Needs assessment consultant

1. Objective

The project's goal is to empower startups and MSMEs in Dekweneh, Bourj Hammoud, Jdaidet el Matn, Baouchriye, Sin El Fil by providing them with practical knowledge and skills to improve their business operations, increase productivity, and achieve sustainable growth towards sustainable and promising export opportunities and promoting gender inclusivity.

FTL is looking for an experienced Startup and MSME needs assessment consultant to assist the project coordinator in conducting a thorough assessment of the selected Startups (Nasecnt) and MSMEs' (Advancing) status. These assessments are crucial for accurately identifying each enterprise's specific needs and challenges, including any gender-related barriers.

2. Outcomes

The Consultant will conduct an assessment for each chosen entity, using several criteria model such as number of employees, product portfolio, sales, production volume, costs, distribution channels, needs, weaknesses, strength etc. This will allow FTL to create a baseline to compare results at the end of the project and to improve weaknesses and fill gaps of the chosen entities through additional coaching sessions and financial support.

3. Deliverables

• To create the need assessment tool.
• Needs assessment for 20 startups (Nascent) and 20 MSMEs (Advancing).
• To produce documents assessment findings for the 20 selected Startups and 20 MSMEs (Advancing).

4. Qualifications

• Higher university degree in social sciences, statistics, or any relevant field 
• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a consultant
• Experience with MSMEs/startups in Lebanon is preferred.
• Experience using data analysis tools and software such as KOBO, SPSS, and others
• Extensive experience interacting with and relating to gender professionals and international stakeholders at senior level
• Able to synthesize large data sets to reach conclusions and strategic recommendations
• Proven knowledge of Fair-Trade principles
• In depth knowledge of the Lebanese context
• Proven presentation skills
• Proven ability to drive results

5. Skills

• Adheres to FTL values
• Good interpersonal communication skills
• Engaged in developing self and others
• High degree of self-motivation
• Excellent leadership, team building, and management skills
• Good time management
• Organized and able to create multiple timelines and schedules
• Good knowledge of Arabic and English

6. Payment terms

• The consultant will be paid on a monthly basis, with invoices to be submitted no later than the 25th of each month and payments will be processed within 15 to 20 business days, provided that all deliverables have been submitted.
• Payments will be made via bank cheques.
• All applicable taxes will be deducted from the Consultant’s fees unless the Consultant is registered with the Ministry of Finance.