Fundraising & Research Associate

We are looking for a motivated fundraising professional to help build DSFM's development engine —from research and proposals to systems and donor stewardship. This role is ideal for someone with3–5 years' experience who is eager to consolidate their skills and grow into a frontline fundraisingprofessional.You will build DSFM's fundraising backbone: keeping the donor pipeline current, drafting proposalsand reports, and ensuring stewardship systems are well-managed. Over time, as you establish fluencyin DSFM's narrative and systems, you may have the opportunity to co-own donor relationships and,eventually, manage a warm portfolio sourced via the Development Advisory Board.Working Style & EnvironmentThis is a fast-moving, high-expectation environment. The Fundraising Associate will work directly withthe Founder, who sets ambitious targets and works at pace. Success in this role requires resilience,proactive communication, and the ability to manage upwards with confidence — anticipating needs,keeping priorities clear, and creating structure in a dynamic, founder-driven context.Key Responsibilities (Three Buckets)1. Donor Intelligence & Prospecting
• Maintain an up-to-date donor database (HNIs, CSR, institutions)
• Research and map new prospects; prepare concise donor and prospect briefs for leadership andDevelopment Board meetings
• Support Development Board members with background notes and prospect tracking12. Proposals & Communications
• Draft proposals, reports, and presentations aligned with DSFM initiatives
• Keep proposal/report templates current and standardised across initiatives
• Contribute to donor newsletters, mailers, and impact communications3. Systems & Stewardship Support
• Maintain grant calendar and submission tracker
• Ensure all donor/board interactions are logged in CRM within 48 hours
• Lead the fundraising design and delivery of donor salons and stewardship events (concept,case materials, prospecting, follow-ups), working with operations staff for logistics
• Prepare dashboards and internal reports on fundraising activityGrowth Pathway & CompensationYear 1 (Months 0–12):
• ₹50,000–55,000/month fixed salary, full-time
• 6-month probation with deliverables: clean donor list, grant calendar live, 3 proposals submitted,20 new donors (and approaches identified).
• Focus on research, proposals, systems, and stewardship supportYear 2 onwards:
• Base salary incremented annually in line with DSFM's HR policy (typically 8–10%)
• Eligible for an annual performance bonus tied to departmental fundraising target achievement(e.g. equivalent to 1–2 months' salary if annual target is met)
• As DSFM's fundraising function grows (₹4cr → ₹6cr → ₹8cr+), this role will expand in scope, withopportunities for higher responsibility and compensation through bonuses and expanded stewardshipdutiesUltimate Goal (24 Months+):If successful, the role evolves into a trusted frontline fundraiser capable of originating, managing, andactively supporting the closing of major gifts within DSFM's donor ecosystem.Candidate Profile● 3–5 years in fundraising, donor engagement, or corporate partnerships (arts/non-profit sectorpreferred)● Strong research, writing, and presentation skills● Proficiency in spreadsheets, CRM tools, and donor data management● Confident working with senior stakeholders (philanthropists, corporate leaders)● Passion for theatre as an instrument for social good is preferable.● Ability to manage upwards with confidence—anticipating needs, communicating proactively,and maintaining clarity in a high-paced, founder-driven environment

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ₹45, ₹55,000.00 per month

Work Location: In person