Introduction & Background
The Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) is an international multi-stakeholder, voluntary membership initiative seeking to lead improvements in the socioeconomic and environmental performance of the natural rubber value chain. Development of GPSNR was initiated by the CEOs of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) Tire Industry Project (TIP) in 2019. Members of the platform include tire manufacturers, rubber suppliers and processors, vehicle makers and NGOs. Representatives from each of these stakeholder groups have contributed to the development of the Singapore-based platform and the wide-reaching set of priorities that define GPSNR strategy and objectives.
The GPSNR Secretariat and the GPSNR Capacity Building Working Group, through the GPSNR Knowledge Sharing Platform Task Force, are jointly overseeing the development and eventual operations and maintenance of a digital GPSNR Knowledge Sharing Platform.
This digital platform is envisaged to be an easily accessible, multi-lingual and expandable knowledge platform for smallholders and other actors based on quality-controlled information. Besides providing technical information on the latest sustainability best practices and Good Agricultural Practices, it will provide access to live market conditions on natural rubber such as prices on key exchanges, projected supply, and demand shifts, as well as overall global market developments. The digital platform will also incorporate communication functions such as live chat and forum with built-in translation tools to allow smallholders to share and communicate seamlessly across different countries. Another crucial aspect will be to safeguard data security and ownership.
GPSNR is seeking proposals to build the above digital platform in mobile application form, and to maintain the application for GPSNR for a trial period of 3-6 months. Details are provided below.
Key Requirements for the Digital Platform
GPSNR has completed an initial Assessment of Status Quo and Evaluation of Knowledge Sharing Platforms for Rubber Smallholders. This included an extensive needs review of smallholders and other key players in the natural rubber value chain with regard to digital applications. Interested bidders can approach the GPSNR Secretariat for a copy of the Report.
The main target user of the platform are natural rubber smallholders and other players in the natural rubber value chain globally.
GPSNR is open to proposals based on the following:
- Adopting and adapting an existing platform that is already on the market and accessible to natural rubber smallholders in whatever capacity
- In this option, the service provider of the existing platform should provide a template that can be adaptable to suit GPSNR’s stated requirements
- Developing a customised platform specifically for GPSNR and its requirements
- The custom solution can be hosted and operated either on GPSNR’s IT infrastructure or by the app provider (i.e., delivered as a Software as a Service).
Based on the initial Status Quo Assessment Report, the Platform should have the following key characteristics:
- Be an (expandable)multi-lingual open information exchange platform with the following language options:
- Minimum from the start: Bahasa Indonesia, English
- Ideally including: French, Thai
- Expandable in the future: Khmer, Vietnamese, Sinhalese, Burmese, Spanish, Portuguese, Tamil
- Host quality-controlled technical information on natural rubber issues that will be first reviewed and endorsed by GPSNR members
- Be free-to-use and respecting users’ data privacy
- Allow for easy access by smallholders using simple or commonly available tools such as smartphones
- Data security and privacy to be safeguarded at all times
- The platform should be built such that it can be expanded or further customisable to incorporate more features in the future
- System architecture and infrastructure: it should be possible to use the app via the iOS and Android app system
Building on the above, the Platform should be able to host, at minimum, the following content and functions (multi-lingual):
- Daily natural rubber prices, automated to reflect live updates based on local, regional and global prices
- Information on local or global sustainability best practices, in the most accessible digital formats (pdf, video, ppt, text, etc.)
- Information on Good Agricultural Practices, in the most accessible digital formats (pdf, video, ppt, text, etc.)
- Marketplace (for natural rubber products / agricultural products)
- Forum / chat / helpline for smallholders to discuss news or other issues and exchange experiences and best practices
Platform developers are welcomed to recommend other essential features or functions based on their technical and user experience expertise.
Deliverables
By the end of the project, the consultant should have completed the following:
Phase 1: Preparatory Recommendations
- Recommend detailed technical requirements for the digital platform or application, including requirements for data security, ownership, back-office administration, documentation, support, maintenance and performance criteria
- Prepare screen designs prior to software development
- Engage with preliminary pilot calls with smallholders to gather further feedback and inputs
- The above to be reviewed in discussions with the GPSNR Capacity Building Working Group
Phase 2: Software Development
- Build the digital platform in line with the stated requirements, either by adopting an existing digital platform, or developing a customised platform or application for GPSNR
- Continuous review with the GPSNR Capacity Building Working Group
Minimum viable product (MVP)
- A final graphic design and user interface is apparent.
