Grant Writer 
Role Summary

The Grant Writer is responsible for researching, identifying, and securing local and international grant opportunities that align with DWL’s mission. They will craft compelling proposals, manage submission pipelines, and coordinate with internal teams to gather program data, budgets, and narratives that meet funder requirements. This role demands a strategic thinker with excellent writing, storytelling, and organizational skills.

Key ResponsibilitiesResearch & Prospecting

Identify and track grant opportunities from cultural institutions, art/design foundations, government agencies, global development bodies, and private philanthropies.
Maintain a grants calendar with deadlines, submission requirements, and reporting timelines.
Assess grant alignment with DWL’s programs (Made by Design Show, Innovation Exhibition, Student Competition, SBD, DWL Talks, etc.).
Proposal Writing

Write high-quality grant proposals, letters of intent, cover letters, and narratives tailored to each funder’s priorities.
Develop compelling case statements that position DWL as a continental design leader.
Collaborate with the Programs Lead, Sponsorship Lead, and Finance to gather program details, budgets, KPIs, and impact data.
Ensure all proposals reflect DWL’s brand tone: intentional, premium, culturally grounded.
Documentation & Compliance

Prepare detailed budgets, work plans, and supporting documents required for submissions.
Track grant requirements and ensure timely submission of reports and deliverables.
Maintain organized records of all submissions, communications, and outcomes.
Relationship Management

Support outreach to grant-making organizations and institutional partners.
Prepare briefing notes, pitch decks, and follow-up communications for meetings with funders.
Help develop long-term relationships with grantors for sustained funding.
Impact & Reporting

Collaborate with teams to collect data, testimonials, and metrics to produce strong post-grant reports.
Contribute to the annual Impact Report and documentation of DWL’s programs.
RequirementsBachelor’s degree in Communications, Development Studies, Arts Administration, Business, or related field.
Proven experience writing grant proposals for NGOs, cultural organizations, creative institutions, or development agencies.
Strong writing, storytelling, and research abilities.
Ability to translate creative and cultural programs into structured funding narratives.
Familiarity with donor ecosystems (Ford, Goethe, EU, British Council, AfDB, Open Society, etc.) is a plus.
Highly organized, deadline-driven, and detail-oriented.
Ability to work independently while coordinating across multiple teams.
Preferred SkillsExperience with budgets and financial documentation
Understanding of design, culture, and creative industries
Project management tools (Notion, Trello, Google Workspace)
Exceptional communication and presentation skills