Job Description (JD)We are a deep-tech startup developing next-generation axial flux motors and advanced drive systems for applications across automotive, industrial, defence, and aviation sectors. We are seeking a Grants & Strategic Fundraising Manager to lead capital acquisition through grants, government programs, and institutional funding, while supporting investor readiness and strategic partnerships.
This role requires the ability to translate complex engineering innovation into compelling funding narratives aligned with national priorities (e.g., electrification, indigenization, sustainability, defence capability).
Key Responsibilities1. Grant Sourcing & Strategy
- Identify and track relevant funding opportunities from:
- Government bodies (e.g., DRDO, DST, MeitY)
- International agencies and programs
- CSR and climate-tech funding pools
- Align opportunities with company roadmap (EV, aerospace electrification, defence systems)
2. Proposal Development & Submission
- Lead preparation of technical grant proposals, whitepapers, and concept notes
- Convert engineering inputs (motor design, efficiency, thermal performance, etc.) into clear, fundable narratives
- Build detailed budgets, commercialization plans, and impact statements
3. Investor & Strategic Pitching
- Support creation of investor pitch decks and data rooms
- Participate in discussions with:
- Deep-tech VCs
- Strategic investors (OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers)
- Defence and aerospace stakeholders
- Clearly articulate technology differentiation (axial flux vs radial flux, power density, efficiency)
4. Stakeholder & Ecosystem Engagement
- Build relationships with:
- Incubators and accelerators (e.g., iDEX)
- Government agencies and grant officers
- Industry bodies and consortia
- Represent the company in demo days, defence expos, EV summits, and aerospace forums
5. Grant Management & Compliance
- Manage end-to-end lifecycle:
- Application → evaluation → award → reporting → audits
- Ensure compliance with technical milestones, utilization certificates, and reporting frameworks
6. Internal Coordination
- Work closely with:
- Engineering (R&D, testing, validation)
- Finance (budgeting, fund utilization)
- Leadership (strategy alignment)
- Maintain a structured funding pipeline and tracker
Job Requirements (JR)Education & Experience- Bachelor's or Master's degree in:
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace preferred) OR
- Business / Public Policy with strong exposure to deep-tech
- 3–7+ years of experience in:
- Grant writing / fundraising in deep-tech, EV, aerospace, or defence sectors
- Demonstrated success in securing government grants or institutional funding
Core SkillsTechnical & Domain Understanding
- Strong grasp of:
- Electric motors (preferably axial flux vs radial flux concepts)
- Power electronics / drives
- EV or electrification ecosystems
- Ability to interpret technical documents, test data, and TRL levels
Fundraising & Communication
- Excellent technical writing and storytelling
- Experience in building:
- Grant proposals
- Pitch decks
- Technical-commercial documentation
Ecosystem Knowledge
- Familiarity with Indian and global funding schemes:
- Defence innovation programs (e.g., iDEX)
- Startup and R&D grants
- Climate-tech / mobility funds
Execution & Operations
- Strong project management and multi-deadline handling
- Ability to manage cross-functional inputs
- High attention to detail in compliance and reporting
Preferred Qualifications- Experience working with:
- EV startups, aerospace firms, or defence tech companies
- Exposure to:
- Certification environments (automotive, aerospace, defence standards)
- Understanding of IP strategy, patents, and technology commercialization
- Network within grant agencies, defence ecosystem, or VC landscape
KPIs / Success Metrics- Total non-dilutive funding secured (grants, subsidies)
- Total capital raised (grants + investors)
- Grant success rate (%)
- Number of strategic partnerships / pilot programs initiated
- Timely completion of grant deliverables and compliance reports
Ideal Candidate Profile (Quick Snapshot)- Can translate complex engineering into funding language
- Understands both technology and capital strategy
- Comfortable engaging with scientists, bureaucrats, and investors alike
- Highly structured, deadline-driven, and outcome-oriented
