INTRODUCTION
1. Background
In the context of budget constraints and steadily increasing humanitarian needs, the initiative seeks to develop and implement a digital infrastructure for humanitarian connectivity, communication, and monitoring. Its main objective is to save lives through a faster and more accurate response, optimize the use of available funding, and strengthen accountability to affected communities by directly and efficiently connecting the population’s actual needs with the provision of assistance and the analysis and decision-making processes. Despite existing efforts, critical barriers remain communities face difficulties accessing information and services, two-way communication and accountability mechanisms (AAP) are weak, and information remains highly fragmented. These gaps lead to duplication of efforts and reporting, increase the operational burden on partners, and limit monitoring and decision-making capacity, particularly when resources are scarce and lives are at risk.
1.1 Scope of Services
The selected service provider will be responsible for the provision, deployment, activation, maintenance, and technical support of satellite-based and/or 4G/5G Wifi connectivity solutions in prioritized humanitarian territories in Colombia, with the objective of enabling real-time communication, humanitarian monitoring, interoperability, and operational decision-making. The project supports the implementation of the Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP) Common Mechanism, implemented by 3iS in coordination with partners to strengthen community feedback, participation, and humanitarian coordination. This implementation currently operates in approximately 149 municipalities across 15 departments in Colombia, reaching more than 470,000 people. Preliminary assessments have identified 46 municipalities that may require connectivity support.
It is anticipated that connectivity solutions may be deployed at approximately 100 sites, with final locations to be determined by 3iS during implementation based on operational priorities, humanitarian access, security conditions, technical feasibility, and coordination with 3iS, participating consortia, and local actors. Should operational, security, access, or technical constraints prevent implementation in specific locations, alternative sites may be jointly identified and agreed upon with the selected service provider, 3iS, and relevant humanitarian partners. Any replacement locations shall be prioritized, whenever possible, within the 46 municipalities identified below; however, alternative sites within the broader group of 149 municipalities may be considered based on operational needs, humanitarian priorities, and implementation feasibility.
Departments and Number of Municipalities for Connectivity Solutions:
Amazonas: 2, Arauca: 3, Bolívar/Magdalena Medio:3, Caquetá:2, Chocó:3, Córdoba:8, Guaviare:2, La Guajira: 3, Meta: 1, Nariño:11, Norte de Santander: 4, Putumayo: 3, Vichada:1.
Total number of prioritized municipalities: 46.
1.2 Project Goal
The initiative proposes the development and implementation of a Humanitarian Connectivity, Communication, and Monitoring Hotline that prioritizes life-saving action and maximum efficiency in the use of funds. This system establishes direct and continuous contact with communities, eliminates unnecessary duplication, and ensures that every dollar invested has the greatest possible impact on humanitarian assistance. The Service Provider shall: • Conduct technical assessments of selected deployment sites. • Procure and transport all required connectivity equipment. • Install and configure Internet Connectivity Solutions (Starlink, Cellular Access Modems (4G/5G Hotspots & Routers), Local Wi-Fi (Fixed Broadband & Hotspot Extenders)) and related networking devices. • Ensure operational internet connectivity at designated locations. • Provide preventive and corrective maintenance services. • Monitor connectivity performance and system uptime. • Provide remote and on-site technical support when required. • Train designated personnel on the use and basic maintenance of the equipment. • Submit periodic technical and operational reports.
1.3 Constraints
The Service Provider should take into consideration the following potential operational and technical constraints that may affect implementation:
1. Remote and Hard-to-Reach Locations Deployment sites may be located in remote territories with:
• Limited road access.
• River-only transportation.
• Difficult terrain.
• Seasonal accessibility restrictions.
The Service Provider shall demonstrate the capacity to operate in geographically challenging environments.
2. Security Constraints Certain intervention areas may present:
• Insecurity related to armed conflict or criminal activity.
• Access limitations. • Sudden operational restrictions.
• Temporary suspension of field activities. The Service Provider shall maintain operational flexibility and coordinate closely with the contracting organization regarding security protocols and access conditions.
3. Limited Existing Infrastructure Deployment locations may have:
• Unstable or unavailable electricity.
• Lack of secure mounting infrastructure.
• Limited telecommunications coverage.
• Environmental exposure (rain, humidity, heat, dust).
The proposed solution should include appropriate mitigation measures to ensure operational continuity.
4. Connectivity Performance Variability Satellite connectivity performance may vary depending on:
• Weather conditions.
• Terrain obstructions.
• Network congestion.
• Power interruptions.
The Service Provider shall propose realistic service levels and contingency measures to minimize service disruptions.
1.4 Deliverables Deliverable
Deliverable 1 – Connectivity Deployment Plan The service provider shall submit a detailed deployment and implementation plan, including:
• Proposed connectivity architecture;
• Technical specifications of equipment;
• Power requirements and backup solutions;
• Estimated bandwidth and expected performance;
• Installation schedule and rollout timeline;
• Risk mitigation and maintenance approach.
• List of deployment sites/territories; Preliminary list of deployment sites/territories within the 46 prioritized municipalities presented in Table 1.
Connectivity interventions under this project are expected to support at least 100 sites or community locations within these municipalities. Final deployment locations will be jointly prioritized during implementation, taking into consideration operational requirements, humanitarian access, security conditions, technical feasibility, and coordination with 3iS, participating consortia, and local humanitarian actors. Expected output: Approved deployment and implementation plan.
Deliverable 2 – Supply and Installation of Connectivity Equipment The service provider shall procure, transport, configure, and install all required connectivity equipment, including:
• Internet Connectivity Solutions (Starlink, Cellular Access Modems (4G/5G Hotspots & Routers), Local Wi-Fi (Fixed Broadband & Hotspot Extenders))
• Routers and networking equipment.
• Mounting kits and cables.
• Power accessories and surge protection.
• Optional backup power systems where required. The provider shall ensure that all systems are fully operational at designated locations. Expected output: Installed and operational connectivity infrastructure at agreed deployment sites.
Deliverable 3 – Internet Connectivity Services The provider shall ensure active and continuous internet connectivity services during the contract period, including:
• Activation and management of Internet Connectivity Solutions subscriptions.
• Monitoring of uptime and connectivity performance.
• Bandwidth management.
Incident response and troubleshooting.
Expected output: Operational connectivity service maintained throughout the contract duration.
Deliverable 4 – Technical Support and Maintenance The provider shall provide ongoing technical support, including:
• Remote troubleshooting.
• Preventive maintenance.
• Replacement of defective equipment.
• On-site support when required.
Helpdesk/contact mechanism. Expected output: Functional support mechanism with documented issue resolution records.
Deliverable 5 – Training and Capacity Transfer The provider shall conduct training sessions for designated personnel and/or local partners covering:
• Basic equipment operation.
• Connectivity troubleshooting.
• Safe handling and maintenance procedures.
• Connectivity monitoring and reporting.
Expected output: Training materials, attendance records, and trained focal points.
Deliverable 6 – Connectivity Monitoring and Reporting The provider shall submit periodic reports including:
• Connectivity uptime.
• Usage statistics.
• Incident logs and resolutions.
• Site status.
• Recommendations for optimization.
Expected output: Monthly or quarterly technical performance reports.
2. ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
2.1 Expected Time Period for Contract
The contract is expected to be implemented between August and November 16, 2026.
2.2 RFP Coordinator
Written questions must be directed, via email, to Alexis Lopez: alopez@3is.org
2.3 Proposer Inquiries
3iS will consider written proposer inquiries regarding RFP requirements or Scope of Services before the date specified in the Calendar of Events. 3iS reserves the right to modify the RFP should a change be identified that is in the best interest of 3iS. To be considered, written inquiries and requests for clarification of the content of this RFP must be received via e-mail at alopez@3is.org by 10:00 p.m. (COT UTC-5) local time on the date July 9, 2026, as specified in the Calendar of Events. Any and all questions directed to the RFP Coordinator will be deemed to require an official response. Official responses to each of the questions presented by the proposers will be sent via email to all proposers by the date specified in the calendar of events. To ensure fairness, all questions and official responses will be shared with all registered proposers simultaneously, without identifying the originating proposer. Only the RFP coordinator has the authority to officially respond to a proposer’s questions on behalf of 3iS. Any communications from any other individuals are not binding to 3iS.
