US Climate Action Network Overview:

 

The US Climate Action Network (USCAN) is a powerful network of nearly 200 organizations working to advance action and ambition on climate change across the United States. We fight for a just transition to a clean energy economy and climate justice for all.

 

USCAN is an equal opportunity organization and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. We particularly welcome applications from women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and members of other historically marginalized groups.

 

Scope of Work:

 

USCAN is seeking a skilled and experienced Development Consultant to support our fundraising and donor cultivation efforts. The Consultant will work closely with the Executive Director to implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy, cultivate relationships with donors, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization. Duties will include the following: 

• Fundraising Strategy & Planning:

  • Revise and Implement Fundraising Plans: Review and update existing fundraising plans, incorporating best practices and adapting to the evolving needs of USCAN.

  • Prospect Research: Conduct thorough research to identify new potential donors and philanthropic partners aligned with the organization's mission and funding priorities. 

  • Fundraising Materials: Collaborate with the Executive Director to create compelling fundraising materials, including case statements, brochures, and online content.

  • Data Analysis: Analyze fundraising data to track progress towards goals, identify trends, and inform future strategies.

  • Reporting: Provide regular updates and reports to the Executive Director on fundraising progress, including key performance indicators and recommendations for improvement.

  • Forecasting: Assess USCAN’s short- and medium-term fundraising potential and provide recommendations for strengthening it. 

• Donor Cultivation & Stewardship:

• Donor Stewardship: Identify robust donor stewardship practices to foster long-term relationships with donors. 

• Donor Segmentation: Develop a system for classifying donors and measuring their engagement.

• Donor Records: Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records in Salesforce, ensuring data integrity and efficient tracking of contributions.

• Major Donor Relations: Support the Executive Director in building and maintaining a major donor strategy.

 

The selected consultant will produce the following project deliverables: 

• Revised Fundraising Plan: A comprehensive and updated fundraising plan with clear goals, strategies, and timelines. 

• Prospect List: A curated list of potential donors with detailed profiles and cultivation strategies.

• Fundraising Materials: Compelling and persuasive fundraising materials.

• Donor Stewardship Plan: A detailed plan outlining donor cultivation and stewardship practices by donor type according to segmentation system. 

• Regular Reports: Monthly reports on fundraising progress, including key performance indicators and analysis of fundraising data.

• Fundraising Target: Work collaboratively with the Executive Director, Board and Staff to raise $100k - $150k.

• Fundraising Potential: Assessment of USCAN’s medium-term fundraising potential to meet budget over next 2 years. 

 

Timeline:  This is a 6 month consultancy position, with the desired start/end dates being March and August, 2025. 

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Budget: Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications and fall within the range of $65k - $75k.

 

Proposal Requirements: Your proposal should be no more than 7 pages and contain the following information. 

• Executive Summary

• Proposed Methodology and Approach

• Timeline and Deliverables

• Consultant Qualifications and Experience

• Budget and Billing Rates

 

We would also like to request that you submit 3 references. This will not count toward the 7-page maximum page limit. A separate space in the google form has been designated to receive information on references. 

 

Submission Deadline: Submit your proposal here by February 8 by 11:00pmET. 

 

Selection Process: USCAN will evaluate proposals based on the following criteria. Shortlisted consultants may be invited for an interview. Evaluation criteria are: 

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and donor cultivation.

• Proven track record of success in securing funding from diverse sources, including individuals, foundations, and corporations.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and writing skills.

• Proficiency in Salesforce or similar CRM software.

• Strong understanding of fundraising best practices and ethical standards.

• Passion for the mission and values of USCAN.

• Competitive pricing structure.

 

We have a strong preference for candidates with fundraising experience in the climate, environment, and/or environmental justice sectors. 

 

Reporting Structure:  The Development Consultant will report directly to the Executive Director.

 

Contract Terms:  The selected consultant will be engaged for a 6-month contract. 

 

Note:  We will open a search for a Development Director, which we aim to fill in the summer.  The Development Consultant selected for this project will have the opportunity to be considered for the permanent position, should they be interested. However, we understand that the consultancy may be the extent of their desired involvement, and we welcome their expertise regardless.

 

We look forward to receiving your proposal!