Grants Manager

Little League® International is currently seeking a Grants Manager to oversee all aspects of the grant function, focusing on both securing funding for local leagues and for Little League International.

This position will play a critical role in creating and managing grant programs that help local leagues access funding and serving as a resource and guide to local league officials throughout the grant application process. Additionally, the Grants Manager will identify, write, and submit grant proposals to secure funding that directly supports Little League International’s initiatives.

The role requires a detail-oriented individual to manage the entire grant lifecycle, from program creation and proposal development to post-award reporting and compliance. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of nonprofit grant-making, both in distributing and obtaining grants, possesses excellent written and verbal communication skills, and has a proven track record in successfully managing both grant distribution and application processes.

The position will work out of the Williamsport, PA Administrative Office, reporting to the VP of Philanthropy and Social Impact.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Grant Research and Proposal Development:

• Identify and research potential grant opportunities that align with Little League’s mission and goals.
• Write, edit, and submit grant proposals and applications that support Little League International and Little League local leagues.
• Identify and source potential grants, ensuring alignment with national and community-level needs, collaborating with local league officials to maximize funding opportunities.
• Design and implement grant programs from application to approval and utilization, this includes grants being applied to, and grants Little League is administering.
• Responsible for the creation and management of a detailed grant tracking pipeline for local, state, federal, private and corporate grants, and develop strategies to optimize the grants administration process.
• Ensure all grant applications meet funder guidelines and adhere to regulations.
• Manage the ongoing creation and edits of the Little League Grants Resources page, to provide timely information on grant funding opportunities local leagues may be eligible for, as well as additional resources to assist leagues in applying for grants.

Grant Management and Compliance:

• Provide guidance and support to the team on grant management and compliance.
• Stay updated with changes in grant funding policies and procedures.
• Conduct evaluations of grant-funded programs to measure success and ensure compliance.
• Monitor paperwork and related documents for grant-funded programs.
• Maintain records of all payments and receivables and prepare monthly reports for all grant-related activities.
• Support Local League representatives (District Administrators, regional coordinators) as the complete grant reports, tied to Little League issues grant programming.

Program Evaluation and Reporting:

• Establish metrics and evaluation methods to assess the impact of social initiatives.
• Prepare regular reports on program effectiveness and progress to the Vice President of Philanthropy and Social Impact and senior leadership, including required grant reports for external funders and internal reports for organizational initiatives. As grant programs expand, work with local partners to submit grant reports, highlighting the impact of funding for sponsors and donors.

Financial Management:

• Develop and maintain a database of grant information, submissions, progress, and reporting.
• Coordinate with various departments to compile financial data and measurable outcomes.
• Track grant expenditures and prepare financial reports for grantors.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including employees, local leagues, District Administrators, regional coordinators, funders, partners, community organizations, non-profits, government agencies, and industry peers through strategic outreach, interpretation, and stewardship.

Other Responsibilities:

• Analyze grant funding trends to identify growing programs, opportunities for increased funding, and areas in need of greater development.
• Develop and maintain a grant proposal and reporting calendar to ensure all application and reporting deadlines are met.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in non-profit management, business administration, or a related field
• Minimum 3-5 years of proven experience as a Grants Manager or in a similar role within the non-profit sector.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in researching and applying for funding opportunities.
• Knowledge of grant management best practices, including compliance and reporting.
• Excellent knowledge of fundraising strategies and donor relations unique to the non-profit sector.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in MS Office and fundraising software.