1. About Market Development Facility
Market Development Facility is an Australian Government funded multi-country initiative which promotes sustainable economic development, through higher incomes for women and men, in our partner countries.
We connect individuals, businesses, governments and NGOs with each other, and with markets at home and abroad. This enhances investment and coordination and allows partnerships to flourish, strengthening inclusive economic growth.
MDF is funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT). It is implemented by Palladium in partnership with Swisscontact.

2. The Requirements
MDF strive to offer diverse learning options for all facility wide staff and appreciate that differing learning approaches provide alternate avenues to reference when seeking procedural knowledge and guidance.
MDF are seeking an experienced service provider to develop a series of bespoke, animated, short training modules in the areas of procurement and contracting, aimed at enhancing employee skills and increasing procurement efficiency.

3. Mandatory Requirements
MDF seeks creative proposals from experienced service providers in relevant fields (e.g., animation, live/digital production) to produce a creative and appropriate Product, whether an animation or combination of animation and video, on MDF procurement and contracting guidelines and policies.
The successful service provider will be responsible for:

• • Designing up to five (5) highly creative and impactful storyboards/training modules in consultation with MDF
• • Producing a draft product in English, with possible inclusion of subtitles (up to approx. 10 minutes each) which helps achieve MDF’s objectives
• • Integrating changes suggested by MDF
• • Sharing the final piece in file formats advised by MDF so that it can be easily shared

Key parameters for the required Product are as follows:

• Type/Format:  The product can be animation, or a combination of animation and existing free to use footage (footage to be provided by the service provider)
• Duration: Up to 10 minutes in length each
• Quality: Up to 5 high quality version animations/video storyboards
• Other:
  • • Must use animation, images, illustrations or videos that can be easily understood by people from different MDF countries, different cultures and varied levels of English.
  • • Given language barriers and diversity and inclusion, it is ideal for the Product to include subtitles in English or another language.
  • • The service provider must be willing to work with MDF to make adjustments on the product as necessary.
    

Submissions should be guided by the specifications above. Interested Service Providers are encouraged to propose creative or innovative ideas (for example, a different format, alternative communications or monitoring ideas) to make the final product more interesting and easily understood.
Interested service providers may provide up to three different Product options in their proposal.
MDF will be working closely with the successful service provider to provide and will provide: (i) technical (procurement and contracting) and strategic (program objective) guidance; (ii) MDF style guidance; (iii) feedback on original proposal and storyboard; and (iv) advice at all key stages of the development of the Product.

4. Evaluation of submissions
MDF will assess submissions in line with the technical and financial evaluation process described below. In assessing submissions, MDF, at its sole discretion, may consider information from other relevant sources.
Technical evaluation
MDF will first score compliant submissions against the following technical criteria:

• A. Demonstrated experience creating animation or other communications tools to achieve social impact, either for international development programs or for a diverse audience. A portfolio of previous work must be included. (40%)
• B. Proposed approach to delivering the required Product, including examples of the creative content proposed to be deployed and an estimated timeframe (50%)
• C. Demonstrated understanding of the subject matter and the purpose of the required Product (10%).

The technical score will account for 80% of the Total Score.

Financial evaluation
Following the assessment of the technical response, MDF will undertake a like-for-like price comparison of all technically suitable offers. The Financial Score will account for 20% of the Total Score. The lowest-priced financial offer will be awarded the full weighted score. The weighted score of other financial offers will be calculated as a fraction of the higher scoring offer.

5. Contracting details
If your offer is successful, you will be required to enter into the Company’s standard contract for the types of goods or services being provided (see Annex A). In the provision of the Goods and Services, you will be required to comply with the Company’s policies, including (without limitation) its Business Partner Code of Conduct and any relevant Project Manual. Potential suppliers must also comply with the Company’s Business Partner Code of Conduct in the submission of any quotes pursuant to this RFQ.
If you are bidding as part of a joint venture, partnership or similar, please make this clear in your submission. Likewise, if you propose to subcontract any part of the goods or services provision, then disclose this fact within your submission. The Company may require additional information from you and approval for subcontracting will not be automatic as subcontractors will be subject to Palladium’s Due Diligence process.

Registration of Interest
Register your interest to submit an offer by sending your name, organisation and contact details to the Contact Person by email on or before Monday, 14 April 2025, 5:00pm Brisbane Time.

