Philanthropy Grant Writer

Doctors Without Borders; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 77,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Doctors Without Borders Canada is looking for a Philanthropy Grant Writer to create compelling grant applications that secure funding. This role requires strong writing skills, an understanding of fundraising practices, and ability to work collaboratively across departments. The ideal candidate has 3-5 years of relevant experience and will play a crucial role in increasing donor engagement and contributions.

Benefits

Starting 4 weeks' vacation per year

Access to Employee and Family Assistance Program

Flexible work hours and hybrid model

5% RRSP contributions

Health Spending Account

Group insurance benefits

Qualifications

• 3-5 years experience in writing, grant writing, or journalism.
• Strong understanding of philanthropic fundraising practices.
• Ability to translate complex information into compelling narratives.

Responsibilities

• Produce high-value grant applications that inspire donor investment.
• Collaborate with teams to enhance fundraising opportunities.
• Ensure all materials meet Canadian regulatory requirements.

Skills

Writing

Editing

Storytelling

Collaboration

Proficiency in MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Media, or International Development

Tools

Asana

Content management systems

Job description

Applications will be accepted until 9 : 00am EDT on Monday, 26 May 2025

Salary Grade : Level 15 - $77,744 in starting year

At the core of Doctors Without Borders / Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Canada's identity is a commitment to medical ethics, independence, neutrality, and impartiality. We go where people's medical needs are greatest. These ideals have driven every aspect of our work - from medical care and logistical coordination, to finance and communications - since MSF was established in 1971.

The Philanthropy Grant Writer is responsible for producing high-value philanthropic communications that drive fundraising results for legacy, major gifts, corporate and foundations. Coordinating with operational centers and Canadian office stakeholders to gather information and produce persuasive grant applications, proposals, and reports that attract major and multi-year gift commitments. You will collaborate closely with Fundraising, Humanitarian Affairs, Communications, and Finance teams to ensure all written materials meet Canadian regulatory requirements and MSF's internal operational and reporting standards.

MSF Canada is looking for someone who will be responsible for the following :

• Deliver compelling, donor-centered philanthropic materials that consistently inspire investment and deepen donor engagement. Written communications lead to increased donor interest, larger gift commitments, and positive feedback from both internal teams and external funders.
• Translate complex operational information into persuasive narratives that clearly articulate the case for support. Proposals and reports are clear, strategic, EDI compliant and emotionally resonant, helping donors easily understand the impact of their contributions and encouraging continued or increased giving.
• Produce high-quality grant applications, proposals, and reports that meet deadlines and exceed funder expectations. All submissions are delivered on time, with minimal revisions, resulting in a high rate of successful funding outcomes and renewal opportunities.
• Proactively collaborate with internal stakeholders to surface strong programmatic content and shape fundraising opportunities. Build strong relationships with Donor Engagement Officers, Content Writers, and Communications leads to produce materials that reflect a cohesive organizational voice and vision.
• Continuously strengthen the quality and strategic alignment of philanthropic communications to maximize fundraising outcomes. Written products evolve to become increasingly donor-centered, data-informed, and aligned with organizational fundraising strategies, contributing to year-over-year revenue growth.
• Work closely with the Grant Manager in Humanitarian Affairs to review public institutional proposals, review reports, and work together to oversee the designated and restricted funding processes.

The successful candidate will bring MSF Canada :

• Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Media, or International Development, or equivalent combination of training and experience
• Demonstrated professional experience (3-5 years) writing, grant writing, journalism, or a related field, successfully partnering with gift officers to secure significant funding from diverse private donors and public funding
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to tailor content for high-value donors while maintaining operational accuracy
• Strong understanding of philanthropic fundraising practices, restricted funding mechanisms, and donor stewardship principles
• Knowledge of compliance issues related to Canadian charitable giving and ability to apply internal organizational policies and procedures
• Ability to translate complex operational, financial, and medical information into accessible and compelling narratives
• Highly organized, deadline-driven, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative spirit and excellent interpersonal skills; comfortable working across departments and with international colleagues
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Asana, and content management systems
• Fluency in English
• Proficiency in French is an asset

A detailed job description is available HERE.

MSF Canada will provide :

• Starting 4 weeks' of vacation per year
• Access to an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
• Flexible work hours and a hybrid working model (minimum 40% in office)
• An accessible open concept, shared office space with bookable workstations (consisting of sit / stand desks, swivel chair, laptop with dock and double monitors) and various sized meeting rooms
• A commitment to incorporating equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything
• 5% RRSP contributions (no employee matching required)
• Health Spending Account
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• Group insurance (Life, Dependent Life, AD&D)
• Peace of Mind plan (prescription drugs, accidental dental, hospital care, etc.)
• A positive and innovative office culture is based on core values of humanity, integrity and results

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in Canada; MSF Canada is not able to support or relocate candidates from outside Canada.

NOTE : Any questions or concerns regarding accommodation and accessibility may be addressed to [emailprotected] .