Part-Time Request for Proposals for Accounting Services
Job Description
Funding Opportunity Description
Background
Carbon A List is the grant administrator for the Transforming the Farm to Consumer Supply Chain through Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodities grant (“Grant”) awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. As part of the administration of the Grant, Carbon A List requires Accounting services to Carbon A List while maintaining compliance with federal regulations and Grant requirements.
Scope of Work
Budgeting
Maintain accurate financial records for the Grant, including income, expenses, and invoices, using appropriate accounting software.
Prepare monthly financial reports and summaries for Grant management review.
Invoicing
Track and categorize Grant expenses to ensure accurate reporting and compliance.
Timely processing and documentation of Grant expenses and invoices, adhering to Grant guidelines and requirements.
Reporting & Communication
Prepare comprehensive financial reports specific to the Grant.
Ensure timely and compliant financial reporting to USDA.
Weekly calls with Carbon A List to discuss ongoing Grant affairs.
Regular updates on Grant-related issues and/or risks.
Communication with Grant stakeholders, including Government sponsors, support contractors, and project Partners.
Communication with Carbon A List and Grant Partners on accounting best practices, tools, and processes.
Compliance and Auditing
Establish and maintain internal controls and accounting practices that adhere to Grant accounting standards and auditing requirements.
Collaborate with external auditors during annual Grant audits and ensure timely provision of required financial documents.
Proposal Requirements
Licensure and Accreditation
- Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) preferred.
Expected deliverables
- Monthly financial reports summarizing income, expenses, and variances.
- Grant-specific financial reports for accurate reporting.
- Timely and accurate processing of expenses and invoices.
- Clear documentation of categorized expenses and approvals.
- Documentation of adherence to accounting standards.
- Collaboration with external auditors during annual audits.
- Weekly calls to discuss Grant affairs.
The specific timeline for the delivery of services will be determined in collaboration with Carbon A List.
Evaluation Criteria
Qualifications and Experience (30%)
- Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or auditing experience preferred.
- Experience using Quickbooks Online and other similar financial tools.
- Experience working with Federal Grants and specifically USDA.
- Specific knowledge in Federal and USDA-specific auditing requirements and best practices.
- Demonstrated success in similar projects.
Approach and Methodology (25%)
- Understanding of the project’s needs and challenges.
- Proposed strategy for managing invoices, expenses, and reporting across Grant activities and sub awardees.
- Plans for collaboration and communication with Carbon A List.
- Adaptability to changes in Grant reporting rules and requirements.
Deliverables and Timeline (15%)
- Clarity and feasibility of proposed deliverables.
- Alignment with project goals and requirements.
- A realistic and well-defined timeline.
Cost Proposal (20%)
- Comprehensive breakdown of costs.
- Value for money considering the work.
- Transparency in pricing (hourly rates, fixed fees, etc.).
References and Past Performance (10%)
- Provision of references from similar projects.
- Reputation for quality, reliability, and integrity.
- Evidence of successful past performance in comparable work.
Commitment to Sustainability, Equity and Climate Goals (Extra Points)
- Alignment with Carbon A List’s mission and climate objectives.
- Sustainable practices within the firm or proposed approach.
- Registered Disadvantaged Business Enterprise.
Budget
The budget for this work assumes an hourly rate of $55 – $95. Anticipated support of less than 30 hours per week in year 1, with a maximum project length of 5 years.
How to Apply
Submission Guidelines Proposal submission deadline Date: Monday, October 30, 2023 Time: 11:59 PM EST Proposals received after the stated deadline will not be considered. It's like missing a farm harvest - timing is crucial! Contact Information for Queries Email: Proposals@TransformF2C.com Feel free to reach out with questions and comments. We're here to help! Format and Method of Submission Format: Proposals should be submitted in PDF format, Arial or Times New Roman, 12-point font. Method: Please submit proposals via email to the above address with the subject line: "Proposal for Accounting Services – [Your Firm’s Name]" Attachments: Include all required documents such as qualifications, approach, deliverables, cost proposal, references, and anything else that would make your proposal sprout from the rest. File Size Limit: Files should not exceed [e.g., 10 MB] – just like you wouldn't overwater your plants. Terms and Conditions Contract duration The contract will be negotiated by Carbon A List and the selected proposer not to exceed 5 years. Payment terms Timely payment is subject to Contractor compliance with invoicing procedures in a timely manner prior to stated deadlines.Federal Procurement Standards Compliance
Generally, Contractor shall comply with- all laws applicable to Contractor in its performance and delivery of services; and
- all policies and procedures related to this Grant published by Carbon A List from time to time and delivered to Contractor.
Conflict of Interest
Please outline your organization's policy on conflicts of interest and attest there are no material conflicts of interest impacting delivery of services.Non-Disparagement
Recipients may not engage in any advertising deemed by USDA as disparaging to another agricultural commodity or competing product, or in violation of the prohibition against false and misleading advertising. Disparagement is defined as anything that depicts other commodities in a negative or unpleasant light via overt or subjective video, photography, or statements. Comparative advertising is allowable, provided the presentation of facts is truthful, objective, not misleading, and supported by a reasonable basis. Additional Information Please state that your business is located in and licensed to operation within the United States and you have no pending or current lawsuits that would impact your ability to deliver services. Closing Date for Proposals: Monday, October 30, 2023113 total views, 0 today