Consultancy: Development of the ITF’s Strategic Framework

Terms of Reference
Consultancy: Development of the ITF’s Strategic Framework Process

1. Background and Rationale

The International Trans Fund (ITF) is the only global participatory grantmaker that is exclusively dedicated to supporting trans-led groups as they work to secure rights for trans people and improve their lived realities. The ITF envisions a network of robust, resilient, and well-resourced trans organizations and movements working inclusively and intersectionally to increase safety and liberation for trans people worldwide. The mission of the ITF is to mobilize sustainable resources for strong, trans-led movements and collective action, and to address and eliminate funding gaps impacting trans groups across the globe. The ITF is a registered non-profit organization in Canada but has staff working in multiple regions. Since 2017, the ITF has awarded US$8M to 214 grantee partners in 99 countries.

2. Purpose and Scope of the Consultancy

The ITF’s first Strategic Plan covered the period of 2021-2025. The ITF’s Board and Secretariat has decided to embark on a fully participatory process to establish a strategic framework. The purpose of the strategic planning process is to develop a new strategic framework that will guide ITF’s work and institutional transformations over the next ten years, with the aim to increase our impact and ability to fulfil our mandate. Elements of the strategic planning process will include (but will not be limited to):

A critical review and refresh of ITF’s vision, mission, and purpose, as well as an exploration and re-commitment to the values, practices, and principles that guide and enable our work, prioritizing our collective care and wellbeing.
Articulation of the ITF’s Theory of Change (ToC).
Review of the ITF’s regional designations.
Review the ITF’s approach to language justice and inclusion.
Review of ITF operating model, M&E framework, internal capacity and governance structure to ensure relevance and alignment to the new Strategic Framework.
A situation analysis of the organization (e.g. strengths, weaknesses, and unique value proposition) and of the ecosystem in which we operate (e.g. opportunities and threats related to the state of trans rights, trends of LGBTQI/feminist organizing, funding for trans rights, etc.).
An assessment of the 2021-2025 strategic plan and its implementation.
The identification of ITF’s goals, key strategies, and thematic priorities for the next decade.
Clarity and agreement on governance, transparency, and accountability mechanisms for the functioning of the ITF.
Stakeholder management: A purposeful and participatory process to include the perspectives of the ITF team and Board and a wide and diverse range of stakeholders (e.g. trans activists, grantee partners, key partners and potential partners, funders, etc.)
Development, validation, and finalization of the strategic framework.
Support the ITF team in operationalizing the strategic framework including the creation of goals, targets, financial and human resources needs and strategies, and other elements to enable the development of the annual operating plans.
Support the ITF team in identifying the organizational development priorities that are required to fulfill the strategic framework.
Support the ITF with the creation of the first year operating plan to offer a blueprint for the organization to follow in future years. This plan will also include the high level budget and funding requirements.

3. Proposed Methodology and Deliverables

The consultant(s) will provide strategic, technical, and facilitation support to the ITF in the development of our new strategic framework. As a participatory grantmaker, we value deep, active, and meaningful participation throughout this process. We envision consultation with various stakeholders: (1) ITF (staff, current and former Board, Grant Making Panel, and grantee partners); (2) Trans activists and movement actors (not already funded by the ITF), allies, strategic service providers, and key potential partners; and (3) Current funders and potential funders.

The ITF is also committed to language justice and strives to ensure that we are engaging with diverse global communities. The ITF actively works in English and Spanish, and also accepts applications in French, Russian, and Simplified Chinese.

We suggest that the strategic planning process follows the below phases, which will be finalized with the consultant(s):

3.1 Inception (refine the scope of work, methodology, process, and timelines, as well as the strategic questions and key priorities).

Key Stakeholders: ITF Executive Director and the Strategic Framework Advisory Committee.
Deliverables: Inception report including workplan and detailed methodology (March 2025).

3.2 Research, Consultations, and Analysis (analyze key documentation and seek stakeholder feedback).

Key Stakeholders: Internal and External stakeholders as identified in section (3) above.
Deliverables: Report presenting the outcomes of the desk review and consultations and the proposed outline of the strategic framework; engagement with Advisory Group, organization, and the draft plan to facilitate the ITF Board Meeting in June to discuss and draft the Strategic Framework (March – May 2025).

