Grants Writer

Unify Giving; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 200,000 - 230,000; Part time

Job description

Grant Writer - UK and European Grants

About Unify Giving

Unify Giving is an innovative charitable technology platform that connects donors directly with verified individuals in need. Our mobile app enables support with just three taps, ensuring 100% of donations reach recipients while maintaining their dignity and privacy. Currently focused on supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, we're expanding our impact across the UK and beyond.

Role Summary

We're seeking an experienced Grant Writer to secure funding from UK and/or European grant-making bodies to support our growth and mission. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of successful grant applications, particularly in the charity tech sector or for organisations addressing homelessness. This role is crucial to fuelling our expansion to support more beneficiaries across the UK.

Success in this position means securing sustainable funding that enables Unify Giving to expand our operations, enhance our technology, and ultimately support more vulnerable individuals through our direct giving model. This role reports directly to management and works closely with our impact measurement team to effectively communicate our outcomes to potential funders.

Responsibilities

1. Research Funding Opportunities: Identify and evaluate potential grant sources from UK and European foundations, trusts, governmental bodies, and corporate social responsibility programs that align with Unify Giving's mission and programs.
2. Develop Compelling Proposals: Create persuasive, well-researched grant applications that clearly articulate our unique direct giving model, technological innovation, and the impact we're making on hidden homelessness and vulnerable individuals.
3. Lead Application Processes: Manage all aspects of the grant application cycle, including initial inquiries, full proposals, budgets, supporting documentation, and follow-up reporting.
4. Build Funder Relationships: Establish and nurture relationships with grant officers and funding organisations, creating a network of supporters who understand and believe in our approach.
5. Track Grant Performance: Monitor active grants, ensuring compliance with all requirements and deadlines for reporting. Create systems to track application status, reporting schedules, and renewal opportunities.
6. Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Work with program managers, finance team, and charity partners to gather necessary data, stories, and metrics that demonstrate our impact and strengthen applications.
7. Create Impact Narratives: Translate program outcomes and beneficiary experiences into compelling narratives that highlight the effectiveness of our direct giving model while preserving beneficiary privacy.
8. Develop Sustainable Funding Strategy: Help build a diverse and sustainable funding portfolio by identifying grants of varying sizes, timelines, and focus areas to support both core operations and specific projects.
9. Stay Current on Trends: Remain updated on trends in philanthropy, particularly around technology for good, financial inclusion, and addressing homelessness in the UK and Europe.

What we're looking for:

• Minimum 3 years of successful grant writing experience with demonstrable success in securing funding from UK-based foundations, trusts, and/or governmental bodies (still apply if you have less)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to translate technical information into compelling narratives
• Strong research abilities to identify appropriate funding opportunities and tailor applications accordingly
• Experience with impact measurement and outcomes reporting
• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Proficient with grant management systems and Microsoft Office suite
• Understanding of the UK charity sector, particularly regarding homelessness, domestic violence, or financial inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with European Union funding mechanisms and application processes
• Background in technology for good, fintech for social impact, or digital innovation in the third sector
• Knowledge of hidden homelessness issues and challenges in the UK
• Previous experience with startups or early-stage social enterprises
• Membership in relevant professional associations (such as Institute of Fundraising)
• Experience with CRM systems for tracking grant applications and funder relationships

What Success Looks Like

• Securing at least £200,000 in grant funding within the first 12 months
• Building a diverse portfolio of small, medium, and large grants to ensure financial sustainability
• Establishing Unify Giving as a recognised innovator in addressing homelessness
• Creating systems and templates that streamline our grant application process
• Developing strong relationships with at least five major funding bodies that align with our mission

What We Offer

• Opportunity to be part of an innovative solution to hidden homelessness and financial exclusion
• Flexible working arrangements
• The chance to directly impact the lives of vulnerable individuals across the UK
• A passionate, mission-driven team committed to creating meaningful change

Unify Giving is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Seniority level: Mid-Senior level

Employment type: Part-time

Job function: Other