How do you acknowledge your grant funders on your website, social media, and publications?

For EU project, it is mandatory to acknoledge funding from the EU with an EU flag, the project number, and a sentence that says that this project was funded by the European Commission.

There is literally no downside to promoting that you received funding from the grant. It means somebody took a chance on you. It encourages other people to do the exact same.

I am shocked by how many organizations don't acknowledge grant funders on their website. A simple "Our organization appreciates the generous support of the following foundations <logos>" is meaningful and easy to develop. Even better if you link out to content related to what they've supported. The visible display of gratitude is important, and it also serves as a cue to prospective funders that your organization has garnered the support of their peers.

Some funders prefer to give anonymously, or in as low-key a manner as possible. So before showcasing their support publicly in these ways it's very important to ask for their permission first. While many will be delighted to be recognised in this way, it's still polite and professional to check with them before 'going public'. Publicising a grant the funder would rather not be promoted (for whatever reason they may have) will likely seriously damage your relationship with them and strongly jeapordise your chances of securing further support.

The best way to showcase funds you’ve received from a funding institution is by having a partnership page on your website. This will add credibility to your company or nonprofit.

Tag them as much as possible. See if you can get additional letters of support or comments about your project outside of the official review. Tagging their brands on social media is going to expand your network and influence.

In today’s grant environment honoring the individual grantor’s wishes is crucial. Most “publications” (often digital) can easily accommodate grantor gratitude. Sometimes direct mail or program collateral items (e.g., brochures) are utilized and can easily have “funded by” indicia. The important part is honoring the grantor. Each communication - even to approve branding - attributes to that core relationship. Each time their indicia is imprinted, with each program brochure handed out, it honors their support and our mission together.

As I'm sure you're aware, grant writing is an occupation. Only large institutions, with substantial monetary strength can afford the time talent, and personal connections it takes to produce an acceptable grant in fields like medicine. Here we are not reflecting on the grant idea or content itself, which is an afterthought but on the skills involved in presenting a grant. The grant writing, on which hinges the funding, must be extensive, politically consonant with whatever is currently in vogue, and reflective of what thought leaders consider appropriate. The Wright brothers, Cyrus McCormick, even Thomas Edison, could probably never have produced a grant with the polish , savvy and cultural expertise needed to be funded today.

Funders want to know and see their impact. Creating an annual impact report, featuring them in newsletters, and keeping them engaged on how their dollars made a difference can be critical to continue receiving their support.