Development Manager (Part-Time/Hybrid)

About the role

Imaginarium is a nonprofit STEM education center and makerspace in downtown Emporia, Kansas, founded in 2022 to bring hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math learning to area youth. Through classes and drop-in programming spanning robotics, LEGOs, 3D printing, engineering, sewing, and more, we spark curiosity and creativity in kids of all ages. As a growing, community-rooted organization, we are building the philanthropic foundation that will sustain and expand our impact for years to come.

Responsibilities

• Fundraising & Donor Relations
• Develop and implement annual fundraising strategies to meet revenue goals, in partnership with the Board and staff.
• Cultivate, steward, and expand relationships with individual donors, corporate partners, and foundations.
• Identify and pursue new fundraising opportunities, including major gifts and sponsorships.
• Conduct donor outreach through meetings, calls, emails, and written appeals.
• Prepare donor acknowledgments, impact reports, and stewardship communications.
• CRM & Data Management
• Manage and maintain the organization’s CRM system (Little Green Light), ensuring accurate donor records and reporting.
• Track donations, pledges, event participation, and donor engagement.
• Generate reports and insights to support fundraising strategy and board updates.
• Events & Community Engagement
• Plan and execute fundraising and community engagement events.
• Coordinate event logistics, staff activities, volunteers, sponsorships, and follow-up communications.
• Represent Imaginarium at local community events to increase visibility and awareness, and to build relationships with local collaborators and potential donors.
• Board & Organizational Collaboration
• Work closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to support fundraising initiatives.
• Assist board members with donor outreach and engagement strategies.
• Prepare fundraising updates and materials for board meetings.
• Marketing & Awareness
• Support development of fundraising communications, including e-newsletters, direct mail and e-appeals, and social media content.
• Help tell Imaginarium’s story by highlighting programs, outcomes, and community impact.
• Ensure consistent, mission-aligned messaging across all fundraising efforts.

Qualifications

• Three or more years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, or donor relations, with a demonstrated track record of meeting revenue goals.
• Proven success cultivating and stewarding relationships with individual donors, corporate partners, or foundations.
• Experience managing a donor CRM and using data to inform strategy and reporting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including persuasive appeals and donor-facing materials.
• Experience planning and executing fundraising or community events.
• Self-directed, organized, and able to work independently in a hybrid, remote-first environment.
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel to Emporia, KS as needed for meetings and fundraising events.

Preferred

• Experience securing middle giving and/or major gifts, event sponsorships, or grants.
• Familiarity with the Kansas City and/or Emporia philanthropic communities.
• Passion for STEM education, youth programming, or makerspaces.
• Comfort with marketing tools, email platforms, and social media.

What We Offer

• A competitive part-time salary of $36,000–$48,000, commensurate with experience and hours.
• Genuine flexibility through a remote-first, hybrid schedule based in the KC metro.
• The chance to build and own a development program at a growing, mission-driven organization.
• Direct, visible impact on STEM learning for children and families in our community.
• A collaborative, supportive team and an engaged Board of Directors.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a resume and a brief cover letter describing your fundraising experience and interest in Imaginarium’s mission to melanie@emporiaimaginarium.org. Applications must be submitted by EOB on Friday, July 10, 2026.

Imaginarium is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply.