Request for Applications (RFA): Develop Agricultural Dealers & other Input Suppliers

Request for Applications (RFA) for Grant Application

Background

A project in Nepal aims leverages local, regional, and international technical expertise in aquaculture and extensive stakeholder engagement to make lasting change in Nepal aquaculture productivity, food safety, aquaculture marketability, nutritional awareness, enabling environment, and ultimately, trade.

The project is designed to address food security through improvements in the aquaculture value chain in Nepal by (1) Address Sanitary and Phytosanitary Standards and Trade Facilitation Issues, (2) Increase Aquaculture Sector Profitability, (3) Strengthen Financial Service for Aquaculture farmers to expand trade of agricultural products, and (4) Promote Consumption of Safe Foods.

Under LWR’s leadership, the project will support direct and indirect individuals by working with aquaculture farmers, farmer groups, cooperatives, associations, hatcheries, nurseries, transporters, buyers/traders, institutions, equipment providers, and government bodies across 14 districts (Sunsari, Morang, Saptari, Parsa, Bara, Rautahat, Sarlahi, Dhanusa, Siraha, Mahottari, Chitwan, Rupandehi, Parasi and Kaski) of Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Lumbini and Gandaki Provinces. 

The project seeks to facilitate investment and support the aquaculture industry through Six activities in A1: Training- Sanitary and Phytosanitary Standards (SPS), A2: Infrastructure- On Farm, Market, and Trade, A3: Capacity Building- Agricultural Extension Agents/Services, A4: Inputs- Develop Agricultural Dealers and /or Other Input Suppliers, A5: Financial Services- Provide Micro, Small  and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Finance A6: Public Information Campaign- Disperse Nutritional Information.

Dear Applicant:

The program envisions awarding funds through several mechanisms. These grants will focus developing and testing soy-enriched pelleted feeds, innovative packaging, and feeding system through testing, trials, and performance assessments. It also builds capacity and markets by delivering training, strengthening supply chains, monitoring adoption and performance, and reporting results to refine products and delivery models. Funding may be provided through partnerships, micro‑grants, and other grant types to potential recipients with prior experience and capacity in relevant areas.

Support may include feed formulation, packaging development, performance and testing, training and capacity building, market and supply chain strengthening, monitoring and the provision of extension services, digital tools, use of improved management practices, and technical support. The estimated number of awards may vary depending on the value of applications received and the specific context and technical needs of each grant.

The project will provide technical assistance and partial financing as incentives for grantees to invest in cost‑sharing. The project aims to improve feed quality, packaging, feeding systems, and fingerling distribution through practical testing, field trials, and training. 

Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of the local market for their products and services and provide a compelling case for the grant award. This grant is designed to support small and medium aquaculture input suppliers in Nepal, including feed mills, agro-vets, hatcheries, seed suppliers, cooperatives, and private businesses. Small businesses and local suppliers are strongly encouraged to apply.

All applicants must be legally recognized entities in Nepal and should demonstrate experience in the technical area addressed. In addition, the selected firms may engage aquaculture or nutrition students as interns to support field trials and monitor growth survival rates. 

Click on the links below for detailed RFA and Annexes:

RFA-003 Activity 4 Develop Agricultural Dealers & other Input Suppliers

ANNEX A-GRANT APPLICATION-PROGRAM

ANNEX B-GRANT IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE

ANNEX C-GRANT APPLICATION-BUDGET

Application Submission Information

Applicants may submit either a Concept Note or a Full Grant Application in English or Nepali based on what is most convenient for them. Applications must be prepared using single spacing and a clear, readable font. The page limit applies only to the main application narrative and does not include annexes, attachments, CVs, or salary history sheets for proposed staff.

Applications along with all required supporting documents may be submitted either:

• Electronically, by email to the designated address listed in this RFA, or
• In hard copy, delivered to the project office during working hours.

For electronic submissions, applicants must include the RFA Number and RFA Title in the email subject line to ensure proper handling.

For hard‑copy submissions, applications should be placed in a sealed envelope, clearly labeled with the RFA Number and RFA Title, and delivered to the project office address indicated in this RFA.

Both the technical and cost proposals together with all required attachments must be submitted no later than the submission deadline specified in this RFA. Late applications may not be considered.

Questions or requests for clarification regarding this RFA should be submitted to the project team at the email provided before the deadline for questions. The project team will respond to all inquiries and may share clarifications for the benefit of all applicants. Upon request, the project team may also offer guidance to help applicants understand the application process.

Issuance of this RFA and any assistance provided during application development do not constitute an award or a commitment to make an award, nor do they obligate the project to cover any costs incurred in preparing or applying. The project team reserves the right to accept or reject any or all applications received.