ADM Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be assessed through a two-stage process:

Stage 1 consists of an initial call for proposals followed by a detailed review and selection process to be conducted by international and diaspora business experts. Following Stage 1, a limited number of applicants will be invited to submit full business plans.

Stage 2 consists of the development and submission by finalists of full business plans. Plans will be submitted to the ADM and distributed to ADM judges for review. A final review and awards event will be held in Washington, DC, during which finalists will participate in one-on-one interviews with ADM judges. Awards will be announced at the conclusion of the event.

Proposals will be assessed according to the following Evaluation Criteria. Please note that the five criteria will be considered equally during the review process — no criteria is more important than any other:

1. Business Idea: Business proposals must demonstrate a well-thought out idea and model that has the potential to be profitable, sustainable and generate economic development in Africa. Successful proposals will clearly articulate how the proposed product, service, or business model is more compelling than existing ones and adds value to the economy.
2. Management Capacity: Proposals must demonstrate the team's capacity to successfully implement and grow the business in the local context. Evidence will include information regarding the team composition, relevant qualifications, and demonstrated track record of success. Proposals should also demonstrate the depth and strength of the partnership between the U.S.-based African Diaspora member and the local entrepreneur(s)/enterprise.
3. Sustainability:
   Operational: Proposals must outline an operational strategy composed of concrete activities to be executed over the 12-18-month implementation period, as well as a plan for achieving operational sustainability and overcoming anticipated challenges

   Financial: Proposals must outline a financial plan to cover financial and operational costs within in the 12-18-month implementation period and a strategy for long-term viability. Plans must be based on realistic projections of expense and revenue streams. If break-even is not expected by the end of the ADM funding cycle, the business must provide a realistic strategy to secure additional financial support beyond the life of the ADM funding cycle.

4. Results:Proposals should demonstrate the ability to achieve tangible results in terms of business growth and economic development during the ADM funding cycle. It should define relevant outcome indicators and targets such as revenue generated, direct and indirect jobs created, increased wages, lives improved through the delivery of goods and services, etc.
5. Leverage: Proposals must demonstrate the ability to leverage diaspora resources in terms of financing, expertise and networking. Proposals should demonstrate a minimum of one-to-one leverage ratio of applicant contributions to ADM grant funding. Proposals that offer to leverage beyond that are viewed favorably. At least some portion of the matching contribution must be in the form of a financial contribution. In addition to monetary contributions, in-kind resources such as property, equipment, and supplies are also valuable contributions. Applications must clearly specify the contributions of each party and indicate the cash value of in-kind support.