The 5/14 Memorial Foundation, Inc. has issued a Request for Proposals seeking a qualified grant writer or firm to support its efforts in securing funding for the development of the 5/14 Living Memorial and Healing Center. This initiative is rooted in the Foundation's mission to honor the victims and survivors of the May 14, 2022, mass shooting in Buffalo, New York. The Memorial and Healing Center is envisioned as a world-class facility that includes immersive museum exhibits, a reflective garden, and communal gathering spaces, all aimed at promoting healing, education, and social justice.
The selected grant writer will collaborate with Foundation leadership and staff to research and identify federal, state, local, and private funding opportunities that align with the Foundation’s goals. Additional responsibilities include drafting grant proposals, letters of inquiry, creating a grant calendar, and advising on compliance and reporting. The consultant will also assist with assembling budgets and supporting documentation and may review and refine existing proposal content. While experience in post-award compliance is preferred, it is not required.
Applicants must demonstrate prior success in grant writing for nonprofit organizations, show knowledge of funding trends in education, community development, and social justice, and have strong writing, editing, and collaborative skills. Firms and consultants that are minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, or locally based are especially encouraged to apply, in line with the Foundation’s values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Each proposal must include a cover letter, resume or firm profile, sample work or list of past funded grants, a description of the applicant’s grant writing approach, a proposed fee structure, and at least two professional references. Proposals will be evaluated on demonstrated experience, understanding of the Foundation’s mission, writing quality, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to the participation policy.
Proposals must be submitted in PDF format by October 1, 2025, via email to Rev. Mark Blue at 514memorial@buffalony.gov with the subject line: “RFP – Grant Writer.” The anticipated selection date is October 13, 2025. Submission of a proposal does not obligate the Foundation to contract or compensate respondents, and final engagement terms will be set in a mutually agreed-upon professional services agreement.
Highlight proven fundraising outcomes, demonstrate alignment with social justice goals, and clearly articulate how your service model supports capacity building and compliance. Fee transparency is important.
