BACKGROUND

Our organization, deeply committed to promoting indigenous land rights, environmental conservation, and justice across Africa, has recently finalized its ambitious strategic plan. As we embark on this new chapter, we seek an expert consultant to help us build a strong donor pipeline and secure funding from major donors aligned with our mission.

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking an experienced Fundraising and Donor Engagement Consultant to support the implementation of our newly finalized strategic plan by building a strong donor pipeline and securing funding from major donors. The consultant will be responsible for mapping donor opportunities, developing engagement strategies, and supporting the organization in securing sustainable financial resources. This role is crucial in ensuring we have the funding necessary to advance indigenous land rights, environmental justice, and social equity across Africa.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in major donor fundraising, an in-depth understanding of philanthropic trends, and the ability to craft compelling proposals and engagement strategies.

OBJECTIVE

The consultant will design and implement a comprehensive strategy to identify, cultivate, and secure funding from major donors, foundations, and philanthropists. This role will ensure our strategic goals are fully resourced, enabling us to amplify our impact across the continent.

RESPONSIBILTIES

Review, Analysis and Planning

• Review NJs 2024 – 2028 Strategic Plan and other relevant documents
• Conduct a general assessment of the fundraising performance and capacity of NJ and define quick wins and risks.

Donor Mapping

• Conduct a detailed mapping of potential major donors (foundations, individuals, corporates) whose priorities align with our strategic plan.
• Analyze funding trends and identify opportunities specific to indigenous rights, environmental justice, and social equity.
• Develop a clear and actionable donor engagement strategy, including timelines, relationship-building approaches, and key messaging tailored to donor priorities.
• Create personalized approaches for high-priority prospects.

Pipeline Development & Proposal Development

• Build a comprehensive and categorized donor pipeline, prioritizing major donors with high alignment and capacity to give.
• Identify and propose innovative funding mechanisms to diversify revenue streams.
• Assist in creating high-quality funding proposals, concept notes, and pitch decks tailored to donor interests and requirements.

Capacity Building & Monitoring:

• Train and equip our team with tools and knowledge to sustain donor engagement efforts in the long term.
• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) for donor cultivation and fundraising efforts.
• Provide regular progress updates, including a final report with recommendations for sustaining donor relationships.

KEY DELIVERABLES

• Donor landscape analysis report with a list of prioritized donors and funding opportunities.
• A comprehensive donor engagement strategy document.
• A functional donor pipeline database with categorized donor prospects.
• Draft funding proposals and pitch decks for at least 3-5 high-priority donors.
• Training sessions or materials for staff on donor cultivation and stewardship.
• Final report summarizing key achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

QUALIFICATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

The ideal consultant should possess:

• Proven experience in fundraising and donor engagement, particularly with major donors and foundations.
• Strong understanding of issues related to indigenous rights, environmental justice, and sustainable development.
• Excellent research, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated success in securing large-scale funding from diverse donors.
• Familiarity with the African funding landscape and global philanthropic networks.
• Excellent oral and written fluency in English & French is required.

DURATION AND TIMEFRAME

Maximum days: 180 Days

Timeframe: Months project will run

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested candidates shall submit the proposals to applications@naturaljustice.org by 14 February 2025. The proposal shall include the following documents:

• Cover letter with motivation, previous experience
• Detailed CV/ Resumé
• Work proposal and quotation
• Email application with subject line: NJ Fundraising & Donor Engagement 2025, (your name)

Only successful applicants will be contacted.