NOVE is an Italian non-profit organization, founded
in 2012 by experts in international development. It
comprises 'Caring Humans': individuals dedicated to
the well-being of others. NOVE creates or enhances
programs and projects for socio-economic,
sustainable, and generative development. In
humanitarian emergencies, it provides immediate aid
to the population, anticipating a return to normalcy.
All its activities prioritize the most vulnerable
humans, especially women, children, and people
with disabilities. NOVE collaborates with other
reliable organizations, manages costs, and ensures
transparency. 
Currently, NOVE works in Afghanistan and Italy. It
has also carried out emergency and development
projects in Greece, Syria, and Ethiopia.

Purpose

To ensure the financial and operational sustainability of female-led bakeries, the consultant will conduct a feasibility study and develop a tailored business model. The focus will be on establishing bakeries capable of generating sustainable income for female entrepreneurs, identifying key challenges and success factors, and assessing the socio-economic context to ensure alignment with the project goals. While the core business must be self-sustaining, the project also wants to integrate free bread distribution to women in need, but this will not be a primary component of the bakery’s business strategy.

Key Areas for the Consultant’s Investigation and Recommendations

• Understanding the Bakery Ecosystem

The consultant will initiate the study by collecting key information from relevant government offices, licensing authorities, and local stakeholders to develop a comprehensive understanding of the bakery ecosystem in Kabul.

This foundational step will include:

• Collecting data on the number of active bakeries and their locations.
• Identifying whether bakeries are predominantly male- or female-led, with an emphasis on highlighting any female-led bakeries.
• Understanding the regulatory framework for obtaining bakery licences, including average costs, and identifying any gender-specific challenges.

Outcome:

• A database of active bakeries, categorised by location, scale, ownership (male or female-led), and operational status.
• An overview of the regulatory environment, including licensing requirements, licence average costs, and potential barriers for women entrepreneurs.

• Identifying Districts with Growth Potential

Based on the analysis of the bakery ecosystem, the consultant will propose at least three districts where bakeries have the highest likelihood of financial sustainability. This analysis will be supported by a thorough assessment of the entire Kabul area to validate the findings.

The consultant should ensure that, alongside financial sustainability, the recommended districts also have a notable presence of vulnerable populations, such as internally displaced persons (IDPs) or other socio-economically disadvantaged groups, who would benefit from the bread distribution component of the project.

Factors to consider include:

• Demographic Profile: Socio-economic characteristics of residents, presence of internally displaced persons (IDPs), or other vulnerable groups relevant to the project’s social objectives.
• Customer Base: Potential demand for baked goods and services.
• Competition: Areas with limited competition to avoid market saturation, including the presence or absence of female-led bakeries.
• Market Linkages: Opportunities to connect with large buyers, such as restaurants, schools, or stores.
• Economic Viability: Average purchasing power and demand for baked products in the district

Outcome:

• A shortlist of three recommended districts, supported by data on demographics, local demand, competition, and feasibility. This report also needs to include a description of the methodology used to gather data and ensure its reliability.

• Assessing Success and Failure of Female-Led Bakeries

A. Identifying Successful Small Scale Bakeries

The consultant will identify successful small scale bakeries (either men led or female led) to develop a replicable operational model. This analysis will include:

• Bakery location, size, and equipment used.
• Duration of operations and continuity (e.g., any interruptions).
• Revenue growth trends and financial sustainability.
• Operational practices, including staffing and supply chain management.
• Relationships with suppliers, bulk buyers, and community stakeholders.

B. Challenges for Replicating Male-Led Models as Female-Led Businesses

The consultant will assess whether successful operational models identified can be replicated by female bakers. This will involve:

• Identifying potential challenges for women (e.g., regulatory barriers, cultural restrictions, market perceptions).
• Proposing adjustments or additional support needed to ensure success for female-led bakeries.

Outcome:

• A detailed report on successful bakery models and their feasibility for replication as female-led enterprises.
• Recommendations for overcoming challenges specific to women entrepreneurs in the bakery sector.

• Developing a Scalable Business Model

A. Defining a Viable Bakery Business Model

Building on the findings, the consultant will outline a comprehensive business model for small scale bakeries. The model should include:

• Cost Structure: Detailed breakdown of startup and operational costs (e.g., rent, utilities, equipment, ingredients, staffing).
• Revenue Streams: Pricing strategies, diversification opportunities (e.g., catering services, specialised products), and connections with bulk buyers.
• Financial Projections: Revenue estimates, profitability benchmarks, and break-even analysis.

B. Adapting the Model for Female-Led Bakeries

The consultant will identify adjustments required to make the business model viable and scalable for female entrepreneurs, considering cultural, operational, and regulatory contexts.

Outcome:

• A practical, scalable business model template tailored to female-led bakeries, with detailed financial projections and risk management strategies.

Professional Experience:

• Proven track record in feasibility studies, small business development, and market research.
• Experience in designing business models for SMEs, especially in challenging or resource-constrained environments.

Analytical and Communication Skills:

• Strong capabilities in data collection, analysis, and synthesis of findings into actionable recommendations.
• Proficiency in stakeholder engagement and conducting consultations with diverse groups.

  Deliverables

• Feasibility Study Report: Comprehensive analysis of the bakery ecosystem, districts with growth potential, and success/failure factors for bakeries.
• District Recommendations: A list of three recommended districts, with supporting evidence and methodology.
• Business Model Template: A practical, scalable plan for female-led bakeries, including cost estimates, revenue streams, and adaptations for women entrepreneurs.
• Stakeholder Insights Summary: Key findings from consultations with government authorities, bakery owners, and bulk buyers.
• Final Presentation: A clear and concise presentation summarising findings, proposed strategies, and recommendations for the project team.

• Timeline

  The consultancy will last four weeks, divided as follows:

• Week 1: Initial stakeholder consultations, regulatory research, and data collection on active bakeries.
• Week 2: Field visits to assess bakeries, collect data on operational practices, and analyse challenges.
• Week 3: Development of feasibility study and business model, including data analysis and drafting of recommendations.
• Week 4: Finalisation of deliverables, including district recommendations, stakeholder insights, and presentation to the project team.

Budget Guidelines

Budget Ceiling: $1,500 USD
The consultant must provide a detailed budget that includes:

• Daily consultancy fee.
• Level of effort expressed in days for each task/activity.
• Breakdown of other expenses, if applicable (e.g., travel, data collection tools).

How to Apply

Interested consultants are invited to apply by submitting the following documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV):
2. Technical Proposal:
   • A brief outline of your proposed methodology and approach to deliver the outlined scope of work.
3. Financial Proposal:
   • A detailed budget including:
     • Daily consultancy fee.
     • Level of effort (number of days) for each task/activity.
     • Any additional expenses (e.g., travel, data collection tools).

Submission Deadline:
Applications must be submitted through email by Friday 13 December 2024.  

Submission Email:
Send your application to recruitment@novecaringhumans.org and kabul_admin@novecaringhumans.org with the subject line:
Application for Feasibility Assessment Consultant

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Budget Guidelines

Budget Ceiling: $1,500 USD
The consultant must provide a detailed budget that includes:

• Daily consultancy fee.
• Level of effort expressed in days for each task/activity.
• Breakdown of other expenses, if applicable (e.g., travel, data collection tools).

How to Apply

Interested consultants are invited to apply by submitting the following documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV):
2. Technical Proposal:
   • A brief outline of your proposed methodology and approach to deliver the outlined scope of work.
3. Financial Proposal:
   • A detailed budget including:
     • Daily consultancy fee.
     • Level of effort (number of days) for each task/activity.
     • Any additional expenses (e.g., travel, data collection tools).

Submission Deadline:
Applications must be submitted through email by Friday 13 December 2024.  

Submission Email:
Send your application to recruitment@novecaringhumans.org and kabul_admin@novecaringhumans.org with the subject line:
Application for Feasibility Assessment Consultant

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Send your application to recruitment@novecaringhumans.org and kabul_admin@novecaringhumans.org with the subject line:
Application for Feasibility Assessment Consultant