How long do you think it should take a funder to decide whether or not to support your #nonprofit?

Many #nonprofits say it typically takes 2 years for a relationship to mature and formalise.

?? Now, is this fair?

The jury is out on this. I can see both sides.

??Is it fair to expect #nonprofits to spend a large part of precious limited resources, knocking on doors and only finding out at the very last minute if they can continue to work on their mission? Probably not.

??I've seen #nonprofits pour their effort into proposal writing, campaigns ??, sharing their best ideas in RFPs ??, without getting any simple feedback to learn from in return!

??On the other hand you could say, that's the cost of doing work and all organisations need to "earn their work". I respect that #philanthropists and #foundations have worked hard to earn philanthropic money and want to use it wisely.

??With so many problems to solve, an overwhelming number of applications, it can be a tall ask to give feedback to everyone.

??And funders have the right to prioritise activities closest to their hearts.

? So, is spending all this time writing and reviewing proposals worth it? Does it lead to better decisions, more transformation of lives, more impact, more satisfaction for philanthropists and social workers?

?? Or is there a better way?

Trust for example plays an important role in these decisions and yet we haven't quite built a formal trust building process.

??Be brave! And share what you think on this in the comments below.

#nonprofitleadership #nonprofitmanagement #philanthropy #charity #socialimpact #nonprofits #impactmentor