The Request for Information (RFI) RFI-294-25-001 under the Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act (MEPPA) focuses on supporting peacebuilding efforts between Israelis and Palestinians to build the foundation for peaceful coexistence and a sustainable two-state solution. Issued by USAID for the West Bank and Gaza, the RFI invites feedback from stakeholders on a proposed activity designed to enhance the capacity and performance of Israeli and Palestinian civil society organizations (CSOs). Responses to the RFI will shape the development of this program, but the RFI itself does not represent a solicitation for proposals or applications.

The program seeks to strengthen the peacebuilding community, improve the performance of peacebuilding organizations, expand the MEPPA peacebuilding network, and enhance collective action among partners. It addresses challenges such as limited funding diversification among Palestinian NGOs, capacity gaps in monitoring and evaluation, and the need for resources tailored to peacebuilding and conflict sensitivity. The activity also acknowledges unique challenges faced by organizations due to political, social, and financial pressures, particularly in the aftermath of recent conflicts.

Key objectives include networking and collaboration among peacebuilding organizations, capacity-building initiatives tailored to organizational needs, and reducing barriers to participation for new partners through small grants and in-kind support. Proposed grant amounts range from $25,000 to $150,000, emphasizing flexibility and responsiveness to emerging needs in a dynamic conflict environment.

Responses to the RFI must be submitted in English, with a maximum of five pages for detailed feedback and an additional one-page capability statement outlining the organization's background, expertise, and relevant experience. Specific areas for input include the appropriateness of the program objectives, integration of gender equality and women’s empowerment, and effective methodologies to increase the number of Palestinian partners and cross-border collaborations.

The deadline for submission is December 11, 2024, at 16:00 Jerusalem Time, with responses directed to the email address provided. USAID emphasizes that participation in the RFI process does not confer an advantage in subsequent competitions. All responses are for information and planning purposes only, and USAID will not reimburse costs associated with responding.