Issuance Date July 15, 2008

Issuance Date: July 17, 2008 Closing Date: January 20, 2009 Last Date for Questions: July 31, 2008 1st Deadline for submission of Application: August 19, 2008 nd 2 Deadline for submission of Application: January 20, 2009 Subject: USAID/Bangladesh 2008 Annual Program Statement (APS) APS Number: USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS Post-cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Pursuant to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended, the United States Government (USG) as represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID/Bangladesh), is seeking applications from qualified U.S. Non-Profit, for-profit Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and other qualified non-USG organizations, including Public International and U.N Organizations to implement activities as described in the following Annual Program Statement (APS). Awards to U.S. organizations shall be administered in accordance with 22 CFR 226 and the Standard Provisions for U.S. Non-governmental Grantees (see Mandatory Reference, 22 CFR 226, Standard Provisions for U.S. Non-governmental Grantees, and Optional Standard Provisions for U.S. Non-governmental Grantees). Awards to non-US organizations shall be administered in accordance the Standard Provisions for Non-US organizations. Please also refer to www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/303.pdf for governing regulations, standard provisions, and required certifications that will need to be submitted by applicants at the time of award. This APS will be in effect until January 20, 2009. Applications can be submitted any time during the six month period and will be reviewed periodically after the initial deadline. The first submission deadline is August 19, 2008 and the final submission deadline is January 20, 2009. It is USAID’s intention to make awards and begin implementation as quickly as possible. Under this 2008 APS, the term "Grant" is synonymous with "Cooperative Agreement"; "Grantee" is synonymous with "Recipient"; and "Grant Officer" is synonymous with "Agreement Officer". Pursuant to 22 CFR 226.81, it is USAID policy not to award profit under assistance instruments. However, all reasonable, allocable, and allowable expenses, both direct and indirect, which are related to the grant program and are in accordance with applicable cost standards (22 CFR 226, OMB Circular A-122 for non-profit organization, OMB Circular A-21 for universities, and the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 31 for-profit organizations), may be paid under the grant. The purpose of this APS is to disseminate information about this activity to prospective applicants so they may develop and submit innovative applications for USAID/Bangladesh funding. USAID/Bangladesh anticipates one or more awards as a result of this APS. This APS: (1) provides a brief background on post Sidr reconstruction activities in Bangladesh; (2) describes the program objectives and types of activities for which applications will be considered; (3) explains the criteria for evaluating applications; (4) describes the level of funding available and the process and requirements for submitting applications; and (5) refers prospective applicants to related documentation available on the Internet. U.S. Agency for International Development U.S. Embassy Madani Avenue, Baridhara Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh Tel: (880-2) 885-5500 Fax: (880-2) 882-3648 www.usaid.gov/bd Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS Subject to availability of funds and completion of USAID internal procedures, USAID anticipates awarding one or more cooperative agreement(s) (hereafter called Agreements) for a period of up to two years, to fund successful applications submitted in response to this APS. USAID expects approximately $14 million will be available in FY 08 with the possibility of additional funding of approximately $19 million thereafter. Activity duration is anticipated to be from 12 to 24 months. Priority will be given to applications that can be launched rapidly and have greater and more sustainable impact on livelihoods and increased food security. USAID reserves the right to make more or no awards as a result of this APS. USAID strongly encourages applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible, as it is USAID’s intent to make awards to the extent possible in the first round of selections. Proposals received during FY 2008 but unable to be negotiated and awarded prior to September 30, 2008 may be considered for award in FY 2009, pending the availability of funds. USAID strongly encourages U.S. or international partners to: 1) find ways to work directly with local NGOs and other local organizations and that all planning and implementation be conducted with their active and full involvement; and 2) to consider mechanisms, such as umbrella grants, that will allow for substantial small grants to local organizations and PVOs. NGOs and PVOs indigenous to Bangladesh are encouraged to apply. This Sidr Reconstruction 2008 APS consists of this cover letter and the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Section A - Program Description; Section B - Selection Criteria; Section C - Grant Application Format; Section D - Certifications, Assurances, and Other Statements of Applicant/Grantee Section E - Annexes Any questions regarding this APS should be submitted in writing to Mr. Shafique Nazim, Senior A&A Specialist, and Samiul H. Khan, A&A Specialist, via e-mail to snazim@usaid.gov and sakhan@usaid.gov respectively, or via fax at (880-2) 881-5050. Questions regarding this APS should be submitted no later than July 31 to provide sufficient time to address the questions and incorporate the questions and answers as an amendment to this solicitation. The preferred method of distribution of USAID APS and of submission/receipt of applications is electronically via www.grants.gov, which provides a single source for Federal governmentwide competitive grant opportunities. This APS and any future amendments (including the answers to questions asked in response to this APS) can be downloaded from that Web Site. In order to use this method an Applicant must first register on-line with Grants.gov. It is the responsibility of the Applicant to ensure that the complete document has been received from the website in its entirety. USAID bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes. If you have any difficulty accessing the APS, please contact Mr. Shafique Nazim, Senior A&A Specialist, and Samiul H. Khan, A&A Specialist, via e-mail to snazim@usaid.gov and sakhan@usaid.gov respectively. 2 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS Applicants shall submit their applications either in hard copy or electronically via the www.grants.gov website. No additions or modifications will be accepted after the submission date. Please see Section C of this APS for detailed instructions regarding submission of applications. Applications and modifications thereof shall be submitted with the name and address of the applicant and the APS number (referenced above) inscribed thereon, to Shafique Nazim, Senior A&A Specialist, and Samiul H. Khan, via e-mail to snazim@usaid.gov and sakhan@usaid.gov respectively. Applications may be sent by international air courier or delivered by hand to the address below: Via U.S. Mail: Regional Agreement Officer U.S. Agency for International Development U.S. Diplomatic Post Office Unit 6120 Box 1000 APO AP 96562-1000 Hand or Air Courier Service: Regional Agreement Officer Regional Acquisition and Assistance Office U.S. Agency for International Development C/O American Embassy Madani Avenue, Baridhara Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh Fax: (880 2) 881-5050 Telephone: (880 2) 885-5500 Please be advised that in the past some firms have experienced delays with international air courier services. It is legitimate to declare the CDs included in the proposals as ―documents‖ for local customs purposes. Applications received after the closing date and time will be processed as late. Also, if you utilize the services of an independent agent in Bangladesh to deliver your application, please be certain that he/she understands additional time may be needed to