Grants and Scholarships Manager

OVERVIEW
The Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln strengthens central Illinois by connecting people who care with causes that matter through trusted philanthropic services and community leadership. Since 2003, the Foundation has grown from one fund with approximately $800,000 in assets to approximately 400 charitable funds totaling over $125 million. The Foundation has awarded more than $46 million in grants and scholarships, including approximately $8 million in 2025 alone.

POSITION OVERVIEW
The Grants and Scholarships Manager oversees the administration and coordination of the Foundation’s competitive grantmaking and scholarship programs. This role manages processes from application through award and reporting while ensuring alignment with donor intent, Foundation policies, and philanthropic best practices.

The position serves as a primary contact for nonprofits, scholarship applicants, donors, volunteers, educators, and community partners. Responsibilities include managing online application systems, supporting review committees, maintaining data and reporting, and contributing to community engagement and strategic initiatives.

This position reports to the Chief Program Officer.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Grant Program Administration
• Coordinate and manage competitive grant cycles from application through reporting.
• Maintain grant application and reporting platforms.
• Communicate with applicants, nonprofits, donors, and funding partners.
• Review applications for eligibility, completeness, and compliance.
• Conduct due diligence and support evaluation processes.
• Prepare materials for committees, and assist with donor meetings and Board review.
• Coordinate review meetings and help prepare award notifications and agreements.
• Monitor grant reports, payment schedules, deadlines, outcomes, and records.

Scholarship Program Administration
• Manage scholarship programs from application through award distribution and reporting.
• Maintain scholarship application systems and databases.
• Serve as primary contact for applicants, families, schools, counselors, committees, and donors.
• Coordinate scholarship review and selection processes.
• Coordinate award notifications and distributions with educational institutions.
• Monitor recipient requirements, renewals, and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with donor intent and Foundation policies.
• Support stewardship, outreach, and promotion efforts.

Data Management and Reporting
• Maintain accurate nonprofit, grantee, scholarship, and applicant records.
• Generate reports, correspondence, and program materials.
• Track grantmaking and scholarship metrics and program impact.

Community Engagement and Administrative Support
• Assist with outreach, presentations, communications, and events.
• Support donor stewardship and community engagement initiatives and events.
• Build relationships with nonprofit partners, educators, donors, volunteers, and stakeholders.
• Participate in professional development and support cross-functional initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS AND ATTRIBUTES
• Bachelor’s degree required; related field preferred.
• Minimum three years of relevant professional experience preferred.
• Demonstrated interest in philanthropy, education, nonprofit work, or community development.
• Strong project management, organizational, communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, databases, online application platforms, and virtual meeting tools.
• Experience with grants management or scholarship software preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Event planning and meeting coordination experience preferred.
• Passion for learning, listening, and serving the community.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
This full-time position includes health, dental, vision, paid time off, and retirement benefits. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume by email to Show email.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and accepted until the position is filled.

The Community Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.