EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI): Independent Consultant – Hydroponic Vegetable Farm Proposal

Position Title: Independent Consultant – Hydroponic Vegetable Farm Proposal
Duration: 1 Week
EOI Closing Date: 15 June 2026
Location: Port Vila, Vanuatu / Remote as Required
Reporting To: Manager Investment, Vanuatu National Provident Fund

Background
The Vanuatu National Provident Fund (VNPF) is evaluating a potential investment in a commercial hydroponic vegetable farm in Vanuatu. To support informed decision-making, VNPF seeks to engage an independent external consultant to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the proposal.

Purpose of the Assignment
The consultant will provide an independent, objective assessment of the hydroponic farm proposal, covering technical, financial, market, and commercial dimensions. The findings will be presented to the VNPF Investment Committee prior to any investment decision.

Scope of Work
A. Technical Review

  • Review and validate the technical designs, specifications, and engineering aspects of the proposed facility.
  • Assess the feasibility and suitability of the proposed infrastructure and equipment.

B. Financial Review

  • Review and validate financial projections, cost estimates, and key assumptions.
  • Assess the overall financial viability, return on investment, and payback period.

C. Market Assessment

  • Assess local and regional market demand for hydroponically grown vegetables.
  • Review pricing assumptions, potential sales channels, and the competitive landscape.
  • Identify key market risks and opportunities relevant to commercial sustainability.

D. Commercial and Risk Assessment

  • Assess the overall commercial viability and operational model of the proposed farm.
  • Identify key risks and recommend appropriate mitigation strategies.

E. Stakeholder Consultation

  • Consult with relevant experts and stakeholders as necessary to support the assessment.

Deliverables

  • A comprehensive assessment report covering all scope areas.
  • An executive summary suitable for presentation to the Investment Committee.
  • A debrief with VNPF management upon completion (in person or remote).

Required Qualifications and Experience

CriteriaDetails
QualificationDegree in Agribusiness, Agriculture, Finance, or a related field
ExperienceMinimum 5 years in agricultural assessment, agribusiness consulting, or investment advisory
Sector KnowledgeFamiliarity with commercial farming systems and agribusiness models
Market KnowledgeUnderstanding of Vanuatu or Pacific Island fresh produce markets
SkillsStrong analytical and report-writing skills

Reporting and Supervision

  • Reports to the Manager Investment, VNPF
  • Works closely with the VNPF Investment Department
  • May liaise with relevant technical experts and stakeholders as required

Submission Guidelines
Expressions of Interest should include:

  • A cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation
  • An up-to-date CV or company profile
  • A brief proposed methodology and work plan
  • A fee proposal
  • Contact details for two professional references

Submissions must be in PDF format and received no later than 4:30pm on Sunday 15th June 2026, addressed to:

Mr John Naviti
Manager Investment
Vanuatu National Provident Fund
Port Vila, Vanuatu
Forwarded by Email: investmentdep@vnpf.com.vu CC: John.Naviti@vnpf.com.vu

(Note: The VNPF reserves the right to cancel this EOI and/or invite afresh with or without amendments, without liability or any obligation, and without assigning any reason.)