Frequently Asked Questions
Transforming the Farmer to Consumer Supply Chain Climate - Smart Processing
Navigating the proposal process can be complex. In this FAQ section, you'll find straightforward answers and guidance. Our goal is to ensure interested offerors have all the information needed to develop a complete and comprehensive proposal.
Can't find what you're looking for? Submit a question via the form below.
Proposal Submission
Proposal Evaluation Criteria & Process
Contracting
1. How do interested Offerors submit proposals?
Proposals must be submitted online via the Online Submission Form on the Processor's Corner landing page.
2. When do interested Offerors need to submit proposals by?
All proposals must be submitted by September 16, 2024, at 11:59 pm EST.
3. Do letters of recommendation need to be included in submitted proposals?
Letters of Recommendation are optional. However, if submitted, they will be reviewed for up to 5% in additional points.
4. Who should interested Offerors contact if they have questions?
All question must be submitted via the FAQ form above. Answers will be added to this page as required.
1. What is the weighting assigned to each section of the proposal?
The table below describes the weight assigned to each section of the proposal.
2. Who will evaluate the proposals?
Eligible proposals will be reviewed and ranked by Carbon A List with input from a review committee comprised of representatives from project partner organizations.
Contracting​
1. What is the purpose of the service agreement?
This agreement is for hiring a Service Provider to fulfill obligations under a USDA grant for Climate Smart Commodities.
2. Who are the parties involved in this agreement?
The agreement is between Carbon A List LLC and an unspecified Service Provider.
3. What are the key performance expectations for the Service Provider?
The Service Provider must adhere to the Statement of Work (SOW), ensuring quality, timeliness, and compliance with industry standards. Any deficiencies must be corrected at their own expense.
4. Can the Service Provider subcontract some of the work?
Yes, subcontracting is allowed but must be identified in the SOW. Subcontractors should be licensed and insured.
5. What happens if there are changes to the project scope?
Carbon A List can modify, suspend, or terminate the project, with potential adjustments to payments.
6. What are the site visitation rights?
Carbon A List reserves the right to inspect the project site.
7. What is the term of the agreement and conditions for termination?
The agreement is effective until June12, 2028. It can be terminated on breach, with specific provisions detailing rights that survive termination.
8. What are the confidentiality and indemnification clauses?
Both parties have an obligation to maintain confidentiality of non-public information. There is mutual indemnification for losses due to negligence, breach, or infringement of third-party rights.
9. How are environmental attributes handled?
The Service Provider acknowledges the creation of environmental benefits and credits, with specific conditions for ownership and transfer.
10. Are there any specific compliance requirements?
Compliance with applicable laws and Carbon A List's sustainability principles is mandatory.
11. Under what law is this agreement governed?
The agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Colorado.
12. What does the agreement say about the relationship between the parties?
The relationship is defined as independent contractors. There are restrictions on assignment and change of control without consent.
13. Are there any special provisions regarding advertising and non-disparagement?
There are restrictions on advertising against agricultural commodities.
14. What would the recipient of one of the RFPs be in the eyes of the government?
In the eyes of the government, recipients of the RFPs are a sub-contractor to Carbon A List.
15. Is the CAL - USDA reporting template available to view?
Yes, there is a blank version of the reporting template available here.