Q&A Document_SFOP0008919.pdf

Funding Opportunity SFOP0008919: Afghan Women Economic Empowerment Through

Leveraging the Private Sector

Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs

Q1: Is it a requirement for organizations to provide cost-share?

A: No cost share is required. However, priority will be given to organizations that provide cost-share.

Q2: Should the proposed program create something new or focus on utilizing existing resources?

A: Neither approach is required. It is up to the applicant to make a recommendation on the best approach in their submission.

Q3: Should we only include women who are a part of the Afghanistan Women's Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AWCCI)

A: This is not required. It is up to the applicant to make a recommendation on the best approach in their submission.

Q4: Given the broad range of possible activities, are there recommendations of what to focus on?

A: Beyond what is required by the Request for Statement of Interest (RSOI), there are no specific areas of focus that are recommended at this stage in the process.

Q5: Would it be possible to use award funds to offer interest free loans to women?

A: While the program may incorporate interest free loans, this is not advised as the source of the loan funding would be taken back at the close of the award. We recommend utilizing micro-grants in lieu of loans.

Q6: Are there requirements related to protecting women participants from gender-based violence?

A: Yes, as outlined in the RSOI, the concept note must include “How the applicant will conduct a gender and inclusion analysis, apply Do No Harm principles, and conduct robust risk mitigation planning, including safeguards to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA).” Statement of Interests (SOIs) will be evaluated in part based on their ability to conduct robust risk mitigation planning, including safeguards to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse. This is further detailed within the RSOI.

Q7: Can you clarify what you mean by “platform” in the RSOI?

A: The platform that we are seeking to create through the award will be a mechanism that enables businesses, non-profits, and international government leaders in the U.S. and countries around the world to sustainably partner with Afghan women leaders and

Afghan women-led private and non-profit organizations to co-create programs that advance Afghan women’s economic security and economic resilience.

Q8: What portion of the award should be used for the creation of the platform, and what portion should be used for the creation of activities?

A: It is up to the applicant to make a recommendation on the best approach.

Q9: Can proposed programs include support for Afghan women outside of Afghanistan?

A: In addition to proposing activities to take place inside Afghanistan, proposed programs may include activities in support of Afghan women residing in other South and Central

Asian countries.

Q10: Following the co-creation workshop, will multiple awards be issued or just one?

A: There will only be one award.