Fundraising Associate

Job description

Role: Fundraising Associate

Location: Remote

Department: SME SA Growth lab – Sustainability solutions business unit

Reports to: Growth lab / Sustainability solutions manager

Employment type: 6 months associate contract

Remuneration: Commission based

Closing date: 15 March 2026

About SME SA Growth lab

SME SA Growth Lab is the innovative sustainability solutions arm of SME South Africa, dedicated to driving impactful, measurable ESG outcomes for corporations for the benefit of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the country. We support corporates in implementing ESD/CSR/ESG programmes with MSMEs as key beneficiaries. The unit’s focus is on job creation, skills development, digital transformation and inclusive growth, helping social investors achieve authentic sustainability while empowering entrepreneurs.

Purpose of the role

The fundraising associate will play a pivotal role in securing funding and partnerships to scale our sustainability programs. You will identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with government entities, corporates, foundations, development agencies, and high-net-worth social investors. Priority will be given to SMME empowerment in alignment with national development priorities, including job creation, skills development, and inclusive growth.

Key responsibilities

• Research and identify potential donors, corporate CSR/ESD/BBEE/Sustainability budgets, grant opportunities and impact investors aligned with sustainability and SME development.
• Develop compelling fundraising proposals, pitch decks with aligned sustainability focus areas impact projections
• Build and manage a pipeline of prospects through proactive outreach (emails, calls, meeting etc.).
• Organize and facilitate donor meetings (virtual/in-person presentations)
• Track fundraising progress, maintain donor databases and report on metrics (e.g., funds raised, conversion rates).
• Collaborate with program teams to ensure donor-funded initiatives deliver on promises and generate strong impact stories for future appeals.

Qualifications and experience

• Relevant qualification in business development, marketing, communications, sustainability, development studies, or a related field.
• 2–4 years of experience in fundraising, business development, donor relations, or partnerships.
• Experience with CSR, B-BBEE/ESD, and sustainability programme strategy formulation, social programme planning, and impact reporting.
• Proven track record of securing funding or partnerships (corporate sponsorships, grants, or investments).
• Valid driver’s license (advantageous for donor or site visits)

If you're passionate about fundraising for good and see yourself thriving in a mission-focused environment, we want to hear from you!

How to apply

Email your CV, a tailored cover letter highlighting relevant fundraising achievements and references to:

az.oc.acirfahtuosems@sboj

Skills and competencies

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong relationship-building and networking abilities.
• Research and analytical skills for prospect identification.
• Understanding of sustainability initiatives, SMME empowerment, and South Africa’s inclusive growth agenda.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently or collaboratively.

Posted on 23 Feb 09:32, Closing date 24 Apr