Last date for Queries
Send queries to the Contact Person by email on or before Monday, 14 April 2025, 5:00pm Brisbane Time. Quote the RFQ Title in the subject line.

Contact Person
Jillian Kari, tenders-MDF@thepalladiumgroup.com 

Closing Date and Time
Friday, 25 April 2025, 5pm Brisbane Time

Details for Submission
Email your completed Response Forms to the Contact Person on or before the Closing Date and Time. Quote the RFQ Title in the subject line.

Click on “Apply” button below to download the Service Provider Response Forms Part A and B, and submission instructions. 

1. Background

Market Development Facility (MDF) is a multi-country Australian Government funded initiative, with locations in Fiji, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu. MDF aims to stimulate economic growth – and hence employment and income earning opportunities for the poor and underprivileged – by making selected sectors of the economy more competitive and stimulating business innovation. MDF is implemented by Palladium Group and Swisscontact and started operations in Fiji in July 2011. 

Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) is an independent statutory body established under section 7 of the Fijian Competition and Consumer Act 2010 to promote effective competition and an informed market, encourage fair trade in markets and protect customers and businesses from restrictive practices. FCCC also controls and regulates prices of regulated industries and other markets where competition is lessened or limited, such as (but not limited to), electricity, telecommunications, posts, maritime and airport sectors.  

The FCCC has partnered with MDF to identify solutions for reducing regulatory barriers to solar energy licensing and installation. This initiative aims to meet growing demand and support the widespread adoption of solar energy solutions in Fiji. 

MDF and FCCC are seeking to recruit a suitable Technical Consultant to review, design and develop the FCCC’s Electricity Generation Licensing System. 

2. Objectives of the assignment 

The objective of this assignment is to assist the FCCC by:  

• a. Reviewing the existing processes for FCCC electricity generating licenses (EGL) and designing a user-friendly digital system that will streamline workflow processes. 

• b. Developing a web-based licensing system, that includes (but is not limited to):   

• • • A comprehensive licensing module to receive, assess, process applications, and seek relevant approvals, embedded with complaints management system to address and track grievances related to electricity generation and licensing. 

• • • Automated reporting functionalities for monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting as well as information and benchmarked data for researchers and policy decision markers; and 

• • • System that enables flexibility in assessment, review and approval of respective licenses. 

• c. System that is efficient in service delivery and regulatory reporting as per FCCC’s EGL process. 

To achieve these objectives, a mix of methodologies will need to be implemented which can include but is not limited to; interviews, focus groups or online surveys with relevant stakeholders (such as regulatory authorities, private sector and relevant FCCC staff), desktop research, systems architecture designing, process flow and wireframes development.

3. Scope of services

• a. Develop a workplan outlining methodologies, approaches and key activities with corresponding timelines, methodology, approach, resources, deliverables, stakeholders to consultant, questionnaires, resources and addressing all elements outlined in this RFQ – to be approved by MDF and FCCC prior to commencing work. 

• b. Review FCCC EGL processes and design system architecture by: 

• • • Mapping existing EGL processes including internal workflows, timeframes, service delivery and reporting requirements to address all elements required in this RFQ; 

• • • Understanding FCCC regulatory requirements to receive, assess, approve applications and develop reports for respective EGLs; 

• • • Understanding stakeholder experience and preferences (both internal and external) for EGL application requirements, processing timelines and overall customer experience; 

• • • Understanding FCCC service requirements to receive and manage complaints relevant to electricity generation in Fiji; 

• • • Developing a high-level system architecture that defines system components, workflow and process automation, role-based access control and security frameworks and data protection mechanisms, technical requirements (such as programming languages and database structure) and determines whether the system will be cloud-based or on-premises (considering scalability and cost-effectiveness); and 

• • • Drafting a system blue-print outlining wireframes and process flow diagrams of key system functionalities, establishes preliminary system specifications and documentation for development phase. 

• c. Develop and implement a web-based EGL system that includes (but is not limited to): 

• • • A secure, user-friendly, web-based licensing module to facilitate application submissions, assessments, tracking real-time status, as well as user-feedback and notifications to flag pending actions.  

• • • Integrated complaints management system to log complaints and grievances received as well as track and generate reports on the resolution process. 

• • • Automated reporting tools for monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting. 

• d. Test and deploy the EGL system by: 

• • • Deploying and testing the system within the FCCC’s digital infrastructure to ensure functionality, usability, and security; 

• • • Developing user manuals, technical documents and maintenance plans for ongoing support 

• • • Capacity Building of FCCC staff on using the system; 

• • • Overseeing systems deployment to ensure smooth transition to new system; and 

• • • Providing up to one year hosting with 6 months post-deployment support for troubleshooting and enhancements. 

4. Experience and qualifications

Individuals or firms should possess the following  

• • Relevant qualifications and experience in regulatory aspects, computer science, information technology, software engineering, software design, or related fields. 

• • Prior experience in project management, systems development and assessing regulatory or licensing processes. 

• • Strong applied software design and automated systems development skills with understanding of database management systems, cloud services and security protocols. 

• • Familiarity with the regulatory environment and licensing for energy / electricity sector would be an advantage.  

• • Strong research and analytical skills with problem-solving capabilities 

• • Excellent communication and organizational skills, including working according to tight deadlines while maintaining high product quality. 

5. Quote / Proposal format 

Interested service providers must complete the Response Forms (a) and (b) provided with this RFQ to submit an offer. Submissions that do not use the Response Form will not be considered for assessment due to non-compliance with RFQ format.

6. Evaluation criteria

Technical & Regulatory criteria 

MDF will evaluate each submission for adherence to this RFQ, ability to fulfill the specified requirements, and overall cost-effectiveness. The technical & Regulatory response will be assessed based on the following criteria: 

• A. Demonstrated capability to deliver the requirements as described in this RFQ or previous delivery of such projects. (25%) 

• B. Demonstrated experience in regulatory environment especially in the energy / electricity sector. (25%) 

• C. Demonstrated approach towards proposed project timeline, key milestones, and deliverables with assessment of monitoring, reporting, and compliance mechanisms to track progress and ensure accountability. (25%) 

• D. Approach to delivering the requirements as described in this RFQ. (15%)  

• E. Qualifications and experience of proposed personnel. (10%) 

The technical & regulatory score will account for 80% of the total score. 

Applicants should clearly demonstrate the qualifications and experience with detailed CVs, highlighting relevant past roles, key accomplishments, and specific expertise related to the project requirements. Additionally, applicants can strengthen their submissions by including references, certifications, and case studies that validate their expertise, ensuring evaluators can assess their capability effectively. 

Financial criteria 

Following the assessment of the technical response, MDF will undertake a like-for-like price comparison of all technically suitable offers. The Financial Score will account for 20% of the total score. 

7. Contracting details  

The successful service provider will be contracted by MDF and will work under the guidance of MDF and FCCC at all times, providing regular updates to both parties on progress and any problems that may be encountered. 

If your quote is successful, you will be required to enter into the Company’s standard contract for the types of goods or services being provided. In the provision of the Goods and Services, you will be required to comply with the Company’s policies, including (without limitation) its Business Partner Code of Conduct and any relevant Project Manual. Potential suppliers must also comply with the Company’s Business Partner Code of Conduct in the submission of any quotes pursuant to this RFQ. 

If you are bidding as part of a joint venture, partnership or similar, please make this clear in your submission. Likewise, if you propose to subcontract any part of the goods or services provision, then disclose this fact within your submission. The Company may require additional information from you and approval for subcontracting will not be automatic as subcontractors will be subject to Palladium’s Due Diligence process.

Registration of Interest

Register your interest to submit an offer by sending your organization name, contact person and contact details to the contact person by email on or before Friday, 21st March 2025, 5:00pm Fiji Time.

The Last date for Queries is extended to Wednesday 16 April 2025, 5:00pm Fiji Time.

Closing Date and Time for Applications has been further extended to Thursday 24 April 2025, 5:00PM Fiji Time

Addendum 1
Please find responses to tender queries here: Addendum 1

Addendum 2
Please find responses to tender queries here: Addendum 2

Addendum 3
Please find responses to tender queries here: Addendum 3

Contact Person: Tenders-mdf@thepalladiumgroup.com 

Click on “Apply” button below to download the Service Provider Response Forms Part A and B, and submission instructions. 

