Eligibility Criteria: U.S. and non-U.S. public, private, for-profit, and nonprofit organizations, as well as institutions of higher education, public international organizations, and non-governmental organizations, are eligible to submit a concept paper under each Round(s) of the APS. Further, the organization must be a legally-recognized, organizational entity under applicable law, not otherwise restricted by statute, regulation, Agency policy, or administrative determination (i.e., suspension and debarment) from receiving assistance, and legally registered in a country that is not a prohibited source per ADS 310. Each recipient must be a responsible entity. The AO may determine a Pre-Award survey is required and if so, would establish a formal survey team to conduct an examination that will determine whether the prospective recipient has the necessary organizational, experience, accounting and operational controls, and technical skills – or ability to obtain them – in order to achieve the objectives of the program. Organizations in developing countries are strongly encouraged to apply, inasmuch as they will support not only the objectives of this APS and the Round(s) they are applying to, but also USAID's objectives to build capacities in local organizations that are needed for sustainable development. USAID strongly encourages applications from potential new partners that meet the eligibility requirements and are willing to be subjected to a Pre-Award Survey. Concept papers from organizations that do not meet the above eligibility criteria will not be reviewed and evaluated. Individuals are not eligible to apply for any Rounds of this APS. Please see Round-specific additional eligibility criteria for any changes to this information.
