FINAL_SOL-520-17-000003_-_A-3__.pdf

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

1. CONTRACT ID CODE

N/A

PAGE OF PAGES

1 3

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO.

3. EFFECTIVE DATE

See Section 16C

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO

N/A

5. PROJECT NO. (If applicable)

6. ISSUED BY CODE 7. ADMINISTERED BY (IF OTHER THAN ITEM 6) CODE

Acquisition and Assistance Office

USAID/Guatemala

3190 Guatemala Place

Washington DC 20521-3190

Acquisition and Assistance Office

USAID/Guatemala

3190 Guatemala Place

Washington DC 20521-3190

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., Street, County, State, and Zip Code) N/A

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

SOL-520-17-000003

9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11) 2/17/2017

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

CODE: FACILITY CODE: 10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

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 1 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 you 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 APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS,

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

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.

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

This Amendment No.3 to this RFP is hereby issued to 1) make the changes to the RFP listed as numbers 1-11 beginning in this description box and continuing through page three; 2) include Attachment No. 1 which contains the questions to the answers received in response to this Solicitation and 3) include Attachment 2 "USAID Local Compensation Plan." Therefore, RFP is modified as follows:

1. The term to "Task Order" in the Solicitation is replaced with the term "Contract",

2. Section B.6 "Indirect Costs (Dec 1997), the footnote "Major Subcontractors" whose proposed cost exceed $1,000,000 is replaced with the following:

"Major Subcotractors are those subcontractors whose proposed cost exceeds 20% of the Contractor's total proposed cost."

--- See Continuation Page for more information ---

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.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER 16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER

Dion Glisan, Contracting Officer

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR 15C. DATE

SIGNED

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 16C. DATE

SIGNED

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

NSN 7540-01-152-8070 STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 10-83)

Previous Edition Unusable Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

/s/ 3/21/2017

3. Section C.7.3 entitled "Cross Cutting Themes - USAID Gender Equality and Female Empowerment Policy," delete reference to Attachment J.3 to this RFP.

4. Section F.1.2., Reporting Requirements Summary Table, column entitled “Due Date” delete the information for Quarterly Accruals in its entirety and substitute with the following:

“15 days prior to the end of each quarter. Due dates will be: Qtr 1: Dec 15; Qtr 2: March 15; Qtr 3: June 15, Qtr 4: September 15.”

5. Section F.9 and Section L8.4 entitled “Key Personnel,” delete the language requirement for all Key Personnel positions listed in these two sections and replace it with the following:

“Must be fluent in their native language and have at least a General Professional Proficiency in their non-native language. (Reading 3/Speaking 3).”

6. Section L.7(d) “Delivery Instructions,” delete the paragraph entitled “NOTE” and replace it with the following:

“NOTE: Electronic copies should be submitted not later than the date stated in Block 9 of the SF 33 cover of this Solicitation, as amended in Amendment No. 2 which is April 19, 2017 at 3:00 pm Guatemala time. Hard copies should be submitted no later than 24 April at 3:00pm Guatemala time.”

7. Section L.8. “Instructions for the Preparation of the Technical Proposal, paragraph (a), replace the description of Annex E with the following:

“Annex E: List of the most recent contracts for which the offeror submitted reports to eSRS and a copy of the most recent 10 subcontracting reports if they were not submitted to eSRS.”

8. Section L.8. “Instructions for the Preparation of the Technical Proposals” paragraph (a), add the following annexes to the Technical Proposal:

“Annex G: Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan Annex H: Security Plan.”

9. Section L.8. “Instructions for the Preparation of the Technical Proposal, paragraph (b) entitled “Page Limitation and Format, delete the first sentence and replace it with the following:

“The page length of the technical approach will not exceed 40 pages and the length of the entire Technical Proposal must not exceed 50 pages exclusive of the Executive Summary, Annexes and other pages not subject to a page limitation (described below).”

10. “Subcontracting Plan,” should be submitted as part of Section H. Part 9 of Section L.9 entitled “Instructions for the Preparation of the Cost Proposal”. Therefore, delete reference to “Annex G:

Subcontracting Plan,” in Section L.8. “Instructions for the Preparation for the Technical Proposal.”

-- See continuation page --

PAGE NO.

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT NO. ORDER NO. AMENDMENT NO.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (CONTINUED)

STANDARD FORM 30 (CONTINUATION)

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

SOL-520-17-000003 03

11. Section M.2 “Technical Evaluation Criteria,” first bullet, delete this bullet in its entirety and replace it with the following:

“Understanding of the challenges, needs, and opportunities related to implementing the project as described in Section C and the realism, appropriateness, and sustainability of the proposed approach given the Guatemalan context. The targets, quantified, to be achieved based on the cost of the program and the Expected Results and Indicators in this RFP as proposed in the preliminary Monitoring and Evaluation Plan and Matrix.”

12. The Questions and Answers received regarding this Solicitation are hereby added to this Solicitation as Attachment No. 1.

13. The USAID Local Compensation Plan is hereby added to this Solicitation as Attachment No. 2.

--End of this Amendment--

PAGE NO.

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT NO. ORDER NO. AMENDMENT NO.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (CONTINUED)

STANDARD FORM 30 (CONTINUATION)

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

CONTINUATION PAGE 3 of 3

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

CREATING ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES (CEO)

SOL52017000003

TECHNICAL QUESTIONS

1. What does “non‐agricultural sectors” mean? Please confirm that ac䃕�vi䃕�es and targets that fall under the category of non‐agricultural sector include “Manufacturing, Services, and Other Sectors” as defined in the Dalberg 2012 study and cited in the Request for Proposal (RFP). Or, for example, would packing of green products (productos verdes), value‐added products, beverage manufacturing, or purchase of machinery and equipment for manufacturing be included? Please confirm that processed foods are considered non‐agricultural.

