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Call for Proposals for Economic Development Studies under EPEC Project (Palestine)

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RFPs: The Gaza Early Recovery Programme in Palestine Territories

Deadline: 29-Mar-2026

The Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) in Jerusalem has launched a call for proposals to conduct three research studies aimed at improving the business environment for Palestinian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Each study is funded with EUR 20,000, for a total program value of EUR 60,000. Eligible applicants include Palestinian universities, research institutions, and qualified individuals, with proposals due 29 March 2026.

Overview of the Funding Opportunity

The Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) – Jerusalem Office has announced a Call for Proposals inviting qualified applicants to conduct three strategic studies focused on strengthening the business environment for Palestinian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

This initiative is part of the project:

“Enhancing the Business Environment for the Micro, Small and Medium Palestinian Enterprises (EPEC) – AID 11399.”

The project aims to:

The studies will generate evidence-based insights to help policymakers, development partners, and institutions better support Palestinian entrepreneurship and economic development.

Key Research Areas (Study Themes)

The call is divided into three thematic studies, each addressing a critical area of the Palestinian economic ecosystem.

1. Role of Local Institutions in Private Sector Development

This study will examine how local institutions contribute to the growth of the private sector, particularly MSMEs.

Research may focus on:

2. Women’s Economic Empowerment in the Green Economy

This study explores how women entrepreneurs can participate in and benefit from the green economy.

Key research areas include:

3. Characteristics of Informal Enterprises

This study focuses on understanding the informal sector, which represents a significant part of the Palestinian economy.

Topics may include:

Project Background: The EPEC Initiative

The EPEC Project (AID 11399) is designed to strengthen the economic ecosystem supporting Palestinian MSMEs.

Objectives of the EPEC Project

By funding these studies, the project aims to create actionable knowledge that can guide future development programs and economic reforms.

Funding and Contract Value

The call provides funding for three separate research contracts.

Financial Structure

Each study corresponds to a separate lot, meaning applicants may apply for:

Expected Deliverables

Selected applicants will be responsible for conducting high-quality research and delivering structured outputs.

Required Deliverables

Each selected contractor must provide:

  1. Detailed Research Methodology

  2. Draft Table of Contents for the Study

  3. Comprehensive Research Analysis

  4. Policy Recommendations

  5. Final Study Report aligned with program objectives

The studies should generate insights that support policy development, institutional strengthening, and private sector growth.

Who Is Eligible?

The call welcomes proposals from qualified Palestinian institutions and individuals with relevant expertise.

Eligible Applicants

Applicants must fall into one of the following categories:

Additional Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

Applicants should also demonstrate expertise in fields such as:

Why This Call for Proposals Matters

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of most developing economies, including Palestine.

However, MSMEs often face challenges such as:

The funded studies will help:

Evidence-based research can play a critical role in shaping effective economic policies and development programs.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a complete proposal package to the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation – Jerusalem Office.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Choose the Study Lot

Applicants must identify which study they are applying for:

Applicants may apply for one or multiple studies.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Applications must include the following materials:

  1. Submission Letter

    The letter must include:

    • Applicant’s full name

    • Institutional affiliation (if applicable)

    • Contact details

    • Identification of the study lot(s) applied for

  2. Self-Declaration of Representation Power (if applicable)

  3. Research Methodology

    The methodology should outline:

    • Research approach

    • Data collection methods

    • Analytical framework

    • Expected outputs

  4. Draft Table of Contents

    Provide a proposed structure for the study.

  5. Proposed Budget

    The budget should clearly explain expected project expenditures.

Step 3: Submit the Proposal

Applications can be submitted through either method:

Submission Deadline

Applicants must submit their proposals by:

Sunday, 29 March 2026 – 5:00 PM (Jerusalem Time)

Late submissions may not be considered.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid the following issues when preparing proposals.

1. Weak or unclear research methodology

A strong proposal should clearly explain how the research will be conducted.

2. Missing required documents

Ensure all required materials are included before submission.

3. Lack of expertise alignment

Applicants must demonstrate relevant experience in the research theme.

4. Vague budget proposals

Budgets should clearly explain how funding will be used.

5. Poorly structured research plans

Use a logical structure with clear research objectives and outputs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the purpose of this call for proposals?

The call supports three research studies aimed at improving the business environment for Palestinian MSMEs.

2. Who is organizing this funding opportunity?

The call is organized by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) – Jerusalem Office.

3. How much funding is available?

The total funding is EUR 60,000, with EUR 20,000 allocated for each study.

4. Can applicants apply for more than one study?

Yes. Applicants may apply for one or all three studies, depending on their expertise.

5. Who can apply?

Eligible applicants include:

6. What documents are required in the application?

Applicants must submit:

7. When is the application deadline?

The deadline for submissions is 29 March 2026 at 5:00 PM (Jerusalem Time).

Conclusion

The AICS Jerusalem Call for Proposals represents an important opportunity for researchers and institutions to contribute to strengthening the Palestinian business environment.

By producing research on institutional development, women’s participation in the green economy, and informal enterprises, the selected studies will generate knowledge that supports economic growth, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

For qualified researchers and institutions, this call offers both financial support and the opportunity to influence policies that shape the future of Palestinian MSMEs.

For more information, visit Italian Agency for Development Cooperation.

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