Development and Grant Writing Coordinator - ReadyCT

Location: 350 Church Street, 10th Floor / Hartford, CT 06103 

Website: readyCT.org

Salary Range: 50,000-65,000

Who We Are:

ReadyCT is a statewide 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works to advance academic excellence and career-connected learning for all public school students in Connecticut through collaboration with business, civic, and education leaders. ReadyCT accomplishes its mission by offering dynamic career readiness programming in school buildings that, with intention, bridges the gap between public education and the employers who will, ultimately, hire their future workforce from our public schools. Businesses continue to respond well to the programming; last year, over 100 Connecticut businesses of all sizes and across all sectors worked alongside ReadyCT to inform our programming efforts.

ReadyCT also maintains a presence in legislative circles, advocating for policies that systematically improve Connecticut public education, with an emphasis on advancing access and equity. 

ReadyCT has a formal affiliation with CBIA, the CT Business & Industry Association, which is the largest, most representative business organization in the state. CBIA members include businesses of all sizes from nearly all industries across Connecticut. 

What We’re Looking For:

Reporting to the deputy director, the development and grant writing coordinator will help to drive ReadyCT’s development efforts, enhancing donor relations and securing funding through grants. The ideal candidate will have a passion for education, strong communication skills, and experience in fundraising and grant writing.

What You’ll Do. 

In partnership with the executive director and other identified team members as may be needed, activities will include: 

Donor Development and Cultivation:

• Identify, qualify, and cultivate a portfolio of prospects, inclusive of community partners.
• Develop and implement strategies to solicit major and planned gifts in support of ReadyCT’s mission.
• Work closely with organizational leaders, Board members, and program directors to align fundraising efforts with key initiatives.

Grant Writing and Management: 

• Research and identify grant opportunities that align with ReadyCT’s objectives. Write, submit, and manage grant proposals to secure funding from foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
• Track and report on grant performance and ensure compliance with grant requirements.

Alumni and Constituent Engagement:

• Support the engagement of alumni and other key constituents through events, communications, and personalized outreach.
• Plan and execute a calendar of activities that bring alumni and other supporters back to ReadyCT, including serving as advisors, guest speakers, and Board members.

Planned Giving:

• Incorporate planned giving options as appropriate and coordinate with stakeholders
• Develop and manage relationships with planned giving prospects and donors.

Advocacy and Publications:

• Assist in the development of publications and advocacy materials that support ReadyCT’s funding priorities and public image.
• Ensure alignment with ReadyCT’s branding and values in all communications.

Event Participation:

• Attend selected events to cultivate and steward major gift donors.

This job description is intended to be a comprehensive overview of the development and grant writing coordinator role. All ReadyCT team members are charged with other duties as may be required. 

Desired Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in development, grant writing, and fundraising, preferably within the education sector or a non-profit organization.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for education and commitment to ReadyCT’s mission.
• Knowledge of the Connecticut education system and key stakeholders is a plus.
• Ability to travel locally and occasionally for multi-day trips.

What’s next:

The ReadyCT interview process consists of four steps, with candidates advancing through each stage:

• Apply: Submit your application to be considered for the position.
• SparkHire Invitation: Selected candidates will be invited to complete a video interview via SparkHire.
• Performance Task Invitation: Successful candidates from the SparkHire interview will be invited to complete a performance task aligned to the position.
• Onsite Interview Invitation: Final candidates will be invited for an onsite interview.

Summary of Benefits:

Full time employees are eligible for the following benefits

• Healthcare, dental, and vision plans
• Robust paid holiday schedule
• Generous paid time off
• Retirement plans
• Short term disability 
• Long term disability 
• Group Life insurance 

In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, ReadyCT offers a competitive salary, opportunities for professional development and growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the education sector.

ReadyCT is an equal opportunity employer. 

Requirements: