Grant Writer at African Entrepreneur Collective (AEC)

Responsibilities

• Serve as part of the development team to design and drive AEC’s fundraising plans and strategies.
• Identify, research, and fully analyze funding opportunities from government, institutions, corporate, and foundation sources that match AEC’s strategic priorities.
• Lead writer on data-informed, well-tailored and timely concept notes, letters of interest, and grant proposals, including budgets and all supporting documents in response to solicitations consistent with AEC’s policies and procedures as well as the requirements and guidelines of the potential funding entity.
• Remain up-to-date on current issues relative to grant proposals and liaise with the supervisor accordingly.
• Coordinate and follow-up on the progress of submitted proposals.
• Lead on kick-off meetings to disseminate details for awarded grants, engaging all relevant stakeholders.
• Lead on grant reports, coordinating budgets, program details and  impact data.
• Develop and maintain a grants calendar as well as a master file on pending grants and contracts.
• Participate in grant information meetings and build relationships with prospective funders. 

Minimum Qualifications

AEC has found that the happiest and most effective colleagues are proactive, resourceful, self-motivated go-getters with a can-do attitude, who support their teammates with sincerity. They are strategic, but also willing to roll up their sleeves. They give and receive feedback freely. Successful candidates will also demonstrate:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication, Marketing, Journalism, English Literature, Business, or other comparable degree.
• 3+ years of experience as a successful Grant Writer, with a development/livelihood focus, for a diverse range of donors (foundations, governments, UN, development institutions, corporates, etc.).
• A proven record of securing larger and multi-year/country grants with certifiable references is preferred.
• Highly collaborative style, extensive knowledge of fundraising strategies and principles.
• Knowledge of grant application process, scoring criteria and funding cycles.
• Highly organized with the ability to implement systems and follow-up processes.
• Skillful interpersonal and communication abilities are essential, both written and verbal, for diverse audiences, including writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
• Top notch work ethic, with confidence, initiative, and ability to rapidly adapt to changing situations and creative approach to problem-solving and industry trends.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work collaboratively and independently with purpose and accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent computer skills (Microsoft Office Word, Access, PowerPoint and Excel), and donor database management skills.
• Sincere commitment to work collaboratively with all groups, including staff, board members, volunteers, donors, program participants, and other stakeholders; with high level of integrity and confidentiality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software such MailChimp, Canva, Square, and other tech-enabled communications would be an added advantage.

What You'll Get

• Fun, collaborative work environment
• Opportunity to work with a talented, passionate, and committed team of professionals
• Challenging work and the opportunity to grow and develop your skills
• Ability to make a significant social impact and contribute to economic growth 
• Competitive benefits package - health insurance, staff savings program, parental leave, sabbatical program, and more.

COMPENSATION

Compensation includes salary and potential KPI-based bonus, healthcare, retirement benefits, flexible annual leave, possible travel in East Africa, professional development opportunities, and the chance to connect with colleagues across East Africa in a supportive and inclusive environment. In addition, this role is a tremendous opportunity to work in a high-growth, mission-driven organization.

Closing on: Mar 20, 2022