Grant Writing and Fundraising for Nonprofits Fundraising is one of the most important activities for operating a successful charity. And I know from experience that it can sometimes feel like an overwhelming undertaking. But the task must be successfully carried out, because without fundraising most organizations would not be able to run the programs and services that help them fulfill their missions.  Your organization’s fundraising plan probably includes diverse methods for raising funds such as submitting grant proposals, holding special events, selling items, conducting direct mail appeals, and soliciting donations on-line.  As varied as they are, all of these fundraising methods have one thing in common: they all require some form of written communication.    This communication is a direct reflection of your organization.  Therefore, fundraising materials that are clear, concise, and credible will help you build a trustworthy and competent image.   Of course, fundraising requires much more than just creating well-written materials.  But creating materials that are genuine and successfully relate your organization’s message to its target audience will help you achieve your fundraising goals.    What kind of promotional materials do you use (or would like to use) to raise funds for your programs and services?   Annual Reports Acknowledgement letters Concept papers Donor newsletters Direct mail appeals (fundraising letters) Fact sheets Funding reports Grant proposals/applications Letters of inquiry Web site content  To be effective, these materials must complement each other.  Each piece should put forth the organization’s mission and attempt to persuade – either directly or indirectly – the reader to support (or continue to support) the organization.  The materials should be written with a consistent voice so that your organization’s message resonates with donors, stakeholders, and other interested parties.  I create high-quality grant proposals and other materials that are needed to successfully compete for a limited amount of fundraising dollars.

Fundraising News Foundation Center: "Foundations’ Year-end Outlook for Giving and the Sector," November 2009 The Foundation Center's Research Advisory for November 2009 explores how foundations are faring in the poor economy and discusses grantmakers views about the economy's long-term affect on philanthropy.  Find out more here: http://foundationcenter.org/gainknowledge/research/pdf/researchadvisory_economy_200911.pdf ► New York Times: “New Fame for the Everyday Donor,” November 11, 2009   With foundation support dwindling in the wake of the economic distress, the likelihood of receiving grants also dwindles.  Fortunately grant writing is only one way to raise funds for important social programs.  Individual donors – the ones who make small contributions – are dedicated to giving even in the poor economy.  Find out more here:  http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/12/giving/12CIVIC.html?_r=1&ref=business. ► Guidestar: “Nine Clever Ways to Thank Your Donors,” February 2012   This article provides nine great ideas that non-profit organizations can use to thank their donors. I really like the suggestion that encourages organizations to invite their donors to an event that does not require them to make a financial contribution. It really is annoying when charities send mailer after mailer that asks for more money. I have even gotten thank you letters for donations that ultimately asked for more money. "Thank you" should just mean "thank you." The article can be found at: http://www2.guidestar.org/rxa/news/articles/2012/9-clever-ways-to-thank-donors.aspx?hq_e=el&hq_m=1517278&hq_l=11&hq_v=0ae2852242

Fundraising Resources  ► The Chronicle of Philanthropy  The Chronicle of Philanthropy is both a print and online newspaper that provides information about the philanthropic process.  It targets fundraisers, grant makers, philanthropic leaders, and other interested parties.   A bi-annual or annual subscription fee must be paid to gain access to The Chronicle’s entire Web site including a guide to grants and some surveys. But the site also offers free resources such as information about various funders, articles about grantmakers and social issues, and industry news and tips. http://philanthropy.com/ ► Foundation Center The Foundation Center provides a wealth of information for organizations and individuals who are interested in raising money for charitable causes.  They offer online classes, webinars, searchable databases of grantmakers, and other resources.  The online librarian feature makes it possible to get questions answered either via e-mail or chat. http://foundationcenter.org/