USAID/Kosovo Local Works Activity

Background
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Kosovo is seeking applications from eligible prospective Kosovo organizations to implement the program entitled “USAID/Kosovo Local Works Activity.” This activity seeks to increase socio-economic cohesion among targeted communities–Kosovo Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian–through the facilitation of sustainable recycling models led by the private sector and in cooperation with communities and local governments.

Grant Details
The activity will work with four targeted local stakeholder groups: 1) youth; 2) Kosovo Roma, Egyptian and Ashkali minority groups who are the principal informal recyclable material collectors; 3) for-profit recyclable material processors; and 4) local and national government. The purpose of the Local Works Activity is to increase socio-economic cohesion among target communities–Kosovo Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian–through the facilitation of sustainable recycling models led by the private sector and in cooperation with communities and local governments.

The activity will initially focus on two targeted municipalities (Gracanica and Fushe Kosove) based on the high percentage of marginalized populations in these municipalities. Depending on availability of funds, the activity may scale up to other municipalities.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for this assistance award is restricted to local organizations and targeted municipalities. USAID defines a local organization as one that is legally organized under the laws of the recipient country, has its principal place of business or operations in Kosovo, is majority-owned by individuals who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of Kosovo, and is managed by a governing body majority of whom are citizens or lawful permanent residents of Kosovo. The eligibility requirements apply to only the principal applicant. USAID/Kosovo will not accept concept paper applications from individuals.

Period of Performance
The anticipated period of performance for each award is four years plus one option year. The estimated start date will be determined later.

Grant Value
USAID intends to make up to two awards with each award providing up to $2,000,000 over four years plus one option year. While two awards are anticipated as a result of this NOFO, USAID/Kosovo reserves the right to fund one or none of the applications submitted.

Place of Performance
This activity must be implemented in Gračanica and Fushe Kosove. Based on the availability of funds and activity’s success, USAID may scale up to other municipalities.