- The core functions can be used and demonstrated.
- Initial content has been input.
Beta version of the app
- Final graphic design and user interface have been applied.
- All functions can be used.
- All content has been input.
Phase 3: Platform Pilot Period
- Maintain the platform for a trial period of 3-6 months
- exact costs and timeframe to be proposed, considering manpower, technical, licensing etc. needs
- exact costs and timeframe to be proposed, considering manpower, technical, licensing etc. needs
- Work with GPSNR to engage in continuous user and quality assurance tests and feedback to further refine the digital platform or application as required
Submission Guidelines & Requirements
The following submission guidelines & requirements apply to this Request for Proposal:
- A detailed technical proposal must be provided. This technical proposal must provide an overview of the proposed methodology for the three Phases of the project. In addition, the technical proposal should provide a proposed schedule and milestones, as applicable.
- A detailed price proposal must be provided. This price proposal should indicate the overall fixed price or expected price range for each Phase of the project, including daily rates and an estimated total number of days for each Phase of the project.
- Proposals will only be accepted from individuals or firms with experience relevant to this project. Examples of previous relevant work should be provided, as well as resumes of all key personnel performing the work.
- Proposals must be signed by a representative that is authorised to commit the bidder’s company.
Project Timelines
| Request for Proposal Issuance | 29 August 2022 |
| Proposal submitted by consultant to yeo.siyuan@gpsnr.org | 26 September 2022 |
| Selection of consultant / Notification to Unsuccessful Bidders | 7 October 2022 |
| Completion of Phase 1: Preparatory Recommendations | November 2022 |
| Completion of Phase 2: Software Development | To be proposed by the bidder |
| Completion of Phase 3: Platform Pilot | To be proposed by the bidder Pilot period should conclude no later than June 2023 |
Budget
The Platform is anticipating a total budget of up to 140,000 EUR for all three Phases of the project.
This figure could be adjusted based on bidders’ expert recommendations on costs and timeline, and reviewed based on the outcomes put forth following each Phase of the project.
Payment terms shall be:
- 60% at the signing of the contract
- 5% upon completion of Phase 1: Preparatory Recommendations
- 20% upon completion of Phase 2: Software Development
- 15% upon completion of Phase 3: Platform Pilot
Evaluation Factors
GPSNR will rate proposals based on the following factors:
- Responsiveness to the requirements set forth in this RFP
- Methodology for completing all three Phases of the project
- Costs and expected timeline for all three Phases of the project
- Technical expertise/experience, including team composition, past performance/experience
When evaluating bids, GPSNR may request for more information as part of a full due diligence to understand bidders’ technical and commercial background, assess potential conflicts of interests and independence vis-à-vis natural rubber smallholders and the wider agricultural sector, and level of competence for the project.
GPSNR reserves the right to award to the bidder that presents the best value to GPSNR as determined solely by GPSNR in its absolute discretion.
Digital Guidelines and Considerations
The consultant should commit to follow the guidelines specified in the Principles for Digital Development.
The principles of data protection legislation must be taken into account when processing personal data:
- The data must be processed lawfully (lawfulness)
- Data must only be processed if this is required and reasonable (fairness).
- The data must be processed transparently (transparency).
- The data must be processed for defined (time-limited), clear and legitimate purposes (earmarking).
- Only as much data as is required may be processed (data minimisation).
- Accuracy and currency must be ensured (data accuracy).
- The principle of integrity and confidentiality must be guaranteed through an appropriate level of protection (data security).
More To Explore
Request for Proposal – Oversight
FEBRUARY 2026
ISSUED BY
Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber
Introduction & Background
The Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) is an international, multi-stakeholder, voluntary membership initiative seeking to lead improvements in the socioeconomic and environmental performance of the natural rubber value chain. Members of the platform include tire manufacturers, rubber suppliers and processors, vehicle makers and NGOs. Representatives from each of these stakeholder groups have contributed to the development of the Singapore-based platform and the wide-reaching set of priorities that will define strategy and objectives.
The GPSNR Assurance System, designed by Assurance Services International (ASI) and for GPSNR members, is a risk-based framework that supports credible and independent assurance processes. It enables companies to identify and mitigate human rights and environmental risks within their supply chains, undergo third-party verification, and report transparently on their progress through credible claims.
As part of its Assurance System, GPSNR operates an oversight mechanism to ensure that approved Assurance Service Providers (ASPs) deliver assessment and assurance services in conformity with GPSNR requirements. This oversight function is a critical component of maintaining the credibility, consistency, and integrity of the GPSNR Assurance System.
GPSNR is therefore seeking proposals from qualified and experienced individuals or organizations to provide GPSNR Oversight Assessor services in accordance with GPSNR oversight procedures and requirements.
The Engagement
The GPSNR Secretariat is seeking one or more qualified Oversight Assessors to support GPSNR in planning, conducting, and reporting on oversight assessments of Assurance Service Providers. The selected provider(s) will support GPSNR in ensuring that ASPs continue to meet approval requirements and effectively implement GPSNR assurance procedures.
Scope of Work
The Oversight Assessor(s) shall perform oversight activities in line with the GPSNR Oversight Procedure. The scope of work may include, but is not limited to, the following activities:
Oversight Assessment Activities
- Conduct 5-10 desk reviews of applicant or approved Assurance Service Providers, including review of documented procedures and records.
- Conduct 5-10 office assessments (remote or on-site, as required) to evaluate conformity with GPSNR requirements and the effectiveness of ASP management systems.
- Conduct 5-10 witness assessments by observing ASP assessors or assessor teams during GPSNR field assessments.
- Apply appropriate oversight assessment techniques, including document review, interviews, and witnessing of audit activities.
Assessment Preparation and Planning
- Support GPSNR Secretariat in defining the scope, type, and objectives of oversight assessments.
- Prepare assessment agendas and support logistical planning as required.
- Review background documentation prior to assessments, including previous oversight reports and ASP records.
Reporting and Follow-up
- Identify, document, and grade nonconformities in accordance with GPSNR procedures.
- Prepare clear, accurate, and well-justified oversight assessment reports.
- Participate in opening and closing meetings with Assurance Service Providers.
- Submit assessment reports to the GPSNR Secretariat for technical review within agreed timelines.
- Support clarification or revision of reports where requested following technical review.
Professional and Ethical Requirements
- Act in accordance with GPSNR assessment principles, including ethical conduct, impartiality, confidentiality, and due professional care.
- Declare and manage conflicts of interest in line with GPSNR requirements.
- Comply with all applicable health, safety, and confidentiality requirements during oversight activities.
Assessor Qualification and Competence Requirements
Proposals must demonstrate that the proposed Oversight Assessor(s) meet the following minimum requirements:
- Relevant tertiary academic qualification in agriculture, environmental management, or a related field, or equivalent demonstrated professional experience.
- At least three (3) years of professional experience in the management and/or delivery of certification or accreditation services.
- Successful completion of a five-day ISO lead auditor training course based on ISO 19011.
- Qualification as a lead auditor for the GPSNR programme or a comparable certification scheme in a related industry.
- Successful completion (or commitment to complete) GPSNR-specific training on assurance procedures, assessment requirements, and relevant templates and tools.
- Familiarity with GPSNR and the natural rubber industry
Submission Guidelines & Requirements
The following submission guidelines & requirements apply to this Request for Proposal:
- Proposals will only be accepted from individuals or organisations with experience relevant to this project.
- Examples of previous relevant work should be provided as well.
- A technical proposal must be provided that is not more than 4 pages. This technical proposal must include understanding of the assignment and proposed approach, indicative schedule and availability as well as resumes of all key personnel performing the work.
- A price proposal must be provided that is not more than 1 pages. This price proposal should indicate daily or hourly rates and an estimated number of days by activity.
- Proposals must be signed by a representative that is authorized to commit bidder’s company.
- Proposals must be received prior to the 20th of February to be considered. Proposals should be submitted to natalie.low@gpsnr.org for consideration.
- GPSNR reserves the right to amend the scope of this RFP in order to get the most suitable consultant.
- Bidders must ensure that all external personnel involved in preparing and executing this proposal are under exclusive agreements specific to this RFP. These agreements must obligate the external personnel to exclusively dedicate their services to the bidder’s proposal, prohibiting their engagement in any other proposals for the same RFP. This measure is to maintain the integrity of the bidding process and prevent conflicts of interest.
