SME and Grants Officer

BEST is implementing a project under a grant agreement with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Badakhshan Province. The project aims to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and provide grant assistance linked to irrigated agricultural value chains. The target sites in Baharak District are Razaq Birdi and Arghanjkhwa.

This position is responsible for managing the SME grant cycle, monitoring SME performance, and ensuring compliance with UNOPS guidelines and project objectives.

. Key Responsibilities

Grant Management Responsibilities:

• Manage the full grant cycle including solicitation, screening, evaluation, approval, and monitoring of SME and community grants.
• Conduct outreach and identify eligible agri-SMEs and agro-processing enterprises operating within or serving the target areas.
• Apply transparent, merit‑based selection methodology for SMEs (as outlined in the proposal).
• Prepare grant agreements and ensure proper documentation for all grants.

SME Support Responsibilities:

• Support local entrepreneurs and farmers to develop viable SME proposals and business plans linked to irrigated agriculture value chains.
• Provide technical guidance and training to SME beneficiaries on business management, record‑keeping, quality standards, and project compliance.
• Facilitate in‑kind grant support (equipment, tools, or services) rather than unrestricted cash.
• Promote women‑led and community‑based enterprises where possible.

Monitoring and Compliance Responsibilities:

• Conduct regular field visits to assess grant implementation, compliance, and impact.
• Monitor and document the performance and sustainability of supported SMEs (operational status, service delivery, farmer linkages).
• Ensure financial accountability, proper documentation, and timely reporting of all grants.
• Monitor that SMEs are providing services to farmers within irrigation command areas.

Coordination and Reporting Responsibilities:

• Coordinate with Project Lead, Finance Manager, and relevant stakeholders.
• Support the preparation of narrative, financial, and progress reports for donors and project management.
• Contribute to quarterly and final project reports.
• Perform any other task assigned by seniors/project management.

What this role does NOT do:

• Does not directly handle cash payments to SMEs (grants are in‑kind equipment/tools)
• Does not engage in procurement of grant equipment (UNOPS responsibility per proposal)
• Does not manage farmer training or CfW activities

4. Deliverables

• Approved SME grant proposals and related documentation
• Grant agreements and supporting documents
• Field visit reports and monitoring checklists
• Financial records and expenditure reports for all grants
• Monthly progress reports on SME and grant activities
• Contribution to quarterly project reports

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Agriculture, or relevant field.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in SME support, grant management, or development projects (experience with UN/INGO projects is an advantage).
• Knowledge of financial management, grants procedures, and reporting requirements.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Fluency in Dari and/or Pashto; basic English is an advantage.
• Computer literacy (especially MS Excel, Word, and reporting tools).
• Willingness to work full-time in field conditions.
• Local candidates from Baharak District are highly preferred.

6. Core Competencies

• Strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical financial management.
• Ability to work independently and in remote field conditions.
• Effective communication and facilitation skills.
• Strong problem-solving, reporting, and documentation skills.
• Cultural sensitivity and community engagement experience.

Salary:

Competitive and according to BEST salary scale (commensurate with experience and qualifications).

How to Apply

Interested and qualified local candidates should submit:

• Updated CV (with photo)
• Cover letter
• Copy of Tazkira (ID)
• Relevant certificates and academic documents

Email subject line: “SME and Grants Officer – Baharak District”

Send applications to: hr@best.org.af

Deadline: 15 April 2026 (COB)

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview. BEST is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from qualified local women and men from Baharak District.

Note: This position is subject to successful completion of reference checks and final approval by UNOPS.