2.4 Calendar of Events
Release RFP 29-June-2026
Deadline for receiving proposer inquiries 9-July-2026
Responses to proposer inquiries due 15-July-2026
Proposal submission deadline 21-July-2026
Announce award of “Successful Proposer” 27-July-2026
Execute contract August-November 15, 2026.
NOTE: 3iS reserves the right to amend and/or change this calendar of events/schedule of RFP activities as it deems necessary.
3 PROPOSAL INFORMATION
3.1 Proposal Response Location
A list of deployment sites/territories, to be defined based on the prioritized municipalities identified by the implementing consortia deploying humanitarian assistance, taking into consideration the security context, operational feasibility, and coordination arrangements established between 3iS, the consortia, and local humanitarian actors.
3.2 Desirable Qualifications of Proposer
• Demonstrated experience in the provision and deployment of satellite-based and hybrid internet connectivity solutions, including Starlink, 4G/5G routers, and local Wi-Fi networks. • Previous experience implementing connectivity solutions in remote, hard-to-reach, or low-connectivity environments. • Experience working in humanitarian, emergency response, development, or early recovery contexts in Colombia or similar operational settings. • Proven technical capacity to install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot networking and connectivity equipment. • Availability of qualified technical personnel for remote and on-site support services. • Experience managing internet connectivity subscriptions, bandwidth optimization, uptime monitoring, and incident response mechanisms. • Capacity to provide preventive and corrective maintenance services, including replacement of defective equipment when required. • Experience in delivering technical training and capacity transfer to end users or local partners. • Operational and logistical capacity to transport, deploy, and maintain equipment in prioritized territories within the proposed implementation timeline. • Ability to provide periodic technical and operational reporting, including connectivity performance metrics and recommendations for optimization. • Legal registration and authorization to operate and provide telecommunications and/or connectivity-related services in Colombia, where applicable.
3.3 RFP Addenda
3iS reserves the right to change the calendar of events or revise any part of the RFP by issuing an addendum to the RFP at any time.
3.4 Proposal Rejection
Issuance of this RFP in no way constitutes a commitment by 3iS to award a contract. 3iS reserves the right to accept or reject, in whole or part, all proposals submitted and/or cancel this announcement.
3.5 Withdrawal and Re-submission of Proposal
A proposer may withdraw a proposal that has been submitted at any time up to the date and time the proposal is due. To accomplish this, a written request signed by the authorized representative of the proposer must be submitted to the RFP Coordinator.
3.6 Subcontracting Information
The prime contractor shall remain fully responsible for the overall performance of this contract, regardless of whether any portion of the work is subcontracted.
Prior written approval required: Any subcontracting arrangement must be disclosed in the proposal and approved in writing by 3iS before execution. Subcontracting not disclosed at proposal stage will require prior written authorization from 3iS.
Maximum subcontracting threshold: No more than 49% of the total contract value may be subcontracted to third parties. The prime contractor must directly perform the core technical deliverables, including deployment planning, installation, and technical support.
Subcontractor information: For each proposed subcontractor, the proposer must provide: name and legal registration, country of operation, scope of work, percentage of contract value, and relevant qualifications. 3iS reserves the right to reject any proposed subcontractor.
Sanctions and compliance: All subcontractors are subject to the same sanctions screening, ethical standards, and compliance requirements as the prime contractor, including 3iS’s Due Diligence, PSEA policy, and anti-corruption principles.
Liability: The prime contractor assumes full liability for the acts, omissions, and performance of any subcontractor. 3iS will not enter into any direct contractual relationship with subcontractors.
Flow-down clauses: The prime contractor must ensure that all obligations under this contract, including confidentiality, data protection, reporting, and duty of care, are contractually binding on subcontractors.
3.7 Proprietary Information
All information contained in this RFP, including technical specifications, financial data, and organizational details, is the proprietary information of 3iS and shall be treated as confidential. Proposers must not disclose, reproduce, or use this information for any purpose other than preparing their proposal. This obligation remains in effect indefinitely after the closing date of this RFP.
