By identifying new project opportunities and helping to prepare compelling and competitive proposals for submission to U.S. and international donors, NDI’s program development team helps advance the Institute’s position as a leading provider of democracy and governance assistance. To maximize the Institute’s chances for project awards, the team works collaboratively with NDI’s regional, functional and administrative teams to track funding trends and donor priorities; evaluate publicly released funding opportunities; and determine the best path to project acquisition. The program development team guides NDI through the proposal development process and helps shape compelling arguments that highlight NDI’s expertise, capabilities and comparative advantage. As part of the proposal development process, the team also helps NDI explore partnership opportunities with local organizations and international NGOs.

To support NDI's growth and development, the team performs the following functions:

• Identify, evaluate and track new procurements and proposal opportunities, including those released by USAID, the U.S. Department of State and various international donor agencies;

• Coordinate and finalize NDI’s competitive proposals;

• Support effective program design, proposal writing and incorporation of NDI’s competitive advantage and unique resources; and

• Assist staff in understanding federal and non-federal donor procurement practices.