3.3 Development of the Strategic Framework

Key Stakeholders: ITF Secretariat and Board of Directors.
Deliverables: Facilitation of a meeting in June to present the findings and proposed contents of the Strategic Framework to advance the Strategic Framework process, June meeting summary; Final strategic Framework including feedback received (June – October 2025).

3.4 Presentation and Dissemination of Strategic Framework

Key Stakeholders: ITF Executive Director and the Board of Directors.
Deliverables: Presentation of the Strategic Framework to the ITF Board for adoption, development of a public-facing/summary version of the Strategic Framework (November 2025).

3.5 Operationalization and Implementation. Support the ITF in developing the timeline, specific goals and objectives for the Strategic Framework including financial and human resources, resource mobilization strategies, and organizational strengthening priorities along with the first year’s annual operating plan (November– January 2026).

4. General Conditions and Other Terms

4.1 Collaboration with the ITF
The consultant(s) will report to the ITF’s Executive Director. This work will be supported by an Advisory Group composed of ITF Board members.

4.2 Timeline
The consultancy will take place from February 2025 – January 2026.

4.3 Consultant Profile
We welcome applications from individual consultants or teams of consultants. The consultant(s) should have the following qualifications and experience:

Expert knowledge of trans rights, experience in trans/LGBTQI/women’s rights, human rights, philanthropy, and/or international development; understanding of global majority contexts and understanding of philanthropy is desirable.
In-depth understanding of feminist principles and how they relate to strategy and organizational development.
Written and spoken fluency in English is required; ability to work in Spanish is desirable.
Demonstrated experience in strategic and/or organizational planning.
Excellent research, analytical, and writing skills.
Experience in developing, leading, and documenting consultations.
Strong project planning and management skills.
Ability to work independently and deliver on time.
Excellent presentation, interpersonal, and facilitation skills.

We are committed to representing the diversity that exists across the trans community. We especially welcome applicants who are typically underrepresented in consultancy positions, including trans women and trans feminine people, BIPOC, sex workers, people with disabilities, and people born or who originate from a global majority country are encouraged to apply.

As one of the few trans-led funders in the philanthropic space, we are committed to expanding the circle of trans people active in this sector. Trans people are encouraged to apply. We welcome applications from mixed teams (cis and trans) but will prioritize the involvement of trans people in this work.

If you possess the majority of the qualifications and would like to partner with others, please indicate this and express your interest and willingness to be matched or to partner with other consultants selected by the ITF.

5. Application Steps

The deadline to submit a proposal is February 9, 2025 by 11:59 pm ET. Please apply here.

Interested consultant(s) should submit:

Proposal that outlines the proposed approach, process, methodology, timeline, and costing. In particular, we would like to know about your approach to ensure a fully participatory and meaningful engagement with stakeholders.
Profile and experience of the consultant or consultant team. Please share any relevant details about your positionality, how trans people are involved, etc.
Samples of relevant work.
Resume/CV (or a pdf of the CVs from the consultant team).

If you have questions, please contact Broden Giambrone ([email protected]).

The ITF is only accepting applications via BambooHR.

Meet the ITF’s New Board Members

We are excited to introduce the newest members of the ITF Board! The Board is essential in guiding our strategic vision, ensuring accountability, and making key decisions about how we resource and support trans-led movements globally. These new members bring a wealth of expertise, diverse perspectives, and a shared commitment to advancing trans rights. Their leadership and passion will help strengthen our mission and deepen our impact. Below, you’ll find their photos and bios—join us in welcoming them to the ITF!

Ayouba El Hamri

Ayouba (they/she) is a Moroccan trans and non-binary SOGIESC consultant and activist currently pursuing a degree in Global Development Studies in Norway. Ayouba has been actively involved in building movements for trans communities in the MENA region, serving as the regional manager of Transat, the first trans-led organization in the region. They co-initiated Nassawiyat, a pioneering organization for LBTQI+ women and non-binary individuals in Morocco, and have held key leadership roles with Pan Africa ILGA as Francophone Coordinator, GNP+ as Morocco Country Focal Point, the African Trans Network (ATN) as a Steering Committee Member, and FRIDA (The Young Feminist Fund) as an Advisor representing SWANA. Passionate about advocacy and knowledge-building, Ayouba is particularly interested in research and initiatives focused on SOGIESC, HIV, decolonial and participatory grant-making models, and intersectional feminism.

