Executive Summary:The Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES), Office of Environmental Policy at the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announces an open competition to support an initiative in CAFTA-DR and other Pathways partner countries geared toward increasing market access for smallholder farmers or producers implementing sustainable agriculture practices. This activity is in support of Pillar IV, Promoting Sustainable Business Practices and Environmental Cooperation, of the Pathways to Prosperity in the Americas Initiative. Pathways to Prosperity links 15 Western Hemisphere countries committed to democracy and open markets in an initiative to promote inclusive growth, prosperity, and social justice.This effort looks to promote the sharing of best practices and to equip small farmers or producers in at least three Pathways countries with tools to access markets for goods produced using sustainable agricultural practices. Proposed activities should build on existing initiatives or ongoing collaboration with local communities, cooperatives and/or regional networks supporting sustainable agricultural practices. Applicants must have significant experience working with small farmers or producers, and/or rural communities in the Western Hemisphere, and are encouraged to partner or engage with other institutions to leverage available funds. Eligibility is limited to non-profit/nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) subject to section 501(c)(3) of the U. S. tax code, foreign not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, and to public international organizations. Proposals should demonstrate creativity, substance, and a commitment to promoting regional and local activ ities that will continue well past the timeframe of the cooperative agreement. Subject to Congressional approval of funds, DOS will award a cooperative agreement for up to 247,500 U.S. Dollars (USD). The initial period of performance will be for 18-30 months. Funding authority rests in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended. Contact Person: Maina C. Martir-Torres Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs
[email protected] +1 202-647-4750 (T)+1 202-647-5947(F)Please read carefully the entire solicitation package including Proposal Submission Instructions if you plan to submit an application; there are steps that you should take immediately in order to make your submissions by the deadline.