In 2021, it\u2019s no surprise that there\u2019s a social element to grant writing. After all, social media has become a vital tool for nonprofits in many ways. This includes using social channels to reach out to grant funders.\u00a0And social media isn\u2019t even the only way to add a more social element to your grant writing.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
In fact, many grantmaking organizations prefer that you reach out and introduce yourself before you submit your application. The only time it\u2019s not appropriate to reach out before submitting is if the funder specifically asks you not to, or if they don\u2019t offer contact information.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
However, many grant writers are still concerned about reaching out on social media. Today, we\u2019re offering you four steps you can take to build a relationship with grant funding organizations:\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Reaching out via social media allows funders to start familiarizing themselves with your organization before you even submit your application. This first contact is a great way to ask questions about the submission process, the funding organization\u2019s preferences, and to make sure the program you\u2019re seeking to fund is something the organization is interested in supporting.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
What\u2019s more, taking the time to ask well-thought-out questions in advance will help you to stay top-of-mind.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Historically, it\u2019s been common practice to reach out via phone or email if you can find the correct contact information. With LinkedIn becoming standard, it never hurts to reach out on there if you can\u2019t find other contact information. This will work even better if you have a common connection who can arrange an introduction.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
If you\u2019re reaching out to a local grant funder, it\u2019s advantageous to request a one-on-one meeting, even if it\u2019s virtual. If they don\u2019t have time for a meeting, ask if you can follow up with email or LinkedIn.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Once you\u2019ve made contact, put your best work into your grant application and submit it. After submission, reach out to the funder to check on the status of your application, if <\/em>they allow for it. Just make sure you\u2019ve given the funder a reasonable amount of time to review your application first!<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Not only will this help you reinforce the importance of receiving funding, but it also shows that you were earnest about creating a relationship with the organization.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Whether your application was accepted or not, reach out to the funding organization and thank them. If your grant application was successful<\/a>, it\u2019s an even better idea to give the funding organization a call.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n A phone call is generally considered to be more thoughtful. This gives you a chance to ask if you\u2019ll need to supply progress reports in order to accept the grant. You can also use this call to offer representatives from the funding organization a tour of your facility so they can see your organization in action (once it\u2019s safe, of course).<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Even if your application was rejected, thank the funding organization for taking the time to consider you. If they gave you feedback on your application, make sure to thank them for their advice, as this advice could help you secure future grants.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n If they didn\u2019t automatically respond with advice, consider asking the funder what you can do to strengthen your application.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Now that you\u2019ve received your funding, you have the chance to build a long-lasting relationship with the funding organization. To do this, you\u2019ll want to go beyond just sending them any required progress reports.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Start by sending the funder a handwritten note. Have the note signed by several members of your staff, including those in leadership roles. You can also send them your organization\u2019s regular newsletter with a special note attached. Finally, make sure to send additional periodic updates\u2014preferably with pictures and videos\u2014to show just how much the grant has made a difference.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Making sure the funding organization knows they made the right choice helps you cultivate the relationship. This improves your chances of being considered for further grants. Grant funders want to trust that their money made a difference\u2014showing them that your organization is a good steward of resources will demonstrate their faith in your organization was not misplaced!<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n3. Say thank you (even if you were turned down).<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
4. Stay in touch.<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n