Development Steward

Title: Development Steward Aim: Reporting to and in partnership with the Artistic Executive Director (AED) and Managing Director (MD), the Development Steward is responsible for designing and implementing FY26 development strategy. This involves identifying and cultivating major gift prospects, as well as corporate and foundation donors, and planning and executing grant and donor efforts to raise funds for the organization. The Development Steward will work closely with the Artistic Executive and Managing Director to develop fundraising goals and strategies that align with the organization’s mission and values. Responsibilities Direct EP’s Development Convert EP’s strategic goals and operating plans into a Fundraising Strategy for FY26 – with clear development goals and work plans – tracking progress and collaborating with other key staff to stay on track Oversee the execution of, and regularly assess and adjust the work plan to include all sources of contributed income, inclusive of institutional and individual donors Help EP diversify its financial support from the following sources: Government, foundation & corporate grants Fellowships Awards Sponsorships In-kind donations Research and track funding prospects and pursue cultivation of prospects from among the private, corporate, and public philanthropic landscape broadly: assessing eligibility, writing and overseeing the development of high-quality grant applications, with all supporting material; and ensuring timely submission, including liaising with grant officers Oversee systems and software to track and cultivate donors and prospects, including co-developing donor database and using wealth screening tools, as well as maintaining organization of the Development Google Drive Manage development department calendar; develop quarterly schedules of proposal development, procurement, and submission; and coordinate/project manage all grant submissions one month in advance of deadlines Support monitoring of all donor relations with Managing Director Work closely with Financial steward to develop budgets and financial materials for grant submissions, and to track organizational revenue progress Cultivate and sustain relationships with a wide variety of constituencies including current and potential donors, foundations and government sources, local businesses and community partners Maintain general language guide as grant language is developed Meet weekly with Managing Director to discuss current development strategy status and review upcoming applications and outreach REQUIREMENTS AND SKILLS: Project Management Skills; managing a team, calendar and tracking deadlines Experience working directly with Directors of organizations to offer financial forecast guidance Understanding of with 501(c)(3) compliancy for grants (i.e.; bi-laws, insurance requirements, etc) 3+ years work experience as a lead Grant Writer and/or Development Manager, including working on budgets Prior experience with Local Government and City Grant Contracts Strong attention to detail and good analytical skills Time Management Skills; ensure deadlines are met in a way that does not create stressful work environment Experience working on a team and availability to attend weekly team meetings Strong organizational skills Prompt and punctual communication Ability to voice needs and participate in a high functioning working team Google Drive organization Will take initiative to institute new policies and systems where needed to streamline work and maximize efficiency Compensation and Benefits: $50-75/hour (commensurate with experience), up to 20 hours a week with potential for growth as organization meets fundraising targets. This is a part time independent contractor position. Benefits and perks include flexible hours, professional development, ability to work from home, free dance classes, and a family-friendly work environment. Start Date: September 1, 2026 Pay: $50.00 - $75.00 per hour Work Location: Remote