Resource Development Chair - Board Position

The Resource Development Board Chair plays a critical role in securing the financial and community resources needed to advance CO-Create Erie's mission. This volunteer leadership position works closely with the Board of Directors and its Treasurer to identify funding opportunities, cultivate donor and sponsor relationships, and develop partnerships that support the organization's long-term sustainability and growth.

1. Grant Research & Funding Development

• Research and identify grant opportunities from foundations, corporations, government agencies, and other funding sources that align with CO-Create Erie's mission and programs.
• Maintain a funding opportunity calendar, tracking application deadlines, reporting requirements, and grant cycles.
• Evaluate funding opportunities and present recommendations to the board.
• Assist with gathering organizational information, data, and supporting materials needed for grant applications.
• Coordinate with board members and volunteers to support grant writing and reporting efforts.

2. Corporate Sponsorships & Donor Engagement

• Identify and cultivate relationships with local businesses, corporations, and organizations that may provide sponsorships, donations, or in-kind support.
• Develop and maintain sponsorship opportunities and recognition programs.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for prospective sponsors and major donors.
• Assist in creating sponsorship proposals, presentations, and donor communications.
• Support donor stewardship efforts by ensuring timely acknowledgment and recognition of contributions.

3. Community Partnerships & Outreach

• Build and strengthen relationships with community organizations, schools, government agencies, civic groups, and local businesses.
• Identify partnership opportunities that expand programming, membership, educational offerings, and community impact.
• Represent CO-Create Erie at occasional community events, networking opportunities, and partner meetings when appropriate.
• Foster collaborative relationships that support the makerspace's mission and long-term sustainability.

4. Fundraising Strategy & Resource Development

• Work with the board to develop and implement annual fundraising and resource development goals.
• Help diversify revenue streams through grants, sponsorships, donations, memberships, and collaborative partnerships.
• Monitor resource development activities and provide regular progress reports to the board.
• Assist in planning fundraising campaigns, special events, and donor engagement initiatives.
• Support the development of materials that communicate CO-Create Erie's impact and funding needs.

5. Supporting Organizational Sustainability

• Collaborate with the Treasurer and Board of Directors to align funding efforts with the organization's strategic sustainability plan.
• Maintain records of funding opportunities, donor contacts, sponsorship commitments, and partnership activities.
• Help identify emerging funding trends and opportunities that may benefit the organization.
• Promote a culture of philanthropy and community engagement throughout the organization.

Summary

The Resource Development Board Chair serves as a champion for CO-Create Erie's growth and sustainability by building relationships, identifying funding opportunities, and expanding community support. Through strategic grant research, donor stewardship, corporate sponsorship development, and community partnership building, this role helps ensure the resources necessary to fulfill the organization's mission of fostering creativity, learning, and community connection.