ToR - CONSULTANT: US Department of State Market Expansion analysis

Background

Hivos is an international development and human rights organization guided by humanist and feminist values. Since 1968 we work together with citizens and their organizations, contributing towards the creation of just, inclusive and life sustaining societies where people have equal access to opportunities, rights and resources.  Our mission is to amplify and connect voices that promote social and environmental justice and challenge power imbalances. We particularly empower marginalized rightsholders to raise their voice and demand freedom of choice.

Our approach is solution driven. We support the development of alternative solutions to deep-seated problems so that individuals and communities can make responsible and equitable choices within political and economic systems that serve their needs and preserve the planet. We connect people and organizations, support and build social movements and offer alternatives to those looking for solutions in their fight for social and environmental justice.

To this end we work in partnership with others in the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Latin America.  We focus on three impact areas: Civic Rights in a Digital Age; Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion; and Climate Justice. Hivos currently is in the process of developing a new strategic compass 2025-2028.

Approach and Scope of Work

Whereas some of its current work is already funded by the US Department of State, Hivos would like to deepen its understanding of the US Department of State’s different Bureaus and their priorities, their preferred partners, ways of working at regional and global levels, and eventually expand its portfolio at the US Department of State.

Hivos is thus seeking the services of a consultant to undertake a thorough analysis of the US Department of State funding opportunities related to the Hivos’ three focus areas.

Purpose/objective of the consultancy

The purpose of this consultancy is to deepen Hivos’ understanding of the different bureaus within US Department of State; identify and connect Hivos to the key contacts at the different bureaus within US Department of State; identify US Department of State preferred partners at the headquarters and regional levels; identify US Department of State’s priority regional and global events.

Key Deliverables

In collaboration with the Hivos Business Development Unit the consultant will be requested to deliver the following:

1. A detailed overview of the US Department of State’s different bureaus, priorities and key personnel.

2. A comprehensive analysis and information on US Department of State’s key partners

3. A strategy to approach the US Department of State’s key partners, including respective focal points

4. An overview of US Department of State’s key events on global and regional levels

Required skills and experience

1. Demonstrable extensive experience with US Department of State Bureaus, preferably with direct responsibilities in grant provision and/or program management globally and regionally
2. Strong network and access to the US Department of State’s key partners globally and regionally
3. Experience and knowledge of the US Department of State funding mechanisms globally and regionally
4. Flexibility to adapt to any subsequent changes in the scope of work and general terms of reference
5. Prior demonstrated experience in partnerships development/ management, fundraising and donor intelligence gathering

Application process

• A 2 page proposal that reflects the understanding of the assignment

• Indicative timelines for delivery of the main activities

• Financial proposal for the assignment including a daily all-inclusive rate in EUR

• Profile and CV of the consultant(s) including current contact information

• Overview of relevant assignments and proven track record in the last 5 years

• At least 3 references client organizations and key contact persons (include name; email address and mobile number)

Note: the consultant should preferably be based within the United States

The above-mentioned tasks to be performed are intended as a guide and should not be viewed as an inflexible specification as it may be modified following discussion with the selected consultant/firm.

What we offer

The consultant will report directly to the Business Development Unit and will be assigned a direct contact point within the team. The contact person(s) will further develop a structure to facilitate continuous communication / coordination with the consultant; provide the consultant with relevant background information; provide timely input and feedback to the consultants’ questions and reports.

This consultancy is for a maximum period of 20 days until 30 July 2024.

Interested consultant(s) should share a technical proposal with cover letter and CV  by 23.59 CET July 5th 2024.