How do you follow up with a funder after submitting your LOI?

I would suggest reaching out to the funder before submitting an LOI to ensure your org fits with the funder’s priorities. But be sure to thoroughly review the funder’s website to make sure they’re open to that. Some prefer it, some don’t allow it or don’t have the staffing to accommodate it.

In my experience I find this to be true. The difference maker here is about relationship management and follow-up. These are game changers.

I think contacting the funder at least 2 weeks before the LOI is due (unless they expressly request no calls or emails) is a major plus. The aim is to ask for a 10 - 15 minute phone appointment (and schedule it!) to briefly introduce your organization and program to be funded before submitting the LOI to be sure it's a good potential fit. The funder likely will appreciate that you didn't want to spend their time, or your organization's, on an inviable LOI submission. Moreover, you can show you and your organization's enthusiasm, commitment and respect for the funder and their time and purpose. Show them you've done your homework and know something about their own mission and priorities. Create a personal connection. Stand out in the crowd.

In my experience, most funders only want updates if they have a direct bearing on thier decision, they do not want invitations, and they have all the resources they need. Check with them before taking any of these steps.

Just noticed that this is an "AI-powered article" which explains this ridiculous "third thing" suggestion. No one "stays in touch" after submitting an LOI. Just wait until you hear back.

Be careful with this one. It’s generally not best practice to do this unless invited to do so. Definitely do not add a funder (or anyone) to your newsletter or email list without permission.

I agree with this because step zero is to know your funder, what they desire in a LOI and how they prefer to stay in contact.

Really? No kidding! Duh! Of course you're going to respond quickly with the info they seek. Looks like AI-composed paragraph or someone with little experience just filling space...

Odds are that your LOI will be rejected. If it is rejected, that’s a great opportunity to reach out to the funder to discuss why, what they look for in grantees, and whether your LOI or your project could be improved to meet their requirements. I also always ask if there are other funders I should be talking to and/or other orgs that could be potential partners in the work. This helps to establish the relationship, puts a real human face on the organization and shows you are a professional and that you care about the funder’s support and expertise.

This is the step most of the people I work with forget. It is not about being rejected, it is about gathering information to improve for future success.

Most of the time you get the standard reply, like 'we wish we could fund every important request like yours' etc on and on. Most often decisions are made by boards of trustees, usually unreachable by phone or email, unable or unwilling to give you legit, individual feedback

Great advice Amy & Dawn, While we can aim to win with a first application to a funder, a LOI serves as an introduction and helps us gather information for future success. Giving up is the only failure. Step up and re-apply at the next intake.