Questions and Answers_ Business Expansion Initiative for Women's Employment_Final.pdf

Business Expansion Initiative for Women's Employment

(SCAKAB-24-GR-001-SCA-04222024)

Questions and Answer

• Question: Should the Monitoring and Evaluation narrative and theory of change diagram be a part of the technical proposal, i.e. included in the 15-page maximum?

Answer: PMP and M&E document should be submitted as an attachment, and it is not counted toward the 15 -page proposal narrative limit.

• Question: Can you please define "Key Personnel," and let us know whether a member of Key Personnel can be someone listed as a contractor under the Sub-grantee budget?

Answer: Key personnel in this context refers to the individuals (including employees and contractors) who are designated as integral or meaningful to the project and hold essential roles and responsibilities critical to the successful execution and delivery of the project.

Their roles and responsibilities should be clearly defined to ensure clarity and accountability as well as ensure overall project’s success. Key personnel may include Project Manager, Finance Manager, Technical Leads/Subject Matter Experts and team leaders. For more information, please see page 12 of the NOFO.

• Question: Could you please confirm if post-graduate medical education program that spans 3 to 5 years is eligible to apply for this grant opportunity?

Answer: We defer to the applicant to recommend program activities that support the overall project goal, but we do not anticipate this project to focus solely on post-graduate medical education program. This funding opportunity is intended to support award with a period of performance between 12 to 18 months.

• Question: This RFP is open to all types of organizations, or is it restricted to non-profit organizations only?

Answer: This opportunity is open to all types of applicants except for individuals. Not-for-profit organizations and private companies are eligible to apply for this opportunity.

• Question: I saw a new grant opportunity in Afghanistan and am interested in applying for it, but when I click on the apply button the next page does not display and gives an error message.

Answer: Grants.gov has a full set of instructions on how to apply for opportunities on its website at http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/apply-for-grants.html. Grants.gov provides customer support via the toll-free number 1-800-518-4726 and via email at support@grants.gov. For more information visit How to Apply for Grants | Grants.gov http://www.grants.gov/web/grants/applicants/apply-for-grants.html mailto:support@grants.gov https://www.grants.gov/applicants/grant-applications/how-to-apply-for-grants

• Question: I want to know whether an Afghan NGO that is currently active in Afghanistan is eligible to apply?

Answer: Yes, this opportunity is open to all types of applicants including Afghan NGO in Afghanistan.

• Question: Please clarify the total page allocation to the technical submission. Do the MEL and Security Plans count against the 15-page limit? Do all Annex's? Should Key Personnel be duplicated to ensure compliance as these are requested for specifically in Section?

Answer: The MEL, Security Plan and other Annexes should be submitted as an attachment, and it is not counted toward the 15 -page proposal narrative limit. Applicants are not required to submit duplicate documents. A single copy of each required document will suffice.

• Question: On the "Budget Information – Non-Construction Programs" document, it allows applicants to list 4 Grant Programs Functions or Activities, and then divides budget categories per each program function or activity (see below for reference). Are we required to divide up our program into activities, or may we just list the one Program and separate the budget categories in general? If we plan to have a sub-awardee, perhaps that sub-awardee should be a separate "function or activity" and we should list its budget separately?

Answer: For the "Budget Information - Non-Construction Programs" sheet (page 1), the applicant should list each project separately under "Grant Program Function or Activity."

However, on page 2 of the same document, the applicant should provide a budget breakdown in 10 different categories as listed in the document. The prime applicant must submit a single budget that includes both their budget and that of any potential sub-awardees.

• Question: Are there any priority sectors or industries where women’s employment is particularly encouraged under this initiative?

Answer: The Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) is open to reviewing project ideas that are innovative, inclusive, and best support the overall project goal. We do not have any specific suggested sectors and defer to the applicants to propose programs that empower women in the workforce, while also creating a more inclusive workforce environment with equal opportunities for women

• Question: Is there a specified geographic area or a certain number of provinces/localities that the project should cover? Should the proposal include a suggested geographic coverage, or will this be determined by the US Embassy?

Answer: There are no restrictions on any specific geographic location within Afghanistan for this project. Our preference is for a project with provincial and/or regional and/or national scope that promote women’s entrepreneurship, increase women’s access to economic opportunities, and build their capacity.

• Question: Can you provide more detailed sub-groups within "Business Owners and Entrepreneurs Seeking to Employ More Women," Any indication which category of women job seekers , e.g professional literate or illiterate women?

Answer: The project should aim to work with businesses that provide an inclusive work environment for women. This may include women-led enterprises and organizations that predominantly employ women and operate in sectors accessible to women.

• Question: Are there any age limitations for target job seekers that should be considered in the proposal?

Answer: There is no age limit requirement for this funding opportunity, which supports job seekers of all ages. The project should aim to address inequality and promote inclusivity in the workforce. This includes creating opportunities for underrepresented groups, ensuring equitable access to resources, and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.

• Question: Is there an indication of the minimum and maximum number of beneficiaries, such as how many businesses, entrepreneurs, and job seekers, that the project should aim to support?