Denny Mwaurah

Denny (She/They) is a trans advocate from Kenya and a seasoned Finance and Grants Management Consultant with a background in accounting. With experience in feminist funds like FRIDA and UHAI EASHRI, and as a former Grant Making Panelist for ITF, Denny aspires to develop financial and institutional solutions that streamline grants management while championing for increased funding towards ITGNC-led initiatives. Passionate about gender and racial equality, poverty alleviation, and socio-economic justice, Denny is dedicated to fostering the financial sustainability of impactful development programs.

Félix Endara

Félix (he/him) is a bilingual creative and philanthropic professional based in Ecuador and NYC. With over 15 years of experience in filmmaking, global philanthropy, and arts administration, he has worked with organizations like the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation and Open Society Foundations. He currently co-chairs the Trans/Intersex Task Force within the Global Philanthropy Project and founded the Trans Affinity Group within the Documentary Producers Alliance, advocating for trans-led storytelling and supporting trans filmmakers with mentorship and resources. Félix has served on numerous selection committees for arts and social justice organizations, including Art for Justice, BlackStar Film Festival, and Creative Capital.

Franco Fuica

Franco Fuica is a charismatic 45-year-old trans activist of masculine expression from Chile. He prefers masculine pronouns (“he”) in-person and neutral pronouns in public (“they”) because he loves teaching people to respect all identities. With 20 years of experience in activism for the rights of binary and non-binary trans people, he has been at the forefront of community building and has accompanied many people in their personal processes, always with a touch of warmth. Franco is a true networker; he relates kindly to other activists, knowing that collaboration is the only path to success. He has been a state official in the Illustrious Municipality of Santiago, his work has led him to be co-president of ERC and representative of Latin America in ILGA, fighting tirelessly for inclusive public policies at local, national and international levels. Currently, Franco focuses on three passions: accompanying new trans activists, collaborating in a Latin American fund for the community and pampering his three adorable kittens who are absolutely necessary for him to be happy!

Learn more about the ITF Board

Meet the 8th Cycle Grantee Partners

The International Trans Fund (ITF) is proud to share the list of trans-led organizations selected as part of our 8th Grant Cycle! These 39 incredible groups, working across 33 countries, are at the forefront of advancing safety, dignity, and justice for trans communities worldwide.

Our grantmaking is led by a global panel of trans activists who understand the unique contexts of their regions. Together, we’re bridging funding gaps and empowering trans-led movements to thrive.

The 8th Grant Making Panel (GMP) meeting, held in Mexico City from June 24-28, 2024, allocated $1,000,000 to support trans movement-building work. While we are excited to highlight these organizations, some groups remain anonymous to protect their safety.

Discover their inspiring work and see the full list of grantee partners.

Apply Now: Grants Manager

Grants Manager (Full-Time & Remote)
Salary: USD$70,000

About the Organization
The International Trans Fund (ITF) is the only global participatory grantmaker that is exclusively dedicated to supporting trans-led groups as they work to secure rights for trans people and improve their lived realities. The ITF envisions a network of robust, resilient, and well-resourced trans organizations and movements working inclusively and intersectionally to increase safety and liberation for trans people worldwide. The mission of the ITF is to mobilize sustainable resources for strong, trans-led movements and collective action, and to address and eliminate funding gaps impacting trans groups across the globe. The ITF is incorporated in Canada but has staff working in multiple regions. Since 2017, the ITF has awarded US$8M to 214 grantee partners in 99 countries.

About the Role
We are looking for a colleague to work in a fast-paced environment where details matter because ultimately, our daily decisions and actions have to serve and meet the needs of trans-led movements across different global contexts. As a team, we value exchange and the instinct to seek help and input. We also value curiosity and a willingness to experiment with new practices to improve our work.

There is research that shows that people who experience multiple and intersecting marginalization often do not apply for positions unless they meet all the qualifications. While we would greatly value experiences with grantmaking systems (and SmartSimple specifically), we know that many trans people may not have this exact experience. For this role, we are looking for someone who is extremely detail oriented and passionate about developing and managing our new system.

Personal Qualities (personality traits, interests and preferences that describe you)

Deep connections to trans movements for social justice.
Passionate about data and learning, and implementing new systems.
Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines with minimal direction.
Strongly detail oriented.
Committed to integrity in the process as well as the outcomes.
Comfortable taking the lead when necessary to move things forward.
Ready to take decisions even without an ideal or obvious solution.
Creative in solving problems and bringing fresh thinking to obstacles.
Ability to work remotely and to work collaboratively with a team.
Open to discussing and exchanging on work with colleagues.
Holds the instinct to pull together as a team and to support others around you.
Invested in a positive work environment: shared purpose and shared wellbeing.

Knowledge (specialist expertise, experience, or access to networks that you bring to the role)

Working knowledge of grants administration, development, or management that includes using a GMS and managing data.
Direct and in-depth understanding of the different issues that can face trans movements in different contexts.

Skills

1. Things you can do independently and effectively:

Ability to manage grant cycles; inclusive of internal management of grants process with staff and external coordination with applicant organizations across the globe.
Design and implement new internal grantmaking processes.
Engage in collaborative decision-making, co-creation and planning.
Manage your agenda, prioritize and plan thoughtfully to meet your own – and others’ – deadlines.
Navigate unfamiliar and new contexts, sometimes out of your comfort zone.
Communicate in a clear, authentic, and engaging way in writing and speaking in English.
Coaching and (peer) mentoring with colleagues.
Turn visions and ideas into actionable planning.
Program management for trans, LGBTQI, feminist, human rights and/or social justice movements.
Facilitate processes of shared learning, e.g. help our work and practices to grow stronger.

2. Things that would be highly valued:

Relationship-building, meetings, presentations, discussions in functional Spanish.
Checking through written documents for basic language errors in Spanish.

Grants Manager Accountabilities (what colleagues can rely on you to do)

General

Guide and oversee the full lifecycle of ITF’s 50+grants per year, including invitations to apply, due diligence, production of grant documents, payments, and final reporting.
Provide active support to grantee partners through ongoing technical assistance and updating resources for grantseekers as requested by the Director.
Work closely and support the Program Associate who works on grantee compliance, due diligence review, and grants administration. Support ongoing learning for all staff.

Database Management

Manage and maintain the grants database (SmartSimple), including data integrity, maintenance and revision of templates, fields, searches, reports, user accounts, forms, and coding.
Manage the online application system, including editing and maintaining all forms across different funds and languages.
Train staff on how to use the database and maintain their skills.
Receive periodic technical training from the software company on increased functionality and changes to the system.

Compliance & Grants Management

Develop and maintain ITF’s Grantmaking Manual and Policy Book.
Develop and implement policies and procedures for ITF’s grantmaking, ensuring compliance with federal (Canadian) and multilateral donor regulatory standards and grantmaking best practices.
Keep updated on international grantmaking, compliance, and banking regulations and best practices.

Cross Teamwork

Review weekly payment submissions of all grants and ensure smooth payments by liaising with Fiscal and Program staff.
Coordinate various special projects with other teams, such as annual grant testing for the yearly audit, and data analysis for the Communications Team related to their e-newsletter and the Annual Report.
Work closely with Program Officers and coordinate with the Program Team on a number of issues, including political landscapes in different regions that affect NGO law and payment options; planning grantmaking portfolios; strategic discussions and coordination of multi-year and exit grants; fiscal sponsorship relationships; troubleshooting on grants; and more.

Reporting & Evaluation

Conduct data analysis of ITF’s grantmaking for internal stakeholders and support the preparation of ITF’s dockets.
Generate data and data visualization tools for reporting to funders, to identify key trends, and to help inform ITF’s work with the trans community.
Preparing grant information for the ITF’s annual audit.
Other duties and responsibilities as assigned from time to time, such as organizational strengthening activities; culture-change work; and staff-retreat planning and execution.

Additional Considerations

The salary is $70,000 USD/year.
This position is remote. The ITF is not able to offer visa sponsorship for this position.
As one of the few trans-led funders in the philanthropic space, we are committed to expanding the circle of trans people active in this sector. Trans people are encouraged to apply.
We are committed to representing the diversity that exists across the trans community. We especially welcome applicants who are typically underrepresented in leadership positions, including trans women and feminine people, people of color, Black folks, sex workers, people with disabilities, people born or who originate from a global majority country are encouraged to apply.

