Development program grant for A.I.T.E.C., a division of accion international

AITEC will implement the project. The project will increase AITEC"s programming effectiveness and competence, improve its existing evaluation system, and increase its operational capacity to implement the successful "Ecuadorian model" in three poorer LDC"s. Toward these ends, the project will enable AITEC to hire a programming expert, an evaluation expert, and supporting clerical and logistical staff; install a planning system for its operational programs; operationalize a comprehensive evaluation system; integrate this evaluation capability into the programming process; and train its personnel in operational methods of technical assistance. The actual development activities to be supported by AITEC during the course of the project inlcude 20 small, labor-intensive agribusiness projects; three credit mechanism projects for small entreprenuers; one labor-intensive public works project; and 50 social services projects (i.e., projects which promote nutrition, vocational training, health, and family planning). The integration of women into the development process will be emphasized. To carry out these projects and to coordinate activities at the regional level, AITEC will duplicate procedures as developed in a highly successful Ecuadorian project. AITEC will: (1) obtain support from government and private leaders; (2) determine local sectoral interests in project participation; (3) establish counterpart relationships with government and private institutions; (4) conduct indepth, socioeconomic baseline surveys of targeted populations; (5) serve as an intermediary to develop integrated, concrete plans in conjunction with local agencies and governments; and (6) provide TA or referrals as necessary to implement project activities. To ensure project viability, local organizations will be created, strengthened, and will move toward financial independence. Also, training will be provided to local personnel during all phases of the project.