Is your nonprofit organization ready to apply for grants? It's hard to tell sometimes. Every nonprofit needs funding, but sometimes grants shouldn't be the first option.
Did you know that most successful nonprofit organization get at least 75% of their funding from individual donors? I share this fact because many nonprofits depend on grants for 100% of funding instead of having a robust funding strategy incorporating individual giving, sponsorships, and other funding sources in addition to grants.
Getting grants is hard work and the fact is all nonprofits don't get funded. After submitting and winning a grant, it may take a few months to receive grant funds in some cases and grant funds are not always guaranteed to be renewed.
First things first, make sure that you have a strong funding strategy before applying for grants and let grants be one part of that strategy.
Then make sure you have a strong brand and marketing to build awareness. Funders want to know that you have brand awareness in the community and digitally. Do you have strong partners and partners in the community? Do you have a website with details regarding your programs and a list of your Board of Directors? Do you have a strong social media presence with an active following?
These are things that funders look for to learn more about your impact in the community.
Finally, you want to take out "Getting Grant Ready" quiz to find out if you are grant ready. The quiz will ask you about audited statements, your 501(c)(3), your Board of Directors, etc. to assess where you are.
Take the quiz today and let us know what you think: https://www.thinkandinkgrants.com/getreadysurvey
Also, sign up for our newsletter at www.thinkandinkgrants.com and get your FREE Guide to Grant Readiness.
- Shavonn
Shavonn Richardson, MBA is Founder of Think and Ink Grant Consulting™ www.thinkandinkgrants.com. She is a grant writer, nonprofit consultant, speaker and an active member of the Grant Professionals Association.
Learn more about grant writing here.
Follow her on Twitter @shavonnrichson and LinkedIn
Join her "Get.Grants.Better" Facebook Group
Comments