allow for security review of any packages and that the closing date and time are firm. Please note that the U.S. mail given above is via a Diplomatic Post Office and may take up to three weeks for delivery to USAID/Bangladesh in Dhaka, Bangladesh. USAID and the State Department accept no liability for late delivery, or non-delivery, attributable to the Diplomatic Post Office. Applicants should plan accordingly. Note: Delivery to the U.S. mail, post office or air courier representative does not constitute meeting the statutory requirement that applications are received on time at the designated office. For purposes of recording the official receipt of applications, the date/time stamp of the Regional Acquisition & Assistance Office at USAID/Bangladesh will govern. Applicants are requested to submit both technical and cost portions of their applications in separate volumes. Award will be made to the responsible applicant(s) whose application(s) offers the greatest value to the U.S. Government as determined by the Agreement Officer. This APS is issued as a public notice to ensure that all interested parties have a fair opportunity to submit applications for funding. Issuance of this APS does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the Government, nor does it commit the Government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of an application. Final award of any resultant grant(s) cannot be made until funds have been fully appropriated, allocated, and committed through internal USAID procedures. While it is anticipated that these procedures will be successfully completed, potential Applicants are hereby notified of these requirements and conditions for award. Applications are submitted at the risk of the Applicant; should circumstances prevent award of 3 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS any cooperative agreement, all preparation and submission costs are at the Applicant's expense. In the event of an inconsistency between the documents comprising this APS, it shall be resolved by the following descending order of precedence: (a) Section A - Program Description; (b) Section B - Selection Criteria; (c) Section C - Grant Application Format; (d) Section D - Certifications, Assurances, and Other Statements of Applicant/Grantee. (e) Section E - Annexes (e) This Cover Letter. Applicants should retain for their records one copy of all enclosures which accompany their application. Thank you for your interest in USAID’s programs and activities. Sincerely, A/S Jamie Alissa Beck Agreement Officer USAID/Bangladesh 4 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE SECTION A: PROGRAM DESCRIPTION…………………………………………………… 5 A.1. Program Purpose…………………………………………………………………. 5 A.2. Program Goal…………………………………………………………………… A.3. Program Background and Rationale…………………………………..…….. A.4 Illustrative Expected Outputs 6 6 SECTION B: SELECTION CRITERIA…………………………………………………… B.1 Overview………………………………………………………………………. B.2 Cost Evaluation Criteria……………………………………………………… B.3 Technical Evaluation Criteria………………………………………….…….. SECTION C: GRANT APPLICATION FORMAT……….………………………………… 16 16 16 17 19 C.1 Preparation Guidelines………………………………………………………………19 C.2 Technical Application Format …………………………………….……………….. 20 C.3 Cost Application Format ………………………………………………..…………. 23 C.4 Submission of Applications ………………………………………..….…………… 26 C.6 Grant Award………………………………………………………………………… 26 SECTION D: CERTIFICATIONS, ASSURANCES, & OTHER STATEMENTS OF RECEIPTS…………………………………………………………………………………… 27 D.1 Part I – Certifications and Assurances………………………………….………… 27 D.2 Part II – Other Statements of Recipient ………………………………………….…28 D.3 Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants…..……………………… SECTION E: ANNEXES……………………………………………………………………. 29 30 5 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS SECTION A PROGRAM DESCRIPTION A.1 Program Purpose The purpose of this Annual Program Statement (APS) is to request innovative proposals to provide increased and sustainable livelihood opportunities for the cyclone-affected population in certain areas of Bangladesh, as described in Section A.4. Pursuant to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended, the United States Government (USG) as represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID/Bangladesh) is seeking applications from any U.S. or Non-U.S. Profit or Non-Profit, Non-Governmental Organizations to implement activities as described in the following Annual Program Statement (APS). Awards to U.S. organizations shall be administered in accordance with 22 CFR 226 and the Standard Provisions for U.S. Non-governmental Grantees (see Mandatory Reference, 22 CFR 226, Standard Provisions for U.S. Non-governmental Grantees, and Optional Standard Provisions for U.S. Non-governmental Grantees). Awards to non-US organizations shall be in accordance the Standard Provisions for Non-US organizations. Please also refer to www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/303.pdf for governing regulations, standard provisions, and required certifications that will need to be submitted by applicants at the time of award. A.2 Program Goal To restore livelihoods and provide increased and sustained livelihood opportunities for the cycloneaffected population in southern Bangladesh. A.3 Program Background and Rationale With a population exceeding 152.6 million in an area the size of the state of Iowa, Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world and one of the poorest. Sixty five out of every 1000 children die before the age of 1. Forty-one percent of the population subsists on less than $1/day and seventy percent subsists on less than $2/day. Malnutrition is high and stunted growth is common. There is a high prevalence of respiratory and intestinal disease, in part due to weakened immune systems as a result of extreme living conditions. Cyclone Sidr struck the southwestern coast of Bangladesh on November 15, 2007 causing widespread damage and destruction to approximately 30 of Bangladesh’s 64 districts, mainly within the Barisal and Khulna Divisions. In addition to damaging winds of 220-240 km/hr, an eight foot wave traveled 60-70km up river and impacted the low lying coastal area. According to the Government of Bangladesh, at least 8.9 million people were directly affected by this disaster, with significant loss of life and even greater loss of livelihoods and assets. More than 3,400 people died, and many more were reported missing or injured. Historical evidence shows that women and children are the most vulnerable during and after this kind of natural disaster. A World Bank (WB) assessment estimated the total damage and losses caused by the cyclone to be US$ 1.7 billion (2.2 percent of the GDP) where the most affected individual sectors, in order of decreasing magnitude of total effects, were housing (BDT 57.9 billion), agriculture (BDT 30.2 billion), transport (BDT 9.7 billion), water resource management and control (BDT 4.9 billion), and education (BDT 4.7 billion). (WB, 2008). In addition to economic damage from the 6 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS cyclone, Bangladesh already suffered $1.4 billion loss in economic terms due to two major floods earlier in the year. According to the World Bank report, approximately 2 million people have lost income and employment in the more affected districts. Women have been hit particularly hard. Income this year has been reduced to about a third of the average. After Cyclone Sidr hit Bangladesh, USAID provided $23.3 million in immediate relief and reconstruction for the affected population. On June 30, 2008, PL 110-252 was enacted into law, authorizing an additional $25 million in funding for cyclone recovery and reconstruction for FY 2008 and $50 million for FY 2009. Part of this funding, if available, will be used to fund livelihood activities under this APS. The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest and a critical storm buffer for the country, was severely hit by Cyclone Sidr. In addition to being a Bangladeshi national treasure, this protected forest is declared a World Heritage site and is the last remaining habitat of the Royal Bengal Tiger. It also supports the livelihoods of numerous communities (approximately 3.5 million people) who live in the forest boundary zones. Almost