Non‐agricultural sectors include “Manufacturing, Services, and Other Sectors.” Value‐added agro‐industry and food processing, given similari䃕�es to light manufacturing, can be considered “non‐agricultural” and included in the CEO proposal. Offerors could contemplate the purchasing machinery and equipment under RFP Sec䃕�on Four, Private Sector Compe䃕�䃕�veness Improved, Component 4.1 ‐ Private Sector Capacity. Equipment must meet the requirements of Federal Acquisi䃕�on Regula䃕�on (FAR) Part 31, Contract Cost Principles and Procedures. Note, CEO is not the mechanism by which USAID/Guatemala will work directly with farmers. In December 2016, USAID/Guatemala published a Request For Applica䃕�on (RFA) for a project called Fomen䃕�ng Agricultural Incomes and Resilience (FAIR) that will work directly with farmers.

2. How or what will the Government of Guatemala contribute? Will it create an indirect tax?

CEO will not create an indirect tax. As per RFP Sec䃕�on C.7 Cross‐Cu蘩�ng Themes, “CEO represents an important pla尣orm by which the Government of Guatemala (GOG) and Guatemalan formal private sector can partner with the USG to combine resources and realize the objec䃕�ves set forth in the Alliance for Prosperity....CEO will maintain close dialogue with USAID and GOG en䃕�䃕�es to ensure sustained, high‐level commitment during project implementa䃕�on.”

3. How will the sectoral policy being promoted by the Ministry of Economy in Guatemala, be incorporated in the project?

As per RFP Sec䃕�on C.7 Cross‐Cu蘩�ng Themes, CEO will frequently engage stakeholders and counterparts of the various relevant development plans, including the Ministry of Economy, to efficiently move from ini䃕�al consulta䃕�ons, to involvement of the appropriate par䃕�es, and effec䃕�ve implementa䃕�on.

4. Why is there an emphasis on organiza䃕�onal experience that has previously operated – but regre挍ably the ones that have previously operated – they haven’t changed country's level of life

– I request that you take into account new and transparent organiza䃕�ons.

USAID regula䃕�ons require evalua䃕�ng past performance. However, there is not “an emphasis” on past performance. As noted in RFP Sec䃕�on M.2 Technical Evalua䃕�on Criteria, if a company does not have past performance to evaluate, then that criterion is rated “Neutral.” That is, it is not

Attachment No. 1 SOL-520-17-000003 - Amendment 3 counted “for” or “against” an organiza䃕�on in such cases.

5. In the Department of Guatemala, what are the requirements of the municipali䃕�es requested, are there any priority municipali䃕�es, so that a company could meet the technical components of the solicita䃕�on?

Based on RFP Sec䃕�on C Statement of Work, proposals should provide a brief ra䃕�onale for each municipality in which the offeror intends to operate, in order to meet CEO’s objec䃕�ves, as described in RFP Sec䃕�on C.5 Objec䃕�ve. However, the exact ac䃕�vi䃕�es and specific municipali䃕�es will likely be discussed by the successful contractor at the work plan level.

6. Is there any funding to pay for pre and feasibility studies for projects that promote investment, and improve the produc䃕�ve infrastructure in Guatemala?

Project funds may be used for pre and feasibility studies, if the offeror deems such studies are cri䃕�cal for fulfilling RFP Sec䃕�on C Statement of Work, in this par䃕�cular case Component Three – Produc䃕�ve Infrastructure Upgraded, and achieving CEO’s objec䃕�ves, as described in RFP Sec䃕�on C.5 Objec䃕�ve.

7. What are referred to when the solicita䃕�on says “intermediate and emerging ci䃕�es?” Where can we find the list of municipali䃕�es that the Mission works in?

RFP A挍achment J.6 List of Important Website Links, provides several sources that detail what are “intermediate and emerging ci䃕�es.” For example, the “Plan Nacional de Desarrollo K’atun, Nuestra Guatemala 2032” is a useful reference. See Part 3, pages 91‐145. Further, RFP Sec䃕�on C.4 Geographic Focus lists the GOG’s Alliance for Prosperity focus departments and municipali䃕�es along USAID/Guatemala’s current project departments and municipali䃕�es.

8. As USAID assigned weights to the components to clarify programma䃕�c focus, would USAID provide weights to indicate how much work is expected to occur in: 1) the Department of Guatemala; 2) Intermediary ci䃕�es and emerging; and 3) the 30 WHIP municipali䃕�es?

Weights are illustra䃕�ve, hence USAID/Guatemala will not provide weights that indicate how much work is expected to occur in each geographic area. Based on an understanding of RFP Sec䃕�on C Statement of Work, and per RFP Sec䃕�on M.2, offerors should “propose interven䃕�ons that are crea䃕�ve, innova䃕�ve, strategic, flexible, and well‐defined, which are integrated into a comprehensive approach to achieve each of the objec䃕�ves and deliver the expected results laid out in Sec䃕�on C.”

9. Can funding for the media be obtained. Example: Movies for social themes.

Possibly, as offerors should submit proposals that are innova䃕�ve and provide possibili䃕�es for long‐term “non‐agricultural” formal employment.

10. The CEO Project men䃕�ons special economic zones in Guatemala, these zones are no longer func䃕�onal due to recent changes to the law. USAID is planning to highlight their importance and include in Guatemala’s agenda?

RFP Sec䃕�on C Statement of Work, Component One – Trade and Investment Promoted, page 20, notes CEO will work with the GOG, the Guatemalan formal private sector, and municipali䃕�es to establish economic corridors, through integra䃕�ng networks of infrastructure, private enterprises, and favorable business enabling environments within geographic areas to create formal employment. These economic corridors will serve as the founda䃕�on for future SEZs.

