Terms of Reference: EU Presidency Project Consultancy Services - Proposal Development

1. Background 

Dóchas connects, strengthens and represents a network of international development and humanitarian organisations who have a shared vision of a just, sustainable and equal world. Comprised of 47 full members and 8 associate members, Dóchas plays a unique role in safeguarding Ireland’s reputation of punching above its weight due to its long-standing commitment to global development.

Our members are committed to human rights, justice and the eradication of poverty, and demonstrate this through their work in international development, protection, humanitarian assistance, sustainability, education and inclusion. Dóchas members value collaboration and believe that through working together, we can achieve our collective goals. There is a willingness among members to collaborate more systematically, share capabilities and engage in a network where we can learn and act together. The overarching objective in our strategic plan (2022-2026) is to develop a strong and dynamic network that enhances opportunities for connection, coordination and collaboration.

Ahead of Ireland’s EU Presidency (July - December 2026), we are embarking on a Presidency Project with two other national platforms in Lithuania and Greece, together with CONCORD Europe. This Presidency Project will run from April 2026 to March 2028.  In Autumn 2025, we will submit a multi annual proposal for this project to the European Commission with the Development Education and Awareness Raising Programme (DEAR). Dóchas will be the lead agency. 

2. Context

The project aims to bolster public support for a European Union that champions global solidarity, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, human rights, and civil society participation.  This Presidency Project will be the sixth EU Presidency Project supported by DEAR. Dóchas works alongside other national platforms who have previously participated in the EU Presidency Project to understand key learnings.

3. Purpose & Scope of work

The consultant will be responsible for the following:

• To develop an EU DEAR proposal which reflects the common objectives, outcomes and outputs of the three national platforms in the Presidency Trio and CONCORD. This includes outlining the context, common themes, synergies, methodology, activity plan and expected impact of the project. 
• To develop the Logframe, Budget and MEAL plan for the Project.
• To liaise with the focal points in each national platform and CONCORD to gather the information and input required. 
• To incorporate learnings of EUPP4 & EUPP5 into the Proposal.
• To develop the proposal for Ireland’s Presidency (July - December 2026). This includes bringing together information and perspectives garnered from member and stakeholder consultations (taking place in August, September, October).
• To participate in consultations with Dóchas members and key stakeholders, and incorporate findings into the proposal.

The consultant will work closely with the CEO and Head of Policy & Advocacy to deliver this within the proposed timeframe. 

4. Methodology, Contract and Timing

This consultancy should take up to 12 days (approx.) during September and October. 

The consultant will attend relevant meetings and events organised as part of the consultative process, and will incorporate this into the final proposal document. 

We expect the consultancy to begin the week of the 1st September. The work will be completed no later than the 30th October 2025.

Dóchas will not be liable for payment of PAYE, PRSI or USC in respect of this consultancy. Payment of all appropriate taxes remains the responsibility of the Consultant. Payment for the days worked will be made on the production of an invoice when work is completed to the satisfaction of Dóchas.

5. Confidentiality and Data Protection

A normal duty of confidentiality is expected in relation to Dóchas business, both during and after this consultancy. All documents (e.g. records, reports, plans, policies, papers, files) relating to work carried out in the course of this consultancy with Dóchas will remain the property of Dóchas at all times. The consultant will not retain copies of such records. 

The consultant will not at any time either during the period covered by this contract or after its termination make use of or communicate to any unauthorised person/body any confidential information about Dóchas which may have been obtained during the course of this consultancy. 

On termination of this contract by either party the consultant will deliver to Dóchas all records, documents, equipment, etc. in their possession or control relating in any way to this consultancy with Dóchas.

Confidentiality relating to Dóchas data and processes not in the public domain will be respected by the consultant. 

6. Application Process

The criteria for selection of the consultant are: 

• Documented experience with development of DEAR and/or other EC applications to the European Commission. 
• Demonstrated ability to integrate different experiences, methodologies, and approaches from a diverse range of stakeholders and organisations into a proposal.
• Strong programme design skills, including capacity to prepare logical, coherent, and consistent documents including logframes and budgets.
• Commitment to flexible availability during Autumn 2025.
• Experience with development of projects around Irish and European foreign and development policies. 
• Experience in and understanding of Ireland's development and humanitarian sector and stakeholders.
• Excellent English language skills. 
• Daily rate (inclusive of VAT)

Please submit your expression of interest, including proposed approach and costing, to Jane-Ann McKenna, CEO Dóchas (ceo@dochas.ie) by  Monday 18th August at 9am. 

Please outline how you fulfill the criteria outlined above, and include a CV. 

If you are shortlisted, you should expect a call later that week, when a selection will be made.