3.8 Cost of Preparing Proposals
3iS is not liable for any costs incurred by prospective proposers prior to issuance of or entering into a contract. Costs associated with developing the proposal and any other expenses incurred by the proposer in responding to this RFP are entirely the responsibility of the proposer and shall not be reimbursed in any manner by 3iS.
3.9 Errors and Omissions in Proposal
3iS will not be liable for any errors in proposals and reserves the right to make corrections or amendments due to minor errors identified in proposals. 3iS, at its option, has the right to request clarification or additional information from the proposer.
3.10 Contract Award and Execution
Following contract award, the selected service provider shall implement the services according to the following phases:
Phase 1 – Inception and Planning (Weeks 1 and 2) -Contract signature and kick-off meeting. -Confirmation of prioritized municipalities and preliminary deployment sites. -Submission and approval of the Connectivity Deployment Plan.
Phase 2 – Procurement and Initial Deployment (Weeks 3 to 6) -Procurement, logistics, and mobilization of equipment. -Testing and validation of connectivity services.
Phase 3 – Full Deployment and Operations (Weeks 7 to 14) -Completion of installations in prioritized locations. -Provision of connectivity services, technical support, and maintenance. -Monitoring of performance and resolution of operational issues.
Phase 4 – Operations, Reporting, and Project Closure (Weeks 15 and 16) -Submission of operational and final technical report. -Final acceptance of deliverables, lessons learned, and contract closure.
3.11 Equipment Insurance & Replacement Policy Insurance:
The provider shall maintain adequate insurance coverage for all supplied equipment (Starlink terminals, 4G/5G routers, Wi-Fi extenders, and related devices) throughout the contract period, covering theft, accidental damage, and natural disasters. Proof of insurance shall be provided to 3iS upon request. Replacement Policy Given the remote deployment locations and associated environmental risks, the Provider shall clearly outline in its proposal: • Warranty duration and scope for each device type • Replacement conditions in case of equipment failure, accidental damage, theft, or natural disaster (e.g. hurricane, flood, earthquake) • Whether replacement is included in the service fee or billed separately • Maximum lead time for replacement delivery and reactivation at remote sites 3iS expects a transparent replacement policy and favors proposals offering comprehensive coverage included in the overall service cost. Proposals that do not address these points may be considered non-compliant. Risk Transfer Risk transfers to 3iS upon written acceptance of installed equipment. Prior to acceptance, all risk remains with the Provider. Equipment failure due to manufacturing defects or Provider error shall be remediated at no cost to 3iS.
4 RESPONSE INSTRUCTIONS
4.1 Proposal Submission
Proposals must be submitted: • in English or Spanish, • separately in two parts: Technical component and Financial component • by e-mail to the following e-mail address: alopez@3is.org The proposals shall be received on or before July 21, 2026 as specified in the aforementioned Calendar of Events. It is solely the responsibility of each proposer to assure that their proposal is received prior to the deadline for submission. Proposals received after the submission deadline will not be considered.
4.2 Certification Statement
The proposer must sign and submit the Certification Statement shown in ANNEX II.
4.3 Proposal Format
The proposer should submit a proposal as specified in ANNEX I which shall include enough information to satisfy evaluators that the proposer has the appropriate experience and qualifications to perform the scope of services as described herein. Proposer should respond to all requested areas.
5 EVALUATION AND SELECTION
5.1 Evaluation Team
The evaluation of proposals will be accomplished by an evaluation Committee, to be designated by 3iS, which will determine the proposal most advantageous to 3iS.
5.2 Administrative and Mandatory Screening
All proposals will be reviewed to determine compliance with administrative and mandatory requirements as specified in the RFP. Proposals found not to be in compliance will be rejected from further consideration. Risk mitigation procedures should also be provided. 3iS takes meeting duty-of-care obligations and compliance with the principles of ‘do no harm’ very seriously.
5.3 Evaluation and Review
The purpose of the RFP process is to secure the contractor most capable of providing the services specified in this document. Selection of the contractor will be made solely on the basis of the most responsive proposal submitted by a qualified proposer that satisfies all services and products described in this RFP. 3iS reserves the right to award a contract based upon initial offers received. Proposals submitted should follow the format in ANNEX II.