We continue to strive to make our workplace accessible and look for ways to challenge white supremacist culture. We acknowledge that we aren’t there yet, we recognise this is ongoing work for the organization, and we know that this will require us to demonstrate – rather than describe – our commitment in the practices of the organization.

Deadline
The deadline to apply is January 31, 2025.

Application Steps

Apply here.
CV & Cover Letter – Please detail your interest, skills, and experience in relation to this role.
Interview with tasks linked to the role (selected by invitation) – Zoom interviews, which provide an opportunity to demonstrate how you’d approach the role, for us to get to know your working process, and for you to hear more about the day-to-day work environment at the ITF.

We will inform candidates of the outcome of their application at each step.

For more information: www.transfund.org

TDOR 2024: Supporting Trans Refugees

Refugee Trans Initiative is a group that has become a lifeline for trans refugees and asylum seekers in Kenya. Operating in a context of immense adversity, they have created safe spaces, advocated for trans rights, and empowered their community with life-changing resources.

The group established a safe house that provides shelter and protection for trans refugees facing violence, extortion, and discrimination. This safe house not only offers immediate security but also serves as a hub for critical support services. Partnering with other organizations which provide health services for trans sex workers, the group has built a network of care and protection for their community.

Their efforts extend beyond safety. They have implemented livelihood programs, equipping trans refugees with skills in farming and other trades, empowering them to rebuild their lives with dignity. They’ve conducted capacity-building sessions, ensuring participants gain knowledge about financial literacy, legal rights, and the transition process, including hormone treatment. Their psychological support programs, including family counseling and group therapy, have addressed the mental health challenges faced by their community, significantly reducing cases of suicide.

Advocacy remains central to their mission. Refugee Trans Initiatives have actively campaigned for transgender refugees in Kakuma, the largest refugee camp in Africa, providing food, clean water, and medical supplies while amplifying their stories to a wider audience. The organization also responds to incidents of arrests and police raids targeting trans refugees, providing legal support and protection for those affected.

Despite challenges like transphobia, police harassment, and cyber threats, Refugee Trans Initiative continues to fight for a world where trans refugees can live safely and with dignity. Their work is a powerful reminder of the resilience of trans communities and the critical role they play in advocating for justice and equality.

Continuing the Fight: Honoring Trans Lives Beyond Remembrance

Following the Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR), we at the ITF continue to honor the lives of trans and gender-diverse individuals lost to violence, discrimination, and systemic neglect. Their names remind us of the harsh realities many in our communities face, but they also call us to action—to ensure their legacies fuel a fight for a future where trans people thrive.

As a participatory grantmaker, the ITF is committed to resourcing trans-led organizations worldwide. These organizations are not just at the forefront of advocacy but also of healing, community-building, and imagining futures free from oppression. Through their work, we see the power of trans leadership in challenging inequality, protecting rights, and fostering resilience.

Every grant we make is a step toward justice, a declaration of solidarity, and a promise to the trans communities we serve. Together, we fight for systems and societies that celebrate diversity and uphold dignity.

Economic Empowerment for Trans Communities

In Yogyakarta, Indonesia, the Pondok Pesantren Waria Al Fatah has made history by establishing the country’s first officially recognized trans women’s cooperative. This groundbreaking achievement is a testament to the resilience and determination of a community often marginalized.

The journey began with strategic advocacy efforts. Representatives from the group engaged in hearings with the local government, including the Tourism Office. These discussions yielded critical commitments: the Tourism Office pledged to include trans businesses in government-run tourism events. This marked a significant step in demonstrating that trans women can play an active role in economic development.

The group also focuses on equipping trans women with essential business skills. In 2022, twenty trans women participated in a three-day business management workshop facilitated by the Indonesian Business Solutions College of Economics. The training covered marketing strategies, capital management, and operational planning, equipping participants with the tools to run successful businesses. Each participant received a small capital grant to jumpstart or strengthen their ventures. To ensure sustainability, facilitators conducted regular monitoring and evaluation, helping the businesses grow steadily.

