Funding Strategist (Volunteer-to-Contract)

We are a Houston-based nonprofit focused on expanding economic mobility for justice-involved and low-income adults through career-aligned training and wraparound services.

Following strong results from our pilot training arm in 2024 (300+ completions, 85% placement), we’re now scaling a tech-enabled workforce model to meet urgent gaps in CDL access, support logistics, and funder accountability.

We are seeking a Funding Strategist to help shape and grow our philanthropic capital strategy — with a particular focus on donor-advised funds (DAFs), bank CRA deposits, ESG-aligned donors, and strategic partners who value transparency and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Co-develop a funding strategy that aligns with our mission, metrics, and market conditions
• Research and build a target list of aligned funders (DAFs, banks, ESG donors, etc.)
• Support strategic grant sequencing and cultivation planning
• Help craft a funder engagement playbook and pipeline
• Advise on storytelling, compliance risks, and partnership positioning
• Guide infrastructure setup to support funder reporting and transparency

Ideal Profile

• 5+ years experience in nonprofit fundraising strategy, philanthropic advising, or grantmaking
• Strong understanding of DAFs, CRA-aligned banking, and funder risk tolerance
• Proven ability to build high-quality prospect pipelines
• Excellent writing and framing skills
• Comfortable advising early-stage organizations or startups

Role Structure

• This is a volunteer-to-contract position
• Paid contract begins once funding is secured and deployed
• Option to stay on as advisor or transition into permanent role based on fit

To Apply

Please share a brief statement of interest and your resume. We will follow up with qualified applicants for next steps.