To apply -- or not to apply -- for a grant
by Kate Tewanger, senior consultant, Hedges
Leaders in the nonprofit sector often feel like they are on an endless search to find new grant opportunities to support their work and diversify the funders in their portfolios. When new opportunities become available or the opportunity to approach a new funder presents itself, it can be tempting to make program modifications to align with a funder’s priorities — particularly for ones that offer a significant financial investment in your work.
Nonprofits may consider expanding their geographic focus, changing who they serve, or adjusting how programs are delivered to align with a new funding opportunity. Modifying program delivery in pursuit of a potential revenue stream may seem reasonable. However, if your organization doesn’t have the capacity to make the changes and they aren’t part of your strategic plan or vision, this approach can lead to negative consequences, including the following: