Call for Proposals: Grant Writer and Partnerships Consultant

Request for Proposals (RFP):

The Clifton House invites qualified consultants and firms to submit proposals for Grant Writing & Strategic Partnerships Consulting Services. This Request for Proposals (RFP) is issued to identify a partner with demonstrated expertise in nonprofit fundraising, grant development, and institutional partnerships, with a particular understanding of the literary and visual arts sector.

The Clifton House is a nonprofit organization dedicated to continuing the legacy of acclaimed poet Lucille Clifton and community activist Fred Clifton by providing mentorship, local and global resource access, training, and development in the creative arts to underrepresented and underserved people of all ages in Baltimore and beyond. We are particularly focused on working with poets, writers, artists and creative activists who are Afrodiasporic, women, and gender non-conforming LGBTQIA+. 

Our work advances artistic excellence, public access to the arts, and meaningful engagement with artists, writers, and communities. As our programs and impact continue to grow, we seek strategic support to strengthen our funding pipeline, diversify revenue sources, and cultivate long-term philanthropic partnerships aligned with our mission and values.

The selected consultant will support a range of activities that may include grant prospect research, proposal development, funding strategy, institutional partnership development, and related advisory services. The anticipated scope of work, submission requirements, and evaluation criteria are described in detail in the accompanying RFP.

Proposals will be evaluated through a transparent and competitive process, with selection based on best overall value, considering experience, approach, sector knowledge, alignment with organizational values, and cost-effectiveness. The Clifton House is committed to fair procurement practices and encourages proposals from qualified individuals and firms, including those with lived experience and perspectives reflective of the communities we serve.

Key dates associated with this RFP are as follows:

• RFP Issued: April 2, 2026

• Proposal Submission Deadline: April 24, 2026, 8:00pm EST

• Anticipated Selection Date: May 8, 2026

  
  

Proposals must be submitted in accordance with the instructions outlined in the RFP. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.

We appreciate your interest in partnering with The Clifton House and thank you for the time and care invested in preparing a proposal. We look forward to reviewing submissions and to the possibility of working together in support of our mission.

Full RFP Below.

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Grant Writing & Strategic Partnerships Consulting Services

Purpose of the RFP

The Clifton House seeks proposals from qualified consultants to provide grant writing and strategic partnerships services. The selected consultant will support the organization in identifying, securing, and managing grant funding, while also advising on strategic partnerships that align with our mission and long-term sustainability goals.

Scope of Work

The consultant will be responsible for, but not limited to:

Grant Writing & Funding Development

• Researching and identifying relevant funding opportunities

• Writing and submitting grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and required reports

• Demonstrating a proven track record of successfully securing grants, particularly within the arts, humanities, or cultural sectors

• Managing grant timelines, compliance, and reporting requirements

  
  

Strategic Partnerships

• Identifying and evaluating potential partnerships with arts organizations, cultural institutions, publishers, foundations, community partners, and corporations.

• Supporting the development of partnership proposals and collaborative funding initiatives

• Advising on funding diversification strategies and long-term development planning

  
  

Consultant Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience and proven success securing grant funding and partnerships.

• Experience working with literary, visual arts, or cultural nonprofit organizations

• Strong writing, research, and strategic planning skills

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with organizational leadership

Contract Term & Compensation

The initial term of this contract shall be six (6) months, with the option for renewal upon mutual agreement. Compensation shall be provided on an hourly basis at a rate of $60 per hour, for up to 20 hours per week, and shall be commensurate with the contractor’s experience.

Proposal Submission Requirements

Proposals should include:

1. Consultant background and relevant experience

2. Summary of past grant-writing success, including funders and award amounts (if available)

3. Description of approach to grant writing and partnership development

4. Relevant writing samples

5. 2 Professional References

Submission Deadline

Proposals must be submitted by  April 24,  2026 to info@thecliftonhouse.co