Development Director

Blavity.org is a non-profit organization committed to creating opportunities for Black entrepreneurs, innovators, and communities. We focus on workforce development, economic empowerment, and supporting diverse small business owners and venture ecosystems. As we scale our efforts, we are seeking a Development Director to lead our fundraising and grant-writing initiatives for a 6-month contract period. This role will be pivotal in identifying and securing funding to drive our workforce development programs and partnerships with emerging fund managers and diverse founders.

Job Summary:

Blavity.org is looking for a Development Director to develop and execute on a strategic fundraising plan focused on workforce development initiatives. This role will focus on securing grants and building relationships with funders, foundations, and corporate sponsors that align with Blavity.org’s mission. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in fundraising for workforce development, economic development, or startup ecosystems and experience managing the full grant lifecycle from identification to reporting.

This is a contract position for 6 months, with the potential for extension based on performance and funding. Contractors will be responsible for providing their own equipment, including but not limited to laptop computers, cell phones, or any other electronic equipment required to perform their role.

Responsibilities:

• Fundraising Strategy: Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure funding for workforce development initiatives with a focus on grant writing, corporate sponsorships, and strategic partnerships
• Grant Writing and Management: Identify, research, and apply for grants from private foundations, government agencies, and other funding sources; Prepare high-quality proposals, ensuring alignment with funder priorities and Blavity.org's mission
• Pipeline Development: Build and manage a pipeline of potential funders, particularly those with a focus on workforce development, venture ecosystems, and economic empowerment of diverse founders
• Reporting and Compliance: Ensure all grant applications and reports are submitted in a timely manner and comply with funder requirements; Track grant activities and manage funding reports to key stakeholders
• Collaboration: Work closely with Blavity Inc to align funding opportunities with workforce development programs, emerging fund manager initiatives, and other Blavity.org priorities

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Required Experience: 
  • Proven experience in fundraising, grant writing, or development, ideally with a focus on workforce development, economic empowerment, or startup ecosystems.
  • Demonstrated ability to secure significant funding from foundations, government grants, and corporate sponsors.
  • Familiarity with the philanthropic landscape for workforce development and economic development initiatives.
• Technologies: 
  • Fluent in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Asana, and/or comparable project management suite
  • Experience with donor management systems and grant reporting tools.
• Additional Qualifications:
  • Excellent writing, communication, and organizational skills
  • Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Independent, entrepreneurial self-starter who is comfortable taking on a high level of responsibility
  • High-energy, company-first, positive attitude; must be motivated to work hard in a fast-paced environment
  • A healthy appreciation of GIFs and Black culture

Details: 

• This is a fully remote, U.S.- based role. Occasional travel may be required. 
• Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S.
• Candidates must be available to work in alignment with the Pacific Time Zone. 
• Compensation for this role is commensurate with experience. 

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter online at BlavityInc.com/Careers.

Blavity is committed to creating a diverse environment free of discrimination and harassment, and building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.  

Blavity is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, HIV Status, veteran status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.

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The Development Director is responsible for leading strategic development efforts for Blavity.org's workforce initiatives, securing grants and fostering key partnerships.