
How many times have you heard this?
“You need to connect with the funder before applying,”
and thought, “Right, but how?”
Connecting with the funder’s program team is not easy, but putting in the additional leg work can mean the difference between securing a six-figure grant and missing out on a new champion.
Following are some pro tips for connecting with the funder’s program team.
Tip 1. Follow Directions
Some funders invite conversations with potential grantees.
For instance, grants offered through the National Science Foundation often have key points of contact for each topic area.
Before applying, comb the funders' website and the RFP (Request for Proposal) to see who the contacts are and how to start the conversation. Remember to follow directions closely.
Tip 2. Connect on Social Media
for key foundation staff.
Try to focus on connecting with people with whom you, someone on your board or staff, or one of your champions has a viable connection.
Tip 3. Get Your Board Involved
This applies particularly to private funding. Often, your board will provide you with a broader network or have other opportunities for connecting with the funder that are available to you as the fundraising team.
For instance, a board member can sit on a review panel for a foundation’s grant program.
When engaging your board in this aspect of fundraising, as in all aspects, you’ll want to set clear expectations. That is why we recommend creating a list of the top five to 10 funders you want your board to target over a 12-month period.
Tip 4. Attend In-Person Events
Informational meetings and other events hosted by the funders are optimal times to connect with agency staff.
In the age of digital meetings, sometimes the best way to get ahead of the curve is to show up in person to live events.
Tip 5. Be Prepared
Program staff are very busy people. That’s why when you have an opportunity to chat with them, it is crucial that you have your 30-second “pitch” ready.
One way to clearly communicate your mission and impact is with a tangible transformation statement: a one-sentence statement that details who you serve, what problem you solve, how you do things differently, and what impact you have:
Our organization solves problem X for the X population, using X unique ideas leading to X tangible solutions.
Conclusion
Like all things concerning grants, connecting with funders takes strategy and persistence. But the rewards of finding a new champion who will support you for years is worth the effort.
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