Overview of CSJ Program

Climate Smart Jobs (CSJ) Component 1 is a four-year programme funded by the UK's International Climate Fund. It consists of three sub-components: 1A - Market Systems Development, 1B – Uganda Climate Innovation Fund, and 1C -Ecosystems Services.  Component 1 seeks to sustainably increase agricultural productivity and ultimately improve the incomes of smallholder farmers (particularly women, refugees, and host communities). CSJ understands that smallholder farmers (SHFs) are extremely vulnerable to the effects of climate change (particularly extreme weather events) and face numerous constraints. Mitigating these effects is central to the programme’s approach.

The constraints SHFs face in improving agricultural productivity and income levels include limited access to inputs for crops and livestock, poor soil and water management, limited access to an efficient distribution model for climate-resilient varieties, limited access to affordable extension services for both livestock and crop, weak engagement between Private Sector Actors (PSAs) and research institutions, high incidence of pests/parasites and diseases for crops and livestock, uncertainty in seasonality (unpredictable rainfall, prolonged dry spell, spatial distribution of rainfall), limited access to affordable on-farm mechanisation services), and weak market access and value addition.

CSJ intends to work with market actors to trigger change in the market system in a way that enables SHFs to gain increased access to affordable, quality input products and services, in turn increasing their incomes and ability to adapt and become resilient to the effect of climate change.

This TOR focuses on the provision of Technical Assistance (TA) to develop a Human-Centred Design Thinking Manual and train Master Trainers under Component 1B.  UCIF is targeting to support business owners to acquire the necessary skills to drive their company's growth and prepare SMEs to become bankable and competent in raising capital.

Background to the Assignment

Component 1B serves as the conduit for delivering the Uganda Climate Innovation Fund (UCIF). It is designed to empower market actors to initiate, expand, and replicate innovative climate-smart solutions, specifically tailored to benefit smallholder farmers. There is a specific focus on key demographic groups, including women, refugees, and host communities in Northern Uganda. The primary objective is to enhance their resilience to the adverse impacts of climate change while simultaneously increasing their incomes and employment opportunities.

The UCIF is set to provide a holistic package of TA to the pioneers from piloting their business idea to establishing product market fit before scale-up under Component 1A. TA will be delivered through boot-camps, training workshops, one-on-one expert-led coaching and mentorship, as well as peer-to-peer learning and networking.

Objectives of the Assignment

CSJ is seeking a consultant to develop a Human-Centered Design Thinking Manual and provide training of Design Thinking Master trainers using the said manual. Design Thinking is a proven human-centered approach to innovation that emphasizes understanding user needs, brainstorming solutions, and prototyping ideas to arrive at optimal solutions. Successful Design Thinking implementation is expected to yield a multitude of benefits for the pioneers, including:

• Increased innovation output and the development of new products, services or processes.
• Improved problem-solving capabilities leading to more effective solutions.
• Enhanced customer satisfaction through a deeper understanding of their needs
• Increased employee engagement and motivation through participation in the innovation process.
• A more collaborative and creative work environment.

By investing in the development of a Design Thinking Manual and training Master Trainers, CSJ is laying the groundwork for successful and sustainable Design Thinking implementation throughout the organization.

Scope of Work

The preferred Consultant will deliver the following responsibilities:

Develop a Design Thinking Manual

1. Conduct a literature review on various Design Thinking frameworks and methodologies.
2. Review in detail the videos from the previously held boot-camp for UCIF.
3. Design a clear and concise manual that outlines the Design Thinking process, including the different stages (e.g., Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, Test).
4. Develop practical tools and techniques for each stage, along with real-world examples and case studies that are industry-relevant to the Incubator.
5. Tailor the manual to the Incubator's specific needs and context.
6. Present the draft Design Thinking Manual to SBIL for feedback and incorporating any revisions.
7. Finalize the Design Thinking Manual based on feedback received.
8. Share the manual in digital and printable format.

Train Master Trainers

1. Design and deliver a Design Thinking training manual specifically for Master Trainers.
2. The training should be interactive and engaging, incorporating a mix of lectures, discussions, group activities, and hands-on exercises.
3. Equip Master Trainers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to effectively deliver Design Thinking workshops to other pioneers/participants
4. Cover topics such as but not limited to:
   (i) Design Thinking Philosophy and Principles.
   (ii) Facilitating Design Thinking Workshops.
   (iii) Using Design Thinking Workshops.
   (iv) Adapting Design Thinking for Different Project Types.
   (v) Evaluation and Measurement of Design Thinking Outcomes.
   

Deliverables

 The Consultant will deliver the following in execution of the Scope of Work:

1. Inception Report outlining the approach and methodology for the consultancy.
2. Draft Design Thinking Manual for review
3. Final and comprehensive Design Thinking Manual incorporating feedback.
4. A training program for Design Thinking Master Trainers, including all training materials.
5. A list of qualified Master Trainers upon completion of the program.

Required Competencies

The preferred candidate will exhibit the following competencies:

• Achieve Results: Sets and aligns challenging, achievable objectives in performance of tasks having lasting impact.
• Think Innovatively: Proactively mitigate potential risks, develop new ideas to solve complex problems.
• Learn Continuously: Create opportunities to help teams expand horizons, diversify experiences.
• Adapt with Agility: Proactively initiate and champion change, manage multiple competing demands.
• Act with Determination: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results.
• Engage and Partner: Politically savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion wider collaboration.

Required Skills and Experience

The preferred Consultant will have the following qualifications:
Education:

• Masters Degree in Business Management / Economics / Entrepreneurship or a related field.

Experience:

• Proven experience in Design Thinking methodology and its practical application.
• In-depth understanding of the start-up ecosystem and the challenges faced by early-stage ventures.
• Previous experience in developing training manuals and facilitating workshops is highly desirable.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and writing skills.
• Ability to tailor training programs to client needs.

Assignment Timeline

The consultancy will run for a period of 30 days from the date of signing the contracts

Submission instructions  

Interested consultants submit a detailed technical and financial proposal (no longer than 10 pages), CV and a 1-page Cover Letter describing your suitability for this role. Include in your submission 2 examples of previous work and 2 references.

CSJ reserves the right to negotiate and award this contract to the contractor who demonstrates the best approach, rather than awarding the contract solely based on the lowest cost. This solicitation does not require CSJ to award a contract.

Note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If you have not received communication from CSJ MD within four weeks from the sub

Company Overview:

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