11. How much is the GOG funding for the CEO project?

CEO will be funded by the American people through USAID. However, to achieve maximum project success, it is cri䃕�cal that CEO a挍ract and leverage resources of the GOG, from the local to federal level, and the private sector.

12. Guarantees: can a variety of banks access the DCA?

Yes, a variety of private banks can enter into a DCA agreement with USAID. Note, DCAs are offered on terms and condi䃕�ons, including fees charged, determined by USAID. For more informa䃕�on about DCA guarantees please visit https://www.usaid.gov/whatwedo/economicgrowthandtrade/developmentcreditauthor ityputtinglocalwealthwork .

13. Can other guarantees be used or are we limited to the DCA for financial products under CEO’s component 2?

Other guarantees can be used and CEO is not limited to the DCA for financial products under RFP Sec䃕�on C Statement of Work, Component Two – Financial Services Mobilized. Offerors are encouraged to include financing from as many sources as possible.

14. Is it expec䃕�ng to include financial services provided directly from the DCA mechanism?

It is not required that offerors include financial services provided directly from the DCA mechanism. Rather, proposals should include all financial services deemed necessary by the offerors to support their proposed technical approach in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

15. Is Investment in infrastructure allowed? If the answer is yes, what is the budget limit?

CEO will not invest directly in infrastructure, rather CEO will work with the GOG, municipali䃕�es, and the private sector to develop municipal plans, and evaluate / iden䃕�fy infrastructure needs;

leveraging exis䃕�ng plans when possible.

16. Is there any support to avocado Hass and asparagus, as well as financing for technical assistance and produc䃕�on?

CEO is not the mechanism by which USAID/Guatemala will work directly with farmers. In December 2016, USAID/Guatemala published a Request For Assistance (RFA) for a project called Fomen䃕�ng Agricultural Incomes and Resilience (FAIR) that will work directly with farmers.

17. Is there any space for technical and financial assistance to vulnerable groups that are outside of value chains?

Poten䃕�ally yes, as long as the technical and financial assistance is an efficient means by which to deliver the expected results of CEO.

18. In the RFP, page 20, the Statement of Work makes reference to the establishment of an investment promo䃕�on en䃕�ty, is there an envisioned structure for such an en䃕�ty and level of funding support for its establishment? Further, can USAID kindly clarify how this en䃕�ty would interact with other investment promo䃕�on en䃕�䃕�es?

The reference is to an Illustra䃕�ve Interven䃕�on, in which USAID a挍empts to give an example of what could be envisioned. Offerors should propose solu䃕�ons they deem appropriate for their technical approach to deliver the expected results of CEO.

19. Please give more informa䃕�on on how CEO will work with municipali䃕�es, u䃕�lizing the na䃕�onal planifica䃕�on system.

RFP A挍achment J.6 List of Important Website Links, provides several sources that detail the na䃕�onal planifica䃕�on system. For example, the “Plan Nacional de Desarrollo K’atun, Nuestra Guatemala 2032” is a useful reference in Part 3, pages 357‐361. For more informa䃕�on please visit http://www.segeplan.gob.gt/nportal/ .

20. For the case of Guatemala Department, can a project related with youth professional training (technical training in several areas of work demand) be submi挍ed?

Poten䃕�ally, as proposals should contain the ac䃕�vi䃕�es that offerors deem necessary to fulfill RFP Sec䃕�on C Statement of Work and deliver the expected results.

21. Is there any support with capital, for microfinance for families for commerce and agriculture?

RFP Component Two – Financial Services Mobilized notes the importance of working with financial ins䃕�tu䃕�ons to create and/or improve opera䃕�onal units to serve SMEs and remi挍ance recipients. Thus, an offeror could propose support for microfinance for families for commerce and other ac䃕�vi䃕�es that deliver the expected results described in RFP Sec䃕�on C. However, C EO is not the mechanism by which USAID/Guatemala will work directly with farmers.

22. Can CEO proposals encourage produc䃕�on coopera䃕�ves ?

CEO proposals may encourage produc䃕�on coopera䃕�ves depending on the ac䃕�vi䃕�es of the coopera䃕�ve and if such en䃕�䃕�es are formal economic en䃕�䃕�es genera䃕�ng formal employment, and align with CEO’s objec䃕�ves, as described in RFP Sec䃕�on C.5 Objec䃕�ve.

23. In the RFP, the statement of work makes suggested funding alloca䃕�on percentages. Are these inclusive of technical assistance and grant funds? How much flexibility does USAID envision in terms of differing alloca䃕�on between components by bidders? Which are the percentages of the cost structure that cannot be exceeded in the proposal?

Percentage alloca䃕�ons are sugges䃕�ons based on USAID’s es䃕�mates, offerors are encouraged to do research to iden䃕�fy clearly defined methodologies and associated costs of interven䃕�ons that provide the greatest likelihood of delivering the expected results of the contract.

24. Does USAID envision dedica䃕�ng the Project Ac䃕�vity Fund (PAF) to ac䃕�vi䃕�es above and beyond illustra䃕�ve ac䃕�vi䃕�es in the RFP? If so, may bidders propose alterna䃕�ve funds to support program ac䃕�vi䃕�es? And does USAID intend to limit all grants under CEO to $5,000,000.00 or may grants to local Guatemalan organiza䃕�ons go beyond this amount?

Offerors may propose using the Project Ac䃕�vity Fund for ac䃕�vi䃕�es above and beyond those illustrated in the RFP, if offerors envision such ac䃕�vi䃕�es will improve CEO’s results. However, it is important to note that the Project Ac䃕�vity Fund may only be used for ac䃕�vi䃕�es that fit within the scope of RFP Sec䃕�on C Statement of Work. The limit for all grants made under the PAF for CEO is $5,000,000.00.

