Communities First, Inc. is a Michigan-based nonprofit 501c3 whose mission is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing and innovative programming. CFI is focused on providing safe, quality affordable housing, increasing economic opportunities, and improving the quality of life of the populations that the organization serves.Job Summary:The Grants Coordinator will play a critical role in securing funding for Communities First, Inc. by researching, writing, and submitting grant proposals to foundations, government agencies, and other grant-making entities. The individual will possess strong research, writing, and communication skills, as well as the ability to understand and articulate the organization's mission, programs, and impact to potential funders.Essential Functions:Identify grant opportunities that align with the organization's mission, programs, and funding needsResearch potential grant-making entities, including foundations, corporations, government agencies, and other sources of fundingPrepare and submit grant applications, ensuring compliance with grant guidelines, deadlines, and submission requirementsTrack and manage the grant applicationcontracts process, including proposal submissions, follow-up communications, and reporting requirementsCoordinate with staff to gather data, outcomes, and other information needed for grant reporting and evaluationMaintain accurate records of grant submissions, awards, and outcomesCultivate relationships with grant-making entities, development officers, and other key contacts to strengthen the organization's grant-seeking effortsCommunicate regularly with funders to provide updates on activities, outcomes, and impactParticipate in networking events, conferences, and other opportunities to build relationships and stay informed about funding trends and opportunitiesEnsure compliance with grant requirements, including reporting deadlines, financial documentation, and program outcomesPrepare and submit grant reports and updates to funders, documenting progress, achievements, and challengesCollaborate with program staff to gather information about the organization's programs, projects, and funding prioritiesWrite clear, compelling, and persuasive grant proposals that effectively communicate the organization's mission, goals, and impactTailor grant proposals to meet the specific requirements and priorities of each grant-making entityDevelop budgets, budget narratives, and other supporting documents as required for grant applicationsEducation:Bachelor's Degree is preferredRequired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Training, and Experience:Three or more years of experience in nonprofit grant writingStrong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Word) and Adobe AcrobatPossess interpersonal skills to foster working with others to elicit information, ability to think critically and creatively, and also to work independentlyPossess strong work ethic and demonstrates initiative; shows commitment and desire to work in an entrepreneurial, team-based environmentAbility to demonstrate excellent oral, written, and presentation skillsStrong writing skills, with the ability to craft clear, concise, and persuasive grant proposals and reportsExcellent research skills, with the ability to identify and analyze relevant funding opportunities and trendsKnowledge of grant-writing best practices, including proposal development, budgeting, and grant complianceFamiliarity with nonprofit fundraising strategies and techniques, including donor cultivation and stewardshipStrong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines Commitment to the mission and values of the organization, with a passion for making a positive difference in the communityEqual Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance:Communities First, Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training. To ensure equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with a disability, Communities First, Inc. will make reasonable accommodations for the known disability of an otherwise qualified individual, unless undue hardship on the operation of the organization would result. We support and promote equal employment opportunity, human dignity, and racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity by taking positive steps to eliminate barriers that may exist in hiring and in employment practices. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.This job description does not list all of the duties of the job. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned. This job description may be revised at any time. This job description is not a contract for employment and either the employee or the employer may terminate employment at any time, for any reason or no reason.
Job Title
Communities First, Inc. | Grants Coordinator