a third of this area, or an estimated 110,000 hectares, has been severely damaged by the storm. Loss to the environment throughout the cyclone affected areas is initially estimated at $12 million. Even before Cyclone Sidr, the areas hit by the cyclone were among the poorest parts of the country. The average population density in the cyclone-hit areas is 1,500 persons per square mile—an extremely dense population by any country’s standards. Most of the population living there are landless day laborers. During the rehabilitation phase, the USG seeks to restore livelihoods of both men and women as quickly as possible so that people affected by the cyclone do not migrate out of rural areas and stress already overburdened urban and peri-urban social services and available resources. Livelihoods in the cyclone affected area primarily revolve around agriculture and fishing (including shrimp farms). The agricultural sector represents 22% of the GDP and employs 60% of the labor force. Total exports amount to $8.6 billion. Fish and seafood account for $421 million, jute products for $402 million and leather products for $221 million. Shrimp exports alone are the second largest source of foreign currency for the country, second only to readymade garments. Bangladesh was the fourth largest producer of rice in the world last year, all of which was used for internal consumption. This year, preliminary estimates show that more than 600,000 hectares of ready-to-harvest crops (mainly rice) have been completely destroyed while another 500,000 hectares of crops have suffered damage according to the government of Bangladesh (GOB). Seedlings have been lost and seed multiplication units heavily damaged. In addition, 95% of ponds used in the shrimp and fish industry have been washed away or flooded with salt water and debris. The Department of Fisheries estimates that there have been over $50 million in stock losses and damages. The loss of over 350,000 livestock (cattle, goats, poultry, etc.) further impacts income generation in the affected area. Animals are a critical asset for wealth storage and income generation, such as selling milk and leather products. Their loss represents not only a loss of savings but also a decline in income generating opportunities for both men and women. Damage to jetties, docks, roads, bridges and other transport and communication infrastructure has hindered secondary sector activities affecting day laborers, public transport operators (cycle vans and rickshaws pullers), and market traders. Income generation has been severely affected and will continue to suffer in the months to come given the massive loss of crops and destruction of fisheries. The GOB estimated that over 8,075 kilometers (km) of road are 7 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS damaged with corresponding costs estimated at $25 million, along with 1,687 bridges and culverts. A.4 Illustrative Expected Outputs USAID/Bangladesh will measure the progress toward the targeted results of its reconstruction program by monitoring selected indicators. Data for these indicators will be gender disaggregated, whenever possible. Applicants for funding under this APS should state clearly how activities they are proposing relate to these results and how data will be disaggregated, tracked and reported. USAID/Bangladesh is focusing on the following results and their respective indicators:  Number of farmers, processors, and others who have adopted new technologies or management practices as a result of USG assistance (EG 5.2 Agricultural Sector Productivity);Number or rural households benefiting directly from USG interventions (EG 5.2 Agricultural Sector Productivity); Number of productive assts (livestock, seeds, fertilizer, fingerlings, larvae, feed, etc.) distributed; Number of contaminated ponds cleaned up and restored to fishing/shrimp production; Number of beneficiaries of Cash for Work or Food for Work interventions; Number of person days of employment generated; Number of people with increased economic benefits derived from sustainable natural resources and management and conservation as a result of USG assistance (EG 8.1 Natural Resources and Biodiversity); Number of people with increased economic benefits derived from sustainable natural resources management and conservation as a result of USG assistance (EG 8.1 Natural Resources and Biodiversity); Number of people with increased adaptive capacity to cope with impacts of climate variability and change as a result of USG assistance (EG 8.2 Clean Productive Environment); Percent increase in revenue; Percent increase in agricultural yields. Priority Livelihood Activities          A.5 For a background on existing USAID/Bangladesh Economic Growth and Food Security programs, their location and implementers, refer to a brief description of current USAID/Bangladesh activities in Annex 1 to this APS. In the past 8 months since the cyclone hit, some people have started rebuilding; however, a large number of people haven’t been able to recover, particularly women. They need support to not only rebuild their livelihoods, but to build back better. USAID/Bangladesh is interested in funding proposals that support economic recovery by assisting in livelihood development in any or all of the following ways: (1) restoring productive assets (seeds, technologies for composting and improved soil fertility, tools, nets, boats, poultry, plant nurseries, homestead gardening, etc.) (2) increasing the purchasing power of affected populations (cash for work activities, small grants, etc); (3) providing alternate income generating activities to communities; and, (4) supporting the resumption of widespread market activity (rehabilitation of market access roads, market infrastructure, small grants to small and 8 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS medium enterprises, etc.) USAID is particularly interested in supporting the development of alternative income generating activities in the forest and wetland areas in and around the Sundarbans, thereby helping protect the recovery and conservation of the remaining natural resources. USAID is also interested in funding activities targeted toward agriculture and aquaculture/fisheries, since both these sectors are equally critical in reestablishment of livelihoods in Sidr-affected areas. A.6 Geographic Code The geographic code for procurement of goods and services under the resulting Cooperative Agreements is 935. A.7 Supporting Local Organizations USAID/Bangladesh encourages Profit and Non-Profit NGOs to support, mentor, partner, and collaborate with Bangladeshi organizations. International agencies working through local partners are encouraged to ensure that partners have the capacity to carry out expanded programs, and should consider a capacity-building component, which will leave a lasting impact on local partner agencies. USAID/Bangladesh also encourages Bangladeshi Profit and NonProfit NGOs to submit proposals to USAID. A.8 Partner Eligibility Criteria Partners could include a wide array of organizations such as: U.S and Bangladeshi nongovernment organizations (NGOs), international organizations and civic groups. All prospective partners must be legally established, must be organizations with a reputation for integrity and the highest standard of conduct, and a proven track record in their particular area of expertise. They should be able to provide evidence of a strong commitment to the proposed objectives, have experience in working in partnerships with others and have proven ability to handle and account for funds. It is the responsibility of applicants to ensure that local partners do not appear on the Excluded Parties List which includes the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control Specially Designated and Blocked Persons List, which can be found at: http://epls.gov. A.9 Gender USAID is committed to mainstreaming gender across all its activities; therefore, applicants should clearly demonstrate their commitment towards addressing gender issues throughout their proposed activities. A.10 Other Donors Where possible, applications should demonstrate coordination with other donor funding, including other USAID projects, other NGOs, PIOs and other donors, such as the EU or DFID. A.11 Geographic Areas of Focus Applications should clearly list other organizations working in the same geographic area and in what relevant sector(s) they are working. Applicants should state how they will coordinate with these organizations in order to prevent duplication or gaps and maximize cost-effectiveness. 9 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS Under this APS, funding for program implementation will only be considered for the following targeted districts: Bagerhat, Barguna, Barisal, Bhola, Gopalgang, Jhalokathi, Khulna, Madaripur, Patuakhali, Pirojpur, Satkhira, and Shariatpur. A.12 Cost Per Beneficiary Applicants are requested to state in their applications (1) the estimated cost per beneficiary, and (2) the percentage of the affected population (by district) to be served under any resulting award. Given the nature of this activity, it is understood that beneficiary numbers will be notional. 10 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS SECTION B SELECTION CRITERIA B.1. Overview The criteria presented below have been tailored to the requirements of this particular APS. Applicants should note that these criteria serve to (a) identify the significant matters which Applicants should address in their applications, and (b) set the standard against which all applications will be evaluated. To facilitate the review of applications, Applicants shall organize the narrative sections of their applications in the same order as the technical evaluation criteria listed below (see Section C.II for a discussion of these items). The technical applications will be evaluated in accordance with the Technical Evaluation Criteria set forth below. Thereafter, the cost application of all Applicants submitting a technically acceptable application will be opened and costs will be evaluated for general reasonableness, allowability, and allocability. Technical criteria are significantly more important than cost factors. USAID reserves the right to enter into negotiations or discussions with one or more applicants based upon initial applications received. The technical application will be the most important item of consideration in selection for these assistance awards. It should be specific, complete, and presented concisely. Applicants should review all information in this APS in depth prior to preparing applications, especially program description, eligibility, and evaluation criteria. The technical application should be directly responsive to the terms, conditions, guidelines and provisions of this APS to be assured of consideration. Applications not conforming to this APS may be categorized as not meeting the minimum requirements of the Government, thereby eliminating them from further consideration. The technical application must set forth in detail the conceptual approach, methodology, and techniques for accomplishment of the stated program objectives. The application must define results and benchmarks for monitoring progress in achieving the results. Applicants are reminded that the Government is not obligated to make an award on the basis of lowest proposed cost or to the Applicant with the highest technical evaluation score. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis as they are received. The Agreement Officer will make award(s) to the Applicant(s) whose application(s) is/are judged to be the most advantageous in accomplishing the objectives of the program, considering both technical and cost factors. Applications received in response to this Annual Program Statement will be evaluated against the following selection criteria: B.2. Technical Evaluation Criteria a. b. c. d. Technical Approach Management Plan Key Personnel and Professional Staff Organizational Capacity and Past Performance Total Score 40 20 20 20 100 11 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS B.3. Cost Evaluation Criteria Evaluation points will not be awarded for cost. Cost will primarily be evaluated for realism, allowability and the applicant’s understanding of the requirements. The evaluation of the cost proposal shall deal with cost realism analysis. This will consist of a review of the cost portion of an application for the work to be performed, to determine whether the costs reflect the Applicant's understanding of the requirements, and whether the costs are consistent with the technical application. The cost realism analysis is intended to meet the three goals outlined below. (1) Verify the Applicant's understanding of the requirement. (2) Assess the degree to which the cost proposal reflects the approaches in the technical application. (3) Assess the degree to which the costs included in the cost proposal accurately represent the work effort Included in the technical application. Effective innovative cost saving measures, use of local resources to maximize program benefits and improve cost efficiency of the program will also be considered. While cost may be a determining factor in the final decision of an awardee(s), especially between closely ranked applicants, the technical merit of applications is substantially more important under this APS. B.4. Cost Sharing Although there is no requirement that applicants propose a specific cost share, USAID policy is that cost sharing is an important element of the USAID-recipient relationship. USAID encourages applicants to demonstrate their commitment to program success by addressing the issue of cost-sharing, where funds are appropriate and available. Cost share may be considered as part of the cost evaluation process. All cost share contributions shall be reflected separately in the budget. - END OF SECTION B - 12 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS SECTION C GRANT APPLICATION FORMAT I. PREPARATION GUIDELINES All applications received by the deadline will be reviewed for responsiveness to the specifications outlined in these guidelines and the application format. Applications may be submitted at any time prior to the deadline. Section B addresses technical and cost evaluation criteria. Applications received after January 20, 2009 will not be considered for award. Points of Contact: Shafique Nazim, Sr. A&A Specialist USAID/Bangladesh E-mail: snazim@usaid.gov Phone: (880-2) 885-5500, Exten: 3553 Fax No. (880-2) 881-5050 Samiul H. Khan, A&A Specialist USAID/Bangladesh E-mail: sakhan@usaid.gov Phone: (880-2) 885-5500, Fax No. (880-2) 881-5050 Technical applications should be specific, complete and presented concisely. Applications should demonstrate the applicant's capabilities and expertise with respect to achieving the goals of this program. Applicant shall take into account the evaluation criteria found in Section B. Applicants should retain for their records one copy of the application and all enclosures which accompany it. Erasures or other changes must be initialed by the person signing the application. II. TECHNICAL APPLICATION FORMAT The Technical Application in response to this APS should address how Applicants intend to carry out the Program Objectives contained in Section A. It should also contain a clear understanding of the work to be undertaken and the responsibilities of all parties involved. The technical application should be organized in line with the technical evaluation criteria listed in Section B. The suggested outline for the technical application is: I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII. Table of Contents, listing all page numbers and attachments Executive Summary Technical Approach Management Plan Key Personnel and Professional Staff Organizational Capacity and Past Performance Annexes: a. Relevant Past Performance Information (Recipient and Key Partner Organizations, if applicable); b. Curriculum Vitae for Key Personnel; c. Program Implementation plan; Gantt charts etc 13 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS d. Performance Monitoring Plan. Applicants are encouraged to review Results-Oriented Assistance: a USAID Sourcebook, which may be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/pubs/sourcebook/usgov/. The program description section of the application will become the program description of any resulting award. The length of the Technical Application shall not exceed 15 single-spaced typed pages. The Technical Application shall be in English and typed on standard 8 ½ x 11‖ paper in 12 point Times New Roman or similar font. It shall include an Executive Summary, not to exceed 2 pages. The Executive Summary shall provide a clear overview of the results to be achieved, milestone or benchmark measures of progress towards achievement and brief summary of applicant’s experience in initiating and administering activities like those described on the program description. Past performance references, the performance monitoring and evaluation plan, and personnel resumes are excluded from the 15-page limitation and may be included as annexes to the technical application. There is no page limitation on the Cost Proposal. However, unnecessarily elaborate brochures or other presentations beyond those sufficient to present a complete and effective application in response to this APS are not desired and may be construed as an indication of the prospective recipient's lack of cost consciousness. Elaborate art work, expensive paper and bindings, and expensive visual and other presentation aids are neither necessary nor wanted. 