What Is a Fractional Development Director, and Does Your Nonprofit Need One?
Most small and mid sized nonprofits know they need someone leading fundraising. Few can afford a full time development director. A fractional development director fills that gap.
What "fractional" means
A fractional development director is an experienced fundraiser who works with your organization part time, as a real member of your team. You get senior strategy and hands-on work without paying a full salary, benefits, and a recruiting fee.
What they do
Build your fundraising plan and calendar
Find funders that fit your mission
Write and submit grant applications
Handle reports to funders after you win
Coach your executive director and board on fundraising
Track results so you know what is working
What it costs compared with a full-time hire
Industry guides put a full-time nonprofit development director in the six figures once salary and benefits are counted. Fractional fundraising leaders typically cost a fraction of that, billed monthly. At Palante, plans start at $550 a month for small nonprofits and grow with your budget.
When it makes sense
You rely on one or two funders and want more stable income
Your executive director is writing grants at night
You are growing but not ready to hire a full development team
You lost a development staff member and need coverage now
Frequently asked questions
Is a fractional development director the same as a consultant? A consultant usually gives advice. A fractional director does the work with you, week after week.
How do you price it? At Palante, pricing is based on your annual revenue, so you pay for the level of support that fits your size.
Do you charge a percentage of grants won? No. Ethical grant professionals do not take a percentage of awards. We charge a flat monthly fee.
Get started
See our fractional development and grant writing plans, or book a call to find the right fit. Services are available in English and Spanish.
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