The National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) is the trade association for cooperative businesses in the United States and an international development organization. NCBA CLUSA provides cross-sector education, technical assistance, and advocacy that helps co-ops thrive. For nearly 100 years, NCBA CLUSA has sought to advance and protect cooperative enterprises, highlighting the impact that cooperatives have in bettering the lives of individuals and families. In the last 60 years, NCBA CLUSA has worked in over 100 countries in the areas of food security, agricultural development, strengthening of communities and farmer organizations, community-based health, natural resources management, and empowerment of smallholder farmers, women, and youth. We currently work in 21 countries in Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

NCBA CLUSA’s USAID-funded Farmer-to-Farmer program sends American farmers and agribusiness professionals on 2-4 week agricultural development assignments, promoting sustainable growth and agricultural development worldwide.  Volunteer technical assistance from U.S. farmers, agribusinesses, cooperatives and universities helps smallholder farmers in developing countries improve productivity, access new markets and conserve environmental and natural resources.  During COVID-19 we have shifted to a hybrid volunteer model that affords US volunteers and in-country volunteers the opportunity to continue to provide technical assistance.   For more information visit NCBA CLUSA Farmer-to-Farmer.

NCBA CLUSA is currently seeking qualified US candidates for 1 in-person Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer assignment for the position of Grant Writing Specialist in support of Asociación de Pequeños Productores Agropecuarios SAANT - TUNANTS (SAANT - TUNANTS), based in Taisha, Ecuador.

Asociación de Pequeños Productores Agropecuarios SAANT – TUNANTS began as an organized group in 2012. All members are committed to taking care of the environment and using agricultural practices focused on their respect for nature. The association is small, with 22 members, but inclusive, with over half of their membership comprised of women.

SAANT TUNANTS wants to learn how to apply for grants and elaborate proposals for funding opportunities. The organization members want to increase the capacity of the collection center to buy more volume of wet cacao from the local producers by offering them a fair price. The association does not have enough economic resources to accomplish this goal. They would like to receive training to apply for non-reimbursable funds and learn how to manage them.

Duration: 2 weeks April-May 2023 

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Teach the association members how to build strong proposals for non-reimbursable funds.
• Training on researching skills for potential funding opportunities and successful grant applications.

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in grant management (including EU funded programs, USDA, or USAID programs, ICO, Green Funding, etc.).
• Broad knowledge of international cooperation, project management, effective communication skills (personal and institutional), deep knowledge of public and private sector alliances.
• Strong communication skills and ability to manage deadlines is required
• Past work in sustainability initiatives within the coffee value chain are highly desirable.
• Available for virtual communications with Host Organization, Staff and Co-volunteer
• US candidate must be legally able to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Advanced English language skills; reading, writing, speaking.

All application materials must be submitted in English.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please.

NCBA CLUSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a commitment to diversity.  All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, age, and legally protected characteristics for non-merit factors.