Project Timelines
|
Proposals submitted by consultant to natalie.low@gpsnr.org |
February 20, 2026 |
|
Selection of Top Bidders / Notification to Unsuccessful Bidders |
February 27, 2026 |
|
Contract start date |
Tentatively March 2026 |
Budget
The Platform invites consultants to submit a competitive price proposal, and the proposed budget will be factored into selection of the consultant. The total contract value shall be calculated based on the daily rate and actual number of days worked per month. Invoicing shall be submitted on a monthly basis and must include a breakdown of days worked and activities performed for the relevant period.
Evaluation Factors
GPSNR will rate proposals based on the following factors:
- Responsiveness to the requirements set forth in this Request for Proposal
- Relevant past performance/ experience
- Cost and overall value for money
- Technical expertise/experience of bidder/bidder’s staff
GPSNR reserves the right to award to the bidder that presents the best value to GPSNR as determined solely by GPSNR in its absolute discretion.
Note: The award of this contract will only be considered complete upon completion of the contract signing.
(CLOSED) Request for Proposal – Grievance Mechanism Review
The Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber is an international, Multi-Stakeholder, voluntary membership initiative seeking to lead improvements in the socioeconomic and environmental performance of the natural rubber value chain. Development of the GPSNR was initiated by the CEOS of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) Tire Industry Project (TIP) in 2018. Members of the platform include tire manufacturers, rubber suppliers and processors, vehicle makers and NGOs. Representatives from each of these stakeholder groups have contributed to the development of the Singapore-based platform and the wide-reaching set of priorities that will define strategy and objectives.
Through GPSNR’s Working Groups and the Executive Committee, the Platform is developing an Assurance Model that is intended to be credible and smoothly functioning. Underlying this Assurance Model, and to ensure its effective implementation, is the need for a mechanism by which Members and non-members may take grievances they have against a Member for non-conformance with the Platform’s requirements, which may arise from non-conformance with standards, the Code of Conduct, Conflict of Interest Policy, or other requirements of Members and allow those complainants to have their grievance be heard and resolved (“Grievance Mechanism”).
Under its authority and duty to create a Compliance System for the Platform under Section 10.d. of the Platform’s statutes, the Executive Committee seeks recommendations on the organization and process for such a Grievance Mechanism that allows for the intake, an initial, professionally mediated resolution process, and, finally, the process by which it is submitted to a formal Complaints Panel for resolution in the case that mediation does not work. That recommendation would be in accordance with the engagement outline below and based on a comparative study of best practices in grievance mechanisms for similar multi-stakeholder initiatives.
Understanding that the Platform is in its early stages, and therefore has limited resources, the recommendation should strive for a lean model while maintaining consistency with the policies of the Platform (e.g., Conflict of Interest Policy). Although lean, the Platform also recognizes the need for a process that is accessible, impartial, timely, transparent, and affords protections, such as anonymity, to the complainant (where needed). Developing the Grievance Mechanism is expected to be an iterative process.
The consultant is to develop, in consultation with the GPSNR Executive Committee and Secretariat, a Grievance Mechanism in the form of a process flowchart and a set of rules governing the process for receiving, assessing, processing, and escalating grievances through a series of steps to find an agreeable and just solution. The consultant should adhere to the following phased, iterative approach:
- Phase I – Comparative Review of Grievance Mechanisms for Similar Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives
- Phase II – Process Flowchart/Outline
- Phase III – Final Recommendation
The following submission guidelines & requirements apply to this Request for Proposal:
- Proposals will only be accepted from individuals or firms with experience relevant to this project.
- Examples of previous relevant work should be provided as well.
- A technical proposal must be provided that is not more than 4 pages. This technical proposal must provide an overview of the proposed solution as well as resumes of all key personnel performing the work. In addition, the technical proposal should provide a proposed schedule and milestones, as applicable.
- A price proposal must be provided that is not more than 1 pages. This price proposal should indicate the overall fixed price for the project as well as hourly rates and an estimated total number of days.
- Proposals must be signed by a representative that is authorized to commit bidder’s company.
- Proposals must be received prior to the 13th of December to be considered. Proposals should be submitted to stefano.savi@gpsnr.org for consideration.
- GPSNR anticipates shortlisting at least two individuals or firms to have more in-depth discussions with and will make an award to one of these “down-selected” individuals or firms.
- GPSNR reserves the right to amend the scope and budget of this RFP in order to get the most suitable consultant for each topic.
Download full Request for Proposal here
Attachement A -will be shared upon submission
Attachement B- will be shared upon submission