RFP - Strengthening Local CSOs.docx

Subject: Request for Proposals No. SOL-492-11-000010 – Strengthening the Capacity of Civil Society Organizations in the Philippines

To All Prospective Offerors:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission to the Philippines, is seeking proposals from qualified organizations interested in providing the services described in the attached solicitation.

This procurement is being conducted through full and open competition, for which the procedures for "contracting by negotiation, trade-off process” method of procurement, as described in Part 15 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), will apply. Offerors who submit proposals in response to this RFP may be required to give an oral presentation.

Proposals will be accepted from Philippine and Non-Philippines non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private, for-profit and non-profit organizations, including universities, research organizations, professional associations, and relevant special interest associations. Faith-based and community organizations are also eligible for award. In support of USAID’s interest in expanding the number and sustainability of development partners, USAID encourages proposals from potential new partners.

USAID plans to award a cost-plus-fixed-fee completion type contract. The maximum amount of the contract (costs and fee) is $1.5 million, covering an estimated period of performance of three years. However, offerors should not necessarily strive to equal this amount. Cost-effective approaches to achieving the results are encouraged, and lower-cost offers will be rewarded under Section M of this solicitation. Offerors must propose costs that they believe are realistic and reasonable for the work. Cost proposals will be evaluated as part of the best value procedure in determining the contract award.

USAID encourages the participation to the maximum extent possible of small business concerns, small disadvantaged business concerns, and women-owned small business concerns in this activity as a prime contractor or as a subcontractor, in accordance with FAR Part 19.

Receipt of this solicitation through the internet must be confirmed by written notification to Procurement Secretary Irene Narag at email address aidmnlorp@usaid.gov. It is the responsibility of the recipient of this solicitation document to ensure that it has been received in its entirety, including subsequent solicitation amendments, if any. USAID bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes.

Issuance of this solicitation and the submittal of a proposal do not constitute a commitment on the part of the U.S. Government nor USAID to make an award, neither does it constitute an obligation for any costs incurred in the preparation and submission of a proposal. Award will be subject to funds availability following the proper completion of required USAID internal processes.

Further, the U.S. Government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received. To this end, this RFP is being issued and consists of this cover letter and the text of the attached request for proposals (RFP). All offerors are cautioned to carefully review this cover letter and the contents of the RFP.

The details associated with the submission requirements for offerors’ proposals are outlined in Section L of this solicitation. Proposals must be signed by an official who is authorized to bind the organization and are to be submitted to USAID no later than the closing date stated above. Late proposals will be handled in accordance with FAR 15.208. Facsimile submissions are not authorized and will not be accepted as valid.

The preferred method of proposal submission will be electronic. See Section L. of the solicitation for instructions.

Offerors are instructed to pay careful attention to Section K - Representations, Certifications and Acknowledgements of the accompanying Request for Proposals. Offerors are now expected to comply with FAR clause 52.204-7, Central Contractor Registration, and complete the annual representations and certifications electronically via the Online Representations and Certifications Application website at http://orca.bpn.gov.

An interested vendors list is not included in this solicitation. Offerors can register and use the interested vendors list found at the Federal Business Opportunities (FBO.gov) webpage created for this solicitation so that interested firms and individuals can contact one another for consideration of teaming arrangements and/or small business subcontracting opportunities arising from this solicitation.

You are strongly encouraged to submit any comments or questions concerning this RFP by no later than July 15, 2011. These should be directed by email to Ms. Ma. Belinda de la Torre, Senior Acquisition & Assistance Specialist at email address mdela@usaid.gov with copy to Irene Narag at aidmnlorp@usaid.gov.

The required closing date and time for receipt of proposals is USAID/Philippines 11 p.m. Manila local time on August 7, 2011. Point of required receipt is USAID/Philippines, Manila, Republic of the Philippines and not USAID offices in Washington, D.C. or any other location. Offerors should take account of the expected delivery time required by the proposal transmission and are responsible to ensure that proposals are received at USAID by the due date and time specified above.

