Grant Prospect Researcher & Writer

Inside Philanthropy is a mission-driven digital company that helps nonprofit professionals pull back the curtain on the world of philanthropy. We believe that philanthropy should operate in ways that are accountable and transparent, and maximize its contribution to the common good. We also believe that the sector’s resources should be accessible to all, not just those with the right connections, and that funders should share more decision-making with the communities they serve. 

We’re seeking a researcher with strong writing and editing experience for a part-time position, with the possibility of an eventual full-time role. 

About us:

Since 2014, members have used IP to get the inside scoop on major foundations and the latest in philanthropy news. We are mainly supported by our subscribers, with additional revenue from advertising, sponsored content, and consulting to grant-seeking nonprofits. We have never accepted money from investors or other foundations, except for standard subscription fees. Completely remote, IP has team members in five states. We come from a variety of specialties with a passion for philanthropy. 

We go far beyond 990 tax filings where other grant management tools do not in order to provide clarity about how funders make grants and how to get your foot through the funding door. 

IP works along several tracks. We have reporters and editors who produce new articles daily. We also have researchers who work on Grant Finder, which helps grant seekers identify and understand key funders across dozens of issue areas and all 50 states. In addition, we have writers who create and update materials for our Learn section, including our State of American Philanthropy series of landscape studies, dozens of Explainers, and short briefs to guide donors. Finally, we’ve recently added a consulting arm to help nonprofits with fundraising, primarily prospect research. 

About the role:

As a Researcher at Inside Philanthropy, you will work closely with the Director of Research & Content Strategy and be part of a nimble team that works closely to problem solve together.

The ideal candidate is eager to learn, passionate about helping the world, and isn’t easily discouraged by the challenges of tracking down hard-to-find information. You are fluent in internet searches and comfortable with AI research tools. You are up for accelerating Grant Finder’s quality in this next phase of Inside Philanthropy’s development. While this initial role is part-time, we are looking for a long-term fit. For the right fit, this role may eventually become full-time with benefits.

This is a highly flexible position with flexible hours. All applicants considered for the position will be expected to take a brief test to be completed at home that evaluates research, editing and writing skills.

Qualifications:

• Outstanding attention to detail, stylish writer, and editor who can identify what a piece needs to increase its caliber. We each write, edit, and fact check hundreds of profiles a year.
• Experience in grant prospect research, journalism, academia, archival research, library sciences, or similar. 
• Ability to collaborate well and work side by side with the Director of Research & Content strategy and Research Team to streamline and maintain the quality of our content products.
• Self-starter that thrives in a changing environment.

What we’re looking for: 

• Highly-analytical thinker with an ability to use data and different kinds of qualitative information to build out an insightful picture of philanthropic funders.  
• 20-30 hours a week to start for 3-6 months.
• You thrive in collaborative and cross-functional teams that bring different perspectives in improving your work.
• You’re editorially and technically adaptable. You can digest constructive feedback quickly to improve content.. You adapt to new technologies thrown your way to facilitate your work. 
• Ability to communicate clearly and democratically with multiple internal and external stakeholders. 

Bonus points: 

• Familiarity with the nonprofit world, key players and rising trends. 
• Experience researching 990 tax filings for deep insights on grant prospect research.
• Proficiency in Wordpress. 
• An M.A., A.B.D. or Ph.D. in your field. 
• AI-native to help facilitate examination of 990s. 

Compensation:

• $30-$48 an hour depending on experience and qualifications. Wage decisions are based on early to early mid-career market data, skillset, and equity.
• Generous PTO policy.
• Room to move into a full-time position if the right fit for this role.

Ready to apply?

Send a resume to Renata@insidephilanthropy.com, the Director of Research & Content Strategy. And answer the below questions in a cover letter or email: 

• Why do you want to apply to Inside Philanthropy? 
• What makes you a good fit for the Researcher role?