1. Technical Approach The technical approach should be methodologically sound and based on clear analysis of the challenges to be tackled. Applicants are encouraged to present creative and innovative approaches, with the potential for replication, to deal with these complex issues. The sequence and timing of activities to be undertaken should be realistic. Applications should answer the following questions: - What will be the targeted outcomes of the proposed activities? - How will the proposed technical approach be reasonably expected to produce the intended outcomes? - How will outcomes be measured? - How will issues of gender be addressed in the proposed activity? The analysis should be informed, compelling, and clearly cite source(s) of information used in the analysis, including relevant stakeholders consulted and involved in the analytical process. As part of the Technical Approach, applicants must provide implementation plans that provide the following information: a. b. c. Sequence of interventions, including Gantt Charts Timeframe for implementing each /intervention Outcome of each intervention 14 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS Applications must also provide a monitoring and evaluation plan that includes proposed milestones and expected accomplishments, with measurable output and performance indicators. Plans should indicate how: a. Outcomes will be measured; b. Outcomes will contribute to results (as measured by the indicators listed in Section A.4 of this APS); c. Baseline information will be collected; and d. Methods for end of project evaluations. 2. Management Plan The applicants should propose a management plan and describe how the proposed plan will contribute towards achieving the objectives and results described in the program description. The proposed plan should specifically state and justify the composition and organizational structure of the entire project team. It should also describe how the technical expertise and experience of all staff members will achieve the expected results in the program description. The plan should specify the roles and estimated amount of time each staff member will devote to the project and/or specific components within the project. If the applicant plans to collaborate with other organizations, government agencies or indigenous organizations for the implementation of the award, the services to be provided by each agency or organization shall be described. Applicants who intend to utilize sub-grantees and/or subcontractors shall indicate the extent intended, the method of identifying them and the tasks/functions they will be performing. Applicants shall state whether or not they have existing relationships with these other organizations and the nature of the relationship (e.g., sub-grantee, subcontractor, partnership etc). The applicant must specify the technical resources and expertise of proposed subcontract/sub-recipient organizations. The management plan shall also include the mobilization plan. This should provide a step-bystep outline of how the applicant will get the activity underway and include a clear timeline. 3. Key Personnel and Professional Staff Applicants must propose which positions should be designated as Key Personnel and provide personnel qualifications for key and professional staff that would be utilized on this program if an award is made and provide references for the candidates proposed for such positions. Specify the qualifications and abilities of proposed key personnel that are suited to successfully implementing the proposed technical approach. The Chief of Party should have a proven track record of managing such programs. The applicant shall also include, in an annex, resumes for all key personnel candidates and personnel of significant positions. Resumes may not exceed three pages in length and shall be in chronological order starting with most recent experience. Each resume shall be accompanied by a Signed letter of commitment from each candidate indicating his/her: (a) availability to serve in the stated position, in terms of days after award; (b) intention to serve for a stated term of the service; and (c) agreement to the compensation levels which corresponds to the levels set forth in the cost application. As references may be checked for all proposed long-term personnel, a minimum of three references for each proposed longterm person is required. Applicants should provide current phone, fax and email address for each reference contact. 4. Organizational Capacity and Past Performance 15 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS This criterion will be used to assess demonstrated ability of the organization (or organizations in the case of joint applications) to deliver livelihood interventions and results, including a record of past and present performance in similar programs and activities. The demonstrated effectiveness of an organization will be assessed through a consideration of such factors as the organization's governance and leadership, internal structure, strategic goals and objectives, technical capacity, human and material resources, and operational management. The organization's financial management capability is of particular concern. Specific factors to be considered include:  Demonstrated capacity of the Applicant to manage (technically, administratively and financially) a project of similar type and complexity and to deliver the required results within a given timeframe; The Applicant’s track record in developing and implementing activities; developing, tracking and analyzing performance indicators; and managing performance indicator data to ensure audit-worthiness; The Applicant’s contacts and links with Bangladeshi organizations in order to facilitate immediate program implementation; and Demonstrate capacity and experience on working on gender issues on livelihood interventions; Demonstrated experience in working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders from the governmental and non-governmental sectors, and in bringing such groups into dialogue.     Applicants must submit contact information of at least three partners and/or clients with whom they have worked in the past three years in the implementation of similar programs. The reference information shall include the location, current telephone numbers, points of contact, award number if available, and a brief description of work performed. Information in this section should include (but is not limited to) the following: (1) Brief description of organizational history/expertise; (2) Past experience and examples of accomplishments in developing and implementing similar programs; (3) Relevant experience with proposed approaches; (4) Institutional strength as represented by breadth and depth of experienced personnel in project relevant disciplines/areas; (5) Sub-awardee or subcontractor capabilities and expertise; and (6) Financial controls Applicants must submit a list of the three most recent U.S. Government and/or privately-funded contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, etc., and the name, address, email address and telephone number of the Project Officer, activity manager or other contact person. Include the following for each award:    Name of awarding organization or agency; Address of awarding organization or agency; Place of performance of services or program; 16 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS      Award number; Amount of award; Term of award (begin and end dates of services/program); Name, current telephone number, current fax number, and email address (if one is available) of a responsible technical representative of that organization or agency; Brief description of the program. 