The criteria for the evaluation process will be weighted as follows:
70% technical / 30% financial (estimated contract value: USD 150,000- USD-170,000). This cost should include all fixed and variable costs over the entire duration of the project.
The technical component will be scored as follows:
Technical component Score (70 points-70%)
a) Overall Response:
General adherence to Terms of Reference and tender requirements. 10 points
b) Technical and Operational Capacity:
• The consultant or leader of the consultancy team must identify their years of experience; • Experience implementing satellite-based and/or hybrid connectivity solutions (e.g., Starlink, 4G/5G routers, Wi-Fi networks) in remote or low-connectivity environments. • Experience providing connectivity services in humanitarian, emergency response, early recovery, or complex operational contexts in Colombia. • Demonstrated technical capacity for equipment installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting. • Availability of qualified technical personnel for remote and on-site support. • Experience in monitoring network performance, uptime management, and incident response mechanisms. • Experience delivering user training and technical capacity transfer related to connectivity equipment and services. • Availability of operational/logistical capacity to deploy equipment in prioritized territories within the proposed timeline. 30 points
c) Proposed methodology and approach
Deliverables are addressed as per the TOR. Proposed timelines are met. 10 points
5.4 Announcement of Contractor
The RFP Coordinator will notify the successful proposer and proceed to negotiate terms for final contract. Unsuccessful proposers will be notified by email accordingly.
ANNEX I
Format of Proposal
You are encouraged to follow this format. Proposals must be submitted: • in English or Spanish, • separately in two parts: Technical component and Financial component • by e-mail to the following e-mail address: alopez@3is.org • by no later than July 21, 2026.
Proposer is requested to include a half page value statement indicating why they are most suitable to carry out the assignment.
Name of Proposing Organization:
Country of Registration:
Type of Legal entity:
Name of Contact Person for this Proposal:
Address: Phone:
E‐mail:
Section A: Expertise and Capability of Proposer
1.1. Executive Summary
This section should serve to introduce the purpose and scope of the proposal. It should include administrative information including, at a minimum, response date, proposer contact name and phone number, and the stipulation that the proposal is valid for a time period of days from the date of submission. This section should also include a summary of the proposer’s qualifications and ability to meet 3iS’ overall requirements.
1.2 Organizational architecture, Corporate Qualifications and Management Support
• The proposer should give a brief description of their company, including a brief history, corporate structure and organization, and number of years in providing telecommunications, internet connectivity, and/or related technology services.
1.3 Experience
The proposer should demonstrate proven experience in the provision, deployment and maintenance of satellite-based and hybrid connectivity solutions suitable for remote or low-connectivity environments. The proposer should provide detailed information regarding its technical and operational capacity to perform the services requested under this RFP, including the availability of qualified technical personnel for both remote and on-site support, preventive and corrective maintenance services. Adverse judgements or awards • The proposer should include reference to any adverse judgements or awards.
1.4 General organizational capability
• Outline General Organizational Capability which is likely to affect performance (i.e. size of the organization, strength of project management support (e.g. project management controls), networking). • Include a description of past and present experience and relationships that have a direct relationship to the performance of the TOR. Include relevant collaborative efforts the organization may have participated in. • Explain any partnerships with other companies or local organizations relevant to the performance of the TOR. Special attention should be given to providing a clear picture of roles, responsibilities, reporting lines and accountability. Letters of commitment from partners and an indication of whether some or all have worked together previously.
1.5 Subcontracting
• Explain whether any work would be subcontracted, to whom, what percentage of the work, the rationale for such, and the roles of the proposed sub-contractors. Special attention should be given to providing a clear picture of roles, responsibilities, reporting lines and accountability.
1.6 Quality assurance procedures, risks and mitigation measures
• Describe the potential risks for the performance of the TOR that may impact achievement and timely completion of expected results as well as their quality. Describe measures that will be put in place to mitigate these risks. Provide any relevant certificate(s) for accreditation of processes, policies, e.g. ISO.
1.7 Relevance of specialized knowledge and experience on similar projects
• Detail any specialized knowledge that may be applied to the performance of the TOR. Include experiences in the region. • Describe the experience of the organization in performing similar goods/services/works. Experience with other INGOs, UN organizations, major multilateral entities, or bilateral programmes is highly desirable.
