Development Director

About Quad City Arts

Quad City Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the Quad Cities region through visual arts, performing arts, and arts education. As a small, collaborative team, we value professionalism, initiative, and strong community relationships.

Position Summary

Quad City Arts seeks a collaborative and relationship-driven Director of Development to lead and execute our annual fundraising efforts in partnership with the Executive Director.

This is a hands-on role for a development professional who enjoys building meaningful donor relationships, managing grant activity, and strengthening community partnerships within a small nonprofit environment. The Director of Development will oversee the annual fundraising plan, manage donor engagement strategies, secure institutional and corporate support, and help ensure sustainable revenue aligned with organizational priorities.

The position plays a key role in advancing Quad City Arts’ mission while working closely with leadership and staff in a team-oriented setting.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Execution

• Develop and implement an annual fundraising plan in collaboration with the Executive Director.
• Secure financial support from individuals, corporations, and foundations.
• Identify and cultivate prospective donors and sponsors.
• Manage a portfolio of annual and mid-level donors.
• Assist with major donor cultivation efforts in partnership with the Executive Director.

Grants & Institutional Support

• Identify grant opportunities aligned with programs and strategic priorities.
• Prepare and submit grant proposals and required reports.
• Maintain accurate grant tracking and reporting systems.

Campaigns & Donor Engagement

• Oversee annual giving campaigns and donor appeals.
• Collaborate with the Marketing & Design Director on digital and print fundraising initiatives.
• Strengthen donor stewardship and ongoing communication efforts.

Events & Community Engagement

• Partner with staff to support fundraising events.
• Secure sponsorship support for programs and special events.

Data & Reporting

• Maintain and utilize development software for donor tracking and reporting.
• Analyze fundraising data to inform strategy and provide regular updates to leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, nonprofit administration, or related field (or equivalent professional experience).
• Minimum of three years of professional fundraising experience.
• Demonstrated experience in grant writing and donor relationship management.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with the Executive Director and staff.
• Experience in a small nonprofit environment is preferred.

What We’re Looking For

• A proactive, relationship-focused fundraiser.
• A team-oriented professional who values collaboration.
• Someone comfortable working in a small organization where flexibility and initiative are essential.
• A development professional who enjoys both strategy and hands-on execution.

Working Environment

This is a full-time position based in a professional office setting. Some evening and weekend work may be required for events. Occasional regional travel may be necessary.