Answer: We defer to the applicants to propose project ideas that are innovative, inclusive, and support the target beneficiaries. We do not have a recommended number of beneficiaries.

• Question: For the option period mentioned in the RFP, will the beneficiaries remain the same and receive further support, or will new beneficiaries be added to be supported?

Answer: PDS anticipates supporting projects under this NOFO with a base period of performance between 12 to 18 months. For this opportunity, we do not require the applicants to plan activities or submit budget for option periods. However, contingent upon availability of additional funds, PDS may consider option period after successful implementation of the base period.

• Question: While designing this project, any specific performance indicators and metrics was the US Embassy had in mind to evaluate the success of the project?

Answer: We defer to the applicants to identify specific indicators to track and measure the success of the project, however the overall project success will be evaluated based on the increased number of businesses with gender-inclusive policies and practices, create employment opportunities for women, support women entrepreneurs and small business, promote business environment at the community level as well as national level. For more information, please see page 3 and 4 of the NOFO.

• Question: Does the evacuation plan need to include evacuation out of Afghanistan, or is it sufficient to cover evacuation from project sites, such as beneficiary business premises, training sites, and contractors’ offices?

Answer: The safety and security of all participants, project staff and activities under this project are the responsibility of the award recipient. Reasonable costs for safety and security for the project are allowable expenses, however we do not expect applicants to allocate significant amount of the project funds for evacuation out of Afghanistan. Please note that the U.S. Mission for Afghanistan will not be responsible for any potential evacuations of participants or project staff out of Afghanistan.

• Question: Would the evaluation committee find it acceptable to focus efforts solely on one province and one sector to achieve the stated program goals? We believe a targeted approach can yield significant and measurable impacts within the program objectives, while also providing a model that could be expanded and scaled.

Answer: Yes, it will be acceptable if the applicant design project activities that target one province or one sector that better achieve project objectives, however we encourage projects that are designed to address beneficiaries at regional and national level.

• Question: Are there particular objectives or outcomes that the evaluation committee considers especially critical for the success of this program? For example, is there a higher priority on job creation versus long-term business sustainability?

Answer: We recommend applicants focus on providing a justification for their approach in achieving the overall goal of the project and explaining how and why the proposed activities will achieve the objectives and outcomes identified for the specific project idea. We recognize that there are many ways to achieve this goal and we are open to creative ways to address it.

• Question: Could you clarify if there are specific metrics or indicators that are prioritized by the Public Diplomacy Section for this initiative?

Answer: We defer to the applicants to identify specific indicators to track and measure the success of the project, however the overall project success will be evaluated based on the increased number of businesses with gender-inclusive policies and practices, create employment opportunities for women, support women entrepreneurs and small business, promote business environment at the community level as well as national level. For more information, please see page 3 and 4 of the NOFO.

• Question: The provided budget guidance does not include a category for "Allowances."

Should allowances be included within one of the existing cost categories, or is it permissible to add "Allowances" as a distinct cost category in the budget?

Answer: Per diem and approved government rated allowances are allowable expenses.

Applicants could be budget these expenses under the travel or other direct expenses as appropriate.

• Question: The links referenced on page 19 of the solicitation document regarding application instructions are not working (see screenshot below). Could you provide alternative access to these instructions or correct the links?

Answer: For SAM Registration, please click: SAM.gov | Entity Registrations Create Grants.gov account: Grantor Registration | Grants.gov Instructions on how to apply for opportunities on its website at How to Apply for Grants | Grants.gov Special Characters in Submissions: Submitting UTF-8 Special Characters | Grants.gov

• Question: Are there specific business sectors or industries that you prioritize for the training programs and mentorship initiatives.

Answer: PDS is open to reviewing project ideas that are innovative, inclusive, and best support the overall project goal. We do not have any specific suggested sectors and defer to the applicants to propose training and mentorship initiatives that empower women in the workforce, while also creating a more inclusive workforce environment with equal opportunities for women

• Question: Are there specific data collection methods or tools recommended for evaluating the impact of gender-inclusive practices?

Answer: We defer to the applicant to suggest tools and methods appropriate for the applicant to evaluate and capture the impact of gender-inclusive practices. At this time, we do not have a list of recommended tools and methods for data collections.

• Question: Are there specific criteria or guidelines for selecting women entrepreneurs and businesses for participation in the program?

Answer: The criteria for selecting women entrepreneurs and businesses will depend on the type of program proposed. We recommend applicants include a proposed plan for selection of participants, which can be adjusted in the pre-award phase for projects selected to advance.

• Question: Are expenses related to an online LSM (learning Management System) allowable under the NOFO.

Answer: Yes, expenses related to project activities, including the implementation of a learning management system that the applicant can justify as necessary, are allowable under this funding opportunity.

• Question: Can we subcontract a training solution to companies/institutions for this project?