Provide at least 3 references:
Project Client Contract Value Period of performance (from/to) Role in relation to the task undertaken to goods/services/works Reference Contact Details (Name, Phone, Email)
1.8 Duty of care
• Describe Duty of Care mechanisms that will be put in place with regards to the staff involved in the project proposal as well as the sources and information security. Section B: Proposed Work Plan and Approach (When applicable)
2.1 Approach and methodology
• Clearly articulate the envisaged results and provide a Workplan for the intervention. • Provide a clear monitoring framework for the project. • Provide a description of the organization’s approach, methodology, and timeline for how it will achieve the TOR. • Explain the organization’s understanding of needs for the goods/services/works.
2.2 Management – timeline, deliverables and reporting
• Provide a detailed description of how the management for the requested goods/services/works will be implemented in regard to the TOR.
2.3 Environment-related approach to the service/work required
• Please provide a detailed description of the methodology for how the organization/firm will achieve the Terms of Reference of the project, keeping in mind the appropriateness to local conditions and project environment.
Area Level of Access (full or partial) Type of Access (direct or indirect)
Section C: Resource Plan, Key Personnel and Operational Capacity
The proposer should describe the availability of resources, including qualified personnel, technical infrastructure, equipment, and operational facilities required to successfully implement the services. The proposer should provide a description of the proposed implementation and support model including: – The structure and composition of the technical and operational team. – The proposed approach for deployment, activation, maintenance, and technical support services across the national territory. – The logistical capacity to transport, install, replace and maintain connectivity equipment in remote or hard to reach areas. – Expected response times, escalation mechanisms, preventive and corrective maintenance procedures, and incident management procesess. – The operational approach to ensure service continuity, uptime monitoring and connectivity optimization.
Section D: Cost Information (to be submitted separately than the technical proposal)
The financial proposal should be developed with the following in mind: • Price breakdown should be presented by deliverable and/or service component. • Prices should clearly specify costs related to equipment, connectivity services, installation, maintenance, technical support, training, and reporting activities, as applicable. • A lump-sum pricing approach is encouraged. All prices should include all necessary logistical, operational, transportation, hardware, software, licensing, subscription, insurance and deployment-related costs required for full implementation of the services. • Connectivity service costs should clearly indicate subscription plans, bandwidth specifications, and coverage considerations, where applicable. • Prices should include preventive and corrective maintenance, remote and on-site technical support, and replacement of defective equipment if required. • Prices for training activities should include preparation of materials, facilitation, and knowledge transfer sessions for designated personnel. • The financial proposal should clearly indicate any assumptions, exclusions, or additional costs not covered in the proposed price.
ANNEX II CERTIFICATION STATEMENT
The undersigned hereby acknowledges she/he has read and understands all requirements and specifications of the Request for Proposals (RFP), including attachments.
OFFICIAL CONTACT.
3iS requests that the Proposer designate one person to receive all documents and the method in which the documents are best delivered. Identify the Contact name and fill in the information below:
Date: Official Contact Name: A. E-mail Address: B. Mail Address:
Proposer certifies that the above information is true and grants permission to 3iS to contact the above named person or otherwise verify the information provided.
By its submission of this proposal and authorized signature below, Proposer certifies that:
(1) The information contained in its response to this RFP is accurate;
(2) Proposer complies with each of the mandatory requirements listed in the RFP and will meet or exceed the functional and technical requirements specified therein;
(3) Proposer accepts the procedures, evaluation criteria, and all other administrative requirements set forth in this RFP.
(4) Proposer’s quote is valid for at least ninety days from the date of proposer’s signature below;
(5) Proposer understands that if selected as the successful proposer, the Proposer will have five (5) business days from the date of delivery of final contract in which to complete contract negotiations, if any, and execute the final contract document.
Authorized Signature: Typed or Printed Name: Title: Company Name: Address: City:
How to apply
Proposals must be submitted:
• in English or Spanish,
• separately in two parts: Technical component and Financial component
• by e-mail to the following e-mail address: alopez@3is.org
The proposals shall be received on or before July 21, 2026 as specified in the aforementioned Calendar of Events.