Terms of Reference (ToR)
Background
CENN is currently implement ing the Green Caucasus - Enhancing Green Rural Economy and Energy in Georgia project, funded by ADA, which aims to reduce poverty, improve livelihoods, and enhance climate resilience among vulnerable rural communities in Georgia.
Forests in Georgia provide important opportunities for rural economic development, particularly through forest-based businesses such as ecotourism, non-timber forest products (NTFPs), and small-scale entrepreneurship. One of the project outputs is to enable women and girls, particularly from rural areas, to diversify their income sources through the sustainable use of forest resources.
To support rural women’s economic empowerment, the project will organize a study tour to Austria, showcasing successful forest-based business models and income-generating activities. The tour aims to inspire participants and provide practical knowledge and replicable ideas.
Objective of the assignment
- To design and organize a study tour to Austria that exposes participants to innovative and successful forest-based economic activities, with a focus on:
- Ecotourism and nature-based tourism;
- Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) and timber production;
- Small-scale forest-related enterprises;
- Women-led rural businesses.
Scope of work
Program Design
Develop a 5-day thematic program within a 7-day/6-night trip.
Ensure the program includes:
- Practical case studies of forest-based businesses
- Visits to ecotourism enterprises
- Exposure to value chains of forest products
- Meetings with LAGs, women entrepreneurs and/or cooperatives
- Identify, coordinate and plan meetings with the relevant local stakeholders in Austria (LAGs, SMEs and cooperatives, ecotourism operators etc.).
Logistics and Organization
- Arrange: 6 nights of accommodation (including 1 night in Vienna)
- Provide recommendation for meals (full board during program days)
- Note: International travel (Tbilisi-Vienna-Tbilisi) and local transportation will be organized by CENN based on the proposed program
On-site Coordination
- Provide a qualified guide/facilitator service to accompany participants during the 5 program days.
- Facilitate communication and interaction with host organizations.
Study Tour Framework
- Participants: 14-16 rural women from Georgia and representatives from CENN, including English-Georgian translators
- Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
- Timing: September-October 2026
- Arrival: Vienna (Day 1 – no program)
- Departure: Vienna (Day 7 – no program)
Accommodation and Meals Requirements
Accommodation
- Minimum 3-star standard hotels or guesthouses
- Twin rooms (or equivalent)
- Safe and accessible locations
- 1 night in Vienna, remaining in study regions
Meals
- Full board during program days:
- Breakfast at hotel
- Lunch near visit sites
- Dinner at hotel or local restaurants
Deliverables
- Detailed study tour program
- List of host organizations
- Logistical arrangements
- On-site coordination
How to Apply
CV - demonstrating relevant experience in study tour design, program coordination, or capacity-building programs, preferably with groups from the South Caucasus or similar contexts.
Technical Proposal - a brief description of your approach to planning and delivering the study tour, including proposed methodology, tentative program structure, and key institutions/hosts suggested for visits in Austria.
Financial Proposal (in EUR) - an itemized price offer covering all costs associated with the consultancy. Candidates are encouraged to submit competitive and realistic proposals in line with the scope of work. Note: Travel, accommodation, and per diem for Georgian participants will be covered separately and should not be included in the financial proposal.
Deadline for Application: 30 April 2026
Questions