1. Background
Action Against Hunger USA (ACF USA) is currently exploring a hosting or integration arrangement with an external organization operating as a global, non‑implementing platform in the nutrition space (the “platform”). This exploration is taking place by invitation, following an initial, non‑binding expression of interest process.
ACF USA anticipates the need for independent external advisory support to inform decision‑making on the most optimal hosting or integration arrangement. We are seeking advisory support in two phases: the first phase would focus on analysis of strategic fit, operation integration (including governance and legal considerations), and financial sustainability, and would support the formulation of a hosting or integration proposal over a four-week period. The second phase would commence should the proposal be successful and would focus on developing a hosting or integration arrangement implementation plan, including change management considerations.
2. Scope of Work
The consultant will provide confidential, independent advisory support to inform ACF USA’s assessment of a potential hosting, affiliation, merger, or similar institutional arrangement. The work will be delivered as four complementary forms of analysis:
- Strategic fit: alignment between the organization’s missions and strategies; value proposition for ACF USA and the platform; stakeholder, donor, and reputational considerations; strategic risks and key decision criteria.
- Transaction structure: advise on the most appropriate legal structure of the arrangement, taking into account the context of each organization.
- Operational integration: practical implications for governance, management oversight, staffing, shared services, compliance, and systems integration; operating model options (e.g., hosted project vs. integrated unit); transition requirements and constraints.
- Financial sustainability: review of financial position and funding model; scenario and sensitivity analysis; sustainability risks, dependencies, and mitigations; conditions needed to sustain the arrangement over time.
3. Approach and Phasing
Phase 1 (4 weeks approx.): Assessment and proposal support. In consultation with ACF USA and the platform, the consultant will complete the strategic fit, operational integration, and financial sustainability analyses; identify key risks, trade‑offs, and decision points; and support preparation of a concise options/proposal package for ACF USA leadership and governance review.
Phase 2 (as needed): Implementation and change management plan. If ACF USA and the platform elect to proceed, the consultant(s) will develop a high‑level change management and implementation plan covering governance considerations, sequencing and milestones, operating model and shared services changes, stakeholder communications, and key risks/mitigations.
4. Deliverables
Depending on the agreed scope and phase, deliverables should include:
- Memo summarizing findings, risks, and decision points across the strategic fit, operational integration, and financial sustainability analyses;
- Detailed financial analyses, including five-year projections;
- Briefings for ACF USA leadership and/or board representatives.
5. Duration and Phasing
The assignment is expected to be short‑term and phased, aligned with defined decision points in ACF USA’s internal process. Engagement beyond each phase will be contingent on ACF USA’s decision to proceed.
6. Consultant Profile
ACF USA is seeking consultants or advisory teams with:
- Demonstrated experience advising nonprofits, foundations, or global networks on institutional hosting arrangements, mergers, affiliations, or comparable transactions;
- Strong expertise in financial analysis and nonprofit operating models;
- Familiarity with international NGOs, global platforms, donor‑funded organizations, and networked institutional structures, preferably in the health and nutrition space;
- Ability to operate in a discreet, confidential, and advisory role under time‑bound conditions.
7. Confidentiality
The selected consultant(s) will be required to sign a non-disclosure agreement prior to accessing any non‑public or sensitive information related to this assignment.
8. Proposal Submission
Interested consultants may be invited to submit by May 25, 2026:
- A brief proposal outlining their approach and relevant experience;
- Profiles of proposed team members;
- An indicative budget and fee structure, preferably organized by phase.
