Overview
Manager of Development and Grants Jobs in Chicago, IL at NAMI Illinois
Title: Manager of Development and Grants
Company: NAMI Illinois
Location: Chicago, IL
Position Overview
The Manager of Development and Grants is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive strategies for fund development, grant writing, and public awareness. This individual will work closely with the Executive Director and Executive Team to drive fundraising efforts, build strategic partnerships, and ensure alignment between grant development and organizational priorities. The role will also oversee the management of existing grants, sponsorships, and donor relationships, ensuring compliance and optimizing fundraising initiatives.
This position requires a strong background in nonprofit fundraising, communications, and grants management, along with familiarity with mental health issues, philanthropic communities, and media relations.
Key Responsibilities
Fund Development
Partner with the Executive Director and leadership team to plan and execute fund development strategies, including grant writing, sponsorships, events, and appeals.
Proposal & Strategy Development
Collaborate with leadership and program staff to create proposals, marketing materials, and strategy documents aligned with NAMI Illinois’s priorities to secure funding.
Collaboration & Partnerships
Shape and implement collaborative fundraising and public awareness strategies with NAMI affiliates, national partners, and other key stakeholders.
Grant Proposal Writing & Management
Identify and research grant opportunities that align with NAMI Illinois’s institutional and strategic priorities.
Write and edit compelling grant proposals, ensuring alignment with funder requirements.
Research and gather data to support proposal development.
Monitor and manage active grant awards, ensuring compliance with objectives and funding parameters.
Coordinate the preparation of quarterly and annual reports with NAMI Illinois staff.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Utilize AI tools and technologies to streamline the grant writing process and enhance the quality of proposals, research, and data analysis.
Stay informed about emerging AI-driven technologies in grant writing and apply them to improve proposal efficiency and effectiveness.
Collaborate with internal teams to integrate AI into data management, content creation, and donor engagement.
Collaboration & Reporting
Work closely with staff and community stakeholders throughout the grant development process to ensure timely submission of proposals.
Support the administration of grants by preparing internal reports and maintaining accurate records of awarded grants.
Required Qualifications
Education
A bachelor’s degree in a writing-intensive field with coursework in funds development, grants, journalism, communications, marketing, research, or a related field is highly preferred.
Experience
Understanding of our nonprofit’s organizational structure including our mission, vision, and programs.
Proven leadership experience in project management, strategic planning, and funds development.
A proven track record of grant writing and grant process management
Skills & Expertise
Exceptional interpersonal, relationship-building, written, and verbal communication skills with diverse stakeholders.
Strong persuasive writing skills and a deep understanding of English grammar, vocabulary, and spelling.
Ability to research, analyze, and interpret complex grant opportunities.
Experience in writing, editing, and proofreading grant proposals and reports.
Proficiency in managing and reporting on active grants.
Proficiency in MS Office Suite, grant application portals, AI tools, and other related technologies.
