Panama call for bids 20-21: supporting COVID-19 response
The call for bids for project proposals that directly respond to the impact of COVID-19 across the Panamanian Republic is now open. Deadline is 21 August.
Background
The Coronavirus outbreak is the biggest public health emergency in a generation. It calls for decisive and coordinated action, guided by the WHO and based on science and evidence. The UK stands with Panama to tackle this crisis, and is therefore interested in working with organisations committed to delivering meaningful and measurable outcomes.
We are particularly interested in short-term interventions or one-off activities in the following areas:
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Responding to urgent needs of the COVID-19 situation in Panama
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Supporting inclusive, green, and sustainable economic recovery and growth
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Supporting the development and distribution of pharmaceuticals / vaccines
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Supporting vulnerable communities that have been disproportionately impacted by the current epidemiological situation
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Supporting data-driven initiatives to tackle COVID-19, including promoting Open Data and access to information.
Exceptions
To ensure the best value of investment during these challenging times, we are unable to support proposals that involve:
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Procurement of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), oxygen-related equipment (e.g. ventilators and respirators), diagnostic tests/materials and COVID-19-related medicines
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Purchase of IT and other equipment
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Direct cash transfers to vulnerable individuals or families
Funding terms
Project budget
$10,000 to $30,000 US Dollars
Official Development Assistance (ODA)
All expenditures must qualify as ODA eligible. ODA is a term created by the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This term serves as a measurement of international aid. ODA projects have, as a primary objective, the promotion of economic development and welfare.
Important milestones
| 21 October 2020 | Implementers must give notice of projected under or over-spend in writing. Any under-spend will be returned to London or redirected to opportunities elsewhere |
| 31 December 2020 | Projects must reach a minimum 85% spend |
| 28 February 2021 | Projects must reach full spend |
| 31 March 31 2021 | All activities must culminate |
Application process
Please ensure that project proposals are designed and submitted in accordance with the following guidelines. Proposals that do not meet the guidance will be rejected.
Assessment criteria
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alignment with aforementioned priority areas
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evidence of urgent need
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value for money
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outcomes are clear and achievable within the funding period
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clear monitoring and evaluation procedures included
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good risk & stakeholder management
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project feasibility, including capacity of implementing organisation and ability to deliver under current circumstances
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sustainability - project benefits continue after the funding ends
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the organisation’s safeguarding policies ensure protection of beneficiaries (i.e. against harassment and discrimination of women and children)
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administration costs for delivering the project do not exceed 10% of the total project budget
Submission
All documentation must be submitted in English.
Deadline: Friday 21 August 2020
Please e-mail the following items to Panama.Prosperity@fco.gov.uk with the subject line “Organisation name – Project Title” and include a point of contact in the body.
Guidance
What to expect after?
Both successful and rejected bids will receive notice in due course. I mplementers will be expected to sign a standard FCO contract or grant agreement with the Embassy. The terms are non-negotiable. All implementers must also commit to consistent financial management, including discussing and updating any changes to the Activity Based Budget, with the assigned Embassy Officer.
The Panama Prosperity mailbox will only receive applications. Please direct any general inquiries to Umika.Sachdev@fco.gov.uk
Last updated 14 August 2020 + show all updates
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deadline date
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Added translation