The Request for Information (RFI) #72038824RFI00001 from USAID Bangladesh seeks input for designing the upcoming Feed the Future Sylhet Agricultural Development Project. Posted on April 9, 2024, with a submission deadline of May 6, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. Dhaka time, this RFI invites feedback from stakeholders to support an inclusive, agriculture-led economic growth initiative in Sylhet Division, Bangladesh. USAID’s Feed the Future (FTF) program is central to this effort, focusing on bolstering the agricultural sector to enhance food security and economic development. While not a solicitation for technical or cost proposals, this RFI solicits insights on challenges, opportunities, and recommendations for Sylhet's agricultural development.

The project aims to extend the FTF program's reach to Sylhet Division, aligning with the Global Food Security Strategy (GFSS) and addressing the area’s specific vulnerabilities, such as high poverty, malnutrition, and climate change impacts. Previously, the FTF initiative in Bangladesh concentrated on nutrition-sensitive agricultural value chains, particularly dairy and fish production, equipping farmers with knowledge, and expanding access to quality inputs. By expanding into Sylhet, USAID intends to foster growth in a region with significant agricultural potential and socio-economic needs.

USAID invites responses to several targeted questions about key agricultural issues in Sylhet. These questions include identifying and solving production challenges at the farm and consumer levels, constraints in livestock and fisheries sectors, crop and diet diversification strategies, and mitigating climate change impacts on local food systems. The RFI also requests recommendations for structuring a comprehensive agricultural development project that addresses multisectoral needs in Sylhet.

Responses to the RFI should be concise, limited to 10 pages, and sent electronically to Mr. Jerome Robinson, Contracting/Agreement Officer, and Mr. Ahsan Rahman, Acquisition and Assistance Specialist, at the specified emails. Respondents will receive an acknowledgment of receipt but should not expect individualized feedback or claims for response-based compensation from the U.S. Government.

Submissions should include the RFI reference number, organization details, and any relevant attachments that support responses to the questions. Additionally, respondents may include background information on their experience in agricultural development or past collaborations relevant to this project.