25. What are the criteria to iden䃕�fy other communi䃕�es outside of WHIP coverage?

Offerors should propose communi䃕�es outside of the Western Highlands Integrated Program (WHIP) coverage area if such communi䃕�es further the objec䃕�ves of CEO. As noted in RFP Sec䃕�on C.4 Geographic Focus, “CEO will also have the ability to work in municipali䃕�es not currently served by the Mission. Since 2014, the aforemen䃕�oned six departments have represented a significant origina䃕�on point for unaccompanied alien children (UAC) and irregular immigrants…” Further, RFP Sec䃕�on C.5 Objec䃕�ve states, “By focusing on select municipali䃕�es in five departments of Guatemala’s Western Highlands, with par䃕�cular a挍en䃕�on given to intermediate an emerging intermediate ci䃕�es, as well as the department of Guatemala (areas with high levels of irregular migra䃕�on), CEO will benefit poor and vulnerable popula䃕�ons, par䃕�cularly youth (15 to 24‐year‐olds) and indigenous persons.”

26. Is the RFP open to other loca䃕�ons in addi䃕�on to the Highlands? E.g. Guatemala City and Alta Verapaz? Or does it need to be strictly in the loca䃕�ons men䃕�oned in the call?

CEO may work in the Department of Guatemala but may not work in Alta Verapaz. Per RFP Sec䃕�on C.4 Geographic Focus, “CEO will work in five departments of Guatemala’s Western Highlands (Huehuetenango, Quetzaltenango, Quiché, San Marcos, and Totonicapán), departments which are currently priori䃕�zed by USAID/Guatemala for reducing poverty and chronic malnutri䃕�on. However, CEO will also expand USAID/Guatemala’s economic growth program footprint into the Department of Guatemala. With jus䃕�fica䃕�on, CEO will also have the ability to work in municipali䃕�es not currently served by the Mission.”

27. In five years, only condi䃕�ons for development can be established; are you aware of that?

As shown in RFP Sec䃕�on C, EXhibit 7, CEO will support and contribute to a variety of public and private ini䃕�a䃕�ves in order to achieve its objec䃕�ves, and USAID/Guatemala envisions that these plans, or their successors will con䃕�nue, a혓er the comple䃕�on of CEO.

28. Is USAID aware that it has to provide inducements to the private sector in order for them to par䃕�cipate as well as for them to provide investment?

USAID/Guatemala is aware of the importance of private sector par䃕�cipa䃕�on in CEO to deliver the expected results. RFP Sec䃕�on C.6 notes several alliance models for iden䃕�fying, designing, and implemen䃕�ng the many public‐private partnerships that will be needed for CEO’s success.

Further, USAID has successfully partnered with the private sector on many ac䃕�vi䃕�es around the world and is confident it will be able to do so in Guatemala. Per RFP Sec䃕�on M.2, offerors should describe how they will deliver the expected results laid out in RFP Sec䃕�on C.

29. Which are the desired mechanism for coordina䃕�on with the State?

As noted in RFP Sec䃕�on C.7 Cross‐Cu蘩�ng Themes, 2. Engaging Key Stakeholders, “CEO will maintain close dialogue with USAID and GOG en䃕�䃕�es to ensure sustained, high‐level commitment during project implementa䃕�on. To that end, CEO will establish a Key Stakeholders’ Commi挍ee (KSC) and appoint a Project Manager as liaison with high‐level representa䃕�ves from the GOG. The purpose of the KSC is to ensure that CEO ac䃕�vi䃕�es and GOG priori䃕�es are aligned, and that there are frequent and formal coordina䃕�on mee䃕�ngs.”

30. Will building construc䃕�on be invested in?

Offerors may propose investment in minor building construc䃕�on, such as modifying and refurbishing exis䃕�ng structures, if such building construc䃕�on helps deliver CEO’s expected results. CEO will not invest in groundbreaking construc䃕�on. In addi䃕�on, CEO will not invest directly in infrastructure, rather CEO will work with the GOG, municipali䃕�es, and the private sector to develop municipal plans, and evaluate / iden䃕�fy infrastructure needs; leveraging exis䃕�ng plans when possible.

31. Will specific training programs be invested in?

Offerors should put forth proposals with methodologies and approaches that provide the highest likelihood of delivering CEO’s expected results, which may include inves䃕�ng in new or exis䃕�ng training programs.

32. Is there some produc䃕�ve sector not included (besides agricultural)?

Offerors should iden䃕�fy sectors that have the greatest poten䃕�al to generate formal employment and are NOT included on the list of ac䃕�vi䃕�es prohibited from receiving USAID Foreign Assistance funds. Offerors should review A挍achment J.1 Background, Exhibit 6. Mejoremos Guate:

Twenty‐Five Produc䃕�ve Sectors with the Poten䃕�al to Generate 1,000,000 jobs. Sectors marked with an * are produc䃕�ve sector ac䃕�vi䃕�es likely not supported by USAID.

33. Does CEO cover without dis䃕�nc䃕�on the intermediate results of Broad Based Economic Growth and Food Security Improved and Educa䃕�on Quality and Access Improved?

RFP Sec䃕�on C describes CEO’s four components and suggested funding alloca䃕�ons based on USAID/Guatemala’s es䃕�mates required to fulfill Sec䃕�on C Statement of Work. Offerors should prepare their proposals based on Sec䃕�on C and the fact that the RFP notes USAID/Guatemala established, for CEO, a new Sub‐IR, Sub‐IR 2.1.5: Non‐Agricultural Economic Ac䃕�vity Increased, and highlights the relevance of Sub‐IR 2.3.2: Access to Quality Non‐tradi䃕�onal Educa䃕�on Programs Increased.

