Wouldn't it be wonderful if you had a crystal ball that could accurately predict how a funder would respond to your grant proposal before you wrote it? Think of all the time you could save if you only submitted proposals when you knew you would get a positive response. While a lot of factors contribute to funding decisions, some of which are out of your control, you can increase your chances of a favorable response by learning as much as possible about potential funders before you write a word.

Before you begin developing a list of potential funders, examine your own mission and funding priorities. Develop a case statement for each program to guide you as you seek funding and respond to requests for proposals. It’s only a win-win situation when you receive funding for programs that fit your mission.

As you research potential funders, consider the following factors:

• Funding priorities. Most foundations have clearly defined funding priorities, focusing on a few issues. Zero in on those funders whose priorities match your own. If a foundation focuses on literacy, early childhood education and nutrition, and your mission has to do with animal rights, don’t try to stretch your case to fit the money.
• Focus areas. When you find a foundation that has a funding priority similar to your mission, delve deeper to determine the particular focus area. For instance, an organization that is concerned about the environment might focus on clean water, clear air or sustainable energy.
• Population served. Foundations often will serve particular segments of the population, such as children, the elderly, individuals with disabilities and so on. While they may not specify this information, you can learn a lot by looking at programs that have been funded previously.
• Region. Some foundations support programs in a specific geographic location while others may be more interested in supporting programs with national or even international implications. Solicit only those foundations that focus on your program’s service area.
• Size of grants. If you are seeking funding for a local program with a relatively small budget, foundations that provide large grants are generally not a good fit. Review past awards for insight. If a listing of previous grant awards is not readily available, you can find this information on the IRS Form 990. Keep in mind that many foundations are unwilling to be the only funder of a program and will require a list of other foundations from which you are seeking funding.
• Application requirements. Before you begin to write the grant proposal, review the entire application, including the required attachments. The depth of the application and the information required can help you determine if your organization is a good fit.

© 2010 Joan B. Marcus Communications LLC