TOPS Year 3 Semi-Annual Report

The program's period of performance is from July 15, 2021, to July 14, 2026, with a total project funding of $24,959,113. As of the end of the first half of year 3, the obligated amount was $8,856,606.39. The program's objectives are to provide technical, operational, and programmatic services to the Bureau of Resilience, Environment and Food Security (REFS), which leads USAID's efforts to address crises related to food security and climate change. The program aims to deliver lasting development results that protect the environment and strengthen the natural resource base, advance equitable and inclusive development, support a culture of intentional learning, and promote integrated, holistic programming. The TOPS team is led by EnCompass LLC and includes core subcontractor Environmental Incentives. The team is organized into a nimble core team and a network of TOPS Specialists who are recruited via this mechanism. Management of TOPS continues to require a lean approach, with team members working on tasks "as needed" and related to recruitment, onboarding, ongoing management, and contract finances and administration. Bethany White has served as the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) for the TOPS contract during the first half of Year 3. After the departure of Juan Proano from the Agency in September 2023, the TOPS team has liaised with the COR on all needed approvals. There has been no need for additional communications and outreach resources during the first six months of Year 3, with the COR continuing to use one-pagers and other standard operating protocols developed during the previous reporting period. The TOPS team has continued to provide technical assistance and support to USAID Missions, partnering with them to deliver more effective programming. The team has also supported and promoted integrated, holistic programming, collaborating across sectors and Operating Units (OUs) to efficiently apply a broad range of expertise for system and economy-wide development impact. The program's activities and achievements during the first half of Year 3 are presented in this report, which is due no later than 30 days after the close of the first half of the year.