RFP: Bioethanol Feedstock Research

Summary And Background

Background

Prime Coalition is a non-profit organization on a mission to unlock catalytic capital and change the future of climate finance. Our vision is of a world where humanity thrives, without the threat of climate change. We assess potential investments on the basis of their potential for greenhouse gas emissions avoided and removed, as well as co-benefits and risks of harm to human thriving. In recent diligence activities, we have identified a need to further inquire into the risks associated with various feedstock options for bio-ethanol manufacturing.

The goals of this research inquiry are i) to inform Prime staff, its affiliated investment manager Azolla Ventures, and portfolio company leaders about the risk of harm associated with cellulosic feedstock options for bio-ethanol, and ii) provide realistic recommendations to minimize negative harm for company leaders to pursue.

Application Guidelines

To apply, please click “Apply to Position” and upload the following in a single document via the Breezy application form (Upload Resume) by August 25, 2025:

• A proposal (no more than 2 pages) indicating how you would approach the project and how your skills and experience would contribute to a successful project
• A resume or CV for key members to be involved in the project

Project Scope And Overview

Prime would like to engage an external contractor with deep knowledge of the social and environmental impacts associated with bio-ethanol feedstocks. The project shall include:

1. Characterization of all likely feedstock options and their associated harms to human thriving outside of greenhouse gas impact, with emphasis on cellulosic feedstock
2. Recommendations for harm mitigation strategies for company leaders to employ as the solution scales

Deliverables And Timeline

Prime requires a thorough examination and use of quality, reliable sources to deliver the following:

• Written report of 3-5 pages, plus any supplementary material, to be shared asynchronously with Prime that includes:
• Follow up meeting between Prime staff and key project members to address questions about the report
• Overview and characterization of harms to human thriving associated with likely bio-ethanol feedstocks, with emphasis on cellulosic feedstock
• Recommendation of strategies for harm mitigation to be pursued by company leaders

Prime aspires to meet the following timeline:

• August 29: Deadline for proposals
• August 18 - September 3: Prime conducts rolling interviews
• September 3: Prime selects contractor and begins onboarding. The onboarding process shall include:
• September 3 - October 3: Contractor conducts research and writes report.
• October 3: Contractor delivers written report
• October 8 - 17: 1-hour Q&A session led by Contractor with relevant Prime and Azolla staff
• Prime shares onboarding documents including confidentiality agreement
• 45-minute meeting between Prime and Contractor to discuss appropriate project scope. Confidential materials will be shared at this time.
• 2-3 intermittent 30-minute meetings between Prime and Contractor, for Prime to receive updates on research status and provide feedback
• Interviews with relevant stakeholders, including but not limited to company representative

Budget

All proposals are required to include proposed costs to execute the tasks described in the project scope.

NOTE: All expenses and fees must be clearly described for all proposals. Prime has a budget of $3,000 USD for the scope of work outlined.

Required Capabilities

• Demonstrated experience analyzing social and environmental impacts with consideration of social equity
• Knowledge of bio-ethanol feedstock options

Selection Criteria

Proposers will be evaluated based on qualifications, experience, the submitted proposal, and budget.

In keeping with our belief that breakthrough innovation can come from all places, genders, and ethnic backgrounds, we are also committed to incorporating diversity as another lens for selection and welcome proposals from consultants with underrepresented backgrounds.

Contacts

If you have any questions, please feel welcome to contact Ellie O’Malley, Senior Associate of Impact.