34. Page 21 states that expected results for Component 1 include:

● At least 15,000 individuals employed in ECs/SEZs and the department of Guatemala

● At least 9,300 youth employed in SEZs and the department of Guatemala

● At least 7,600 women employed in ECs/SEZs and the department of Guatemala Can USAID please clarify whether the 9,300 youth and 7,600 women make up part of the 15,000 individuals employed, or are in addi䃕�on to the number of individuals employed? Also, may we count young women in both categories.

The 9,300 youth and 7,600 women are subsets of the 15,000 individuals employed. Also, yes, offerors may count young women in both categories.

35. How does USAID define the geographic boundaries for the ECs/SEZs given the desired quan䃕�fiable expected results?

Offerors should submit preliminary geographic boundaries for the ECs/SEZs in their proposals, such as naming municipali䃕�es. The selected contractor will define the specific boundaries of the ECs/SEZs during project implementa䃕�on in conjunc䃕�on with the GOG na䃕�onal and local governments, as well as the formal private sector, and other stakeholders.

36. Does the expected result of “municipal instruments of urban and rural regula䃕�on” listed under Component 3 (page 24) include instruments that can be either designed, piloted, adopted, or improved? For the 12 instruments described, does USAID want them to fall in the two categories: 1) Urban and Rural Regula䃕�on and 2) Financing Plans? Please confirm that instruments under Urban and Rural regula䃕�on include territorial development plans, urban and rural land use planning regula䃕�ng construc䃕�on, land registry and management.

● The final determina䃕�on of how expected results will be measured will be defined during the crea䃕�on of CEO’s Monitoring and Evalua䃕�on Plan (MEP).

● Yes, the 12 instruments should fall in the two categories: 1) Urban and Rural Regula䃕�on; and

2) Financing Plans.

● Yes, instruments under Urban and Rural regula䃕�on include territorial development plans, urban and rural land use planning regula䃕�ng construc䃕�on, land registry and management.

37. Can USAID provide the Project Appraisal Document for Agriculture and Educa䃕�on referenced in a挍achment J.3 (page 30)?

This document cannot be shared as it contains procurement sensi䃕�ve informa䃕�on.

Unfortunately, the reference to this document as A挍achment J.3 was not removed prior to publica䃕�on of the RFP.

38. Could you please define how USAID considers the agriculture theme?

USAID/Guatemala notes that the agriculture sector is currently the third largest contributor (13.5%) to Guatemala’s Gross Domes䃕�c Product (GDP) and will con䃕�nue to be an important part of the Guatemalan economy. However, CEO is not the mechanism by which USAID/Guatemala will work directly with farmers. In December 2016, USAID/Guatemala published a Request For Applica䃕�ons (RFA) for a project called Fomen䃕�ng Agricultural Incomes and Resilience (FAIR) that will work directly with farmers.

39. Twelve (12) of the fi혓een (15) suggested Standard Foreign Assistance indicators listed on pages 15‐17 of the RFP have been archived as of 2016. Would USAID Guatemala please provide guidance on whether they would s䃕�ll prefer to use these indicators for project repor䃕�ng? Or would USAID Guatemala provide a new set of Standard F‐indicators? Or would USAID Guatemala accept a greater number of custom indicators based on the expected results included in the RFP instead?

● RFP Sec䃕�on C, Exhibit 5. CEO Suggested Standard Foreign Assistance Master Indicator List Outcomes is s䃕�ll a valuable informa䃕�on resource as it encapsulates outcomes for CEO.

● USAID/Guatemala will NOT provide a new set of Standard‐F indicators during the solicita䃕�on process.

● Offerors may submit custom indicators that support their project design.

● Final determina䃕�on of indicators will be made during the crea䃕�on of CEO’s MEP.

40. On page 29, the RFP states that “CEO will establish a Key Stakeholders’ Commi挍ee (KSC) and appoint a Project Manager as liaison with high‐level representa䃕�ves from the GOG.” Could USAID clarify if they envision this being a stand‐alone role or a func䃕�on of role?

USAID/Guatemala envisions that the Project Manager will likely be a func䃕�on of a key personnel posi䃕�on; however, the final determina䃕�on will be made through consulta䃕�ons with the CO, the COR, GOG counterparts, and other stakeholders.

41. On page 39, the RFP states that many of the repor䃕�ng requirements are due “no later than 90 days a혓er mobiliza䃕�on.” Could USAID please clarify that this means 120 days from award since mobiliza䃕�on should be completed within 30 days?

● USAID considers mobiliza䃕�on to be the date of signature/execu䃕�on of the contract. For example, if the contract is signed by the Contrac䃕�ng Officer and countersigned by the chosen contractor on November 7, 2017, ninety (90) calendar days a혓er that date is February 5, 2018. Therefore, the reports due 90 days a혓er mobiliza䃕�on will be due on February 5, 2018.

● In the requested Personnel and Management plan, as part of the proposal submission, USAID is asking for a plan, calling it a mobiliza䃕�on plan covering the first 30 days outlining the ac䃕�ons the contractor will take, ensuring ability and commitment. Mobiliza䃕�on in these contexts can be confusing, but again, the date of mobiliza䃕�on is the signature/execu䃕�on of the contract.

● The Demobiliza䃕�on plan is due 120 days prior to the end of the contract due to the some䃕�mes lengthy processes of property disposi䃕�on, 䃕�tles to vehicles being transferred, and other such administra䃕�ve ma挍ers.

42. On page 20, the RFP states that “The GOG is responsible for enac䃕�ng laws and decrees, as such;

CEO will work with the GOG, the Guatemalan formal private sector, and municipali䃕�es to establish economic corridors, through integra䃕�ng networks of infrastructure, private enterprises, and favorable business enabling environments within geographic areas to create formal employment.” Could USAID be挍er define economic corridors in Guatemala or is it up to respondents to define?

