Grants Manager

RAFT is looking for a strategic and hands-on Grants Manager who can both think big and execute with precision. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys building a grants strategy while also rolling up their sleeves to write, submit, and manage proposals from start to finish. 

As a key member of the Development team, you will drive the grant strategy while also supporting the Development team in donor communication and campaigns. This is a highly collaborative role where you’ll partner closely with our Development Director and work across Development, Education, and Finance. From identifying opportunities to submitting proposals and managing reporting, you’ll be involved in every step of the grant lifecycle.

We’re looking for someone who is curious, organized, and proactive, someone who can connect the dots between funding, programs, and impact, and who is motivated by the opportunity to support hands-on STEAM education.

Sample of What You’ll Do

Grants Strategy & Pipeline

• Identify, research, and pursue new grant opportunities across foundation, corporate, and government sources
• Maintain and grow existing grant funding
• Develop and execute a multi-year strategy to diversify revenue

Grant Writing & Submission

• Write and submit compelling grant proposals, including narratives, budgets, and supporting materials
• Partner with program, finance, and leadership teams to develop strong, aligned proposals

Reporting & Compliance

• Lead all grant reporting, including narrative and financial reports
• Track deadlines and ensure timely, accurate submissions
• Monitor compliance with grant requirements and agreements

Funder Relationships

• Build and maintain relationships with funders
• Support communication and engagement with funding partners

Data, Tracking & Insights

• Maintain accurate records of grant activity, including proposal and reporting calendars
• Analyze funding trends and identify new opportunities
• Work with program teams to gather data and impact stories

Cross-Team Collaboration

• Prepare updates and presentations for leadership on grant progress and opportunities
• Partner with Development, Education, and Finance teams on budgets and reporting
• Support broader Development efforts, including donor communications when needed

What We're Looking For

• 3+ years of grant writing experience
• Strong writing skills, you can clearly communicate impact and tell compelling stories
• Highly organized with strong project management skills
• Able to manage multiple deadlines without losing attention to detail
• Strong relationship-building and collaboration skills
• Strategic thinker who can also execute day-to-day work
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

What Makes You a Great Fit

• You are both strategic and hands-on
• You take initiative and move work forward without waiting for direction
• You are curious and always looking for new opportunities
• You are comfortable working across teams and connecting information
• You care about results and impact, not just completing tasks

Why Join us

• Competitive pay, health benefits, and 403(b) retirement match
• Bonus opportunities + generous time off (vacation, sick, holidays, shutdown)
• Mission-driven work that supports educators and students
• Collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Opportunity to build and shape RAFT’s grants function
  
• Hybrid schedule (minimum 2 days onsite, must be locally based)

RAFT (Resource Area for Teaching) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring joy through hands-on learning. We design, produce, and deliver affordable STEAM activities that promote creative and experiential learning for students and educators. Visit us at www.RAFT.net to learn more about us

RAFT is an equal opportunity employer.