As these efforts progressed, the vision of a formal cooperative began to take shape. In November, twenty trans entrepreneurs underwent cooperative and creative economy training, learning how to meet legal requirements and operate within Indonesia’s formal economy. After months of hard work, the Al Fatah Mukti Sejahtera Yogyakarta Marketing Cooperative was formally established with legal recognition from the government—a monumental achievement for the community.

The cooperative’s inauguration in January 2023 was a celebration of this milestone. Government officials, local organizations, and members of the community gathered to mark the occasion. The cooperative’s official status now enables it to apply for government funds and attract external support. Cross-faith organizations, such as the Christian Welfare Foundation and the Transgender Christian Prayer Fellowship, contributed capital, highlighting the inclusive and collaborative nature of the initiative.

The cooperative’s impact extends beyond economic empowerment. It has provided a safe space for trans women to connect, support one another, and build a sense of community. Families of trans women have also been involved, strengthening familial bonds and encouraging greater understanding. Additionally, the Pondok Pesantren Waria Al Fatah addressed broader challenges faced by trans women, such as household financial management, integrating this into their training programs.

The ITF is proud to have supported Pondok Pesantren Waria Al Fatah. To learn more about the group visit their page:
Facebook

The ITF has awarded $7,815,110 across 8 grant cycles to 214 grantee partners in 99 countries. Information about grantee partners from previous cycles is available on our website:
2023 Grantee Partners
202 2 Grantee Partners
2021 Grantee Partners
2020 Grantee Partners
2019 Grantee Partners
2018 Grantee Partners
2017 Grantee Partners

TDOR 2024: Advocacy, Education and Legislative Interventions

The Greek Transgender Support Association (GTSA) is a leading example of a grassroots organization working to eliminate violence against trans people and build a safer, more inclusive society. Through a mix of advocacy, direct support, and innovative initiatives, GTSA addresses systemic inequalities, empowers trans individuals, and fosters greater awareness of the issues faced by the trans community in Greece.

GTSA advocates for legislative changes that protect trans individuals and promote their rights. It successfully influenced anti-bullying policies to include sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression in educational legislation. Additionally, the organization secured provisions in prison reforms in Greece to ensure the placement of trans prisoners in facilities that align with their gender identity and offer protective measures when needed. GTSA also worked with the Ministry of Health to restore access to gender-affirming hormones, ensuring vital healthcare for trans individuals.

GTSA‘s work extends to addressing hate crimes and transphobia. In July 2023, the association publicly condemned the murder of a trans refugee and sex worker, highlighting the racist and transphobic motivations behind the attack. The group called for justice and advocated for an in-depth investigation by authorities, raising public awareness of violence against trans individuals.

Through ITF funding, GTSA maintained its office as a safe and inclusive space for trans and gender-diverse individuals. The office serves as a hub for mutual support, socialization, and empowerment, particularly for marginalized groups such as elderly trans people and parents of trans children. The group also pioneered the “Personal Development Youth Group,” a first-of-its-kind initiative in Greece that supports neurodiverse trans youth.

Despite its achievements, GTSA faces significant challenges. A conservative political climate and rising far-right rhetoric in Greece have exacerbated discrimination and violence against vulnerable groups, including the trans community. The lack of accessible funding within the trans community further limits the organization’s capacity to expand its initiatives.

Honoring Their Memory by Fighting for Our Future

As we approach the Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR), we reflect on the lives lost to violence and discrimination while celebrating the resilience and power of trans communities around the world. This year, we honor not only the memory of those who are no longer with us but also the incredible work of our grantee partners who fight for a better future. From eliminating violence and advocating for justice to educating, empowering, and building safe spaces, these trans-led organizations are at the forefront of creating lasting change.

To highlight this work, we are releasing a series of stories that showcase the inspiring efforts of ITF grantee partners around the world. Together, we honor the memory of those who came before us by continuing the fight for a future where trans people everywhere can live with dignity, safety, and freedom.

Eliminating Violence Against Trans People

In Ecuador, Centro Psico Trans by Asociación Silueta X stands as a critical example of a grassroots organization working to eliminate violence against trans people. This grantee partner is at the forefront of addressing systemic violence, including the horrors of conversion clinics, and advocating for the protection and mental health of trans communities.