It is up to offerors to propose ac䃕�vi䃕�es and approaches to implement economic corridors as d eemed necessary by the offerors to support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves . The term “Economic Corridor” is a widely used development term of art that offerors can research and learn about through publicly available sources.

43. On page 27, the RFP lists the following expected result: At least $93.8 million in new non‐agricultural sales generated by firms receiving USG assistance. Can USAID provide a defini䃕�on or other guidance for the term “non‐agricultural sales?” Can we assume it includes value‐added agricultural products and processed foods?

Value‐added agro‐industry and food processing, given similari䃕�es to light manufacturing, can be considered “non‐agricultural” and included in the CEO proposal.

44. On page 14, the RFP states that “Through a market‐led approach CEO will grow and expand formal businesses and employment to create income genera䃕�ng opportuni䃕�es for Guatemalans, primarily in non‐agricultural sectors.” Addi䃕�onally, pages 26‐27 contain the following expected results:

● At least 1,350 new formal non‐agricultural sector income‐genera䃕�ng opportuni䃕�es created as a result of USG assistance

● At least $9.1 million in sales generated by SMEs selling goods and services directly to the

GOG, per year

● At least $93.8 million in new non‐agricultural sales generated by firms receiving USG assistance Given the above language and the inclusion of the word “primarily,” can USAID please clarify whether some agricultural goods are to be included in the measures of expected results? If so, could USAID further clarify?

Offerors should strictly construe expected results, and if one states “non‐agricultural” then offerors must not include agricultural goods in the measure of such expected results.

45. Addi䃕�onally, can USAID confirm that the requirement for “at least $9.1 million in sales…” is included in the demand for “$93.8 million in sales generated by firms receiving USG assistance”?

Yes, the “at least $9.1 million in sales…” is included in the “$93.8 million in sales generated by firms receiving USG assistance”

46. On pages 23‐24, the RFP states that “ We will improve the coverage and quality of multimodal transport infrastructure (roads, ports, airports and railways), focusing on projects that strengthen regional integration. We will also extend and upgrade the coverage of the secondary and tertiary networks, incorporating standards of adaptability to the risks of climate change…” The following expected results are also listed:

● At least $20 million total public and private dollars leveraged by the USG for informa䃕�on and communica䃕�ons technology (ICT) and other infrastructure projects

● At least 82,000 beneficiaries receiving improved ICT and other infrastructure services due to

USG assistance The above quote emphasizes improvement in mul䃕�‐modal transport infrastructure, but the expected results highlight ICT. Can USAID clarify the focus?

The quote is taken directly from the Plan of the Alliance for Prosperity in the Northern Triangle.

In the following paragraph of the Plan, the RFP builds upon this quote by no䃕�ng the importance of produc䃕�ve infrastructure, which includes informa䃕�on and communica䃕�ons technologies.

Further, the Illustra䃕�ve Interna䃕�ons focus on infrastructure needs. Thus, proposals should address the scope of municipal development work to support ECs/SEZs in their en䃕�rety. Offerors may develop custom indicators to track ac䃕�vi䃕�es not covered and to support their proposed technical approach in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves . The final determina䃕�on for measuring expected results will be made during the crea䃕�on of CEO’s MEP.

47. Page 16, Exhibit 5, Suggested Standard Foreign Assistance Master Indicator List Outcomes lists, " Percentage of females who report increased self‐efficacy at the conclusion of USG‐supported training/programming" as a suggested indicator. The offeror respec尣ully requests USAID clarify whether there is publicly available baseline data for this indicator.

USAID/Guatemala does not have knowledge of publicly available baseline data for this indicator.

48. Page 17, Clause C6. Statement of Work, Exhibit 6 iden䃕�fies suggested funding alloca䃕�ons for each of the 4 components. The offeror respec尣ully requests whether different alloca䃕�ons among the components may be proposed based on ar䃕�culated technical approaches.

Percentage alloca䃕�ons are sugges䃕�ons based on USAID’s es䃕�mates, offerors are encouraged to conduct research to iden䃕�fy clearly defined methodologies and associated costs of interven䃕�ons that provide the greatest likelihood of delivering CEO’s expected results.

49. Page 20, Sec䃕�on C.6, Component One, Illustra䃕�ve Interven䃕�ons, states “Provide technical assistance to the GOG, municipali䃕�es, and the private sector to create an investment promo䃕�on en䃕�ty (IPE)—preferably a non‐profit organiza䃕�on func䃕�oning similar to a chamber of commerce or business consul䃕�ng corpora䃕�on whose mission is to a挍ract investment—able to implement best prac䃕�ces and monitor and evaluate its results.” The offeror respec尣ully requests USAID to confirm if the intent is to establish an en䃕�rely new non‐profit organiza䃕�on, which could poten䃕�ally work in compe䃕�䃕�on to, or in collabora䃕�on with, Invest in Guatemala.

USAID/Guatemala’s preference is for a non‐profit organiza䃕�on and offerors should determine whether crea䃕�ng a new en䃕�ty or working with exis䃕�ng ins䃕�tu䃕�ons and whether direct support to the GOG is the best method for suppor䃕�ng their proposed technical approaches in a挍aining CEO’s expected results.

50. Page 26, Component 4.1 – Private Sector Capacity, Expected Results indicates “At least 1,350 new formal non‐agricultural sector income genera䃕�ng opportuni䃕�es created as a result of USG assistance.” Given the outcome‐level of these results, can USAID clarify what is the indicator defini䃕�on of the 1,350 income genera䃕�ng opportuni䃕�es, ie., full‐䃕�me equivalent jobs?

