How do you leverage existing resources and partnerships to enhance your grant project?

I agree with the statements above. Utilize all resources and skills in application for grants and partnerships. Life skills, education skills and tangible support are all key. Each skill set is helpful, even the smallest of them.

Networks and networking may seem less important factors. But they may be very, very important. Consider everyone in your network as a supportive and motivating asset. And ask them how and where and with whom they can open doors for you. We all know about "influencers" from social media. There are people in your network right now who have influence you don't know about yet.

Start by taking inventory of what you've got like you’re scrounging for snacks in your kitchen late at night. Look beyond the obvious; your resources aren't just financial. Think about your team's skills, existing data, facilities, or even your organization's reputation. Each of these can be a goldmine for strengthening your grant project. Knowing what you have lets you fill in gaps more strategically, whether that’s through partnerships, new funding, or reallocating internal assets. Dive into your network too; former colleagues, industry connections, and academic partners can offer insights, mentorship, or support that enriches your project.

Adding resources both in-kind and cash can add value to a federal or state grant application whether it is required or not required, and even if there is a required match adding more than the minimum percentage enhances the application. In many cases but not all, you will find that federal grant requirements will permit in kind matches directly connected to the proposed project. With this in mind, before starting an application, identify all possible stakeholders as well as others who will support and/or benefit from the grant. Prepare an outline of the grant benefits and then reach out to these partners. There should be some if not all seeing the added value of the proposed grant project and will add financial or in kind support.

Another strategic approach to take is to identify the organizations with expertise in the area(s) you're targeting. For example, if the goal is to engage young women of color in financial literacy, partnering with an organization that specializes in that area can lead to a longer-term relationship and provide resources on an ongoing basis. It can also better position you for collaborative funding opportunities.

Partnerships are like puzzle pieces; the right fit can complete the picture (and the wrong piece can derail momentum). Start by identifying potential partners who share your goals and have complementary resources. Reach out to them with a clear proposal of how a partnership could be mutually beneficial. Remember, it’s a two-way street; be prepared to offer value in return. Strong partnerships can amplify your project’s impact, extend its reach, and even open doors to additional funding sources. Regularly attend industry events, conferences, and workshops to meet potential partners. Maintain a portfolio of your work to share, making your organization more attractive to potential partners by showcasing your past successes and capabilities.

It's also important to understand the long- and short-term goals of your collaborators and partners. It allows for a shared vision, ensuring that efforts are directed towards common objectives. By comprehending each other's priorities, strengths, and limitations, you can optimize resource allocation and leverage partnerships effectively. This alignment fosters synergy, where collective efforts generate greater impact than individual endeavors.

One simple format: What are my goals? What resources do I have now towards reaching those goals? What resources do I need to acquire? Whom do I know who can help me access what I need? What are my priorities for getting resources I need? What is my timetable for getting resources?

In creating value, look to communicate what is important about your project to the community you are serving. Also look to communicate how the values, impact, and strategy of your project align with the funders mission and vision. Most importantly pay close attention to the grant language around the impact and change the funders want to see in your target community or topic, and look for ways that your project relates- both directly and indirectly. You may find creative ways to add value to your project that are impactful, with strategies such as considering stakeholders that can add value or insight to your project, shifting or expanding the scope, or further tweaking your approach to align with the grants goals and impact.

Your value proposition is your project’s elevator pitch—it’s what makes your project stand out. Clearly articulate how your project solves a problem, meets a need, or capitalizes on an opportunity in a way that no one else can. This clarity not only helps in securing partnerships and resources but also in convincing funders of your project’s worth. Be concise, be compelling, and make sure your value proposition resonates with your target audience’s values and priorities. Tailor your message for different audiences; what appeals to a community partner may differ from what resonates with a corporate funder. Practice delivering your value proposition in various formats—written, oral, and visual—to ensure you're prepared for any situation.

Don’t overlook the power of community engagement; local volunteers or in-kind donations can significantly bolster your resources. Lastly, always be on the lookout for new opportunities to learn and adapt—attend workshops, webinars, and conferences related to your project’s field. Continuous learning keeps your project innovative and competitive. Stay informed about trends and shifts in your project's field to adapt and keep your resources relevant. Foster a culture of openness within your organization where sharing resources and knowledge is encouraged, enhancing the collective strength and impact of your initiatives.