GDA APS: Partner & Applicant Resources

The Global Development Alliance (GDA) Annual Program Statement (APS) is an announcement of USAID’s desire to partner with the private sector.  The GDA APS provides a process through which USAID, the private sector, and other potential partners jointly create and develop Global Development Alliances.  Initial alliance ideas and proposals are submitted as concept papers under the GDA APS.

1. Understanding USAID Priorities

In order to develop quality alliance ideas and concept papers, prospective partners are expected to understand Agency priorities and objectives and to consult with the USAID Mission, Bureau, or Independent Office with which the partner seeks to build a GDA.  Information on Agency and Mission priorities, as well as GDA point of contact information for USAID Missions, can be found at the following websites:

2. Application Checklist & Concept Paper Template

In an effort to assist applicants to meet the requirements of the GDA APS, the Agency has provided an applicant checklist and a concept paper template.  Based on input from prior applicants, the checklist is an extremely valuable tool.  If an organization is able to work with USAID and the private sector to develop a potentially promising alliance, the organization is free to submit a concept paper under the GDA APS.  Please note that concept papers must use the template provided below.

3. Memorandum of Understanding

GDAs typically require a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between USAID and the core private sector partner(s).  The MOU Guidance below is primarily targeted at USAID personnel but is being made broadly available to facilitate the development of partnerships and other types of collaboration with the private sector.

4.  Questions

Questions regarding the GDA APS or the GDA approach can be sent to gda@usaid.gov.  With regard to the GDA APS, USAID has also compiled a list of frequently asked questions.  See below.