How To Communicate With Foundations?

How to Communicate with Foundations

During your grant search, you’ve likely come across numerous foundations with missions that align with your organization.  They offer grant funding, but they do not accept unsolicited grant applications.  What does this mean?

You’ve probably noticed that a lot of grantmaking foundations are not exactly forthcoming with information on how to apply for a grant.  While it may feel like you are being stonewalled, there is a high chance that if you initiate communication they will accept your application.  But first, you need to find out if they are open to funding new grantees.  Here’s how:

Look at which organizations the foundation has funded over the past three to five years.  If there is a variety in their grantee list, that means your organization has a shot at getting invited to submit a grant application. Variety means that the foundation is open to funding new recipients.  On the other hand, if the list is repetitive and they have only funded a handful of the same organizations year after year, that indicates that they already know where their funding is going, it is not likely to change, and your efforts are best allocated elsewhere.

For organizations that do have variety in their grantee list, check and see if they specifically ask for an introductory letter or letter of inquiry.  In this letter, introduce your organization and explain how your goals are in alignment, and request to apply for their next funding cycle. If they do not specifically ask for a letter of inquiry or a letter of introduction, the next step is to call or email their program officers directly.  Introduce yourself and your organization very briefly, and ask what the steps are to submit a grant application.  Do not worry about bothering them; communicating with potential grantees and forwarding the mission of the foundation is their job. 

Another benefit to communicating directly with program officers is that when your application arrives, they recognize you and your organization.  Every bit of familiarity goes a long way when it comes to sorting through a pile of grant applications.  This is why it is a good investment of time and effort to attend events, conferences, and other opportunities for face-to-face time with potential donors.