Development and Fundraising Contractor Position

The Chicago Council on Science and Technology (C2ST) is a 17-year-old not-for-profit organization whose mission is to inspire and engage all segments of our society about science and technology and their impact. Our vision is to promote scientific literacy, connect science to policy, and support STEMM career advancement at all stages. Each year we host over 30 free programs on all things science and technology where anyone can come and learn about recent advances, research-supported information, and exciting frontiers.

Many of our programs are recorded and/or live streamed, allowing greater access to the resources we offer. Although we are based in the Chicagoland area, we have viewers from all over the world tuning in to our programs. We believe that “Science is for everyone!” and strive to achieve that vision.

We are looking for a part time development consultant to help grow and diversify our fundraising, building on the efforts of our excellent outgoing development consultant. C2ST has come a long way in the last 17 years, it is now time to build on that, add to our team, and explore new avenues for funding.

Position Description

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Development Contractor will be responsible for working with the rest of the team to energize our fundraising efforts and integrate innovative ideas to strengthen relationships with stakeholders and increase and diversify our revenue streams.

Responsibilities

• Nurture donor-centric relationships through consistent, year-round contact and communication
• Develop and implement CRM strategies to maximize donor retention
• Project manage the preparation and writing of renewal grant applications, and research new grant opportunities
• Develop and implement effective donor recognition events, where appropriate
• Help plan and organize C2ST’s annual (May) ‘Science in the City’ gala
• Draft copy for fundraising initiatives, including social media posts, emails, and personal letters
• Plan out promotion efforts for fundraising events and initiatives
• Ensure donor and prospect records and current files are up to date and viable
• Develop and provide key donor analytics to maximize donor retention

Requirements

• Considerable experience with grant writing, including with corporate foundations, family foundations, and government grants
• Experience with NSF and federal funding is highly desirable
• Requires a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 5 years of related experience
• Demonstrate excellent oral, written and technical communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Google Drive application skills
• Willingness to learn new software, including the Aplos database system, and our project planning software, Asana
• Enthusiasm for science outreach and our mission
• Knowledge of nonprofit fundraising best practices

Job Type: Consultant

Pay: $45/hour, 20 - 30 hours per month

Work location: Remote-first