It’s pretty common for a leader to reach out asking if she should advise her board to invest in efforts to procure foundational support.
While it may sound enticing, like a literal answer to prayer for funding forecasting, it’s not likely the case.
Today I’d like to share my advice on how to determine if such a path is right for you or not and what to keep in mind.
In hiring assistance for nailing down funding, you’re theoretically paying for the expertise and track record an individual, firm, or company brings to the table. They will woo you with conducted research, previously successful letters of intent, and suggested organizations and foundations they believe best pair with your ministry’s vision.
Look for evidence.
Next, you and your team must ask if you’ve seen enough evidence to support that the group you’re considering can deliver.
Do they have proof of successful proposals – funded proposals, not just binders of research and submissions?
Anyone can research and submit. You want connections and a track record of success.
The way I see it, a successful track record for funding from grant making entities that have a proposal process means there’s more funding available for the taking. It’s vital to evaluate the likelihood of an individual or group being awarded funding on your behalf and therefore worth the time on the front-end to vett when you’re considering such a financial investment.
For more tips, tricks, and encouragement from me, let’s connect via text! Click here.