Frequently Asked Questions

What is USAID? 

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is an independent agency of the U.S. government that provides economic, development and humanitarian assistance around the world in support of the foreign policy goals of the United States. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy signed the Foreign Assistance Act into law, creating by executive order what is now known as USAID.

USAID is headquartered in Washington, DC, with offices in more than 80 countries and territories in four regions of the world: Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and the Near East, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Europe and Eurasia. USAID’s office in the Jamaica is in Kingston.

How does USAID Operate?

Based on active partnerships with the host country government, local private and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), each mission identifies needs and establishes a strategy for delivering assistance to the host country. The authority to design, procure and implement specific activities is largely delegated to the mission, based on USAID/Washington’s approval of the country strategy. USAID's assistance is delivered through a variety of contractors and grantees, including U.S. private businesses, U.S. and local non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private voluntary organizations and international agencies.

The selection of specific contractors and grantees is based on a competitive process and U.S. procurement guidelines.

Requests for proposals and applications are found at http://www.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/ and published in the Commerce Business Daily. While USAID prefers to make awards based on competition, in rare occasions unsolicited applications may be submitted to the Mission requesting financing for unique and innovative initiatives.

Recognizing the key role of the private sector in advancing development, USAID promotes public-private partnerships to leverage additional resources and encourage effectiveness.

How long has USAID been in Jamaica?

USAID has been operating in Jamaica since 1962.

What do USAID programs focus on in Jamaica?

USAID programs in Jamaica focus on:

• Economic growth
• Rural development
• Democracy and Governance
• Health
• Education

USAID/Jamaica:

• Is an Agency of the United States Government
• Provides technical assistance, training and equipment
• Provides assistance in the form of grants and contracts
• Follows the laws and regulations of both the U.S. Government and the host country governments
• Consults the local government on the implementation of all projects