What does a Development Associate do?
Development associates are skilled communicators who generate financial resources for their organizations by applying for grants, writing fundraising letters, planning events, and cultivating strong relationships with potential donors and institutions.
At a Glance
This is an entry-level position in the development department; as such, it generally requires a bachelor's degree but no further career-specific knowledge. Should they choose to remain in the same field, development associates (also called development representatives or officers) typically enjoy a clearly indicated career progression. A development associate who consistently gets good results can usually expect a promotion to a more specialized position, such as event coordinator or grant writer, within the first two years. From there, employees of large organizations can aim to become the head of their track (e.g. special events manager or grants manager).
Both experience within the field and strong writing skills are unquestionably valuable to employers, but in a job about sharing and eliciting enthusiasm for an organization, there's no substitute for passionate belief in the organization's importance. Aspiring development associates should start by researching local nonprofits to find one they feel excited about, and then check for open positions. Even if no openings are posted, it's often worth reaching out; the combination of a strong résumé with a cover letter that demonstrates one's passion, and the ability to make that passion contagious, can turn heads and open doors.
- Grant writing
- Oral and written communication
- Marketing
- Database systems
- Event planning
- Mathematics
Development associates are creative, personable, and detail-oriented individuals with strong written and verbal communication skills. They are capable of crafting fundraising appeals, acknowledgment letters, grant applications, and event plans that say something new while matching the company’s brand and the target audience, and without crossing the line into cliché or tastelessness.
Development associates usually work conventional business hours in an office setting. However, those who specialize in events may work more flexible schedules and late nights, and may travel for the job. There is also an expectation that development associates, no matter their role, try to attend events at other local nonprofits, both to support peers and as a form of research.
