The National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) is the primary voice for people who use cooperative businesses to build a better world and a more inclusive economy. NCBA CLUSA provides cross-sector education, technical assistance, and advocacy that helps co-ops thrive. For over 100 years, NCBA CLUSA has sought to advance and protect cooperative enterprises, highlighting the impact that cooperatives have in bettering the lives of individuals and families. In the last 60 years, NCBA CLUSA has worked in over 85 countries in the areas of food security, agricultural development, strengthening of communities and farmer organizations, community-based health, natural resources management, and empowerment of smallholder farmers, women, and youth. We currently work in in Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

NCBA CLUSA’s USAID-funded Farmer-to-Farmer program sends American farmers and agribusiness professionals on 2-4 week agricultural development assignments, promoting sustainable growth and agricultural development worldwide.  Volunteer technical assistance from U.S. farmers, agribusinesses, cooperatives and universities helps smallholder farmers in developing countries improve productivity, access new markets and conserve environmental and natural resources.  During COVID-19 we have shifted to a hybrid volunteer model that affords US volunteers and in-country volunteers the opportunity to continue to provide technical assistance.   Compensation in the form of lodging, transportation, per diem, is provided by NCBA CLUSA.  No salary/consultant fees are paid. For more information visit NCBA CLUSA Farmer-to-Farmer.

NCBA CLUSA is currently seeking qualified Farmer-to-Farmer volunteer candidate (1- US volunteer willing to travel) for the position of Business Plan Specialist to support  Mujeres Emprendedoras al Éxito (MUJALE) based in Intibucá, Honduras.

Job Description: Established in 2013, Mujeres Emprendedoras al Exito (MUJALE), is a women-based organization with the mission of combating unemployment, overcoming poverty barriers and empowering women in the department of La Paz. It began with a group of 15 women dedicated to soap production using aloe vera and selling coffee.   Since experiencing a surge in membership leaders would like to bring everyone together and develop a business plan.  It is hoped that this business plan will address the needs and wants of all members, and include plans to provide technical assistance, coffee processing, and sales.

Duration: 2 weeks, Mid-March – May 2022         

ESSENTIAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

• Along with the participants, identify the type of services and products members need as well as the internal capacity of MUJALE to provide such
• Collaborate with the participants to develop a business plan.  
• Determine a strategy to conduct follow-up of the business plan.

• Degree in Business Management and/or a related field
• Experience developing business plans. 
• History of working with small enterprises (preferably with women groups).
• Ability to share expertise with people of diverse age groups
• Available for virtual communications with Host Organization, Staff and Co-volunteer
• US candidate must be legally able to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Advanced English language skills; reading, writing, speaking.

All application materials must be submitted in English.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please.

NCBA CLUSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer with a commitment to diversity.  All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, age, and legally protected characteristics for non-merit factors.