Global Communities (GC) is recruiting experienced consultants to support the development of competitive proposals for the anticipated USDA FY26 McGovern-Dole (MGD) Food for Education opportunity. These consultancy roles are remote, with the possibility of participating in virtual or in-person regional design workshops.
Importantly, prior McGovern-Dole experience is required, and only applicants with demonstrated MGD expertise should apply.
About Global Communities
Global Communities is a global development organization with a strong track record in USDA programming. GC partners with local communities, governments, and stakeholders to strengthen education systems, improve food security, and increase resilience. Building on this foundation, GC is assembling a team of specialized consultants to help deliver a highly competitive McGovern-Dole proposal.
Consultant Roles Available
GC is seeking consultants for multiple key proposal development functions:
- Proposal Director
- Technical Writer
- Monitoring & Evaluation (MEL) Advisor / Writer
Timing for assignments will depend on the release of the solicitation by the U.S. Government. GC’s preparatory work is underway, and consultants will be brought on as needed to support proposal design and writing processes.
Scope of Work
The scope of work will vary by role but will generally involve close collaboration with GC’s proposal team, technical experts, and country-based staff. Core tasks may include:
Desk Research and Technical Review
- Conduct literature reviews for the selected priority country.
- Review USDA McGovern-Dole Technical and Proposal Guidance.
- Analyse the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) once released.
- Review previous GC proposals and program documentation.
Formative Assessment Support
- Lead or support updates to formative assessments depending on the target geographic area.
- Contribute to data collection and design inputs to inform targeting and program strategy.
Workshops and Coordination
- Participate in design workshops and strategy sessions—virtual or in-person.
- Present or facilitate sessions as assigned.
- Join regular coordination calls with GC’s proposal design team and partners.
Role-Specific Responsibilities
Proposal Director
- Drive the overall technical design of the proposal.
- Provide leadership on strategy, management approaches, and technical direction.
- Make recommendations and key decisions to ensure a cohesive design.
Technical Writer
- Serve as lead writer or reviewer for major narrative sections including:
- Introduction & Strategic Analysis
- Plan of Operations
- Conduct full narrative reviews to ensure compliance, cohesion, and alignment across all sections.
- Edit and revise drafts to meet USDA criteria and internal quality standards.
MEL Advisor / Writer
- Develop MEL components, including:
- Results Framework
- Performance Indicator Table
- Evaluation Plan
- Identify required MEL resources for the budget (systems, staffing, partnerships).
- Review other proposal components for alignment with the MEL strategy.
Expected Deliverables
Consultants will be responsible for producing high-quality, submission-ready proposal materials, including:
- Participation in team and partner meetings
- Engagement in design workshops
- Drafting, editing, and revising assigned proposal sections
- Ensuring compliance with NOFO requirements and USDA MGD standards
Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum 5 years of relevant proposal development experience
- Demonstrated experience writing or designing USDA McGovern-Dole proposals — this is essential
- Strong understanding of USDA requirements, food security programming, and education-focused interventions
- Fluency in English
- Ability to collaborate effectively with global, cross-functional teams
Global Communities encourages applications from all qualified individuals and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. GC also upholds strong safeguarding standards and conducts rigorous background checks to protect children and vulnerable populations.
How to Apply
Qualified applicants are invited to apply online here
Early applications are encouraged, as the recruitment window remains open until January 31, 2026.
This consultancy offers a chance to shape a major global education and food security initiative through one of the U.S. Government’s flagship programs.