Oral explanations or instructions given before the award of the contract will not be binding. Furthermore, the U.S. Government reserves the right to reject any and all offers, if such action is considered to be in the best interest of the U.S. Government. Award of a contract under this RFP is subject to availability of funds and other internal USAID approvals.

Thank you for your interest in working with USAID/Philippines.

Sincerely, /s/

Michael P. Rossman Regional Contracting Officer

1. THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED ORDER

RATING

PAGE OF

PAGES

UNDER DPAS (15 CFR 700)

2. CONTRACT NUMBER

3. SOLICITATION NUMBER

4. TYPE OF SOLICITATION

5. DATE ISSUED

6. REQUISITION/PURCHASE NUMBER

SEALED BID (IFB)

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

7. ISSUED BY

CODE

8. ADDRESS OFFER TO

(If other than Item 7) NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations "offer" and "offeror" mean "bid" and "bidder".

9. Sealed offers in original and _____________________________ copies for furnishing the supplies or services in the Schedule will be received at the place specified in Item 8, or if handcarried, in the depository located in until local time _______________________ (Hour) (Date) CAUTION - LATE Submissions, Modifications, and Withdrawals: See Section L, Provision No. 52.214-7 or 52.215-1. All Offers are subject to all terms and conditions contained in this solicitation.

A. NAME

B. TELEPHONE (NO COLLECT CALLS)

C. E-MAIL ADDRESS

AREA CODE

NUMBER

EXT.

(X)

SEC.

DESCRIPTION

PAGE(S)

(X)

SEC.

DESCRIPTION

PAGE(S)

PART I - THE SCHEDULE

PART II - CONTRACT CLAUSES

A

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM

X X X

X X

X

X X

X

X X

X X

I

CONTRACT CLAUSES

B

SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

PART III - LIST OF DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS AND OTHER ATTACH.

C

DESCRIPTION/SPECS./WORK STATEMENT

J

LIST OF ATTACHMENTS

D

PACKAGING AND MARKING

PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

E

INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

F

DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

G

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

L

INSTR., CONDS., AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS

H

SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

M

EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

K

REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER

STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

NOTE: Item 12 does not apply if the solicitation includes the provisions at 52.214-16, Minimum Bid Acceptance Period.

12. In compliance with the above, the undersigned agrees, if this offer is accepted within _120_______ calendar days (60 calendar days unless a different period is inserted by the offeror) from the date for receipt of offers specified above, to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set opposite each item, delivered at the designated point(s), within the time specified in the schedule.

13. DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

10 CALENDAR DAYS (%)

20 CALENDAR DAYS (%)

30 CALENDAR DAYS (%)

CALENDAR DAYS (%)

(See Section I, Clause No. 52-232-8)

14. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF AMENDMENTS

AMENDMENT NO.

DATE

AMENDMENT NO.

DATE

(The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the SOLICITATION for offerors and related documents numbered and dated:

CODE

FACILITY

16. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN OFFER

15A. NAME AND

ADDRESS

OF OFFEROR

(Type or print)

15B. TELEPHONE NUMBER

17. SIGNATURE

18. OFFER DATE

AREA CODE

NUMBER

EXT.

15C. CHECK IF REMITTANCE ADDRESS IS DIFFERENT FROM

ABOVE - ENTER SUCH ADDRESS IN SCHEDULE

19. ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS NUMBERED

20. AMOUNT

21. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION

22. AUTHORITY FOR USING OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION:

23. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN

ITEM

(4 copies unless otherwise specified) 10 U.S.C. 2304(a) ( ) 41 U.S.C. 253(c) ( )

24. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 7)

25. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

CODE

26. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

27. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

28. AWARD DATE

IMPORTANT - Award will be made on this Form, or on Standard Form 26, or by other authorized official written notice.

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

(REV. 9-97)

10. FOR INFORMATION CALL:

11. TABLE OF CONTENTS

STANDARD FORM 33

SOLICITATION, OFFER AND AWARD

SOLICITATION

OFFER (Must be fully completed by offeror) AWARD (To be completed by Government) cb 1 94 SOL-492-11-000010 July, 2011 X Office of Regional Procurement USAID/Philippines 8/F PNB Financial Center, Macapagal Boulevard Pasay City, Philippines 1308

See Section L Item 7 12 midnight August 7,2011 Michael Rossman 63 2 552-9921 mrossman@usaid.gov See Attached Table of Contents $.00

Regional Financial Services Center USAID/Philippines 8/F PNB Financial Center, Macapagal Blvd.

