Grant Writer
About the Organization
Manchester Community Music School serves over 1,500 individuals each year through a wide range of high quality music programs including early childhood classes, private lessons, chamber groups, the largest youth ensemble program north of Boston, summer community band, summer camps, the most comprehensive Suzuki program in the state, an extensive outreach program, and a high quality, well-established music therapy program. Our students and clients range in age from 6 months old to 80+ years young and attend the school from 60 New Hampshire communities. MCMS serves the wider Manchester area through our extensive outreach programming, working to keep music at the center for New Hampshire's education and enrichment programs for every child, youth and adult. Community partnerships are an important part of Music School programming as they enable us to bring music education opportunities and music therapy services directly to those who can benefit most, but who otherwise might not have access. Core to our mission, the Music School is committed to ensuring that anyone wishing to study music or benefit from music therapy services can regardless of their financial situation. As such, MCMS awards more than $100,000 in financial assistance each year.
About the Job
Manchester Community Music School is seeking a skilled and experienced Grant Writer to join our team on a part-time, outsourced basis. The Grant Writer will be responsible for researching, writing, and securing grants to support the school's programs, operations, and growth initiatives. This role requires a strong understanding of the nonprofit sector, excellent writing and communication skills, and a proven track record of successful grant proposals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Research and Identify Funding Opportunities:
- Conduct thorough research to identify potential grant opportunities from government agencies, foundations, corporations, and other funding sources.
- Stay up-to-date with current trends in grant funding and changes in funders’ guidelines.
- Grant Writing and Proposal Development:
- Prepare high-quality grant proposals, including narratives, budgets, and supporting documentation, in accordance with funders' requirements and deadlines.
- Collaborate with the Executive Director and program staff to gather necessary information and data for proposals.
- Ensure that all proposals are tailored to meet the specific guidelines and priorities of each funding source.
- Grant Management and Reporting:
- Assist in the management of awarded grants, including tracking deadlines, ensuring compliance with grant requirements, and preparing progress reports and final reports for funders.
- Maintain accurate records of all grant activities, proposals submitted, and outcomes.
- Collaboration and Communication:
- Work closely with the Executive Director, program staff, and other stakeholders to develop and articulate the school's funding needs and priorities.
- Communicate effectively with funders and potential funders, responding to inquiries and providing additional information as needed.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience as a grant writer with a successful track record of securing grants.
- Strong understanding of the nonprofit sector and funding landscape.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
- Proficiency in using grant management software and other relevant tools.
- Familiarity with the music education field is a plus.
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and two writing samples of successful grant proposals to Polly Towner, Executive Director, polly@mcmusicschool.org.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.