Grants Manager

Position: Grants Manager

Reports to: Director of Development

Salary: $75,000 - $85,000/year plus benefits

Status: Full-time, exempt

Location: Hybrid - 2 days/week in Portland office, remote work the rest of the week

Who We Are

We believe when every young person has access to a positive mentor, it transforms their lives for the better—empowering them with a stronger sense of belonging and the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

In 2025, Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest matched 415 youth in all types of mentoring programs. 53.4% of these youth were located in Multnomah County, while the rest came from Washington, Clackamas, Clark, and Marion County.

BBBS currently operates on a $2 million budget from a diversified revenue stream of individual, corporate and foundation donors. In addition, BBBS receives support from local government contracts and events. This mix of funds keeps us nimble and responsive.

The Position

To meet growing demand and to support fundraising efforts for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Columbia Northwest, we are searching for a Grants Manager. The Grants Manager is responsible for all BBBS grant writing, grant reporting, and grant research for private foundations as well as state and federal grants. The Grants Manager is a key component of our fundraising work, partnering with the Development Director and Program Director to strategically align program growth with funding opportunities.

Currently supporting $500,000 in grants, the Grants Manager has the opportunity to grow our grant revenue to more fully support our programs throughout the 5-county area.

Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee all grant activities including proposal development, grant writing, submission, reporting, and prospecting.
• Collaborate with Development Director and Program Director to create a multi-year grant strategy that meets funding needs of programs and general operations.
• Establish and maintain relationships with funders through regular contact, networking, and engagement.
• Identify funding opportunities that match the mission of BBBS programs. Identify new program areas to match funder priorities.
• Manage the grants calendar and reporting schedule.
• Write and submit private, family, government, and corporate foundation grants and reports.

• Prepare corporate proposals, as needed, to support partner work, events, and program implementation.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years in nonprofit grant writing.
• 3 years’ experience with federal grants and reporting.
• Understanding of fundraising systems and processes.
• Experience in a small nonprofit with cross-collaboration on fundraising.

Qualities for Success

• Knowledge and understanding of fundraising and development, including experience with databases and donor software programs, specifically Matchforce and/or Raiser’s Edge.

• A strong track record of successful grant awards and funder relationships is highly preferred.
• Proficient in standard office procedures, software, and communications technology.
• Highly organized, with the ability to multitask and switch priorities quickly and calmly.
• Ability to work autonomously, be proactive, and self-directed.
• Ability to communicate professionally and respectfully with all community members, staff, board members, partners, and funders.
• Possesses multicultural intelligence, appreciation, and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion and demonstrates an ability to work with a diverse group of co-workers and constituents.

Application Information:

Nonprofit Professionals Now is happy to be working with Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Willamette on this key fundraising position. All applications must include a resume and cover letter.

Application Deadline: October 21, 2026