Pasay City, Philippines 1308

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SF33 – SOLICITATION, OFFER AND AWARD…………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 1

C.3 SCOPE OF WORK…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………11

PART I - THE SCHEDULE

SECTION B - SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS

B.1 PURPOSE

The purpose of this contract is to provide technical assistance and services as described in detail in Section C, Statement of Work for the implementation of USAID/Philippines’ “Strengthening the Capacity of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the Philippines” Project.

B.2 CONTRACT TYPE AND CONTRACT SERVICES

This is a cost-plus-fixed-fee (CPFF) completion-type contract. For the consideration set forth below, the Contractor shall achieve the performance objectives and deliverables or outputs described in Section in accordance with the performance standards specified herein.

B.3 ESTIMATED COST, FIXED FEE, AND OBLIGATED AMOUNT

(a) For the three year contract period, the estimated cost for the performance of the work required hereunder, exclusive of fixed fee, is TBD. The fixed fee, if any, for the contract period is TBD. The total estimated cost plus fixed fee is TBD.

(b) Within the estimated cost plus fixed fee (if any) specified in paragraph (a) above, the amount currently obligated and available for reimbursement of allowable costs incurred by the Contractor (and payment of fee, if any) for performance of the contract period hereunder is TBD. The Contractor shall not exceed the aforesaid obligated amount unless authorized by the Contracting Officer pursuant to the clause of this contract entitled “Limitation of Funds” (FAR 52.232-22). See Section I of this contract.

(c) Funds obligated hereunder are anticipated to be sufficient through TBD.

B.4 CONTRACT BUDGET AND CEILINGS

(a) The contract budget found in Section B.5, Budget, is based on the contractor’s original proposal and/or final proposal revision, which was accepted by USAID through award of this contract.

(b) Without the prior written approval of the contracting officer, the contractor may not exceed the total estimated cost set forth in the budget hereunder or the obligated amount, whichever is less.

B.5 BUDGET

(a) The following itemized budget sets forth the estimates for reimbursement of dollar costs for individual line items of cost, and the fixed fee (if any).

USAID/Philippines SOL-492-11-000010 Page 5 of 94 pages

I. Estimated Cost

1. Salaries and Wages

2. Fringe Benefits

3. Overhead

4. Allowances

5. Travel and Transportation

6. Equipment and Supplies

7. Subcontract(s)

8. Other Direct Costs

9. General and Administrative Costs

Subtotal Contract Estimated Cost

II. Fixed Fee

III. Total Estimated Contract Cost Plus Fixed Fee

Note 1- Individual subcontractors proposed as part of the offer should include the same cost element break-downs in their budget as applicable.

B.6 INDIRECT COSTS

The contract clause entitled “Allowable Cost and Payment (DEC 2002)”, FAR 52.216-7, specifies that the indirect cost rates shall be established for each of the Contractor’s accounting periods that apply to this contract. Pending establishment of revised provisional or final indirect cost rates, allowable indirect costs shall be reimbursed on the basis of the following negotiated provisional or predetermined rates and the appropriate bases:

Description Rate Base Type Period

1/ 1/ 1/

[To be determined]

B.7 ADVANCE UNDERSTANDING ON CEILING INDIRECT COST RATES AND FINAL REIMBURSEMENT FOR INDIRECT COSTS

(a) Reimbursement for allowable indirect costs shall be at final negotiated rates but not in excess of the following ceiling rates:

[To be determined]

(b) The Contractor shall make no change in its established method of classifying or allocating indirect costs without the prior written approval of the Contracting Officer.

(c) The Government shall not be obligated to pay any additional amount on account of indirect costs above the ceiling rates established in the contract.

(d) This understanding shall not change any monetary ceiling, obligation, cost limitation, or obligation established in the contract.

