Senior Grant Writer – Freelance Position

Senior Grant Writer – Freelance Position

Karingani Game Reserve, a private 150,000 ha reserve in southern Mozambique, is seeking an experienced Senior Grant Writer to spearhead a focused grant application programme aimed at securing $30 million in funding from USAID and potentially other Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) over the next decade. This strategic initiative will support sustainable development projects in the region where Karingani is located, including diverse projects such as stormwater management, renewable energy, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, education, and healthcare improvement, aligning with Karingani’s commitment to responsible private sector engagement in regional development.

Objective

Establish a focused grant application programme targeting USAID and affiliated DFIs, with the goal of securing a minimum of USD 30 million in funding over the next 10 years.

Key Deliverables

1.       ⁠USAID-specific grant strategy

2.       ⁠Prioritised list of 5-7 USAID funding opportunities aligned with Karingani’s needs

3.       USAID-tailored grant application template

4.       ⁠Two complete USAID grant proposals, ready for submission

5.       Identification of potential co-funding opportunities with DFIs that have a track record of collaboration with USAID

• Time Commitment
• ⁠Part-time availability for ca 9 months, with option to extend under current terms
• ⁠15-20 hours per week – consultant to propose phasing and time-allocation over period
• Phased Approach

1.       USAID Research and Strategy aligned to Karingani

• ⁠Review USAID funding priorities and application processes, with option to extend under current terms
• Develop USAID-specific grant strategy, including 10-year funding roadmap
• ⁠Create prioritized list of USAID funding opportunities
• Identify logical adjacent DFIs with a history of co-funding USAID projects

2.       ⁠Grant Programme Setup

• ⁠Establish streamlined processes for USAID grant applications
• ⁠Develop a USAID-tailored grant application template

3.       ⁠Proposal Development

⁠Create two complete USAID grant proposals (see below) using the template, focusing on:

• Stormwater and Wastewater Management
• Renewable Energy initiatives
• Human-Wildlife Conflict management
• Education and Vocational Training
• Healthcare access improvement
• Ensure proposals are fully developed, including all required components such as detailed project descriptions, budgets, logframes, implementation timelines, monitoring and evaluation plans, all required supporting documents (e.g., CVs of key personnel, letters of support)
• These proposals should be ready for immediate submission to USAID, serving both as templates for future applications and as actual funding requests to jumpstart the USD 30 million / 10-year goal.
• Coordinate review and feedback sessions with specialists and Karingani team

4.       Knowledge Transfer and Documentation

• ⁠Create a comprehensive handover document
• ⁠Develop a step-by-step guide for future USAID applications
• Compile a database of key USAID contacts and resources

Key Performance Indicators

• Completion of deliverables within agreed timeframes
• Quality and USAID-alignment of grant application template
• Readiness of the two sample proposals for immediate submission to USAID
• Comprehensiveness of knowledge transfer documentation
• Alignment of strategy with USD 30 million / 10-year funding goal

Specialist Coordination

⁠1. Identify and coordinate with subject matter experts for specialized content

2. Integrate specialist input into proposals

3. Ensure consistency and alignment with USAID requirements across all sections

Previous Experience

• Minimum 10-15 years of total professional experience
• At least 5 years experience in the private sector, preferably in areas related to sustainable development, conservation, or infrastructure projects
• At least 5 years experience in the public sector or with non-governmental organizations, working on international development projects
• Demonstrated success in securing large-scale grants ($1 million+) from USAID and other development agencies
• Proven track record of successfully securing funding for projects that involve private-public partnerships

Required Skills

• In-depth knowledge of USAID grant processes, key decision-makers, and submission requirements
• Excellent writing and editing skills with meticulous attention to detail
• Strong understanding of international development challenges and trends
• Ability to quickly understand and articulate complex development projects
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and meet tight deadline

Application Process

• This is a remote role.
• Candidates should submit a comprehensive CV highlighting their relevant experience, particularly in USAID grant writing and securing large-scale funding.
• Additionally, applicants are required to provide a brief cover letter (maximum 1 page) outlining their approach to achieving the $30 million / 10-year funding goal. Two writing samples of successful grant proposals authored by the candidate, preferably for USAID or similar development agencies, should also be included.
• Candidates should include their proposed fee structure, noting that competitive rates commensurate with experience and aligned with
• Southern African market standards will be offered.
• All application materials should be sent to
• Karingani’s Human Resources Department by email on recruitment@karingani.com
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps in the selection process.
• Deadline for applications: 30 November 2024