Intaj: Mapping And Gap Analysis Consultant

Scope of Work Objective:A consultant to deliver a mapping and gap analysis of existingbusiness support services He/she will conduct a mapping and gap analysis of existing business support services in the target geographic areas (Beirut, Beqaa and North of Lebanon.) This research will capture the following information but is not limited to: Support services provided for small to medium enterprises (SME) including interventions that promote market access, entrepreneurship, access to finance, marketing and communications, etc. Types of technical and/or financial support provided to SMEs. Scope and quality of support provided to SMEs. Gaps or barriers in SME support; and lessons learned from previous interventions. Mercy Corps seeks to conduct this mapping to inform future interventions related to the INTAJ program and more specifically one of its core activities, which focuses on the provision of specialized technical assistance and limited in-kind grants to SMEs. It will also contribute to analyzing linkages to existing business support services to lower risks and strengthen the ability of companies to grow their workforce. Core Consultancy Activities Develop tools to inform data collection. Confirm mapping methodology. Complete literature review through desk research. Conduct key informant interviews in each target area with public and private stakeholders (i.e. relevant ministries, Chambers of Commerce, Kafalat and other private sector entities.) Ensure information collected includes gender perspective to capture how it relates to both women and men. Build on existing data collected by organisations implementing economic development programming, i.e. UN Development Program and other international organizations. Provide final report that outlines information collected under mapping and recommend strategies to best leverage information. Selection Criteria: Expertise and proven experience in mapping SME support entities. (Deliverable: Brief resume/CV of consultant.) (30%) Innovative proposed methodology. (Deliverable: Proposal outlining mapping methodology, as well as workplan and timeframe.) (50%) Analytical ability to submit a final report identifying gaps and raising recommendations (Deliverable: CV highlighting previous similar experience) (10%) Cost of mapping and gap analysis research (Deliverable: Detailed budget) (10%) All required documents should be submitted to Mercy Corps' Offices by Wednesday October 21st, 2015 at 12:00 pm in a SEALED ENVELOPE. Timeline The consultant is expected to start as soon as possible over a period of up to 3 weeks. The final report should be submitted by 13 November, 2015.