B.8 REIMBURSABLE COSTS

The US dollar costs allowable shall be limited to reasonable, allocable and necessary costs determined in accordance with FAR 31 (Contract Cost Principles), A-21 (Cost Principles for Educational Institutions), A-122 (Cost Principles for Non-Profit Organizations), FAR 52.216-7 (Allowable Cost and Payment), FAR

52.216-8 (Fixed Fee), if applicable, and AIDAR 752.7003 (Documentation for Payment), in order to be reimbursable under this contract.

[END OF SECTION B]

SECTION C – STATEMENT OF WORK

C.1 PURPOSE

The purpose of this contract is to provide USAID/Philippines with a set of interventions aimed at strengthening the capacity of civil society organizations (CSOs) in the Philippines. The contract will address key capacity development gaps that limit the effectiveness of CSOs to achieve sustainable and significant impact, be accountable to its constituents, and be able to effectively compete for and manage donor resources. This project will also support other efforts undertaken by USAID/Philippines to strengthen relationships between the Mission and Filipino CSOs and private sector actors.

C.2 BACKGROUND

C.2.1 Civil Society in the Philippines

Civil society is defined as the intermediate associational realm between the state and family, populated by organizations (known as civil society organizations or CSOs) which are separate from the state, enjoy autonomy in relation to the state, and are formed voluntarily by members of society to protect or extend their values or interests.

Civil society is deeply rooted in Filipino culture and is highly regarded worldwide as among the most vibrant and dynamic. Although CSOs were known to exist even during the Spanish colonial period, the restoration of democracy in 1986 and the opening up of political space for public participation in governance led to the mushrooming of CSOs in the last 25 years. Taking advantage of the supportive policy and regulatory environment, CSOs expanded their presence and their roles as political activists, advocates, watchdogs, and as vehicles for delivering basic services and achieving sustainable development. Many CSOs are members of various networks and coalitions, and the Philippines is among the pioneers in the developing world in promoting CSO codes of conduct and self-regulation.

The Non-Profit Organization Sector Assessment written by the Caucus of Development NGOs estimated the number of CSOs in the Philippines at almost half a million with the number of non-government organizations (NGOs) registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission at 76,500 as of 2008. This includes a growing number of corporate foundations or private sector-led organizations that practice corporate social responsibility. The large number of CSOs in the Philippines and the steadily decreasing flow of donor funds to the CSO community, however, mean that with the exception of perhaps a few hundred large NGOs the big majority of CSOs in the country are small, under-resourced and have significant capacity development needs.

C.2.2 USAID Support for CSOs in the Philippines

USAID was among the first international donors in the Philippines to have a large grants program with an emphasis on capacity development. From 1980 to 2000, USAID awarded approximately 200 grants amounting to an estimated $70 million. The Private Voluntary Organization Co-Financing Project I (PVO-Co-Fi I) provided grants from 1980 to 1985 to help CSOs deliver basic services to disadvantaged populations. PVO Co-Fi II (1986-1990) built the capacity of local CSOs to engage in more diverse/complex development activities. PVO Co-Fi III (1991-1995) emphasized the role of local CSOs as intermediary institutions that supported and developed the capacities of smaller organizations. PVO Co-Fi IV (1996-2000) focused on encouraging popular participation in policymaking at both local and national levels through a coalition building program. During this 20-year period, more than 130 local CSOs received direct support from USAID and hundreds more received assistance as sub-grantees.

From 1987 to 1997, USAID also implemented the Enterprise in Community Development (ECD) Project to encourage the private sector to demonstrate corporate social responsibility by investing in sustainable development. In ten years, 24 grants to local and foreign companies were made for a variety of development projects. USAID also supported the establishment of private sector networks like the League of Corporate Foundations and the Corporate Network for Disaster Response.