Request for Quotation (RFQ) – Photography and Videography Services Panel for MDF Sri Lanka
RFQ Issue Date: Thursday, 20 February 2025

About the Market Development Facility
Australia’s Market Development Facility (MDF) helps countries in the Indo-Pacific region to grow through improved productivity, economic diversification, competitiveness and trade.
MDF helps business partners and government to identify markets that have high potential to grow, be profitable, and deliver social and environmental value.
Our aim is to do good by supporting good business. MDF supports business investment and innovation that reduces poverty, economically empowers women and combats climate change. We currently operate in Fiji, Timor-Leste, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga and Sri Lanka.
MDF is funded by the Australian Government and co-funded by the New Zealand Government in Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu. It is implemented by Palladium, in partnership with Swisscontact.

Objective:
MDF Sri Lanka is seeking to engage a panel of professional photography and videography service providers to assist in its visual communications for a period of 1 year, with the possibility of extension.

The Service Provider will be responsible for:
– Conceptualising, mapping, and structuring communications products as per MDF’s brief.
– Planning photography/filming in alignment with MDF’s requirements.
– Adding voice-overs, graphics, or animations as per video requirements.
– Editing and revising videos based on MDF feedback.
– Arranging transport/accommodation for outstation assignments.
– Adhering to DFAT and MDF rules and regulations during assignments.
– Producing agreed-upon deliverables in a timely manner.

Expected Outputs and Deliverables:
– Photographs (event coverage, site visits, VIP visits)
– Short documentaries
– Short clips for social media

Experience and Qualifications:
– Creativity and a good eye for visual storytelling.
– Up-to-date knowledge of photographic and video technology, equipment, and techniques.
– Necessary editing technology and equipment.
– Excellent communication and people skills.
– Ability to work independently and efficiently, managing time according to tight deadlines.
– Exceptional attention to detail and quality standards.
– Knowledge of Sinhala and/or Tamil.
– An existing portfolio of relevant work.

Essential Criteria:

1.The Service Provider must hold the necessary business registration and relevant permits to legally operate in Sri Lanka.

2. Evaluation Criteria:
Technical Evaluation (80% of Total Score):
– Capability and experience (40%)
– Approach to communication and meeting deadlines (35%)
– Key personnel (25%)
Financial Evaluation (20% of Total Score):
– Like-for-like price comparison of all technically suitable offers.

How to Apply:

1. Register your interest by sending your organization name, contact person, and contact details to the Contact Person by email on or before Wednesday, 26 February 2025, 5:00 PM Sri Lanka Time.

2. Click on the Apply button to download and submit completed Supplier Response Form Part A & Part B by email to the Contact Person on or before the Closing Date and Time. Indicate the RFQ Title in the subject line.

Closing Date and Time: 7 March 2025 / 5:00 PM Sri Lanka Time

Contact Person: tenders-mdf@thepalladiumgroup.com

For any queries, contact tenders-mdf@thepalladiumgroup.com.

Thank you for your interest in this procurement opportunity. We look forward to receiving your quote!

About Palladium
Palladium is a global company working to design, develop and deliver positive impact on the lives and livelihoods of people around the globe; broaden access to health, water, power, and infrastructure; build enduring, sustainable, and transformative institutions and market systems to address global challenges; and conserve the natural world. We operate in over 90 countries and have a workforce of 4,000 talented, motivated, and diverse staff of all religions, races, languages, and gender identities.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion – Palladium is committed to embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion into everything we do. We welcome applications from all sections of society and actively encourage diversity to drive innovation, creativity, success and good practice. We positively welcome and seek to ensure we achieve diversity in our workforce; and that all job applicants and employees receive equal and fair treatment regardless of their background or personal characteristics. These include: (but are not limited to) socio-economic background, age, race, gender identity and expression, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, nationality, veteran, marital or Indigenous status.
Should you require any adjustments or accommodations to be made due to a disability or you are a neurodivergent individual or for any other circumstance, please email our team at accessibility@thepalladiumgroup.com and we will be in touch to discuss.

Safeguarding – We define Safeguarding as “the preventative action taken by Palladium to protect our people, clients and the communities we work with from harm”. We are committed to ensuring that all children and adults who come into contact with Palladium are treated with respect and are free from abuse. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced selection process including safeguarding-focused interviews and a rigorous due diligence process.