The USAID Lifeline for Health Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) outlines a five-year program aimed at improving equitable access to comprehensive HIV prevention, testing, care, and treatment services in South Sudan. This program focuses on populations in key geographic areas, particularly targeting at-risk groups such as young men and boys, women and girls, and children. In addition, the initiative will maintain and expand services for key populations and build the capacity of local partners for future direct funding opportunities. The estimated total funding for this award is $30 million, with one cooperative agreement expected to be awarded. This project is funded under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and aligns with USAID's goals for HIV epidemic control.

Eligible applicants include international and local non-governmental organizations, and eligibility is not restricted. Local South Sudan entities are encouraged to apply, particularly those with the ability to implement comprehensive HIV programs. Faith-based organizations are also eligible to apply. The NOFO requires a cost share of at least $1,500,000 or 5% of the total award, which can include financial or in-kind contributions. Applicants must have established financial management systems and adhere to USAID requirements.

The program description emphasizes strengthening HIV services in health facilities and communities, addressing barriers to access, and scaling up biomedical HIV prevention interventions. Cross-cutting issues such as gender equity, inclusion, and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations are integral to the program's implementation. Additionally, the program will emphasize the capacity-building of local partners to prepare them for direct funding opportunities in the future.

Applications must include a robust technical approach, an organizational capacity and past performance section, and a management and staffing plan. The technical approach is the most critical evaluation criterion and focuses on feasibility, results, and addressing cross-cutting issues such as gender and inclusion. Organizational capacity and demonstrated success in implementing similar activities are also key factors. The application must articulate the proposed interventions, expected results, strategic partnerships, and capacity-building efforts.

The submission deadline for applications is January 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM Central Africa Time (CAT). All applications must be submitted via email to the designated points of contact provided in the NOFO. Questions regarding the opportunity must be submitted by December 4, 2024, with responses provided as an amendment to the NOFO. The anticipated start date for the award is May 2025, with a five-year period of performance. USAID will evaluate applications using a merit review process based on the technical approach, organizational capacity, and management plan, with an emphasis on reducing risk and ensuring successful implementation.