Consultancy for Research Services on Civil Society Space: Strengthening Trócaire’s Support to Grassroots Actors-Apply by 24 Apr 2026

Trócaire is inviting tenders for a consultancy aimed at providing in-depth research services focused on civil society space. This initiative builds on the 2025 scoping study led by ODI and other relevant resources, with the goal of helping Trócaire deepen its support to grassroots actors and social movements as it develops its next Strategic Plan. The consultancy will provide actionable insights and recommendations for adapting Trócaire’s partnership approaches and operational strategies to contexts where civil society space is shrinking.

Purpose of the Consultancy

The primary aim of the consultancy is to generate evidence and strategic guidance for Trócaire to strengthen its engagement with civil society partners operating in restrictive environments. The consultancy will focus on understanding how closing civic spaces impact partners’ operations, strategies, and sustainability. It will also explore how existing aid modalities and contractual arrangements either support or hinder civil society actors’ ability to work safely and effectively. The findings will directly inform Trócaire’s strategic planning and operational adjustments, ensuring that the organization can act as a strong, responsive, and supportive partner.

Scope of Work

The consultancy is structured around four key research components:

1. Analysis of Civil Society Challenges

• Examine the impact of restricted civic space on partner organizations in selected priority contexts.
• Assess how these organizations are responding to evolving challenges, including changes in strategic approaches, political engagement, and safety measures.
• Identify adaptations and innovations that civil society actors are implementing to sustain their operations and influence under increasingly restrictive conditions.

2. Examination of Aid and Partnership Modalities

• Investigate how current aid mechanisms, including funding relationships, contractual requirements, and compliance protocols, interact with shrinking civic spaces.
• Identify challenges and opportunities for Trócaire to adjust its partnership modalities to better support local actors.
• Explore the unintended consequences of current funding approaches on partner flexibility, sustainability, and safety.

3. Assessment of Trócaire’s Operating Model

• Review the organization’s current partnership model and internal systems in light of research findings.
• Identify strengths, weaknesses, and potential tensions in Trócaire’s approach to supporting partners operating in restrictive contexts.
• Highlight areas where Trócaire can enhance its role as a meaningful ally, ensuring its partnerships are both ethical and effective.

4. Actionable Recommendations

• Develop evidence-based, practical recommendations for adapting Trócaire’s partnership models, resourcing strategies, and internal systems.
• Propose ways to strengthen organizational capacity, skill sets, and operational tools to support civil society actors more effectively.
• Outline approaches for mitigating risks while maximizing impact in challenging civic environments.

Deliverables

The consultant will be expected to produce:

• A comprehensive research report documenting findings from selected priority contexts, including case studies and trend analysis.
• Clear, actionable recommendations for Trócaire to strengthen its support to civil society actors.
• An executive summary suitable for senior management and strategic planning purposes.
• Presentations or briefing materials to communicate key findings and recommendations to Trócaire leadership and staff.

Proposal Requirements

Interested applicants should submit proposals including:

• Consultant(s) name, location, and contact details, including professional profiles (LinkedIn or equivalent).
• A 2-page CV of the lead researcher highlighting relevant experience.
• A detailed outline of the proposed methodology, including research design, work plan, and timeframe (maximum five pages).
• Proposed consultancy fee inclusive of VAT, expenses, and any additional costs.
• Contact information for two referees from relevant past projects within the last three years.
• A sample of relevant work authored by the consultant, demonstrating analytical and research skills.

Eligibility and Experience

Applicants should have:

• A minimum of 5–9 years of professional experience in research, evaluation, or civil society programming.
• Proven expertise in analyzing civil society dynamics, donor relationships, or international development contexts.
• Demonstrated experience producing actionable research reports for NGOs or international organizations.
• Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex findings into clear recommendations.

Application Deadline

Proposals must be submitted by 24 April 2026. Trócaire encourages early submission to allow sufficient time for review and evaluation.

Consultancy Significance

This consultancy provides a strategic opportunity to influence Trócaire’s approach to supporting civil society partners operating under restrictive conditions. By delivering evidence-based insights, the consultant will help ensure that Trócaire’s strategic planning, partnership models, and operational systems are responsive to the realities faced by grassroots actors. The research will also enable the organization to act as a stronger, safer, and more effective ally in contexts where civic space is shrinking, supporting social movements and community organizations to continue their vital work.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can access the full Request for Tender and terms of reference on the Trócaire website. Submissions should adhere to the proposal guidelines and include all required documentation.

By commissioning this research, Trócaire demonstrates its commitment to evidence-informed strategic planning and to sustaining meaningful partnerships with civil society actors, even in the most challenging operational environments. This consultancy is an opportunity to directly shape the organization’s future approaches and ensure that it remains a credible, supportive, and responsive partner to civil society actors worldwide.

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