Critical Minerals

Overview

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) supports the development of overseas infrastructure projects that advance the shared strategic interests of the United States and its overseas partners. These projects offer opportunities for the export of trusted U.S. solutions, including technology, goods, and services that support U.S. jobs.

USTDA is the U.S. government’s first mover on critical infrastructure projects overseas. The Agency funds the upfront technical and design work that accelerates infrastructure development and helps projects attract financing. This includes project preparation activities such as feasibility studies, technical assistance, pilot projects, and front-end engineering and design studies.

Scope of Work

USTDA requires services under this non-personal services Desk Study contract to support its decision-making relative to the funding of activities, such as those identified in the Overview section above, to support the energy and critical minerals sectors.

USTDA intends to contract with multiple U.S. companies to provide a total of up to ten “Preliminary Evaluations” of proposals for energy sector feasibility studies, technical assistance activities, or pilot projects in Africa; up to twelve “Project Reports” with fully developed funding recommendations for activities for USTDA funding consideration; and up to twelve concept note consultations.

For more information and to apply, visit the solicitation on SAM.gov. Applications are due by September 19, 2025 at 1 p.m. EDT.