Ideally, “new formal non‐agricultural sector income genera䃕�ng opportuni䃕�es” is defined as formal full‐䃕�me employment. The final, specific defini䃕�on will be defined in CEO’s MEP. Offerors may propose defini䃕�ons that best support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

51. Page 28, Component 4.2 – Workforce Development, Illustra䃕�ve Interven䃕�ons, first bullet, states

“develop partnerships with Guatemalan universi䃕�es and technical and voca䃕�onal educa䃕�on and training (TVET) ins䃕�tu䃕�ons.” The offeror respec尣ully requests that USAID clarify whether the indicated TVET ins䃕�tu䃕�on is intended to be INTECAP (Ins䃕�tuto Técnico de Capacitación y Produc䃕�vidad).

TVET does not refer to any one par䃕�cular ins䃕�tu䃕�on but rather ins䃕�tu䃕�ons that provide technical and voca䃕�onal training, and offerors should determine the ins䃕�tu䃕�ons with which they will work to support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

52. Page 28, Sec䃕�on C.6 Statement of Work, Component 4.2 Illustra䃕�ve Interven䃕�ons, second bullet, states “Secure partnerships with private sector enterprises, including personnel recruitment companies and workforce development organiza䃕�on.” The offeror respec尣ully requests that USAID clarify whether these partnerships with private sector enterprises, including personnel recruitment companies and workforce development organiza䃕�ons, are required to be in the SEZs or if those organiza䃕�ons may be more geographically broad.

Partnerships with private sector enterprises, including personnel recruitment companies and workforce development organiza䃕�ons, are NOT required to be in the SEZs and these organiza䃕�ons may be located elsewhere. However, the beneficiaries of such partnerships must be located within the geographic scope of CEO.

53. Page 30, Sec䃕�on C.7, 3. Gender Equality and Female Empowerment Policy, paragraph 2, states “Moreover, USAID/Guatemala performed a gender analysis for the Project Appraisal Document for Agriculture, Environment, and Educa䃕�on (A挍achment J.3 to this RFP) and CEO will develop and execute a Gender Integra䃕�on Plan (GIP) (see Sec䃕�on F of this RFP) based on the recommenda䃕�ons included in the gender analysis.” A挍achment J.3 to this RFP is the “USAID Guatemala Strategic Communica䃕�ons Results Framework” (page 118). The offeror respec尣ully requests that the gender analysis for the Project Appraisal Document for Agriculture, Environment, and Educa䃕�on be provided to be integrated in the program design and gender strategy.

This document cannot be shared as it contains procurement sensi䃕�ve informa䃕�on.

Unfortunately, the reference to this document as A挍achment J.3 was not removed prior to publica䃕�on of the RFP.

54. Can the proposals focus in just one Department?

No, a one department proposal would be incapable of delivering CEO’s expected results.

Therefore, proposals must focus on the six departments referenced in the RFP.

55. Can proposals that focus on only one component be submi挍ed?

No, a one component proposal would be incapable of delivering CEO’s expected results.

Therefore, proposals must focus on all components referenced in the RFP.

56. As a widows associa䃕�on we have three work axis, job, vic䃕�m's a挍en䃕�on, training and economic development. Can we par䃕�cipate?

All organiza䃕�ons, other than those specifically prohibited from working with USAID in the FAR, or other authority, are eligible to par䃕�cipate and submit a proposal that supports their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

57. Is there any possibility to invest in Alta Verapaz, considering these integra䃕�on condi䃕�ons:

● Associa䃕�ons / Coopera䃕�ves

● Mul䃕�na䃕�onal enterprises that perform corporate social responsibility

● Educa䃕�onal ins䃕�tu䃕�ons

● Local governance

CEO will not invest in Alta Verapaz, it is not one of the six departments within the geographic focus.

58. Will there be special a挍en䃕�on to companies that are fair trade cer䃕�fied?

CEO is open to working with companies that are fair trade cer䃕�fied; however, USAID/Guatemala does not contemplate that CEO will provide special a挍en䃕�on to such companies.

USAID/Guatemala notes that companies that are fair trade cer䃕�fied some䃕�mes have the ability to increase the market price commanded by their products as a result of being cer䃕�fied. Offerors must submit proposals that support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

59. The offeror respec尣ully requests USAID/Guatemala clarify if the external evaluators will collect the informa䃕�on for any of these outcomes, or if the offeror should include the cost for such data collec䃕�on for all the outcomes listed within its budget.

In the solicita䃕�on under F.2 Monitoring and Evalua䃕�on, it says “The Contractor will implement and manage a process of assessing and repor䃕�ng that supports reaching the program outcomes while strengthening impact.” Therefore, the Proposal must take that process into account in both the Technical Proposal and the Cost Proposal. If USAID Guatemala decides to do third party external evalua䃕�ons, that will be conducted by a separate firm, those costs are not included in the proposal budget.

60. Are proposals for Guatemala City going to be included? (working with educa䃕�onal programs in the markets)

Offerors may include proposals for Guatemala City, as the city is within the department of Guatemala, if such ac䃕�vi䃕�es support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

61. Can sports development apply?

Offerors may include sports development in their proposals if such ac䃕�vi䃕�es support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

62. Will access to microfinancing be made with refundable funds?

USAID will NOT provide refundable funds for microfinancing. Offerors may include in their proposals financial mechanisms that support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

63. Shall the proposal be addressed to all the departments that are part of the program?

In their proposals, offerors must address all the departments discussed in RFP Sec䃕�on C.

64. Is it possible to submit a proposal for university scholarships?

Offerors may submit proposals containing scholarships that support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves, as long as such scholarships and associated organiza䃕�ons are not in a class prohibited in the FAR, or other authority.

