Grant Acquisition Expert

We are Hiring:Grants Acquisition Expert (Zambia Agribusiness & Development Focus)We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Grants Acquisition Expert to lead our resource mobilization efforts in Zambia, with a specific focus on programs related to agribusiness, sustainable agriculture, economic development, circular economy and sustainability. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the Zambian donor landscape and a proven track record of securing significant funding from various national, international, and multilateral sources.Key ResponsibilitiesResource Mobilization Strategy: Develop and execute a comprehensive grants acquisition strategy aligned with the organization's goals and the Zambian donor climate, prioritizing investments in the agribusiness sector.Donor Relationship Management: Proactively identify, build, and maintain strategic relationships with key national, international, and bilateral/multilateral donors (e.g., USAID, EU, FCDO, UN agencies, Private Foundations, Green Climate Fund, Adaptation Fund, AfDB, etc.) with a specific interest in agricultural value chains and rural economic growth.Proposal Development: Lead the end-to-end process of developing high-quality, competitive grant proposals, concept notes, and expressions of interest for agribusiness and development programs, ensuring alignment with donor guidelines and organizational strategy.Market Analysis & Positioning: Conduct ongoing analysis of the Zambian donor and grant funding environment, including funding trends and priorities in agriculture, climate change, and food security, to strategically position the organization for new investment opportunities.Grants, Investment, and Agribusiness Knowledge: Apply in-depth knowledge of various funding mechanisms, including grants, blended finance, and other investment models, and demonstrate a strong technical understanding of agribusiness operations, value chain analysis, climate-smart agriculture, and rural finance.Compliance & Handover: Ensure all proposals and initial grant agreements adhere to donor and organizational compliance standards and facilitate a smooth handover to the program implementation team upon successful award.Minimum Qualifications and ExperienceAcademic Qualification: A Bachelor’s Degree in one or a combination of the following relevant fields; Business Development, Agricultural Economics, International Development, Project ManagementMaster’s Degree is highly preferred.Experience: A minimum of 5 years of progressive professional experience in grants acquisition, resource mobilization, and proposal development, preferably within an international NGO or organization focusing on agribusiness and rural development.Proven Track Record: Must provide evidence of winning significant national, international, and/or multilateral donor funding in a lead role.Technical Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of the Zambian donor and grant climate, including key funding priorities and active donor agencies operating in the country, with a focus on agri-sector financing.Grants & Investment Expertise: Strong understanding of the entire grant lifecycle, including donor reporting, financial compliance, and different grants and investment modalities.Essential Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication, negotiation, interpersonal, and proposal writing skills. Proven ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.📩 How to ApplySend your CV and a brief cover letter to: agribusiness@kalapula.onlineUse the subject line: Grants Acquisition Expert – Kalapula Agribusiness Ventures