Next Deadline to apply: 31 January 2014
Global Development Alliances (GDAs) is a special model of public-private partnership launched by USAID in 2001. Through this initiative USAID works with international and national level private sector organizations and NGOs to increase its reach and effectiveness. GDA leverages resources and experiences from both public and private sectors to solve complex problems faced by the government, business and other communities. In order to obtain GDA funding, NGOs must identify common interests of the private sector, USAID and other stakeholders who strive to solve specific problems. A Global Development Alliance must mobilize private sector expertise, contributions and resources on at least a 1:1 basis. Suppose, the USAID provides $100, then at least a $100 must come from the private sector. But ideally, a higher private sector contribution of 5:1 is suggested.
In this article, we explain to you how to write a concept note to apply for seeking grant for partnership from USAID’s GDA. We are covering each component of the concept note one by one explaining you on how to write about your project objectives, outcomes, sustainability, monitoring and more.
Types of Applicants who can apply for USAID’s Global Development Alliance Concept Paper
There are two types of applicants in this system.
Non-Traditional Partner: A non-traditional partner is for the US and non-US, for profit organizations such as businesses, corporations, grant-making foundations, philanthropists, private equity firms, pro-profit financial institutions etc. To be eligible to receive GDA funding private pro-profit organizations must offer services or resources at a leveraged ratio in excess of one to one, (i.e. provide services at subsidized rates or taking $1 for services that are worth more than $1).
Traditional Implementing Partner: Traditional implementing partners are the US and non-US NGOs, higher education institutions, contractor or other organizations that are eligible for receiving US federal funding under grants, fixed obligation grants, cooperative agreements, and/or leaders with associate awards. The following criteria mentioned in 22 CFR 226, OMB Circulars and USAID Standard Provisions and USAID Standard Provisions for US organizations; Mandatory Standard Provisions mentioned in USAID’s Automated Directive System (ADS) 303 are applicable for non-US organizations.
Generally, if your organization is a non-US NGO working under rules and regulations of your government, then you are eligible for this funding. But in order to be successful under this scheme you must act with private sector actors to leverage private sector funding to the project. You also have to keep in mind that, although 1:1 cost sharing is the minimum requirement, it should be much higher to attract GDA funding.
Priority Program
GDA supports programs that are highly aligned with USAID and other USG Government agencies’ priority area. Priority is placed on a market-based approach that also adopts other types of approaches, which reflect core private sector interests and significantly increases the reach, efficiency, effectiveness and sustainable impact of USAID’s development investments. These market driven approaches should be consistent with USAID’s commitment to facilitate market-led development. Priority approach includes, but, is not limited to-
- Market development and sustainability
- Improved supply chains;
- Increased labor productivity and quality workforce development;
- Improved infrastructure;
- Robust social and economic resilience; and
- Systems and enabling environments conducive to innovation, entrepreneurship, business development, and private sector financing and investment.
