The Silicon Valley Urban Debate League (SVUDL) seeks a contract Grant Writer to supplement the organization’s fundraising efforts. The Grant Writer will conduct the full range of activities required to prepare, submit, and manage grant proposals and reports to foundation, corporate, and government funders. In addition, this position will identify, research, and develop new funding sources to support existing and planned program activities. The Grant Writer reports to Chief Executive Officer and works collaboratively with the Program staff.
About Silicon Valley Urban Debate League
SVUDL (San Valley Urban Debate League) was founded in June 2014 by local educators and community leaders to provide low-income youth with opportunities in debate, helping them develop their voices and academic skills. Initially operating under the National Association for Urban Debate Leagues, SVUDL quickly identified a strong demand for debate programs in high-poverty schools. Since its inception, it has grown significantly, launching multiple pilot programs and currently serving 19 schools. By Fall 2023, SVUDL will impact over 2,000 students through its Speech and Debate programming, having achieved independent nonprofit status in 2015.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree with strong academic record, or equivalent experience.
A minimum of 5 years of successful grant writing experience, preferably with a proven record of raising five- and six-figure gifts.
Knowledge of and experience with Silicon Valley philanthropy and the foundation community, preferably with educational funders.
Strong written communication skills, including the ability to write clear, structured, articulate, and persuasive proposals.
Motivated self-starter with the ability to work collaboratively and independently with purpose and accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
Experience in planning, managing, and prioritizing multiple assignments.
Fluency in computer skills, including Word, Excel, databases, and internet-based programs.
Experience maintaining donor information in a CRM (ex. Salesforce).
Interest in educating and improving the lives of youth from low-income backgrounds through Speech & Debate.
Responsibilities
Identify and research foundation, corporate, and government funding prospects that match SVUDL programmatic priorities. Recommend strategies for contact and draft correspondence as needed.
Generate high-quality and well written letters of inquiry, proposals, narratives, applications, and supporting documents in response to funding guidelines.
Maintain documentation on Egnyte and track grants in Salesforce.
Comply with all grant reporting as required by foundation/corporate donors.
Communicate with the Chief Executive Officer on the progress of all grants and issues that may arise with each grant.
Maintain confidentiality of information regarding students, staff, and funders.
Study and understand the history, structure, objectives, programs, and financial needs of SVUDL.
COmpensation and Benefits
This is a contract position for 10 hours/week at an hourly rate of $80-$100 depending on experience.
To Apply
Applying for the position: Please send a resume, cover letter, and recent writing sample to: jobs@svudl.org with “SVUDL Grant Writer” in the email subject line. In your cover letter, please share why you are 2 interested in the position, and why you believe your experiences and skills are a good fit for the position. If you have questions that would affect your interest in applying, you can email jobs@svudl.org.
