Here's how you can explore funding opportunities for non-profit organizations to foster innovative projects.

It is important to start with a bold idea and with a needs assessment of the organization's goals/priorities. A strong grant concept based on evidence-based interventions, strong partnerships, project design, budget, sustainability plan, and evaluation is a starting point for meaningful conversations with potential funders. A lot of organizations "chase money" which may be an approach when RFPs come out but you are limited by the specific guidelines and interventions outlines in such RFPs. There is a lot of benefit in saving time and crunching to meet grant deadlines by having a strong concept and then searching for funders that align with the goals. It's all about alignment, building strong relationships, and meeting their BOT guidelines.

A bold idea is not enough to get funding. You need to connect with the demographic you are looking to serve. Make sure the desire to address the problem also comes from that demographic, and not just from your own desire. Winning solutions are ones that come from collaborating with people experiencing the problem you want to solve. It is all too common for someone to decide, with no direct experience, how to pursue a solution only to find that it doesn't work for the demographic they want to serve. Furthermore, there will always be a variety of opinions on how to address any problem. If you listen and collaborate, you will be able to better serve others. This is one of the most important pieces to convey in your grant applications.

Research can be 50 percent of the work! Finding a funder whose goals, methods, and values align with yours is a great way to create lasting partnerships beyond the transaction. A good place to start your search is The Foundation Center/Candid. However, this is casting a pretty broad net. Try identifying who your peer organizations are, and research who is funding their work, and whether there is values overlap. Also - a lot of funders send out regular emails with opportunities both within and outside their organization. Get on those email lists! Finally, store all your grants research in a well-kept database. That way, the next time the same grant comes your way, you'll have that research ready and wont need to repeat the work.

Crowdfunding platforms offer a unique way to engage the community and raise funds for innovative projects. Create a compelling campaign to attract small donations from a large number of people. Tell your story in a way that resonates with potential donors and provide regular updates to maintain interest and momentum. Leveraging social media can amplify your reach and connect you with supporters passionate about your cause. This approach helps secure funding while building a community of engaged donors, fostering ongoing support and enthusiasm for your non-profit's initiatives.

One idea I’ve found helpful is to know the person at the company. A simple I introduction after some research and a request to meet in person or over a conference call can create familiarity.

Peer-to-peer fundraising is a powerful volunteer driven method that can have a huge impact. Your board, staff, participants, donors and supporters who love what you do can all pitch in to help with fundraising goals. Here, a little can go a long way. People from each of these groups will have a unique perspective on the positive impact your nonprofit has. If each of these people shares their connection to the mission with their community and invites them to support the organization, it will result in new volunteers, new contacts and increased funding. This method is versatile and can be used with or without a platform. It can revolve around an event, a social media movement or just your own fundraising campaign.