Step Afrika! is on the cusp of an exciting new chapter. With a vision to expand its touring footprint, develop new artistic works, and deepen its community engagement through innovative educational initiatives, the organization is poised for significant growth. The Director of Development will be instrumental in realizing this vision by leading efforts to secure critical resources and build lasting partnerships.

To learn more about Step Afrika!'s recent activities, impact, and 30th anniversary celebrations, please visit our Press Page and 30th Anniversary Timeline.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

STRATEGIC FUNDRAISING LEADERSHIP

• Design and implement a comprehensive multi-year development strategy to increase annual revenue through individual giving, corporate partnerships, government support, foundation grants, and special campaigns. 
• Lead special initiatives to support Step Afrika!’s growth and new projects, such as annual touring, commissioning new works, and expanding support for arts education programs. 
• Establish clear fundraising goals and metrics, providing regular progress reports to the Executive Director and Board of Directors. 
• Serve as a key storyteller and ambassador for Step Afrika! representing the organization at donor meetings, public events, and conferences. 

MAJOR GIFTS AND INDIVIDUAL GIVING

• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors capable of six- and seven-figure contributions. 
• Develop a robust individual giving program, including membership, recurring giving, and planned giving initiatives. 
• Oversee donor engagement strategies, ensuring personalized outreach and recognition for top supporters. 

CORPORATE AND FOUNDATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

• Build and sustain strategic partnerships with corporations and foundations, securing sponsorships and grants to support performances, education programs, and community outreach initiatives.
• Prepare compelling grant proposals and sponsorship decks in collaboration with the marketing and program teams. 
• Ensure timely and accurate grant reporting and sponsor fulfillment. 

SPECIAL EVENTS AND CAMPAIGNS

• Oversee the planning and execution of signature fundraising events, including the annual gala and donor receptions. 
• Collaborate with the marketing team to maximize event attendance and visibility, leveraging events to deepen donor engagement and attract new supporters. 
• Launch and manage special fundraising campaigns, including digital appeals, matching gift challenges, and giving days. 

BOARD ENGAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP

• Partner with the Executive Director to recruit and engage Board members in fundraising activities. 
• Serve as a key liaison to the Development Committee, providing regular updates and supporting their fundraising efforts. 
• Facilitate Board training on best practices in fundraising and donor stewardship. 

TEAM MANAGEMENT AND COLLABORATION

• Manage the development function, including staff, consultants, and volunteers, with the opportunity to gradually build a high-performing team as revenue increases. 
• Foster a collaborative environment with other departments, including marketing, finance, and programming, ensuring alignment on fundraising goals.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Communications, Business, or a related field.
• An advanced degree or CFRE certification is a plus.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in fundraising, with demonstrated success in major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and grant writing.
• Experience in the performing arts or nonprofit cultural organizations is highly preferred.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Proven ability to cultivate and close six- and seven-figure gifts. 
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience supervising and mentoring staff. 
• Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to inspire and engage diverse audiences. 
• Proficiency in donor databases (e.g., Salesforce) and fundraising technology.
• Knowledge of fundraising trends in the arts and cultural sector. 
• A passion for the performing arts and a commitment to Step Afrika!’s mission.

About Step Afrika!

Step Afrika!’s mission is to preserve, expand and promote an appreciation for stepping through professional performances and to educate, motivate and inspire young people in and out of school through arts education programs that emphasize teamwork, commitment, and discipline. As one of the most celebrated African American dance companies in the world, Step Afrika! fortifies our relationships in the communities we serve and highlights our mission to preserve and promote the tradition of stepping. It is our vision to expand programmatic efforts to reach larger audiences.

Connections working at Step Afrika!