Before you begin to write, learn as much as possible about the funder's mission.
- Visit the funder's website. Pay special attention to the mission and vision statements, and to the kinds of programs that they fund.
- A basic Google search may yield several articles about the funder. These will help you gain a feeling for the people behind the scenes and add to your body of knowledge about the organization.
- Email or call the program officer listed in the directories.
• Be prepared to talk about your organization, your need for funding, and why you think their foundation would be a good match for your organization.
• Also, be ready to ask questions.
• Finally, listen carefully to the feedback you get. Adjust your plan accordingly.
Online Resources:
Funder Perspective: Ways to Build Stronger Ties with Foundations
Free Webinar: How to Approach a Foundation
Book Recommendations:
Models of Proposal Planning & Writing by Jeremy T Miner & Lynn E. Miner
Grassroots Grants: An Activist's Guide to Grantseeking by Andy Robinson
