What are the responsibilities and job description for the Grant Writer position at STEPPING STONES MUSEUM FOR CHILDREN?
Description
Position Overview:
The Grant Writer is responsible for identifying and securing grant funding to support the operations, educational programs, exhibits, and outreach initiatives. This position involves researching potential funding sources, writing compelling grant proposals, and maintaining relationships with funders. The ideal candidate will have excellent writing skills, a strong understanding of nonprofit funding needs, and a passion for supporting children’s education through creative and interactive museum experiences.
Position Responsibilities:
- Identify, research, and evaluate potential grant opportunities from government agencies, foundations, corporations, and other funding sources.
- Maintain a comprehensive database of funding opportunities and deadlines.
- Track and analyze funding trends and sector developments related to children’s education, museums, and cultural institutions.
- Write, edit, and submit grant proposals, ensuring alignment with the museum's mission, vision, and strategic goals.
- Develop detailed narratives, budgets, and supporting materials for each grant submission.
- Tailor proposals to the requirements of each funder, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and compelling storytelling.
- Ensure timely and accurate reporting to funders, fulfilling all requirements as outlined in the grant agreements.
- Maintain relationships with funders through regular communication and updates on the impact of their support.
- Prepare progress and final reports, outlining how funding has been utilized and the outcomes achieved.
- Collaborate with the museum’s leadership and program staff to identify funding needs and align proposals with ongoing and future initiatives.
- Work with the development team to strategize long-term fundraising goals and provide input on grant-related initiatives.
- Track all grant applications and outcomes, maintaining detailed records and timelines.
- Organize and archive all grant-related documents in an accessible manner.
- Assist in developing the museum’s annual grant calendar and timelines for submission.
Requirements
Minimum Experience/Skills/Certificates:
- Requires a minimum of five (5) years of experience in researching grants, writing, and management of grants for nonprofit organization(s)
- College degree and/or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Demonstrated success in securing grant funding
- Exceptional writing skills, strong communication skills
- Must have the professional acumen to work with highly confidential information
- Must be able to work independently and be a self-starter
- Must have the capacity to work productively in a highly dynamic, team-based environment and to collaborate, delegate and negotiate with tact and diplomacy
- Creative problem-solving skills; proven ability to recommend and implement process improvements and new initiatives
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Sensitive to diversity including individuals with physical challenges or special needs
- Strong Computer skills including Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Power Point, Blackbaud or other database system; proven ability to learn new systems and software. Includes familiarity with databases, email and scheduling systems, and mail/merge applications; reporting, spreadsheet and presentation applications
