Our Mission is only beginning to reach out to FBCOs. What are the core guidelines and principles involved in partnering with religiously affiliated organizations?
Mission and Embassy staff should keep in mind that the Faith-Based and Community Initiative is NOT a preference for FBCOs. Rather, it is the principle that all organizations, small or large, religious or secular, first-time applicants or long-standing contractors, should be allowed to compete for government grants on a level playing field to determine the best partner for the job. USAID policy emphasizes the principles of neutrality, non-discrimination and equal access. The Mission should have a broad outreach and education strategy when it comes to identifying and informing service delivery partners about USAID grant and contract opportunities. The intrinsic value of local organizations and networks for service delivery should be taken into account along with overall results and qualifications to serve, not whether they are religious or secular, nor on the basis of specific beliefs. In cases where FBOs are engaged, USAID policy also requires ensuring that impermissible religious activ
