Hiring multimedia firm to produce a 3–4-minute animation film

Background

The International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie) is a global leader in generating and using evidence to improve development policies and programs. 3ie works with governments, development institutions, and NGOs worldwide to ensure that decision-making is informed by rigorous and policy-relevant evidence.

One of 3ie’s flagship evaluations in India is the impact evaluation of the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) and its special initiative, the National Rural Economic Transformation Project (NRETP). Launched in 2011, NRLM aims to alleviate rural poverty by mobilizing women into self-help groups (SHGs) and higher-tier community institutions, improving access to finance, and enabling sustainable livelihoods.

3ie’s evaluation—conducted across multiple states—has provided robust evidence on the program’s impact, the pathways through which change occurred, and the mechanisms that led to stronger results in some areas. Through this animation video, we aim to translate and present complex research findings for policymakers, practitioners, and members of the development community globally in an accessible and engaging format. It will focus on:

• What explains the observed changes in outcomes
• The drivers and mechanisms that contributed to impact
• How better administered community institutions amplified results
• The lessons for scaling and improving similar programs in other countries

Objective

This RFP seeks to contract a qualified and experienced multimedia production firm or team of professionals to conceptualize, script (co-develop), design, and produce a high-quality 3–4-minute 2-D animation video. The video will combine clear storytelling, compelling visuals, and simple data presentation to communicate:

• NRLM’s objectives and approach
• Key findings from 3ie’s evaluation
• The mechanisms and drivers of change
• Lessons for future program design and implementation

Scope of work

The selected firm will be responsible for:

1. Kickoff and concept development – Meeting with 3ie’s Evaluation and Communications teams to align objectives, target audiences, and tone.
2. Scriptwriting – co-developing a clear, concise, and engaging script that simplifies evaluation findings without losing accuracy.
3. Creative design – Designing original 2D motion graphics and animated elements, including characters, scenes, and visual metaphors to illustrate various aspects and elements of the narrative
4. Data visualization – Creating simple, attractive animated charts and diagrams to represent evaluation results, and a full-fledged storyboard of the animation video. 
5. Production – Producing the animation in 2D motion graphics, incorporating:
   • Professional female voice-over in English and Hindi
   • Royalty-free background music and sound effects
   • Subtitles in English and Hindi
6. Feedback integration – Sharing drafts for review and incorporating revisions.
7. Final delivery – Providing HD (1080p) or higher resolution video, with all editable source files.

Deliverables

• Creative concept and storyboard
• Final approved script
• First draft animation video for review
• Second draft animation video for review
• Final 3–4-minute animation video (voice-over, music, effects)
• Editable source files
• English and Hindi subtitle files

Duration and timeline

The assignment should be completed within 7 weeks from contract signing. 

Expertise and Qualifications

The selected firm/team must demonstrate:

• At least 5 years’ experience in animation/multimedia production
• A strong portfolio of similar animation work, preferably for international development organizations
• Scriptwriting and creative storytelling expertise
• Technical proficiency in animation and post-production tools
• Experience working with development sector clients is strongly preferred

Proposal requirements and how to apply

Interested firms should submit by 11:55 PM IST on 2 September 2025:

• A cover letter including company/team profile and relevant experience
• Portfolio of similar animation work (links or attachments)
• Creative approach and quality assurance plan
• Financial proposal with detailed cost breakdown including GST
• CVs of key personnel and designated point of contact

All applications should be sent to info@3ieimpact(dot)org, with a clear subject line.  

Evaluation Criteria

Reporting and coordination

The firm/team selected will report to 3ie’s Strategic Communications Office and will work closely with the Evaluation team for technical accuracy. Regular updates will be provided via in-person or virtual meetings as decided by the team.

Contract and payment terms

This will be a consultancy contract, and payments will be made in installments:

• 30% upon contract signing
• 30% upon approval of script and storyboard
• 40% upon delivery and acceptance of the final video and files

Intellectual Property

All materials produced (scripts, visuals, final products) will be the sole property of 3ie. The firm/team may receive due credit but cannot distribute outputs independently.