Application Guide

How to Apply for Request for Proposals- Independent Audit Firms

at Catalyst Now

🏢 About Catalyst Now

Catalyst Now is a global movement uniting social innovators and entrepreneurs to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through cross-sector collaboration. Working here means contributing to systemic transformation on a global scale, with a focus on measurable impact.

About This Role

This role involves leading the independent audit of Catalyst Now's financial statements and grant-specific engagements, ensuring compliance with U.S. GAAP and GAAS. Your work will directly support transparency and accountability for funding from partners like H&M Foundation, enabling trust and continued investment in SDG-aligned initiatives.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing financial statements and supporting schedules for the annual audit, coordinating with Catalyst Now's finance team to gather documentation, and drafting the audit plan for the H&M Foundation grant engagement. You may also prepare for an upcoming Audit Committee presentation by analyzing IRS Form 990 and summarizing key findings.

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🎯 Who Catalyst Now Is Looking For

  • An AICPA member with a current Peer Review Report showing a 'Pass' rating, ideally with experience in nonprofit audits of 501(c)(3) organizations operating internationally.
  • Proven ability to perform GAAS audits and deliver agreed-upon procedures reports under AT-C 215, with familiarity in special-purpose reporting frameworks like ISA 800/805.
  • Experience reviewing IRS Form 990 for consistency with audited financials and presenting findings to an audit committee.
  • Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP for nonprofits and the ability to handle grant-specific audit requirements, especially for international funders.

📝 Tips for Applying to Catalyst Now

1

Highlight your most recent Peer Review 'Pass' rating prominently in your proposal; this is a mandatory requirement.

2

Provide specific examples of audits you've conducted for internationally operating 501(c)(3) organizations, including any grant-specific audits.

3

Detail your experience with agreed-upon procedures engagements under AT-C 215, as this is a key deliverable for the H&M Foundation funding.

4

Include a brief sample audit plan or timeline that shows your understanding of the dual audit requirements (financial statement and grant-specific).

5

Address how you would handle the IRS Form 990 review and present findings to the Audit Committee, including any past committee presentations.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Emphasize your AICPA membership and 'Pass' Peer Review rating, as these are non-negotiable.", 'Showcase your experience with U.S. nonprofit audits, especially for organizations with international operations and multiple funding sources.', 'Demonstrate your capability to perform both GAAS audits and agreed-upon procedures engagements, referencing specific standards (AT-C 215, ISA 800/805).', "Express your commitment to transparency and accountability in the nonprofit sector, aligning with Catalyst Now's mission to advance the SDGs."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review Catalyst Now's website and recent annual reports to understand their SDG focus areas and key funders like H&M Foundation.
  • → Look into the H&M Foundation's grant requirements and reporting standards to anticipate their specific audit needs.
  • → Familiarize yourself with Catalyst Now's mission and impact metrics to tailor your audit approach to their strategic goals.
  • → Check if Catalyst Now has any past audit reports or financial disclosures publicly available to understand their current accounting practices.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk us through your approach to auditing a nonprofit with international grant funding, including how you ensure compliance with donor requirements.
2 Describe a time you performed an agreed-upon procedures engagement; what were the key challenges and how did you address them?
3 How would you review IRS Form 990 for consistency with audited financials, and what common discrepancies do you look for?
4 Explain your understanding of special-purpose reporting frameworks (e.g., ISA 800/805) and how they apply to grant-specific audits.
5 How do you present audit findings to an Audit Committee, and how do you handle questions or pushback on your recommendations?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic proposal without addressing the specific dual audit requirements (financial statement and grant-specific).
  • Failing to include your Peer Review Report or AICPA membership details in the proposal, as these are mandatory.
  • Overlooking the need for experience with agreed-upon procedures reports under AT-C 215; lacking this may disqualify your firm.

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Catalyst Now!

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