In 2022, the group intervened in two harrowing cases involving detention in conversion clinics. One case centered on Karlina, an elderly trans woman forcibly confined in such a clinic. A video and public statement exposed her plight, prompting the Ombudsman’s Office to coordinate with the Prosecutor’s Office for her release. Similarly, Priscila, a non-binary individual, was detained by their parents in another clinic. Through swift action, including circulating a video and statement on social media, Silueta X drew media and authority attention, leading to Priscila’s immediate release.

In addition to these direct interventions, Asociación Silueta X focuses on broader systemic change. They launched an emotional intelligence manual to support the mental health of trans people and conducted sensitivity training for the national police to address violence against trans women in sex work.

Despite these efforts, the organization faces ongoing challenges, including targeted attacks on their offices—a clear indication of the persecution tied to their work. They continue to file complaints and advocate for safety measures, but the lack of action in hate crime cases underscores the urgent need for systemic change.

On Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR), we honor the memory of those lost to violence and celebrate the courage of organizations like Asociación Silueta X, whose work is a beacon of hope in the fight for justice, safety, and dignity for trans communities. Their relentless efforts remind us that protecting trans lives is not just about surviving today—it’s about building a future free from fear and violence.

The ITF is proud to support Asociación Silueta X across multiple grant cycles. To learn more about the group visit their pages:
Website
Instagram
Facebook

The State of Trans Organizing Report

The third edition of The State of Trans Organizing report is out now. This report presents new research demonstrating how global trans movements are under attack and severely under-resourced. With participation from 449 respondents worldwide, the research provides a critical snapshot of the priorities, activities, and needs of diverse trans organizations. This research is also a call to action for funders to step-up and provide support to address the needs of global trans movements.

This research was led by Global Philanthropy Project and GATE. The ITF joined as a donor partner alongside American Jewish World Service, Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice and Dreilinden. Notably, an earlier edition of The State of Trans Organizing report was instrumental in laying the foundation for the creation of the ITF as it underscored the urgent need for dedicated funding to sustain and amplify trans activism globally. Today, the ITF is proud to contribute to this updated research, which reinforces the essential role of responsive, sustained funding for the resilience and advancement of global trans movements.

Key Findings
Challenges of Violence and Harassment: Nearly all trans organizations (90%) report facing violence or harassment, including physical attacks, online harassment, and event disruptions. Additionally, 67% report threats from oppositional groups or individuals (e.g., “anti-gender,” etc.) and 36% face increased scrutiny from law enforcement or government agencies. This hostile environment forces organizations to divert resources toward security, impacting community support.

Limited Budgets: Trans organizations provide essential support to their communities, addressing advocacy, healthcare, safety, and arts & culture. Yet, the majority operate with very limited resources; half have budgets below $20,000, and 14% have no budget at all. This funding gap severely restricts their ability to meet growing needs.

Chronic Under-resourcing: Trans organizations also receive smaller grants than other LGBTI organizations, with most funds being short-term and project-specific. The vast majority of trans organizations (76%) received less than $50,000 of external funding in 2022, with nearly one-third (30%) receiving none.

Unbalanced Geographic Funding Support: Trans organizations operate across local, national, regional, and international levels, yet funding remains heavily concentrated in the Global North—93% of it directed toward the United States. Most trans organizations work nationally (72%), at city (36%), or state levels (25%), with additional work at regional and international levels (14% each), addressing issues from local to global scales.

However, the distribution of funding does not match this geographic reach. Regions like Asia and the Pacific receive disproportionately low funding compared to their large populations.

Call to Action for Funders:

Increase overall funding with larger grants and a broader donor base.
Promote sustainable funding through multi-year and core funding to provide stability.
Prioritize Global South and East organizations, where funding needs are highest.
Ensure responsive funding that addresses healthcare, employment, and movement-building as identified by trans activists.
Join efforts to mobilize, activate, and defend global trans funding.

Report Launch Webinar

Global Philanthropy Project (GPP) is hosting a launch webinar in December to present key findings and recommendations. Join to learn how these reports, used since 2013 to improve trans and intersex funding, can now help advocate for greater support and be shared throughout the coming year.

