Director, Grants and Foundation Relations

NATIONAL UNDERGROUND RAILROAD FREEDOM CENTER

Reports to: Sr. Director, Grants and Foundation Relations, Cincinnati Museum Center

Department: Philanthropy

FLSA Status: FT, Exempt

Salary: $60,000.00 annually

The statements below reflect the general details considered necessary to describe the major responsibilities of the identified position and are not to be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the job. An asterisk (*) indicates that this is an essential function of the job as outlined in the American with Disabilities Act.

About The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (NURFC) illuminates the ongoing struggle for freedom by celebrating courage, cooperation, and perseverance. Through exhibitions, programs, and community engagement, the Freedom Center inspires visitors to take courageous steps for freedom today.

NURFC is a museum of conscience, an education center, a convener of dialogue, and a beacon of light for inclusive freedom around the globe.

Our physical location in downtown Cincinnati is just a few steps from the banks of the Ohio River, the great natural barrier that separated the slave states of the South from the free states of the North. Since opening in 2004, we have filled a substantial void in our nation’s cultural heritage. Rooted in the stories of the Underground Railroad, we illuminate the true meaning of inclusive freedom by presenting permanent and special exhibits that inspire, public programming that provoke dialogue and action, and educational resources that equip modern abolitionists.

Position Overview:

The Director, Grants and Foundation Relations holds responsibility for the management of grant relations activities, including solicitation, strategy development, relationship cultivation and management, and gift stewardship for The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (NURFC). The Director, Grants is responsible for the organization of the processes related to submitting grant applications and proposals; initiating and maintaining relationships with program officers and directors at private foundations, corporate foundations, corporations and state and federal government entities; and working with Finance and project directors to ensure compliance.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Responsible for conducting the full range of activities required to prepare, submit, and assist in the management of grant proposals.
• Plans, coordinates, and facilitates the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of grants for all aspects of The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (NURFC) under the leadership of the Sr. Director, Grants and Foundation Relations, Cincinnati Museum Center
• Prepares annual revenue plan and budget for grant writing activity at NURFC
• Performs prospect research on government, foundation, and corporate grant opportunities, and evaluates prospects for grants to make recommendations on overall fundability of proposal types.
• Works with staff museum-wide to match their funding needs with potential funding sources.
• Maintains current records in database and in paper files, including grant tracking and reporting.
• Produces all materials needed for grant solicitation and cultivation including informational packets, binders, letters, invitations and lists.
• Collaborates with philanthropy and development staff to create and submit persuasive proposal packages to increase fundraising success from private foundations, corporate foundations, corporations and state and federal government entities.
  
  
  

Qualifications and Experience:

• A minimum of 2-5 in a non-profit environment with a preference given to experience in grant writing and corporate/foundation relations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically to develop and implement campaign plans.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Experience with Raiser’s Edge or other prospect management tool preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree required.
  
  
  

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to take initiative, work both independently and collaboratively and think creatively to problem-solve.
• Proven effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be team-oriented, self-directed, and able to effectively manage priorities and projects.
• Possess a high level of motivation and integrity.
• Experience with Raiser’s Edge or other prospect management software preferred.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
  
  
  

Additional Information

• Full-time, on-site position located at 50 E. Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202.
• Typical schedule: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, with occasional evenings or weekends for events or deadlines.
• On-site parking provided.
  
  
  

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, we are dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community. We believe innovation and progress thrive when all voices are heard and valued. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply.

NURFC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected category.

Join Us

If you are passionate about using data and technology to drive philanthropy and support meaningful social impact, apply today at freedomcenter.org/jobs or send your résumé to HR@cincymuseum.org.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of background and reference checks.