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

72 L

We note that the instructions for Volume III (price) go from Section L.12.2 to L.12.5.

Please confirm that no sections of the instructions have been accidentally omitted.

See Amendment

73 L

In the past performance volume, we note that references are asked to submit the completed questionnaire directly to the Government by the closing date of the solicitation. Would MCC please clarify if (or how) a reference's failure to reply timely will (or may) affect the evaluation of the Offeror's quotation?

A late submission of the Past Performance Questionaire will not be included in the evaluation.

74 L

Subfactor 3's evaluation criterion is focused on the skills and experience of the BPA Program Manager. In the same section of the RFP where requirements for the BPA Program Manager are listed, requirements for Program Managers (which may be needed for certain call orders) also appear.

Offerors are not expected to nominate specific Project Managers at the BPA stage.

a. Please confirm that Offerors are not expected to nominate specific Program Managers at the BPA stage.

b. If nominations *are* expected, please confirm that they would be evaluated under Subfactor 2 (ability to attract and retain qualified staff).

No. Solicitation S Page Solicitation Language Reference Question MCC Response

75 A We request for extending submission deadline by two weeks.

See Amendment

76 Section C Add

If you are the IPA and the AE decides not to have direct negotiations with the IPA but go through a competitive process, will the IPA be excluded?

The plan for acquiring PA services will be the responsibility of the applicable Accountable Entity in consultation with MCC. MCC will not predetermine the process for such future procurements to be conducted by its partner countries.

(End of Amendment)