Issue Date: January 14, 2024
Proposal Due Date: January 24, 2025
Contact Information: Rhonda Alexander-Monkres, 808-298-6673, rhonda@mauilongtermrecovery.org
Organization Name: Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama Disaster Long Term Recovery Group
1. Introduction
Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama LTRG is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization seeking an experienced grant writing professional or firm to support our funding efforts over the next year. We have an annual operating budget of $1–4 million and anticipate submitting multiple grant applications annually to county, state, federal, and philanthropic funding sources.
Our mission is to provide comprehensive and compassionate support to the community of Maui in the aftermath of disaster. Our vision is to see a thriving, resilient community where every individual has the resources, support, and opportunities to recover from disasters and build a stronger future.
Anticipated Scope of Funding
The organization currently receives funding from Maui United Way, the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, Pacific Presbytery and an application is under review with Hawaiʻi Community Foundation. We expect to significantly expand our funding base over the next few years, requiring support in grant writing, research, compliance, and funder relationship management.
2. Purpose of RFP
The purpose of this RFP is to engage a qualified grant writing professional or firm to identify funding opportunities, develop compelling proposals, and support submission and follow-up processes to increase Hoʻōla’s ability to secure sustainable funding for program growth.
Grant Priorities
Key areas for grant funding include but are not limited to:
- Grant Writing Support: Securing resources to fund a dedicated grant writer for sustained growth.
- Unmet Needs Roundtable: Funding to expand the aid available for individual disaster recovery needs, including housing, health, and education.
- Rebuild Assistance Program: Funding to support rebuilding efforts, including volunteer-built homes, permitting, construction costs, and pre-development assistance.
- Community Recovery Events: Grants to host events that foster community healing and connection, such as pāʻina celebrations and educational workshops.
- Data Analysis and Program Metrics: Funding for data collection, analysis, and reporting to better understand community needs and demonstrate program impact.
- Marketing and Promotion: Support for outreach efforts, including storytelling, branding, and increasing visibility to potential funders and the community.
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3. Scope of Services
The selected contractor will provide the following services:
- Grant Research and Planning:
- Identify and prioritize grant opportunities that align with Hoʻōla’s mission and programs.
- Develop a grant calendar with deadlines for applications and reporting requirements.
- Grant Proposal Development:
- Prepare complete grant applications, including narratives, budgets, and supporting documentation, tailored to each funder’s requirements.
- Collaborate with Hoʻōla staff to gather necessary information, data, and materials.
- Compliance and Reporting Support:
- Ensure proposals meet funder guidelines and eligibility requirements.
- Assist with post-award reporting and compliance documentation as required by funders.
- Funder Relationship Management:
- Support relationship-building efforts with key funders through correspondence, follow-ups, and briefings.
- Provide advice on communication strategies to enhance funder engagement.
- Scalability and Growth:
- Develop scalable templates for grant applications and reporting.
- Provide insights on trends and opportunities in disaster recovery funding.
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4. Proposal Requirements
Proposals should include:
- Company Profile:
- Overview of the firm’s history, mission, and experience in grant writing for nonprofit organizations.
- Relevant experience working with disaster recovery, housing, or similar fields.
- Proposed Approach:
- Methodology for identifying and prioritizing funding opportunities.
- Timeline for developing and submitting grant applications.
- Performance:
- How many grants have you written in the past three years, and what percentage of those were successfully funded?
- What is the total amount of funding you’ve successfully secured over the same time period?
- References:
- At least two client references, preferably from nonprofits with comparable funding structures.
- Cost Proposal:
- Detailed pricing structure (e.g., hourly rate, flat fee per grant, or retainer) and any additional fees.
- Estimated costs for specific services, such as grant research, proposal development, or reporting.
- Availability:
- Proposed start date and expected availability for services over the next 12 months.
5. Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated on the following criteria:
- Experience and Qualifications:
- Demonstrated expertise in grant writing for nonprofits, with a strong track record of successful funding.
- Proposed Strategy:
- Alignment with Hoʻōla’s funding priorities and understanding of the disaster recovery funding landscape.
- Cost and Value:
- Competitive pricing in relation to the scope of services.
- References:
- Positive feedback from similar nonprofit clients.
- Completeness and Clarity:
- Clear, complete, and compliant proposals.
6. Submission Instructions
Submit all proposals electronically to support@mauilongtermrecovery.org by January 24, 2025. Include “Grant Writing Services Proposal for Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama LTRG” in the subject line.
7. Terms and Conditions
- Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama LTRG reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.
- Submission of a proposal does not guarantee contract award.
- Additional information or interviews may be requested from prospective vendors as part of the selection process.
8. Timeline
- RFP Issued: January 14, 2024
- Proposal Submission Deadline: January 24, 2025
- Selection of Vendor: January 30, 2025
- Expected Service Start Date: February 1, 2025
Mahalo for your interest in partnering with Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama LTRG. We look forward to reviewing your proposal and working together to strengthen our funding efforts and support Maui’s disaster recovery journey.
