Proposal Writer Consultant

Contract Type:  Short-Term, Contract (Immediate Start – November 2025)

Submission Deadline: August 7, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST

Organization Profile 

The Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) is a dynamic not-for-profit funded by federal, provincial, and municipal government agencies, as well as private grants. We empower immigrants to build thriving futures in Canada through culturally responsive programs, advocacy, and community partnerships.

Project Overview

OCISO is seeking an experienced Proposal Writer Consultant to secure funding from government (federal, provincial, municipal), foundations, and other grant-making bodies. Despite shifting immigration policies and funding landscapes, OCISO remains committed to competing for critical resources, advocating for newcomers, and diversifying revenue streams.

The selected Consultant will craft compelling, award-winning proposals that align with OCISO’s mission and demonstrate a proven track record of securing government contracts, grants, and other institutional funding.

Scope of Work

• Research, write, and submit high-quality proposals to government agencies, foundations, and other funders.
• Collaborate with OCISO’s leadership team to align proposals with strategic priorities.
• Highlight OCISO’s precedent successes in securing federal/provincial/municipal funding and grants.
• Ensure proposals meet strict deadlines and submission requirements.

Contract Details

• Term: Immediate upon contract signing until November 30, 2025 (with possibility of extension subject to funding).
• Retainer Agreement: Deliverables, timelines, and terms will be outlined in a signed agreement.
• Budget Expectations: Applicants must include their proposed fee structure (e.g., hourly rate, flat project fee, or retainer model) within their submission. OCISO will evaluate proposals based on value, experience, and alignment with project needs.

Qualifications

Mandatory Requirements:

• 8+ years of experience writing successful proposals for government (federal, provincial, municipal) contracts, grants, and/or RFPs.
• Demonstrated success in securing funding from multiple sources (e.g., IRCC, ESDC, SSHRC, municipal grants, private foundations).
• Exceptional technical writing skills with samples of awarded proposals (government/grants preferred).
• Ability to synthesize complex information into persuasive, compliant proposals.
• Experience with Canada’s immigration/settlement sector.

Preferred Assets: 

• Degree in English, Communications, Nonprofit Management, or related field.
• Proficiency in collaborative tools (Microsoft 365, SharePoint, etc.).

Submission Requirements

Proposals (max. 4 pages) must include:

1. Cover Letter: Explain your fit for this role and highlight 3–5 examples of successful government/grant proposals you have authored (include funding amounts secured, if possible).
2. CV/Resume: Focus on relevant proposal-writing experience.
3. Writing Samples: At least 2 samples of past successful proposals (redacted as needed).

Evaluation & Next Steps

• Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed and asked for references.
• OCISO may request a short test assignment.