Director of Philanthropy

• Lead relationship-based fundraising efforts, cultivating and securing philanthropic support from major individual donors, private foundations, and corporate partners.
• Develop and manage a portfolio of prospects, high-capacity donors, and institutional funders, building trust-based partnerships.
• Coordinate donor visits, farm tours, and presentations, and collaborate with leadership to align funding opportunities with strategic priorities.

This role directly advances the growth of agroforestry in the Midwest, contributing to ecological resilience, climate stability, and vibrant, equitable communities by securing philanthropic support for the Savanna Institute's mission.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising with a proven track record of developing new relationships and securing major gifts.
• Experience writing successful grant proposals and creating impact reports for post-award grant management.
• Exceptional interpersonal and networking skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience with donor databases and fundraising software; ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Salary: $75,000-$87,000 based on experience. Benefits include 160 hours of paid time off annually plus 11 civic holidays, 480 hours of parental/disability leave, 401(k) retirement savings plan, monthly home office stipend, and a cafeteria-style benefits plan (HRA, dependent care, FSA, HSA).

The Savanna Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Madison, WI and Urbana, IL, working with farmers, businesses, and scientists to lay the groundwork for widespread agroforestry in the Midwest US, envisioning a transformed agricultural system that fosters ecological resilience, climate stability, economic prosperity, and vibrant communities.