The impact of the series of PVO Co-Fi and private sector involvement programs was significant. USAID helped strengthen NGO capacities (e.g. program and financial management, advocacy, etc.) and facilitated the provision of basic services to communities with little or no access. USAID assisted in establishing the legitimacy of CSOs as agents of change and development. USAID support for coalition building and civic participation helped give marginalized and underrepresented sectors a voice and changed NGO-government dynamics from opposition to critical collaboration. In the process, the program helped pass or implement important public policies. Through the ECD Project, USAID stimulated the growth of private sector involvement in development. Finally, USAID supported the development of the vibrant and diverse CSO community--one of the most enduring legacies of USAID in the Philippines.

However, a combination of factors in the last ten (10) years, including the end of the stand-alone CSO support program described above, saw a decrease in funding levels, and the inability of small local CSOs to either become eligible or compete for funding led to fewer large grants that were competitively awarded. The large grants often had components that provided sub-grants to local CSOs but USAID’s direct relationship with Philippine organizations decreased.

C.2.3. USAID FORWARD

USAID Forward is an ambitious reform effort to change the way the USAID does business—with new partnerships, an emphasis on innovation and a relentless focus on results. It is a comprehensive package of reforms in seven key areas: reforming implementation and procurement, strengthening talent management, rebuilding policy capacity, strengthening monitoring and evaluation, rebuilding budget management, promoting science and technology and encouraging innovation. Consistent with the Paris Declaration for Aid Effectiveness and the Accra Agenda, this ambitious effort gives USAID the opportunity to transform itself and unleash its full potential to achieve high-impact development—while making the best use of limited resources.

USAID/Philippines was selected as a pilot mission for USAID Forward. As a pilot mission for implementation and procurement reform, USAID/Philippines seeks to further strengthen the capacity of local civil society and private sector actors to become more effective and influential development partners in their communities and in the Philippines. The Mission also acknowledges that well developed capacities will help local CSOs to become eligible and more effectively compete for resources, as well as be more accountable in the programmatic and financial management of projects and programs they will implement. USAID defines capacity development as any action that improves effectiveness of individuals, organizations, networks, or systems – including organizational and financial stability, program service delivery, program quality and growth.

C.2.4 USAID RAPID ASSESSMENT RESULTS

USAID conducted a rapid assessment of the capacity development needs of CSOs in the Philippines. The assessment consisted of desk reviews of recent internal and external studies or reports on the subject and key informant interviews for validation purposes. The various studies and the individuals interviewed principally converged on the priority areas for capacity development. These frequently interrelated areas are:

1. Planning and strategic management –formulating and articulating the long term perspective through the vision, mission, goal; identifying and addressing strategic issues; and deciding on the allocation of resources;

2. Program design and implementation–evolving strategic goals into a clear and well-articulated program, and translating design into effectively operating programs;

3. Human resource development – helping CSO staff to develop their personal and organizational skills, knowledge and abilities;

4. Fund raising and local resource mobilization – addressing organizational sustainability through the diversification of fund sources (this includes proposal writing and building relationships with the donor community), mobilizing volunteers and in-kind contributions, and networking;

5. Financial management–planning, organizing, controlling and monitoring the financial resources of an organization to achieve objectives;

6. CSO governance – implementing an internal system of checks and balances that ensures the public interest is served including the development of a functioning board and management structure;

7. Monitoring and evaluation–developing systems to effectively monitor progress towards the achievement of objectives, identifying gaps and implementing course corrections, and using empirical means to compare planned versus actual impact or results;

8. Leadership development – developing second generation leaders and a less leader-centered organization;

9. Administrative management – developing policies and standards that guide the day-to-day operation of an organization (e.g. personnel and travel policies); and

10. USAID specific requirements – understanding the USAID project proposal format, procedures, policies and reporting requirements.

C.3 SCOPE OF WORK

The Contractor will build the capacities of CSOs to empower them and make them effective so as to enable them to have a significant impact..

The Contractor will coordinate and collaborate with other organizations in a consortium approach, if necessary, to bring in specialized expertise in the provision of training or mentoring services.

C.3.1 DETAILED WORK REQUIREMENTS

The Contractor will:

1. Develop and strengthen the organizational capacity of target CSOs, in the general categories of governance, management practices, human resources, financial resources, service delivery, external relations and sustainability, through a combination of training and mentoring services;

2. Increase the pool of trainers in civil society organizational effectiveness through training of trainers (TOT) and organization activities; and

3. Effectively monitor the progress of target CSOs across the various categories of organizational capacity above using approved assessment tools.

