Grant and Fund Manager

EarlystART (Formerly known as United Inner City Services) is a leader in early childhood education and family development, through its operation of three Kansas City-area.
 

The Grant Manager provides leadership in implementing the Development team’s grantsmanship and donor management functions, specifically writing and coordinating submissions (grants/reporting) for foundations, government grants, and select corporate grant opportunities.  Also works closely with the Development and Engagement Team to provide an annual calendar of grant solicitations and reporting.  Programmatic guidance and direction will also be provided to this role in coordination with the Director of Development.  The position will also work as an EarlystART ambassador at mission-focused organizational and partner events.
 

Essential Responsibilities and Duties

Responsible for managing the EarlystART grant program to include (but not limited to):

• Serves as the leader in researching, coordinating, and preparing a variety of grant solicitations 

• Develops and manages an annual grant calendar, including proposal and reporting due dates and areas of funder focus.

• Develop a strong and fluid relationship with Education team leadership in supporting the programs that the grant process represents. 

• Conducts regular prospect research to maintain and expand the agency’s grant portfolio, to include local, state, federal, foundation, and other funding resources to address areas of need.

• Coordinate and submit proposals, applications, and reports on a timely basis.  

• Review potential foundation and governmental funding opportunities with internal management staff, specifically new pursuits and expansions of existing relationships.

• Track and prepare funder reports prior to deadline, with input from the management team.

• Support donor data management by using Bloomerang donor management software for proofing and content updates, relevant to funding partners and prospects. 

• Create accurate reports for fundraising and donor analysis, in cooperation with the Director of Finance.

• Participate in cultivation discussions with outside partners as requested, including campus tours. 

• Prepare annual plan-of-action for review with supervisor that supports the larger Development plan.

• Analyze raw data, draw conclusions and develop actionable recommendations for enhancing the development process.

• Serve as Development team lead for annual audit data and information.  

• Programmatic reporting relationship will be maintained with the Director of Development for grant/report review, annual Development plan creation, and prospect research. 

• Other Development departmental duties, as assigned, including Development event assistance and proofing of storytelling content, annual gratitude reports, and outreach materials.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required (English, Communications, or Non-Profit Management) with 3 – 5 years of experience; comparable years of experience will be considered.

• Understanding of the role of grant writing, development, and research within fundraising, in providing program support, growth and advocacy.

• Ability to meet deadlines and displayed project management proficiency. 

• Ability to exercise initiative, work independently, and collaborate with others.

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

• High level of interpersonal communication and writing skills are preferred, including the ability to draft cover letters, prepare applications, and interact with funders, donors, and others as needed.

• Ability to analyze relevant internal and external data for inclusion in proposals and reports.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse groups in a culturally competent manner.

• Ability to articulate the vision, goals, and activities of the organization to inspire external engagement. 

• Proficient with modern, relevant software programs, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Keynote.  Experience with Bloomerang or another similar donor management software is preferred.

• Available to work some evenings and weekends when required, primarily to support EarlystART fundraising and community events.