Development of a Country Branding Strategy Framework for the Republic of Moldova

Project: P177895 - MSME Competitiveness Project Reference: MD-CEP-548088-CS-CQS Procurement method: Consultant Qualification Selection Financing: World Bank REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CONSULTING SERVICES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF A COUNTRY BRANDING STRATEGY FRAMEWORK FOR THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES COMPETITIVENESS PROJECT Sector: General industry and trade sector IDA Credit No. 71740 IBRD Loan No. 94230 Project ID No. P177895 Reference No. MD-CEP-548088-CS-CQS The Republic of Moldova has received financing from the World Bank toward the cost of the Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Competitiveness Project (MSME) and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services. The consulting services (“the Services”) include development a comprehensive, research-based Country Branding Strategy Framework for the Republic of Moldova, enhancing its international image and positioning as a competitive destination for: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Exports, Tourism, Talent and education. The assignment will be performed in the period of 6 to 8 months from the Contract Effective Date. The Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment is attached to this request for expressions of interest . The Project Implementation Unit of the MSME Competitiveness Project now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services (required qualifications and experience of the firm, but not individual experts’ bio data). This assignment requires a Consultant that shall be an experienced international firm or consortium of firms, with demonstrated expertise in country branding, strategic communication, and perception research. The Consultant shall provide documentary evidence (including descriptions of completed contracts and client references) demonstrating compliance with the following requirements: Proven experience in carrying out country branding / place branding strategy assignments, with at least seven (7) years of relevant professional experience Demonstrated experience in developing national or regional branding strategies, including positioning, narrative development, and governance frameworks Proven expertise in market research and perception analysis, including surveys, stakeholder consultations, and benchmarking exercises Demonstrated ability to deliver high-level strategic advisory services for public sector institutions, including governments, investment promotion agencies, or international organizations Proven experience in working with donor-funded and/or IFI-financed projects (World Bank experience will be considered an advantage) Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and stakeholder engagement capabilities Experience working in emerging markets or small economies will be considered an advantage The Consultant may associate with local firms to strengthen local knowledge and stakeholder engagement.. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” November 2020 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the „Consultant’s Qualification-based Selection” method set out in the Procurement Regulations. Consultants may associate with other firms to enhance their qualifications; but should indicate clearly whether the association is in the form of a joint venture and/or a sub-consultancy. In the case of a joint venture, all the partners in the joint venture shall be jointly and severally liable for the entire contract, if selected. The Expression of Interest shall clearly state the name of the Consultant (individual Firm, Joint Venture or sub-consultancy). The Consultant shall provide relevant references (assignment name, Client, time frame, the role of the firm (main Consultant/Partner in JV/sub-consultant, contract amount, tasks performed etc.) to confirm its experience and qualifications. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by May 13, 2026 , COB. Project Implementation Unit of the MSME Competitiveness Project 180, Stefan cel Mare Ave., office 815, MD-2004, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova Tel: + 373 22 296-723 e-mail: piu@mded.gov.md web: www.uipac.md E-mail for submission of the clarifications: piu@mded.gov.md E-mail for submission of the EoIs: procurementmgf@gmail.com Only the notification of EoI submission must be sent to piu@mded.gov.md Terms of Reference Consultancy Services for Development of a Country Branding Strategy Framework for the Republic of Moldova A. Background The Gover