Activities will concentrate on building the knowledge and skills required to run an efficient, cost-effective, accountable, transparent, and technically proficient organization, targeting both the capabilities of the institution as well as the individuals within the institution. The contractor is expected to subcontract with one or more organizations in order to bring in specialized expertise that will address the full range of needs of targeted CSOs.

C.3.2 Project Phases

The implementation of the project will entail the following major phases:

1. Identification of Target CSOs:

The contractor will develop selection criteria for USAID approval. At least 120 target CSOs will be jointly selected by USAID and the contractor. CSOs which are existing grantees or sub-grantees of USAID will be included among the targets to increase their effectiveness in implementing ongoing programs. Other CSOs will be jointly identified by the contractor and USAID.

2. Diagnostic Assessments:

The contractor will coordinate with target CSOs to conduct diagnostic assessment surveys of their organizational capacity. The results of the diagnostic assessments and recommendations will be discussed and validated with each CSO.

3. Development of Capacity Building Plans:

Drawing upon the results of the diagnostic assessment, the contractor will work with each CSO to develop a capacity building plan for the organization which will define the framework for the provision of tailored training and technical assistance.

The contractor will assess the organizational capacity of the target CSO, propose benchmarks for the CSO to reach annually, and develop systems for measuring and reporting on changes in capacity in specific areas and report against them. The contractor will use available organizational capacity assessment tools (e.g. Institutional Development Framework or Organizational Capacity Assessment Tool) that it shall fine-tune for this purpose.

4. Provision of Training and Technical Assistance:

The contractor will provide tailored training and on-site technical assistance to CSO staff and board members in accordance with the capacity building plan. A mix of customized training workshops, on-site technical assistance (mentoring services), and internships with more developed CSOs will be provided in implementing the project. Skills building will also be complemented by the provision of technology inputs (i.e. software) and manuals, where appropriate, to assist with the application of new skills and development of sound practices.

The contractor will use improved budgeting and computer software information systems as a starting point to introduce new management information systems and decision-making processes, introducing state of the art financial management and accounting software and best practices for non-profit organizations to address management problems and impact CSO decision-making related to internal governance. The contractor will support targeted CSOs in utilizing new media technology to support their development objectives (e.g. mobilizing support, monitoring, gathering constituent feedback, etc.).

5. Technical Support:

Once systems and procedures are introduced and improved, the contractor will monitor and provide technical support to CSOs from six months to a year to ensure full integration of the new practices into CSO operations.

6. Training of Trainers:

The contractor will identify at least 20 individuals with high potential to become trainers and/or mentors in civil society organizational effectiveness and provide Training of Trainers (TOT) activities.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation of CSO Performance:

The contractor is expected to develop a USAID-approved comprehensive performance monitoring and evaluation system and tools to assess improved capacity of CSO partners and will track performance indicators on an ongoing basis.

C.4 EXPECTED RESULTS

The contractor will measure the results to be achieved by using a combination of process and impact indicators. At the end of three years, the contractor will be assessed based on the following targets:

C.5 PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

The contractor has the ultimate responsibility for managing the contract, for achieving the performance results in the activity areas, and for determining the appropriate staffing pattern in support of its technical approach. Offerors must assemble a team with the required knowledge and experience in the components mentioned above. The team should be a combination of local and expatriate staff with proven experience, preferably in the Philippines and the region, and supplemented by strong local and/or international short-term consultants.

The contractor should assemble and deploy for the life of the project a team of up to 4 long-term local professionals. The contractor may also budget for an appropriate level of local and home office support. For illustrative purposes, the team could be composed of a chief of party, an organizational management/capacity building manager, a monitoring and evaluation manager, and a finance manager.

C.5a Qualifications of Key Personnel

The contractor shall identify, by name, the key management and technical personnel who will work under this contract. Substitutions of key personnel shall be made only as directed by the Key Personnel clause in section F.

C.5a(1) Chief of Party

The chief of party will be responsible for technical leadership and administrative oversight of the project and will serve as the principal institutional liaison to USAID.

· S/he must have a master’s degree in management, international development or related field.

· S/he must have with a minimum of 10 years professional experience in international development, with 5 years in a developing country and 5 to 7 years of management experience.

· S/he must have demonstrated capabilities in institutional capacity development, high-level strategic visioning and leadership and experience in working effectively with local civil society organizations and with USAID or other development partners.

· S/he must have proven exceptional leadership in the design, management, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of similar-sized international donor-supported programs, with skills in strategic planning, management, supervision and budgeting, and preferably must have experience in managing complex activities involving coordination with multiple program partner institutions.

· Desired but not required, s/he must have experience in managing USAID programs.

· S/he must have strong communication skills, including interpersonal and in written and oral English, to fulfill the diverse technical and managerial requirements of the program and to effectively coordinate with a wide range of stakeholders.

· S/he must have the proven ability to develop and communicate a common vision among diverse partners and the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.

· S/he must have excellent contacts with local civil society organizations and their networks or coalitions.

C.6 REFERENCES

· USAID Development Experience Clearinghouse: http://dec.usaid.gov/

· A Survey Report: Capacity Building Needs of SNGOs (http://www.angoc.ngo.ph/pdffiles/IFCB-NGO-Survey-Report.pdf)

· NPO Sector Assessment: Philippines Report (http://www.code-ngo.org/.../utf-8”NGOSectorAssessmentPhilippineReport.pdf)

· Evolution of a PVO Program: Lessons Learned in the Philippines (http://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PNACH624.pdf)

SECTION D - PACKAGING AND MARKING

D.1 AIDAR 752.7009 MARKING (JAN 1993)

0. It is USAID policy that USAID-financed commodities and shipping containers, and project construction sites and other project locations be suitably marked with the USAID emblem. Shipping containers are also to be marked with the last five digits of the USAID financing document number. As a general rule, marking is not required for raw materials shipped in bulk (such as coal, grain, etc.), or for semi-finished products which are not packaged.

0. Specific guidance on marking requirements should be obtained prior to procurement of commodities to be shipped, and as early as possible for project construction sites and other project locations. This guidance will be provided through the contracting officer’s technical representative (COTR), or by the USAID mission director in the cooperating country to which commodities are being shipped, or in which the project site is located.

0. Authority to waive marking requirements is vested with the regional assistant administrators, and with mission directors.

0. A copy of any specific marking instructions or waivers from marking requirements is to be sent to the contracting officer; the original should be retained by the contractor.

D.2 BRANDING POLICY AND STRATEGY

Branding strategy implementation and marking under this contract shall comply with the “USAID Graphics Standards Manual” available at http://www.usaid.gov/branding and any successor branding policy as detailed in the Automated Directive System (ADS) Chapter 320.

Objective: To provide prospective offerors with areas to be addressed in the development of the BIP Branding Implementation and Marking Plans so as to deliver the message that the assistance is from the American people.

Activity Name: The name of the activity shall be the “Strengthening the Capacity of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Project.” In every public event or document and in discussions with the Government of the Philippines and other counterparts, the contractor shall identify the activity as “Strengthening the Capacity of CSOs Project” on each reference.

Branding: The branding shall incorporate the message that the assistance is “From the American People”, and sponsored by USAID.

Positioning: Publicity materials and communications shall clearly reflect the notion that this activity is provided by the American People through USAID. Other organizations deemed as partners under the Project may be acknowledged publicly in connection with the “Strengthening the Capacity of CSOs Project.”

Visibility: The USAID Identity must be prominently displayed in: commodities or equipment; printed, audio, visual or electronic public communications; studies, reports, publications, web sites, and all promotional and informational products, and events.

Approval Procedures: In carrying out the approved Branding Implementation and Marking Plans, the contractor shall seek timely approval from the COTR for all public and media documents, speeches, and event preparation forms as per USAID/Manila outreach and communication procedures.

