Application Guide
How to Apply for Institutional Giving Specialist
at Rainforest Foundation US
🏢 About Rainforest Foundation US
Rainforest Foundation US (RFUS) has a unique mission-driven focus on partnering directly with Indigenous peoples to protect rainforests and their rights. Since 1988, they've demonstrated that Indigenous-managed forests are healthier, making their work both impactful and evidence-based. Working here means contributing to climate justice and Indigenous sovereignty.
About This Role
As an Institutional Giving Specialist, you'll support RFUS's fundraising from foundations, governments, and other institutions to fund Indigenous-led conservation. This role is critical because institutional grants fund the majority of RFUS's programs, directly enabling land rights, monitoring, and advocacy for Indigenous communities. You'll manage the full grant cycle, from research to reporting.
💡 A Day in the Life
You might start by reviewing deadlines for upcoming grant reports, then draft a concept note for a new foundation opportunity. After a team check-in, you'll collaborate with program staff to gather impact data from field partners. You'll also research new funders aligned with RFUS's mission and update the grants calendar.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Rainforest Foundation US Is Looking For
- Experienced in institutional fundraising with a proven track record of securing grants from foundations, government agencies, or multilateral donors (2-4 years preferred).
- Strong writer and communicator who can craft compelling proposals and reports that align with RFUS's mission and Indigenous rights focus.
- Detail-oriented and organized, able to manage multiple deadlines, track grant requirements, and maintain compliance across various funders.
- Passionate about environmental justice and Indigenous rights, with cultural sensitivity and a collaborative mindset for working with remote teams.
📝 Tips for Applying to Rainforest Foundation US
Tailor your resume to highlight specific grant successes (amounts, funders, and outcomes) rather than just listing responsibilities.
In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience to RFUS's mission of supporting Indigenous peoples, not just environmental conservation.
Research RFUS's current funders (e.g., Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, Ford Foundation) and mention how your background aligns with their priorities.
If you have experience with Indigenous communities or land rights, highlight it prominently even if it's volunteer work.
Proofread for precision: institutional giving requires error-free writing, so have someone else review your application.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your understanding of RFUS's unique model of partnering directly with Indigenous organizations, not just working on their behalf.", "Specific examples of grants you've secured that relate to environmental justice, human rights, or community-led conservation.", 'Your ability to navigate complex donor requirements and manage reporting for multi-year grants.', "Your commitment to RFUS's values and your motivation to support Indigenous-led solutions."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Read RFUS's latest annual report and strategic plan to understand their goals and impact metrics.
- → Review their current institutional funders (listed on their website or in their 990) to identify potential alignment.
- → Familiarize yourself with key Indigenous organizations they partner with, such as COICA or local federations.
- → Understand the political and environmental context of the Amazon and Central America, especially recent threats to Indigenous lands.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Indigenous peoples or RFUS's specific approach.
- Overlooking the salary range: it's non-negotiable, so don't waste time negotiating.
- Focusing too much on general environmental fundraising without connecting it to Indigenous rights and RFUS's direct partnership model.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Rainforest Foundation US!