Position: Associate Director of Foundation Relations

Location: Remote

Compensation: $65,000-$85,000 depending on experience

Classification: Full-time, exempt

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits plan including medical, dental/vision, vacation and sick hours, 403b plan, and phone stipend

About Indigenized Energy:

Indigenized Energy, fiscally sponsored by Mission Edge San Diego, is a pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to empowering tribal communities through sustainable and renewable energy initiatives. Our work, rooted in the principles of energy sovereignty and environmental stewardship, has been recognized and supported by prominent foundations such as the MacArthur Foundation, Energy Foundation, and Builders Initiative.

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Associate Director of Foundation Relations to join our dynamic team. This key role involves prospecting new funding opportunities, managing ongoing relationships with large foundations, preparing compelling proposals, and ensuring effective communication and reporting to our leadership team. As a young organization, there is also excellent opportunity for growth and promotion in this position.

Key Responsibilities:

Prospecting: Systematically identify and research potential foundation partners whose funding priorities align with Indigenized Energy's mission.

Relationship Management: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective foundation partners.

Proposal Development: Lead the preparation of impactful and persuasive funding proposals, ensuring alignment with both Indigenized Energy's objectives and the foundations’ goals.

Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for foundation partners, managing all aspects of communications, including queries, updates, and reporting.

Reporting to Leadership: Provide regular updates to the leadership team on the status of funding activities, challenges, and opportunities.

Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the leadership team to develop strategies that enhance funding opportunities and align with organizational goals.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in foundation relations, preferably with a focus on securing funds for native-led organizations.

• Demonstrated success in securing significant grants from major foundations.

• Understanding of sustainability-focused initiatives such as renewable energy, equity, and green job workforce development, particularly in the context of tribal communities.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proven ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with foundation representatives.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; a Master's degree is a plus.

What We Offer:

• A chance to be part of a passionate team committed to making a real difference in tribal communities.

• Opportunities to work with high caliber funders like the MacArthur Foundation

• An opportunity to benefit from the value-driven approach of our native-led organization

• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

• A nurturing, supportive and collaborative work environment.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume detailing their experience and qualifications for this role. Please include examples of successful grant applications and foundation partnerships and highlight any experience securing funds for native causes.

Mission Edge San Diego, the fiscal sponsor of Indigenized Energy, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, age, medical condition, sexual orientation, marital status, citizenship, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, military status, caregiver status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.