FR 2025-01335

This document, issued by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), discusses a proposal for information collection related to the upcoming 2025 Digital Development Awards. The awards aim to recognize USAID-funded projects that leverage digital technology to foster inclusive growth. The agency is inviting public feedback on this proposal until February 24, 2025. This process is part of the agency's legal obligation to seek public input and obtain approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) before moving forward with data collection efforts.

General Summary

USAID is seeking to identify and celebrate impactful projects through their Digital Development Awards, focusing on digital technology's role in enhancing growth and inclusion. The document stresses the importance of public participation in shaping the final design of the survey that will be used to evaluate potential awardees. As part of this effort, USAID provides detailed instructions for submitting comments and suggestions, including an online submission process.

Significant Issues and Concerns

A notable issue in the document is the lack of clarity regarding the criteria and process for selecting winners of the Digital Development Awards. Without clear guidelines or transparency about the evaluation method, stakeholders may find the process to be ambiguous. Additionally, while the document mentions the use of a Google Form for collecting survey responses, it does not address important data privacy concerns or detail measures to protect participant information. This omission could be troubling for potential applicants or respondents.

Furthermore, the technical language used in describing the public comments submission process could be confusing for individuals unfamiliar with such governmental procedures. Clearer instructions or a simplified explanation could enhance accessibility and encourage broader participation.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, this document highlights the government's efforts to incorporate public input into important development initiatives. This can be seen as a positive move toward transparency and inclusivity, inviting citizens to have a say in how USAID operates and what kinds of projects get promoted.

However, the technical nature of the information provided might limit the ability of some individuals to effectively engage with the process. Providing clearer guidance could ensure more people feel empowered to contribute their thoughts and feedback.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Stakeholders, such as project teams funded by USAID, nonprofits, and technology innovators, may find the announcement of this information collection process both an opportunity and a challenge. On a positive note, these stakeholders have a chance to showcase their work on a broader platform through the Digital Development Awards. However, the absence of specific evaluation criteria and data privacy concerns may generate uncertainty and hesitance among potential participants.

Moreover, without clear eligibility criteria, stakeholders may experience confusion about whether they qualify to apply for these awards. This could inadvertently discourage some deserving projects from applying, thereby impacting the diversity and range of entries USAID receives.

In conclusion, while the document's aim to engage the public in the USAID's Digital Development Awards initiative is commendable, addressing the identified issues and concerns will better serve both broad public interest and specific stakeholders who might participate in the awards process. Simplifying the language, clarifying the selection criteria, and providing assurances about privacy protection could increase engagement and trust in the process.