How can you build relationships with funders who care about more than social impact?

2 Show your impact

The second step to building relationships with funders who care about more than social impact is to show your impact. Don't just focus on the numbers and outputs of your project. Tell the story of how your project makes a difference in the lives of your beneficiaries, the community, and the environment. Use qualitative and quantitative data, testimonials, case studies, and visuals to illustrate your impact. Highlight how your impact aligns with the funders' goals and how you can help them achieve their vision.

3 Be transparent and accountable

The third step to building relationships with funders who care about more than social impact is to be transparent and accountable. Funders who care about more than social impact may have higher standards of governance, ethics, and reporting. They may also want to see how you use their funds, how you deal with challenges, and how you learn from your mistakes. Be honest and open about your project's progress, achievements, challenges, and lessons learned. Provide regular and clear reports, feedback, and updates. Invite them to visit your project, meet your team, and interact with your beneficiaries.

4 Add value

The fourth step to building relationships with funders who care about more than social impact is to add value. Funders who care about more than social impact may have different needs and interests than traditional donors. They may want to be more involved in your project, to learn from your experience, to network with other stakeholders, or to leverage their resources. Find out what they need and how you can help them. Offer them opportunities to participate in your project, to share your insights and best practices, to connect with other partners, or to amplify their impact.

5 Appreciate and acknowledge

The fifth step to building relationships with funders who care about more than social impact is to appreciate and acknowledge. Funders who care about more than social impact may not expect or want public recognition or gratitude. However, they still deserve to be appreciated and acknowledged for their support and contribution. Express your sincere thanks and appreciation in a personal and meaningful way. Send them thank-you notes, cards, or gifts. Recognize them in your reports, publications, or events. Celebrate your achievements and milestones together.

6 Maintain and nurture

The sixth and final step to building relationships with funders who care about more than social impact is to maintain and nurture. Funders who care about more than social impact may not be interested in one-time or short-term projects. They may want to see long-term and sustainable results and to build lasting and trusting relationships. Keep in touch with them regularly and update them on your project's progress and impact. Seek their feedback and input and show how you incorporate them. Explore opportunities for future collaboration and support. Treat them as partners and allies, not as sources of funds.