65. Shall the proposal have several components or sub‐projects or should there be just one?

The RFP is for one contract. Offerors may include components and sub‐projects in their proposals if such ac䃕�vi䃕�es support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

66. Shall the alliance be made with any GOG ins䃕�tu䃕�on and not only with local municipali䃕�es?

As noted in RFP Sec䃕�on C.7 Cross‐Cu蘩�ng Themes, Alliances may be made with GOG ins䃕�tu䃕�ons, municipali䃕�es, the private sector, and other stakeholders that offerors deem important to suppor䃕�ng their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

67. Shall the program start in Guatemala and during the 5 years of implementa䃕�on could be extended to the other 5 departments?

Offerors must focus on the six departments referenced in the RFP. Offerors must submit proposals that best support their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

68. Which are the components that should be included in the proposal?

RFP Sec䃕�on C Statement of Work and RFP Sec䃕�on L Instruc䃕�ons, Condi䃕�ons, and No䃕�ces to Contractors describe the components that should be included in the proposal .

69. Would USAID please provide informa䃕�on about any sub‐sectors that the Government prefers the bidders not to work in?

The focus of CEO is non‐agricultural sectors, including “Manufacturing, Services, and Other Sectors.” Value‐added agro‐industry and food processing, given similari䃕�es to light manufacturing, can be considered “non‐agricultural” and included in the CEO proposal.

70. Please clarify whether export promo䃕�on ac䃕�vi䃕�es including trade missions should be undertaken in Component 1 “Trade and Investment” or Component 4 “Private Sector Compe䃕�䃕�veness Improved.”

The approval and use of USAID funds for export promo䃕�on ac䃕�vi䃕�es including trade missions under Component 1 and Component 4 will be on a case‐by‐case basis and depend on the nature of the export promo䃕�on ac䃕�vi䃕�es and trade missions proposed.

71. USAID indicates that CEO will work with municipali䃕�es in the 5 departments of Guatemala’s Western Highlands and the Department of Guatemala. How many municipali䃕�es is CEO expected to work with in municipal planning? Is it USAID’s expecta䃕�on that CEO will work with all 30 municipali䃕�es priori䃕�zed by USAID, or all 16 priori䃕�zed by both USAID and the Alliance for Prosperity? Should municipali䃕�es be selected from one of those two groups? Or should the contractor propose a selec䃕�on methodology for municipali䃕�es in the targeted departments with which it will work?

Offerors should propose a selec䃕�on methodology for municipali䃕�es in the targeted departments with which it will work and deemed important to suppor䃕�ng their proposed technical approaches in mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves.

72. Will USAID support CEO to engage in English language training ini䃕�a䃕�ves for workforce development?

Offerors may propose those ac䃕�vi䃕�es not strictly prohibited in the FAR or authority, or by USAID, and that offerors deem necessary for mee䃕�ng CEO’s objec䃕�ves and delivering the expected results.

73. Given the very specific and unique role that Guatemalan ins䃕�tu䃕�ons—like Agexport and Fundesa —have played in defining and genera䃕�ng economic growth opportuni䃕�es for Guatemalans, will USAID consider either 1) making available their reports, studies, and findings regarding economic growth through an amendment or 2) requiring that all local organiza䃕�ons be non‐exclusive on bids?

● Many reports published by Fundesa and Agexport are already available online to the public, as noted in RFP sec䃕�on J.6 List of Important Website Links.

● USAID/Guatemala does not an䃕�cipate adding such a requirement.

74. Page 39, Sec䃕�on F 1.2, summarizing Repor䃕�ng Requirements, states that “Quarterly Accrual Reports 15 days a혓er the end of each quarter. Due dates will be: Qtr 1 = January 15; Qtr 2 = April 15; Qtr 3 =July 15; Qtr 4 = September 15.” However, on page 46, Sec䃕�on F1.2.M, the Quarterly Accrual Reports Sec䃕�on states, “The Contractor will submit in English to the COR and other administra䃕�ve staff as indicated by USAID, on a quarterly basis (15 days prior to the close of each quarter) an es䃕�mated accrual report by earmark including the following informa䃕�on: (1) Total amount obligated; (2) Total amount invoiced for; (3) Total amount expended but not yet invoiced for; and (4) Remaining unexpended funds.” Can USAID please confirm that the correct repor䃕�ng 䃕�meframe should be 15 days prior to the close of each quarter, or December 15, March 15, June 15, and September 15?

The correct repor䃕�ng dates are 15 days prior to the close of each quarter: December 15, March 15, June 15, and September 15.

75. Page 47, Sec䃕�on F.2 indicates that DevTech is developing a mission‐wide GIS system and that the Contractor will be required to input geospa䃕�al data into the system. Could USAID please supply a descrip䃕�on of the contents of the GIS systems and/or supply examples of the types of data to be supplied by the Contractor?

This informa䃕�on is not available at this 䃕�me. This informa䃕�on will be shared once it is available.

76. Could USAID kindly provide the following documents referenced in the RFP?: a.

USAID/Guatemala’s Par䃕�cipatory Youth Assessment of 12 municipali䃕�es (RFP p. 28) b.

A挍achment J.3—gender analysis for Project Appraisal for Agriculture, Environment, and Educa䃕�on (RFP p. 20).

These documents cannot be shared as they contain procurement sensi䃕�ve informa䃕�on.

Unfortunately, the references to these document as A挍achment J.3 was not removed prior to publica䃕�on of the RFP.

77. Could USAID provide guidance on whether Call Centers are discouraged, given the poten䃕�al compe䃕�䃕�on with U.S. jobs?

Proposals must NOT include ac䃕�vi䃕�es prohibited in the FAR and other authori䃕�es, nor provide financial incen䃕�ves and other assistance for U.S. companies to relocate opera䃕�ons abroad if it is likely to result in the loss of U.S. jobs.