5. Marking under Assistance Instruments USAID’s mandatory branding/marking requirements became effective on January 2, 2006. The Applicant may review and download the regulations, guidance, and graphics at www.usaid.gov/branding. Applicants selected for award will be required to provide a ―Branding Strategy‖ and a ―Marking Plan‖ for review and inclusion in the final award by the Grant officer. III. COST APPLICATION FORMAT The Cost or Business Application is to be submitted under separate cover from the technical application. Certain documents are required to be submitted by an applicant in order for a Grant Officer to make a determination of responsibility. However, it is USAID policy not to burden applicants with undue reporting requirements if that information is readily available through other sources. There is no page limitation on the Cost Proposal. However, unnecessarily elaborate brochures or other presentations beyond those sufficient to present a complete and effective application in response to this APS are not desired and may be construed as an indication of the prospective recipient's lack of cost consciousness. Elaborate art work, expensive paper and bindings, and expensive visual and other presentation aids are neither necessary nor wanted. The following sections describe the documentation that applicants for an assistance award must submit to USAID prior to award. While there is no page limit for this portion, applicants are encouraged to be as concise as possible, but still provide the necessary detail to address the following: 1. A budget with an accompanying budget narrative which provides in detail the total costs for implementation of the program your organization is proposing. In addition to the detailed budget, a summary of the budget must be submitted using Standard Form 424 and 424A which can be downloaded from the following web site: http://www.grants.gov/agencies/aapproved_standard_forms.jsp#1 2. The cost/business application should contain the following budget categories: a. Direct Labor - Direct salaries and wages for each year of the Agreement shall be in accordance with the organization's established personnel policies. To be considered adequate, the policies must be in writing, applicable to all employees of the organization, is subject to review and approval at a high enough organizational level to assure its uniform enforcement, and result in costs which are reasonable and allowable in accordance with applicable cost principles. The narrative should include a level of effort 17 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS analysis specifying personnel, rate of compensation, and amount of time proposed. Anticipated salary increases during the period of the Agreement should be included. b. Fringe Benefits - If accounted for as a separate item of cost, fringe benefits should be based on the Applicant's audited fringe benefit rate, supported by a Negotiated indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) or historical cost data. If the latter is used, the narrative should include a detailed breakdown comprised of all items of fringe benefits (e.g. unemployment insurance, workers compensation, health and life insurance, retirement, FICA, etc.) and the costs of each, expressed in dollars and as a percentage of salaries. c. Supplies and Equipment - Differentiate between expendable supplies and nonexpendable equipment (NOTE: Equipment is defined as tangible nonexpendable personal property including exempt property charged directly to the award having a useful life of more than one year and an acquisition cost of $5,000 or more per unit, unless the Applicant's established policy establishes nonexpendable equipment anticipated to be required to implement the program, specifying quantities and unit cost.) d. Allowances must be broken down by specific type and by person and must be in accordance with the Applicant’s established policies. e. Travel and Per Diem - The narrative should indicate number of trips, domestic and international, and the estimated unit cost of each. Proposed per diem rates must be in accordance with the Applicant’s established policies and practices that are uniformly applied to federally-financed and other activities of the Applicant. f. Other Direct Costs - This could include any miscellaneous costs such as communications, report preparation costs, passports, visas, medical exams and inoculations, insurance (other than the Applicant’s normal coverage), etc. The narrative, or supporting schedule, should provide a complete breakdown and support for each item of other direct costs. g. Proposed (Sub) contracts/agreements - Applicants who intend to utilize (sub) contractors or sub recipients should indicate the extent intended and a complete cost breakdown, as well as all the information required herein for the Applicant. Extensive (sub) contract/agreement financial plans should follow the same cost format as submitted by the Applicant. h. Contractual: Any goods and services being procured through a contract mechanism. 3. Organizational Information: Applicants are also required to provide the following organizational information:      Type of Organization; The name and title of individuals authorized to sign the Cooperative Agreement; Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN); Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number; Letter of Credit (LOC) Number, if applicable; 18 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS 4. A current Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) if your organization has such an agreement with an agency or department of the U.S. Government. 5. Required assurances, certifications and representations as indicated in 424 B entitled Assurances-Non Construction Programs and the certifications identified in Section D, Parts I and II of this APS. 6. Applicants who do not currently have a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) from their cognizant agency shall also submit the following information: a. copies of the applicant's financial reports for the previous 3-year period, which have been audited by a certified public accountant or other auditor satisfactory to USAID; b. projected budget, cash flow and an organizational chart for the applicant; and c. a copy of the organization's accounting manual. 7. Applicants should submit any additional evidence of responsibility deemed necessary for the Agreement Officer to make a determination of responsibility. The information submitted should substantiate that the Applicant: a. has adequate financial resources or the ability to obtain such resources as required during the performance of the award; b. has the ability to comply with the award conditions, taking into account all existing and currently prospective commitments of the applicant, nongovernmental and governmental; c. has a satisfactory record of performance. Past relevant unsatisfactory performance is ordinarily sufficient to justify a finding of non-responsibility, unless there is clear evidence of subsequent satisfactory performance. d. has a satisfactory record of integrity and business ethics; and e. is otherwise qualified and eligible to receive a grant under applicable laws and regulations (e.g., EEO). 8. Applicants that have never received a grant, cooperative agreement or contract from the U.S. Government are required to submit a copy of their accounting manual. If a copy has already been submitted to the U.S. Government, the applicant should advise which Federal office has a copy. 9. Certificate of Compliance: Please submit a copy of your Certificate of Compliance if your organization's systems have been certified by the USAID/Washington's Office of Acquisition and Assistance (M/OAA, formerly known as M/OP). IV. APPLICATION SUBMISSION PROCEDURES In addition to the aforementioned guidelines, the applicant is requested to take note of the following: 19 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS 1. Receipt of Applications: Applications must be received at the place designated and by the date and time specified in the cover letter of this APS. Applications which are submitted late or are incomplete run the risk of not being considered in the review process. 