Date: December 11, 2024
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. EDT (GMT-04:00).

Join the Launch Webinar

This webinar is open to all. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided in English, Spanish, and French (with additional languages to be confirmed).

Why Support Trans Organizing?
Around the world and across time, people who defied gender norms have held diverse roles, from healers to outcasts, warriors to divine figures. With colonization, these identities were suppressed, deemed sinful, criminal, or disordered, forcing trans and gender-diverse people to navigate severe medical, legal, and social repression. Even in places where minimal recognition was granted, it often came with harsh conditions, leaving many in poverty and facing violence and stigma.

Over the past 80 years, trans activists have organized locally and globally, challenging injustice and securing rights such as legal gender recognition, gender-affirming healthcare, and research into trans issues. Despite these gains, today’s movement faces threats from social exclusion, war, climate change, and anti-trans campaigns. Supporting trans organizing is crucial to sustaining progress and advancing trans justice.

Consultancy Opportunity

The International Trans Fund (ITF) is looking for a consultant who can support us in the development of dynamic and engaging written content for our new website. We are looking for an individual who is familiar with trans movements, likes to tell the stories of activism and organizations, and who writes in a clear, compelling, and accessible way.

Background

The International Trans Fund (ITF) is in the process of redesigning its website to better reflect our mission, vision, and current activities. We are seeking a consultant to create high-quality written content for our new website. As part of this initiative, we aim to replace outdated text with fresh, engaging, and accurate content.

Objective

The objective of this consultancy is to develop clear, concise, and compelling content for the ITF website. This content should effectively communicate our mission, vision, programs, and impact to a diverse audience, including potential donors, grantee partners, and trans movements. We want you to help tell the stories of the ITF and our grantee partners.

Scope of Work

The Consultant will be responsible for:

Content Audit and Analysis:
- Review existing website content and identify areas that need updating, removal, or enhancement.
Content Development:
- Create new text content in English for the website, including but not limited to:
  - Home page
  - About Us
  - Programs and Initiatives (e.g. Grantmaking)
  - News and Updates
  - Grantee partner profiles
  - Leadership profiles
- Ensure all content is aligned with ITF’s brand voice and messaging guidelines.
- Develop content that is SEO-friendly to improve website visibility and searchability.
Collaboration and Review:
- Work closely with ITF’s communications and web development teams to ensure content meets organizational needs and website functionality.
- Revise and refine content based on feedback from ITF staff and stakeholders.
- Ensure all content is culturally sensitive and inclusive, reflecting the diversity of the trans community.

Deliverables

New and revised website text content. For example this will include:
- Writing new content for the ITF (e.g. Our origin story, glossary, etc.)
- Reviewing, revising and editing old content.
- Collecting and developing 150-200 grantee partner profiles (100 words each)
- Collecting and creating 80 leadership profiles (50 words each)
SEO keywords and meta descriptions for each web page.
A final report summarizing the work completed, including any recommendations for future content updates.

Duration and Timeline

The consultancy is expected to last for 4 months, starting from November 2024. We anticipate this will take between 20-30 days. A detailed work plan with specific milestones and deadlines will be developed in collaboration with the selected Consultant.

Remuneration

The total amount available for this contract is $10,000 USD.

Qualifications and Experience

Proven experience in creating website content, preferably for non-profit organizations.
Strong understanding of SEO principles and best practices.
Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
Ability to produce culturally sensitive and inclusive content.
Familiarity with the issues and challenges faced by the trans community.
Fluency in English is required (written and spoken), fluency in Spanish is desirable.
Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following documents:

A cover letter detailing relevant experience and approach to the assignment.
A curriculum vitae (CV).
Two samples of previous work that demonstrate clear, compelling and accessible writing.
Contact information for two professional references.

Please send your application to [email protected] by November 11, 2024.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Relevant experience and qualifications.
Quality of previous work samples.
References and recommendations.

Contact Information

For any inquiries regarding this TOR, please contact: [email protected]

We look forward to receiving your applications and working with a skilled Consultant to enhance our website and better serve our community.

News

Grants Manager (Full-Time & Remote) Salary: USD$70,000

Eliminating Violence Against Trans People

Grants Manager (Full-Time & Remote)
Salary: USD$70,000