NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

Kush Digital College (KDC) is an ambitious education startup focused on providing high-quality, affordable online education to underserved communities in East Africa and the GCC regions. Our mission is to bridge the education gap by offering accessible degree programs in high-demand fields such as Information Technology, Business Administration, Public Health, and Data Science. KDC leverages the power of digital learning platforms to reach students in conflict-affected and rural areas, empowering them with the skills needed to thrive in the global job market.
Our vision is to become a leader in online education in Africa and the Middle East, expanding into new regions and offering innovative, tech-driven learning solutions that meet the needs of today’s fast-evolving job markets. Scope of Work:
The Part-Time Consultant will be responsible for identifying and engaging with potential investors and grant providers to secure funding for KDC. This role focuses on exploring opportunities with education-focused venture capital firms, nonprofits with social impact, education grant providers, and impact investors. The consultant will be expected to develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to approach and secure funding from these organizations.
The consultant will work closely with the founder to ensure KDC’s funding strategy aligns with its vision and long-term goals, leveraging networks, and building relationships with key investors.The consultant will:
1. Research and Identify Potential Investors:
o Education-Focused Venture Capital Firms: Identify and approach firms such as Learn Capital, Reach Capital, and Partech Africa that invest in education and EdTech startups.
o Nonprofits with Social Impact Focus: Explore organizations like Omidyar Network, Acumen, and other similar foundations that invest in education technology for underserved markets.
o Education-Focused Grant Providers: Research grant opportunities from organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, focusing on grants that fund educational initiatives in developing regions.
o Impact Investors: Engage with organizations like Kiva, Acumen, and Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN), which often focus on startups in developing countries.
o EdTech Venture Capital Firms: Explore EdTech VCs such as TLcom Capital and Partech Africa that invest in technology-driven education solutions.
o Corporate Investors: Investigate technology companies such as Google for Startups, Microsoft Education, or other corporate investors that may provide funding, mentorship, or resources.
2. Outreach and Engagement:
o Develop a strategy for contacting and engaging potential investors and grant providers.
o Prepare tailored presentations and proposals to pitch KDC’s vision and funding needs.
o Establish and nurture relationships with target investors, ensuring continuous communication.
3. Develop Funding Strategy:
o Work closely with KDC’s leadership team to align investor outreach with the organization’s funding goals and growth strategy.
o Provide guidance on structuring investment deals, including equity, revenue sharing, or debt financing options.
o Identify opportunities for partnerships and collaborations beyond funding, such as joint ventures, mentorship, or resource sharing.
4. Reporting and Documentation:
o Maintain detailed records of all investor communications, proposals, and meetings.
o Provide regular reports to the CEO on progress, potential leads, and next steps.
o Assist in preparing legal and financial documentation required by investors or grant providers.Key Responsibilities:
• Research and identify education-focused venture capital firms, nonprofits, grant providers, and corporate investors.
• Develop and execute outreach strategies to connect with potential investors and funding bodies.
• Draft proposals, presentations, and other documents to present KDC’s value proposition.
• Negotiate terms and investment agreements in collaboration with the CEO.
• Maintain relationships with investors, ensuring transparent communication.

Qualifications – What is Required:
• Experience: Proven track record in fundraising, venture capital, or nonprofit funding, particularly in education or EdTech sectors.
• Skills: Strong networking, communication, and negotiation skills. Ability to develop compelling pitches and presentations.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with venture capital, impact investing, grant funding, and corporate sponsorship.
• Motivation: Proactive and self-motivated with the ability to work independently while providing regular updates.

PEA Consultancy is a partner of KDC. We encourage applications from individuals with a passion for education, social impact, and innovation. PEA is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome consultants from diverse backgrounds.