2. Submission of Applications: a. Applications and modifications thereof shall be submitted with the name and address of the applicant and the APS number (referenced above) inscribed thereon, to Shafique Nazim, Senior A&A Specialist, and Samiul H. Khan, via e-mail to snazim@usaid.gov and sakhan@usaid.gov respectively. Applications may be sent by international air courier or delivered by hand to the address below: Via U.S. Mail: Regional Agreement Officer U.S. Agency for International Development U.S. Diplomatic Post Office Unit 6120 Box 1000 APO AP 96562-1000 Hand or Air Courier Service: Regional Agreement Officer Regional Acquisition and Assistance Office U.S. Agency for International Development C/O American Embassy Madani Avenue, Baridhara Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh Fax: (880 2) 881-5050 Telephone: (880 2) 885-5500 Please be advised that in the past some firms have experienced delays with international air courier services. It is legitimate to declare the CDs included in the proposals as ―documents‖ for local customs purposes. Applications received after the closing date and time will be processed as late. Also, if you utilize the services of an independent agent in Bangladesh to deliver your application, please be certain that he/she understands additional time may be needed to allow for security review of any packages and that the closing date and time are firm. Please note that the U.S. mail given above is via a Diplomatic Post Office and may take up to three weeks for delivery to USAID/Bangladesh in Dhaka, Bangladesh. USAID and the State Department accept no liability for late delivery, or non-delivery, attributable to the Diplomatic Post Office. Applicants should plan accordingly. Note: Delivery to the U.S. mail, post office or air courier representative does not constitute meeting the statutory requirement that applications are received on time at the designated office. For purposes of recording the official receipt of applications, the date/time stamp of the Regional Acquisition & Assistance Office at USAID/Bangladesh will govern. Applicants are requested to submit both technical and cost portions of their applications in separate volumes. Hard copy applications may also be submitted in hard copies via courier services. The applicants shall submit an original and six (6) hard copies of the technical application and an 20 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS original and six (6) hard copies of the cost application accompanied by a CD with the complete application in acceptable Microsoft Word or Excel format as described above. Hard copies of applications and modifications thereof shall be submitted in sealed envelopes or packages (1) addressed to the office specified in the Cover Letter of this APS, and (2) showing the date and time specified for receipt (i.e., the due date and time), the APS number, and the name and address of the applicant. b. Faxed applications will not be considered. 3. Preparation of Applications: a. Applicants are expected to review, understand, and comply with all aspects of this APS. Failure to do so will be at the applicant's risk. b. Each applicant shall furnish the information required by this APS. The applicant shall sign the application form (SF 424) and print or type its name on the Cover Page of the technical and cost applications. Erasures or other changes must be initialed by the person signing the application. Applications signed by an agent shall be accompanied by evidence of that agent's authority, unless that evidence has been previously furnished to the issuing office. c. Applicants who include data that they do not want disclosed to the public for any purpose or used by the U.S. Government except for evaluation purposes, should: 1. Mark the title page with the following legend: "This application includes data that shall not be disclosed outside the U.S. Government and shall not be duplicated, used, or disclosed - in whole or in part - for any purpose other than to evaluate this application. If, however, a grant is awarded to this applicant as a result of - or in connection with - the submission of this data, the U.S. Government shall have the right to duplicate, use, or disclose the data to the extent provided in the resulting grant. This restriction does not limit the U.S. Government's right to use information contained in this data if it is obtained from another source without restriction. The data subject to this restriction are contained in sheets____‖. and, 2. Mark each sheet of data it wishes to restrict with the following legend: "Use or disclosure of data contained on this sheet is subject to the restriction on the title page of this application." 4. Submission of Questions: Questions may be submitted in response to this APS in writing to Shafique Nazim via e-mail at snazim@usaid.gov and Samiul H. Khan at sakhan@usaid.gov or by fax at (880-2)881-5050. The questions and answers (Q&A) will be posted as amendment(s) to the APS on www.grants.gov. The deadline for receipt of questions is July 31, 2008, 2:00 PM, Dhaka local time. 5. Award: The Government contemplates awarding one or more cooperative agreements resulting from this APS to the responsible applicant(s) whose application(s) conforming to this APS offers the greatest value (see also Section B of this APS on evaluation criteria). The Government may (a) reject any or all applications, (b) accept other than the lowest cost 21 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS application, (c) accept more than one application, (d) accept alternate applications, and (e) waive informalities and minor irregularities in applications received. 6. Authority to Obligate the Government - The Agreement Officer is the only individual who may legally commit the Government to the expenditure of public funds. No costs chargeable to the proposed Cooperative Agreement may be incurred before receipt of either a fully executed Cooperative Agreement or a specific, written authorization from the Agreement Officer. 7. The Applicant is reminded that U.S. Executive Orders and U.S. law prohibits transactions with, and the provision of resources and support to, individuals and organizations associated with terrorism. It is the legal responsibility of the contractor/recipient to ensure compliance with these Executive Orders and laws. This provision must be included in all subcontracts/subawards issued under this contract/agreement. - END OF SECTION C - 22 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS SECTION D – CERTIFICATIONS & ASSURANCES PART I - CERTIFICATIONS 1. CERTIFICATION REGARDING LOBBYING The undersigned certifies, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that: (1) No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any Federal grant, the making of any Federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement. (2) If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, "Disclosure of Lobbying Activities," in accordance with its instructions. (3) The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all sub-awards at all tiers (including subcontracts, sub-grants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all sub-recipients shall certify and disclose accordingly. This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, title 31, United States Code. Any person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure. Statement for Loan Guarantees and Loan Insurance The undersigned states, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that: If any funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this commitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee a loan, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with its instructions. Submission of this statement is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required statement shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure. Signed: ______________________________________________ Date:_________________ (Name in block letters and title) 23 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS 2. CERTIFICATION REGARDING TERRORIST FINANCING IMPLEMENTING E.O. 13224 Certification By signing and submitting this application, the prospective recipient provides the certification set out below: 1. The Recipient, to the best of its current knowledge, did not provide, within the previous ten years, and will take all reasonable steps to ensure that it does not and will not knowingly provide, material support or resources to any individual or entity that commits, attempts to commit, advocates, facilitates, or participates in terrorist acts, or has committed, attempted to commit, facilitated, or participated in terrorist acts, as that term is defined in paragraph 3. 