The primary objective of this assignment is to integrate comprehensive Gender-Responsive Business Approaches (GRBAs) into the business strategies of 100 Jordanian small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This initiative seeks to foster inclusive business environments where women are empowered to participate, develop, and lead. The approach involves a two-step process: First, it focuses on building the capacity of two Business Service Providers (BSPs), enabling them to deliver specialized advisory services on GRBA to SMEs. Second, these BSPs will engage with each of the 100 SMEs individually, helping them to customize and implement GRBA strategies that align with their specific business needs.

The assignment targets three main groups. The primary beneficiaries are 100 SMEs from various sectors across Jordan, which will be guided through the process of adopting GRBA strategies. The second target group includes two BSPs, selected and trained to offer high-quality, tailored advisory services to SMEs. Lastly, the third target group comprises female job-seekers and employees, who stand to gain from increased job opportunities, equitable workplace policies, and pathways for professional growth.

Several key outcomes are expected to be achieved through this assignment. The two BSPs will receive comprehensive training, equipping them to deliver tailored GRBA advisory services to SMEs effectively. 100 participating SMEs will be supported to successfully develop GRBA measures, and at least half of them - no less than 50 - will implement these strategies by incorporating at least three distinct GRBA elements into their operations. Furthermore, the assignment aims to directly improve working conditions for 200 employees within the targeted SMEs and their broader networks (e.g., suppliers and business partners). Of these, at least 50 women shall see tangible benefits, such as new recruitment opportunities, salary increases, promotions, or improved workplace conditions.

To further amplify the impact of the initiative, at least five case studies shall be developed and disseminated. These case studies shall showcase how GRBAs have improved business outcomes for the participating SMEs. The intention of dissemination of these case studies is to encourage other businesses in Jordan to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that promotes gender equality across the broader SME sector.

By addressing systemic challenges and equipping businesses with practical strategies, this assignment aims to promote gender responsive business practices in Jordan"s SME landscape. The dual focus on capacity-building for BSPs and directly supporting SMEs ensures that the initiative is both scalable and impactful. Through this effort, the assignment seeks not only to promote gender-responsive practices but also to enhance the overall performance and sustainability of SMEs.

The project consists of four work packages designed to integrate Gender-Responsive Business Approaches (GRBAs) into the business strategies of Jordanian SMEs.
Work Package 1 (Inception Phase) establishes the foundation for implementation. The contractor will create a detailed work plan and host a workshop with key stakeholders - such as MoITS, JNCW, business associations, chambers, BSPs, and private sector stakeholder - to align on objectives for the collaboration. An inception report summarizing the work plan and feedback of the stakeholder engagement will be submitted. Work Package 2 (Assessment and Preparation) involves reviewing global best practices for GRBAs and tailoring them to Jordanian SMEs' needs. Additionally, two BSPs will be trained to provide expert GRBA advisory services to selected SMEs. This capacity building of BSPs will ensure they are equipped with the skills and tools to support SMEs during and beyond the project. The objective of Work Package 3 (Development and Implementation of GRBA Practices with SMEs) is to implement the GRBA strategies across 100 Jordanian SMEs with the support of the two trained BSPs. This phase emphasizes the selection and matching of SMEs with BSPs, the development of tailored GRBA strategies for each SME, and the structured implementation of these strategies, including leadership development, workplace policy enhancements, and innovation to create more inclusive workplaces. The contractor will mentor BSPs throughout the process to ensure effective implementation. Finally, Work Package 4 (Communication and Dissemination) aims to raise awareness and inspire wider adoption of GRBAs. Through a targeted campaign, case studies of successful GRBA implementations will be documented and shared via reports, workshops, and online platforms. Events will also be organized to disseminate lessons learned and showcase the project"s outcomes. The overarching aim is to encourage other businesses to adopt GRBA strategies. Together, these work packages provide a comprehensive roadmap for integrating GRBAs into Jordan"s SME ecosystem.

GIZ may optionally commission contract amendments and/or increases based on the criteria in the tender documents to the successful bidder of this tender. For details, please see the terms of reference.

According to Article 160, Section 3 of the German Act Against Restraint of Competition (GWB), application for review is not permissible insofar as
1. the applicant has identified the claimed infringement of the procurement rules before submitting the application for review and has not submitted a complaint to the contracting authority within a period of 10 calendar days; the expiry of the period pursuant to Article 134, Section 2 remains unaffected,
2. complaints of infringements of procurement rules that are evident in the tender notice are not submitted to the contracting authority at the latest by the expiry of the deadline for the application or by the deadline for the submission of bids, specified in the tender notice.
3. complaints of infringements of procurement rules that first become evident in the tender documents are not submitted to the contracting authority at the latest by the expiry of the deadline for application or by the deadline for the submission of bids,
4. more than 15 calendar days have expired since receipt of notification from the contracting authority that it is unwilling to redress the complaint.
Sentence 1 does not apply in the case of an application to determine the invalidity of the contract in accordance with Article 135, Section 1 (2). Article 134, Section 1, Sentence 2 remains unaffected.

All communication takes place in English via communication tool in the project area of the procurement portal.

GIZ asks the applicant or bidder to submit, complete or correct documents, within the framework laid down by law.

The execution conditions result from the information given in the contract notice and the tender documents.