Anticipated Elements of Marking Plan: Deliverables to be marked include products, equipment and inputs delivered; places where activities are carried out; external public communications, studies, reports, publications and informative and promotional products; and workshops, conferences, fairs and any such events. Studies, reports, publications, Web sites, and all informational and promotional products not authored, reviewed, or edited by USAID must contain a provision substantially as follows, “This study/report/Web site (specify) is made possible by the support of the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID.) The contents of this (specify) are the sole responsibility of (name of organization) and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

Graphics Standard Manual: USAID’s webpage contains the electronic version of the Graphic Standards Manual that is compulsory for all contractors to follow.

D.2a Approval of Contractor Branding Implementation and Marking Plan

The contractor’s Branding Implementation and Marking Plan, submitted as Annex C to their (insert date here) proposal is approved. The contractor will follow the plan during implementation of this contract unless a waiver is requested and approved by the contracting officer. Guidance on applying for waiver’s can be found in USAID Automated Directives System Chapter 320, Branding and Marking.

[END OF SECTION D]

SECTION E - INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The following contract clauses pertinent to this section are hereby incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date) in accordance with the clause at FAR "52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE" in Section I of this contract. See FAR 52.252-2 for an internet address (if specified) for electronic access to the full text of a clause.

E.2 INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

USAID inspection and acceptance of services, reports and other required deliverables or outputs shall take place at:

Office of Economic Development and Governance USAID/Philippines 8/F PNB Financial Center Pres. Diosdado Macapagal Ave.

Pasay City, 1308 Philippines or at any other location where the services are performed and reports and deliverables or outputs are produced or submitted. The contracting officer’s technical representative (COTR) listed in Section G has been delegated authority to inspect and accept all services, reports and required deliverables or outputs.

[END OF SECTION E]

SECTION F - DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The following contract clauses pertinent to this section are hereby incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date) in accordance with the clause at FAR 52.252-2, CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE, in Section I of this contract. See FAR 52.252-2 for an internet address (if specified) for electronic access to the full text of a clause.

F.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The period of performance for this contract is three (3) years from the date of award.

F.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The place of performance will be within the Philippines. The contractor is expected to establish a central project office in Manila.

F.4 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

Evaluation of the contractor’s overall performance will be in accordance with FAR 42.15, Contractor Performance Information, and corresponding USAID procedures. The contractor’s performance will be evaluated annually and at contract completion, utilizing the performance standards set forth within this contract.

Evaluation of the contractor’s overall performance shall be the responsibility of the contracting officer, and shall form the basis of the contractor’s permanent performance record with regard to this contract.

F.5 FAR 52.217-8, OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

The government may require continued performance of any services within the limits and at the rates specified in the contract. These rates may be adjusted only as a result of revisions to prevailing labor rates provided by the Secretary of Labor. The option provision may be exercised more than once, but the total extension of performance hereunder shall not exceed 6 months. The contracting officer may exercise the option by written notice to the contractor within 60 days.

F.6 KEY PERSONNEL

The key personnel proposed by the contractor are considered to be essential to the work being performed. Unless otherwise agreed to by the contracting officer, the contractor shall be responsible for providing such personnel for performance of this contract. Replacement of key personnel cannot be made by the contractor without the written consent of the contracting officer. The listing of key personnel may, with the consent of the contracting parties, be amended from time to time during the course of the contract to add, change, or delete personnel and positions, as appropriate.

The key personnel positions which the contractor shall furnish for the performance of this contract are as follows:

F.7 REPORTS

In addition to the requirements set forth for submission of reports by AIDAR 752.242-70, Periodic Progress Report (OCT 2007), the contractor shall submit the following reports and outputs to the Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR) specified in Section G.

F.7a START-UP AND PRELIMINARY WORK PLAN

In consultation with the Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR), the contractor will develop a start-up plan that will serve as the basic blueprint for the first three months of the contract. The start-up plan will be submitted to the COTR for written approval within 30 days of the in-country arrival of the chief of party and will outline the key tasks required to make the project fully operational. These include but are not limited to:

· Establishing an office;

· Developing a staffing plan;

· Consulting with stakeholders and donors;

·…