2. The following steps may enable the Recipient to comply with its obligations under paragraph 1: a. Before providing any material support or resources to an individual or entity, the Recipient will verify that the individual or entity does not (i) appear on the master list of Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons, which list is maintained by the U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and is available online at OFAC's website : http://www.treas.gov/offices/eotffc/ofac/sdn/t11sdn.pdf, or (ii) is not included in any supplementary information concerning prohibited individuals or entities that may be provided by USAID to the Recipient. b. Before providing any material support or resources to an individual or entity, the Recipient also will verify that the individual or entity has not been designated by the United Nations Security (UNSC) sanctions committee established under UNSC Resolution 1267 (1999) (the "1267 Committee") [individuals and entities linked to the Taliban, Usama bin Laden, or the Al Qaida Organization]. To determine whether there has been a published designation of an individual or entity by the 1267 Committee, the Recipient should refer to the consolidated list available online at the Committee's website: http://www.un.org/Docs/sc/committees/1267/1267ListEng.htm. c. Before providing any material support or resources to an individual or entity, the Recipient will consider all information about that individual or entity of which it is aware and all public information that is reasonably available to it or of which it should be aware. d. The Recipient also will implement reasonable monitoring and oversight procedures to safeguard against assistance being diverted to support terrorist activity. 3. For purposes of this Certificationa. "Material support and resources" means currency or monetary instruments or financial securities, financial services, lodging, training, expert advice or assistance, safe houses, false documentation or identification, communications equipment, facilities, weapons, lethal substances, explosives, personnel, transportation, and other physical assets, except medicine or religious materials." 24 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS b. "Terrorist act" means(i) an act prohibited pursuant to one of the 12 United Nations Conventions and Protocols related to terrorism (see UN terrorism conventions Internet site: http://untreaty.un.org/English/Terrorism.asp); or an act of premeditated, politically motivated violence perpetrated against noncombatant targets by sub-national groups or clandestine agents; or (ii) (iii) any other act intended to cause death or serious bodily injury to a civilian, or to any other person not taking an active part in hostilities in a situation of armed conflict, when the purpose of such act, by its nature or context, is to intimidate a population, or to compel a government or an international organization to do or to abstain from doing any act. c. "Entity" means a partnership, association, corporation, or other organization, group or subgroup. d. References in this Certification to the provision of material support and resources shall not be deemed to include the furnishing of USAID funds or USAID-financed commodities to the ultimate beneficiaries of USAID assistance, such as recipients of food, medical care, micro-enterprise loans, shelter, etc., unless the Recipient has reason to believe that one or more of these beneficiaries commits, attempts to commit, advocates, facilitates, or participates in terrorist acts, or has committed, attempted to commit, facilitated or participated in terrorist acts. e. The Recipient's obligations under paragraph 1 are not applicable to the procurement of goods and/or services by the Recipient that are acquired in the ordinary course of business through contract or purchase, e.g., utilities, rents, office supplies, gasoline, etc., unless the Recipient has reason to believe that a vendor or supplier of such goods and services commits, attempts to commit, advocates, facilitates, or participates in terrorist acts, or has committed, attempted to commit, facilitated or participated in terrorist acts. This Certification is an express term and condition of any agreement issued as a result of this application, and any violation of it shall be grounds for unilateral termination of the agreement by USAID prior to the end of its term. Signed: _________________________ (Typed Name and Title) (Name of Organization) __________________________ Date 25 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS 3. SURVEY ON ENSURING EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR APPLICANTS 26 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS 27 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS PARTII- ASSURANCES: The SF 424B entitled Assurances -Non-Construction Programs must be reviewed in its entirety and signed by all applicants. This form can be downloaded from the following URL: http://www.grants.gov/agencies/aapproved_standard_forms.jsp#1 28 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS SECTION E – ANNEXES 1. AWARD ADMINISTRATION AND RELEVANT WEBSITES FOR REFERENCE Resulting awards to U.S. non-governmental organizations will be administered in accordance with Chapter 303 of USAID’s Automated Directives System (ADS-303), 22 CFR 226, applicable OMB Circulars (i.e., A-21 for universities or A-122 for non-profit organizations, and A-133 for both) or 48 CFR 31.2 (for for-profit organizations), and Standard Provisions for U.S. Nongovernmental Organizations. ADS-303 is available at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/303.doc 22 CFR 226 is available at: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/22cfr226_03.html Applicable OMB Circulars are available at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/circulars/index.html 48 CFR 31.2 is available at: http://www.arnet.gov/far/ Standard Provisions for U.S. Nongovernmental Organizations are available at: http://www.usaid.gov/pubs/ads/300/303maa.pdf http://www.usaid.gov/pubs/ads/300/303maa.pdf Resulting awards to non-U.S. nongovernmental organizations will be administered in accordance with ADS-303, 22 CFR 226, 22 CFR 220 for universities (formerly OMB Circular A21), 22 CFR 230 for non-profit organizations (formerly OMB Circular A-122),) or 48 CFR 31.2 (for for-profit organizations), and Standard Provisions for Non-U.S. Nongovernmental Organizations. Standard Provisions for Non-U.S. Nongovernmental Organizations are available at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/303mab.doc Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants: http://www.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/pdf/aapd04_08.pdf Standard Provisions for PIO recipients can be accessed through the following URL: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/308mab.pdf 29 Post-Cyclone SIDR Livelihoods Reconstruction Program USAID-BANGLADESH-388-08-004-APS 2.  REFERENCE MATERIALS Cyclone Sidr United Nations Rapid Initial Assessment Report www.ochaonline.un.org/OchaLinkClick.aspx?link=ocha&docId=1082340 Bangladesh Ministry of Food and Disaster Management’s website: www.mofdm.gov.bd    USAID report http://www.usaid.gov/locations/asia_near_east/cyclone_sidr/ Other selected reports relating to this APS can be accessed at http://www.usaid.gov/bd/proposals.html These reports may be used as references in connection with the preparation of the technical application. 30