1. What is USAID? The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the independent government agency that manages U.S. foreign assistance programs worldwide. Such programs advance major U.S. foreign policy interests and help foster in host countries the suitable environment to promote sustained economic growth and social development. USAID was created under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 in recognition of the above objectives.
USAID operates in the following four corners of the globe: Africa, Asia & the Near East, Latin America & the Caribbean and Europe & Eurasia. The Agency deploys its presence though Missions in 86 countries. For more information on missions worldwide, go to http://www.usaid.gov/business/.
3. Which areas of development does USAID/Lebanon focus on?
USAID works alongside the government of Lebanon to improve the lives of the Lebanese people through development projects that foster stability and democracy. USAID helps to build a better future for Lebanese citizens through cross-cutting programs focusing on youth, reconciliation throughout Lebanese society, and opportunities for women through targeted microfinance and education programs.
USAID/Lebanon programs focus on four specific objectives:
- Strengthening governing institutions, support for the rule of law and develop the capacity of civil society organizations to be more responsive to Lebanese citizens;
- Job creation and income generation;
- Improving student achievement through support for basic education in all public schools;
- And improved water management.
4. How can I receive funding from USAID?
All USAID programs and contracts are predominantly awarded on a competitive basis and are posted on the USAID Business & Procurement website (http://www.usaid.gov/business/). Interested parties are encouraged to apply and USAID selects potential applicants based on a competitive process in line with the U.S. Government’s procurement policy. However, in some instances, USAID accepts unsolicited proposals that are defined as unique, innovative and fit USAID/Lebanon’s strategic objectives.
5. I have a project that is not solicited by the Agency and I would like to present it to USAID/Lebanon. What should I do? Projects that are not advertised by USAID are considered unsolicited proposals. Resources available to USAID for programs are focused on clear objectives that fit within program priorities. Therefore, only unsolicited applications which fit within this criteria can be considered for funding on a non-competitive basis. These applications must present a distinctive approach, fully support USAID’s development objectives, and demonstrate a unique capacity by the applicant to carry out proposed activities.
Even though unsolicited proposals are not generally encouraged by USAID, interested entities must first write a concept paper presenting their project and submit this to USAID/Lebanon.
A concept paper contains basic information that helps USAID staff assess the proposed project. click here to open the Concept Paper Guide.
6. I need more information about USAID that is not covered in the FAQ section. What should I do?
For more in-depth information about USAID's policies and procedures, please refer to the Agency's Automated Directives System (ADS) at www.usaid.gov/pubs/ads.
7. USAID/Lebanon's Mission Notices?
Below are USAID/Lebanon Mission Notices. Click on the link to obtain the full text of posted documents.
USAID/Lebanon Mission Notice # 001-2010: Subject: Information on Government of Lebanon Customs Duties and Tax Exemptions. Effective Date: March 18, 2010
USAID/Lebanon Mission Notice # 003-2010: Subject: Approval of Activity Expenditures. Effective Date: August 17, 2010 |