How can you secure funding for community service programs using your professional network?

2 Research your prospects

Before you approach your network for funding, you need to do some homework. Research the background, interests, and preferences of your prospects. Find out what kind of programs they have funded or supported in the past, what are their criteria and expectations, and how they prefer to be contacted. You can use online databases, websites, newsletters, social media, or reports to gather information. You can also ask your network for referrals or recommendations to expand your pool of prospects.

3 Communicate your value

Once you have identified and researched your prospects, you need to communicate your value proposition to them. This means explaining what your program is, why it matters, and how it aligns with their mission and vision. You can use different channels and formats to convey your message, such as emails, phone calls, letters, proposals, presentations, or videos. You should tailor your communication to the specific needs and preferences of each prospect, and use clear, concise, and compelling language.

5 Ask for support

The final step is to ask for support from your network. You should be clear and specific about what kind of support you need, whether it is financial, in-kind, or strategic. You should also be realistic and flexible about the amount and terms of the support. You can use different strategies to ask for support, such as making a direct request, presenting a menu of options, or creating a sense of urgency. You should also be prepared to handle objections, negotiate, and follow up until you get a response.