I had an interesting conversation with a client recently. They asked why we didn’t request more from a particular funder to fully cover a staff member’s salary. I explained that this grant is meant to aid in covering the cost not to fund it entirely. Instead, we pursue multiple funders in our grant pipeline. This approach is exactly why funders often ask for a list of both pending and approved grants supporting the work. They want to feel comfort in knowing that the organization isn’t relying too heavily on one source and has a solid financial foundation to sustain the program.
If you’ve ever filled out a grant application or applied for funding, you may have experienced this similar question: listing your top funders. Some might worry that sharing this information could dissuade potential supporters, thinking they might assume you already have enough financial backing. In reality, the opposite is true.
Showing financial stability doesn’t turn funders away—it attracts them.
When a grantmaker or investor asks for a list of your top funders, it’s not about questioning your need for additional funding, but rather assessing your organizational strength and sustainability. Financial stability and a demonstrated history of securing funding reassure funders that you have sources of revenue showing them they can confidently invest in your organization.
Think about it: Would you want to invest in a business that might not be around in a year, or an organization that has a proven track record of attracting and managing financial resources?
Have you encountered this request in your grant applications? How did you approach it? Let’s talk about how we can leverage this information to grow your revenue.
Hit reply and let me know.
Yours in Grant Service,
DeaRonda
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Sparkplug provides grants to start-up organizations and new projects of established non-profits in Education, Music and Community Organization
Click Here to Learn More
Longview Foundation provides funding for K-12 education in the U.S. and funds projects that directly support building global perspectives in teachers and students.
Abelard Foundation prioritizes projects that are in their first years of development and have budgets less than $300,000. They are committed to supporting local progressive social change activities that expand and protect civil liberties and civil and human rights, and promote and strengthen community involvement in, and control over, the decisions that affect individuals lives.
Make Sense Foundation provides grants to nonprofits serving the needs of women and children in need.
For grant amounts and deadlines for the above opportunities, click the link to learn more.