Answer: Yes, subcontracting under this funding opportunity is allowable.

https://aoprals.state.gov/web920/per_diem.asp https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://www.grants.gov/grantors/grantor-registration https://www.grants.gov/applicants/grant-applications/how-to-apply-for-grants https://www.grants.gov/applicants/grant-applications/how-to-apply-for-grants https://www.grants.gov/applicants/submitting-utf-8-special-characters

• Question: There is a clause in the NOFO, which suggests the State Department may consider a financial proposal exceeding USD 750,000. Is that so, and if yes, under what circumstances?

Answer: The total available budget under this NOFO is $750,000. Award may range from a minimum of $300,000 to a maximum of $750,000.

• Question: The Technical Narrative requires the inclusions of at least one person (Program Manager) as designated key personnel. Does DOS anticipate a 100% LOE for the key position of Program Manager or others? Or could the proposed LOE be less?

Answer: We defer to the applicant to design project activities and structures that best address the project objectives. While there is no requirement for key personnel to commit 100% of their Level of Effort (LOE), we strongly recommend having a dedicated point of contact for the project to ensure its overall success and facilitate interaction with the Public Diplomacy Section.

• Question: The NOFO is clear about a prohibition of support to commercial activities. Could you provide clarity on this prohibition as it relates to the program areas of support? Namely ‘acceleration and expansion planning assistance’, ‘access to capital’, and ‘access to markets’ which by nature involve partnerships with the private sector.

Answer: The focus of the project should be on the beneficiaries identified in the participants and audiences’ section of the solicitation and assisting these individuals by supporting their participation in the workforce and economy through strategic business acceleration and expansion initiatives. The focus of the activities and outcomes cannot explicitly support commercial projects or the interests or profits of a business. The project can assist beneficiaries in growing their businesses and increasing their revenue. Private companies and small businesses are eligible to partner or serve as the prime recipient of the award under this funding opportunities.

• Question: Following on private sector partnerships, will select applicants be able to support direct material transfers to private businesses provided they support goals outlined in the

NOFO?

Answer: This opportunity is open to all types of applicants except for individuals. Private businesses and not-for-profit organizations are eligible to apply for this opportunity.

• Question: How does DOS envision its relationship with selected partners post-award? Will the relationship be more of a traditional funder-implementer one or does DOS anticipate programmatic involvement during implementation?

Answer: The funding instrument type for this opportunity will be a “Grant,” allowing the applicant to take full responsibility for the design and implementation of the project.

Department of State will provide oversight and monitoring of the activities.

• Question: Eligibility: On page 9 under the eligibility criteria, it is mentioned “Eligibility is open to all types of applicants except for individuals”. However, on page 15, under item d, it is mentioned “Proof of Non-profit Status –Documentation to demonstrate the applicant’s non-profit status (e.g., U.S.-based organizations should submit a copy of their 501(c)(3) Internal Revenue Service determination letter, and non-U.S. organizations should provide evidence of non-profit status issued by a government entity)”. Could you please confirm that the opportunity is open to all types of entities including for-profit entities?

Answer: This opportunity is open to all types of applicants except individuals. Private businesses and for-profit entities are eligible to apply. Applicants claiming non-profit status are required to submit proof of their non-profit status.

• Question: Beneficiary Identification: How does US DOS define women-led businesses?

Alternative references are women-owned businesses which represent businesses with more than 50% female ownership. Similarly, do non-women-owned businesses that employ or could potentially employ a large number of women qualify for the program as project participants?

Answer: Yes, non-women-owned businesses that aim to primarily support women as beneficiaries and empower women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses are eligible for this funding opportunity. We encourage organizations and businesses that contribute to economic growth, promote gender diversity in entrepreneurship, and empower women to take on leadership roles in various industries to apply.

• Question: Budget exceeding the US$ 750,00 threshold: One page 9, in the second paragraph under “Support for Diversity Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA), there is a statement suggesting the possibility of awarding additional funds under certain circumstances. The paragraph reads as below:

“The Public Diplomacy Section reserves the right to award less or more than the funds described under circumstances deemed to be in the best interest of the U.S. government, pending the availability of funds and approval of the designated grants officer.”

Can the budget exceed the stated limit, if the activities and technical methodology justify the increased budget? Would submission of a proposal with higher than the ceiling amount make the proposal non-compliant?

Answer: The total available budget under this NOFO is $750,000. Awards may range from a minimum of $300,000 to a maximum of $750,000. The applicant's total budget should not exceed the total available budget of $750,000 under this NOFO. PDS reserves the right to award less or more funds than described in this NOFO only if additional funds are available.

The allocation of additional funds is at the discretion of the Public Diplomacy Section and aligns with the mission's priorities.

• Question: Technical proposal page limit: Do visuals & graphics such as pictures and diagrams in the proposal count toward the 15-page limit for the technical proposal?

Do the following count toward the 15-page limit for the technical proposal:

o Technical proposal cover o Table of contents, list of figures, list of tables, and references o Samples of work, annexes, and similar evidence of technical and management capabilities annexed to the proposal o CVs in as attachments

Answer: Yes, visuals and graphs that describe the technical project design and activities count toward the 15-page limit for the technical proposal. However, the proposal cover sheet, table of contents, required annexes, and resumes of key personnel should be submitted as attachments, and these documents are not included in the 15-page proposal narrative limit.