Partnership & Fundraising Associate - Freelance

Company: Africa Political Outlook

Engagement type: Freelance / Independent Contractor
Compensation: Success-fee basis, subject to pre-agreed qualifying rules
Reporting to: Executive Director
Location: Remote
Contract term: Fixed-term, renewable based on performance
Company Description Africa Political Outlook is a dynamic platform that brings together visionary leaders, experts, and stakeholders to advance governance transformation across the African continent and strengthen Africa’s voice globally. The summit convenes over 300 participants from more than 40 countries, including policymakers, diplomats, development experts, and thought leaders. Discussions span governance, economic growth, climate adaptation, and sustainable development, emphasizing practical solutions and resilient democratic institutions. Africa Political Outlook builds coalitions among governments, NGOs, private sector actors, think tanks, and civil society to promote a resilient, united, and empowered Africa.
Role Description The Freelance Partnership & Fundraising Associate is a remote role supporting the development and growth of strategic partnerships and funding opportunities for Africa Political Outlook. Day-to-day responsibilities include identifying and researching potential partners, sponsors, and donors, and assisting in the preparation of outreach materials such as proposals, concept notes, and presentations. The Associate will help manage communication with existing and prospective partners, maintain organized records of contacts and commitments, and support follow-up to ensure timely responses and relationship building. The role also involves coordinating with the core team on fundraising campaigns, tracking progress against targets, and contributing ideas to enhance partnership value and impact.
Qualifications
* Strong skills in partnership development, stakeholder engagement, and relationship management.
* Experience or interest in fundraising, grant research, and donor or sponsor outreach.
* Proficiency in written communication, including drafting proposals, concept notes, and professional emails.
* Ability to conduct structured research on institutions, funding opportunities, and relevant policy or governance contexts.
* Organizational and time-management skills, including maintaining databases, tracking commitments, and meeting deadlines.
* Understanding or interest in African governance, international development, geopolitics, or civic engagement.
* Comfort working independently in a remote environment, with reliable internet access and familiarity with digital collaboration tools.
* Professional fluency in English; additional languages (especially French or widely spoken African languages) are an asset.
* Prior experience in NGOs, think tanks, diplomacy, advocacy, or event-based fundraising is beneficial but not required.
Deliverables
* Prospecting list and stakeholder map.
* Monthly pipeline report.
* Agreed number of qualified leads and partner introductions.
* Proposal support pack or pitch deck inputs.
* Signed partnership agreements or confirmed funding commitments.
* Post-close stewardship notes and handover documentation.
Required qualifications and experience
* Proven experience in partnership development, fundraising, sponsorship sales, donor relations, or business development.
* Strong writing and relationship-building skills.
* Ability to work independently and manage targets.
* Familiarity with institutional fundraising, corporate partnerships, foundations, and philanthropic ecosystems.
* Professional judgment, discretion, and high responsiveness.
* Fluency in English or French; bilingual capacity is an advantage.
Preferred qualifications
* Experience working with NGOs, think tanks, summits, advocacy platforms, or public affairs institutions.
* Familiarity with African governance, diplomacy, development, or policy networks.
* Existing network of corporates, foundations, agencies, and high-value contacts.
* Experience in grant writing, sponsorship packaging, or strategic partnerships.
Compensation: Success-fee basis, subject to pre-agreed qualifying rules

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