Foundation Partnerships Manager

Acton Institute; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Acton Institute in Grand Rapids, MI seeks a Foundation Relations Specialist to manage foundation fundraising, write proposals, and coordinate reports for grants. You will cultivate relationships with philanthropic foundations, track deadlines in the CRM, prepare compelling materials, and collaborate with leadership to secure funding for the Institute’s programs.

This full‑time, exempt role requires three to five years of fundraising experience and a proven ability to communicate Acton’s mission

Qualifications

• BA/BS and three to five years’ fundraising experience.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to articulate Acton’s mission and fundraising goals.
• Proficiency with AI tools such as Claude and ChatGPT.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of active foundation donors, tracking deadlines and fulfilling proposals and reports.
• Research, track, and cultivate prospects across the giving cycle with leadership.
• Collaborate with executives to identify, qualify, and steward foundation gifts.
• Write foundation proposals and prepare progress reports and outcomes.
• Manage grant timelines and ensure timely submissions; track outcomes in CRM.

Skills

Fundraising

Relationship management

Grant writing

Excellent writer

AI tools

Communication skills

Education

BA/BS

Tools

Salesforce

Wealth Engine

Foundation Search

CRM

Job description

Acton Institute in Grand Rapids, MI seeks a Foundation Relations Specialist to manage foundation fundraising, write proposals, and coordinate reports for grants. You will cultivate relationships with philanthropic foundations, track deadlines in the CRM, prepare compelling materials, and collaborate with leadership to secure funding for the Institute’s programs.

This full‑time, exempt role requires three to five years of fundraising experience and a proven ability to communicate Acton’s mission