RFP FOR STRATEGIC PLANNING CONSULTANT

Issued by YWCA Elgin
Submission Deadline: June 27, 2025

OVERVIEW

YWCA Elgin is seeking proposals from qualified consultants with experience in strategic planning and a strong understanding of Elgin, IL. The selected consultant will partner with our Board of Directors and Staff to develop a two-year strategic plan that aligns with our mission and positions the organization for a sustainable future.

Contact for Submissions and Questions:
Felicia King, Chief Executive Officer
📧 fking@ywcaelgin.org

ABOUT YWCA ELGIN

For over 120 years, YWCA Elgin has worked to eliminate racism and empower women through a wide range of programs and services. We are committed to inclusion, equity, and supporting the strength and resiliency of women and families, especially those underrepresented in our community.

Learn more by exploring our website.

SCOPE OF WORK

The selected consultant will lead an inclusive, collaborative strategic planning process with the following components:

  • Project Management
    Coordinate planning activities, timelines, and communication with stakeholders to ensure seamless execution.

  • Organizational Assessment
    Evaluate current programs, operations, staffing, and fundraising strategies.

  • Stakeholder Engagement
    Collect feedback from staff, board members, partners, and clients (in English and Spanish).

  • Issue & Opportunity Identification
    Identify challenges and strategic opportunities related to fulfilling the mission and ensuring sustainability.

  • Strategic Prioritization
    Develop clear goals, success metrics, and tracking tools for the next two years.

  • Financial Projections
    Quantify financial implications of strategic priorities and align with fundraising goals.

  • Facilitation
    Lead a strategic planning retreat with the Board and attend key planning meetings.

TIMELINE

QUALIFICATIONS

Ideal candidates will demonstrate:

  • Experience with nonprofit strategic planning

  • Familiarity with Elgin or similar communities

  • Skill in engaging diverse and multilingual populations

  • Strong facilitation and stakeholder management capabilities

  • Integration of financial forecasting into strategic planning

We encourage proposals from women-identifying, BIPOC-led, LGBTQIA+, and locally based consulting firms.

Proposal Requirements

Please include the following in your submission:

  1. Cover Letter – Describe your experience, approach, and suitability for this project.

  2. Strategic Planning Methodology – Include engagement methods, assessment tools, and planning process.

  3. Team Bios – Highlight relevant expertise.

  4. References – List 2–3 recent clients; we’ll contact references only if you’re a finalist.

  5. Budget – Total cost not to exceed $7,500.

Send your proposal by email to Felicia King at fking@ywcaelgin.org by June 27, 2025.

Other Terms

  • All materials developed during the project will be the property of YWCA Elgin.

  • The selected consultant will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).

  • Any actual or potential conflicts of interest must be disclosed in the proposal.