The Role
The Grants Writer & Business Development Executive plays a critical role in securing sustainable funding and strategic partnerships to support and grow the BPA's early learning programs. This position is responsible for identifying funding opportunities, developing high-quality grant submissions, and leading business development initiatives that align with the organisation's mission, values, and strategic priorities.
Why BPA?
BPA has a proud history of providing truly excellent early education and care to the diverse communities of Melbourne's West and is dedicated to child safety and safeguarding.
For us, the bottom line is safe, inclusive and equitable early learning. A non-profit organisation led by a skills-based board, our purpose is to support every child to flourish in safe, accessible, equitable and culturally-responsive early education and care, regardless of their family background or circumstances.
We pride ourselves on the quality of the early learning we provide: 70% of our centres are rated "Exceeding", the highest level obtainable under the National Quality Standard.
What BPA can offer you:
* Non-profit sector salary packaging benefits.
* Part-time and hybrid workplace options.
* We invest in your growth and development with support, tools, training and experiences that will truly enhance the progress and outcomes for children in their earliest years.
* A commitment to work life balance – We offer flexible work arrangements giving you choice about when and how work will be done in order to better manage your work and non-work needs (as arranged with your manager)
* Access to discounted childcare.
Key Responsibilities
Grant Writing & Funding Development
* Research, identify, and assess government, philanthropic, corporate, and community grant and tender opportunities relevant to the early learning sector.
* Lead the end-to-end development of grant applications, including concept development, narrative writing, budgeting support, and submission.
* Work closely with program and finance teams to gather data, outcomes, and evidence to support compelling funding proposals.
* Proactively identify trends and growth opportunities for the organisation.
* Maintain a grants calendar and manage deadlines to ensure timely submissions.
* Support acquittals, reporting, and compliance requirements for funded projects.
Business Development & Partnerships
* Develop and implement business development strategies to diversify and grow revenue streams.
* Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with government agencies, foundations, corporate sponsors, and community organisations.
* Prepare business cases, proposals, and pitch materials for new programs, services, or funding opportunities.
* Represent the organisation at meetings, networking events, and sector forums as required.
* Support contract negotiations and funding agreements in collaboration with senior leadership.
Strategy, Impact & Reporting
* Contribute to organisational strategy by identifying emerging funding trends and sector opportunities in early learning and early childhood development.
* Track and report on funding outcomes, pipeline performance, and return on investment.
* Ensure all funding activities align with the organisation's mission, values, and compliance obligations.
* Maintain accurate records within CRM or grant management systems.
Key Relationships
Internal: CEO, Executive Team, Program Managers, Finance Team, Educators
External: Funding bodies, government departments, philanthropic trusts, corporate partners, community stakeholders
Skills & Experience
Essential:
* Demonstrated experience in grant writing and/or business development within the not-for-profit, education, or community services sector.
* Proven ability to secure funding from government and/or philanthropic sources.
* Exceptional written communication skills with the ability to translate impact into compelling narratives.
* Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
* Understanding of the early learning or early childhood education sector (or a strong willingness to learn).
Desirable:
* Experience working with government funding frameworks and reporting requirements.
* Business development or partnership management experience in a mission-driven organisation.
* Familiarity with outcome measurement, program logic, and social impact reporting.
How to apply
Please apply via Seek.
We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for all positions