🟠 Grant Funding is Highly Competitive – With thousands of nonprofits applying for the same funding, a well-researched and expertly written proposal is essential to stand out.
🟠 It Takes Time to Secure a First Grant – Many nonprofits wait over two years for their first award, often due to lack of strategic planning or expertise in funder alignment.
🟠 Most Nonprofits Operate with Limited Budgets – The majority have annual budgets under $500,000, making it difficult to justify hiring a full-time grant writer. A consultant provides expertise without the overhead costs.
🟠 Grant Writing is More Than Just Filling Out Forms – A successful grant proposal requires in-depth research, compelling storytelling, funder alignment, and measurable impact data. This is not a side-gig.
🟠 Billions in Corporate & Foundation Giving Go Unclaimed – Many organizations lack the time or expertise to identify and build relationships with funders, leaving valuable funding on the table.
🟠 DIY Grant Writing Costs More in the Long Run – Organizations with experienced grant professionals secure significantly more funding than those attempting to manage the process in-house.
🟠 Federal & Private Grants Have Increasingly Complex Requirements – Funders expect detailed impact reports, sustainability plans, and measurable outcomes, making expert guidance crucial for success.
🟠 Winning a Grant is Just the Beginning – Many nonprofits struggle with post-award compliance, reporting, and funder relations, which can impact their ability to secure future funding.
🟠 Family Foundations Give Over $100 Billion Annually – Private and family foundations distribute billions in grants each year, making them a major source of nonprofit funding. Unlike government grants, foundation giving is often more flexible and relationship-driven.
🟠 Many Family Foundations Do Not Accept Unsolicited Proposals – Over 60% of family foundations fund nonprofits by invitation only. This makes research and strategic outreach critical to securing funding. A well-connected grant expert can identify potential funders and develop tailored engagement strategies.
🟠 Smaller, Local Foundations Often Provide Easier Access to Funding – While large national foundations get thousands of applications, many small, community-based family foundations have less competition and fund nonprofits closely aligned with their values. Finding these funders requires targeted research and a personalized approach.
🟠 Grant Amounts Vary Widely, From $5,000 to Multi-Year Commitments – Some family foundations provide one-time project-based grants, while others offer renewable, multi-year funding. Understanding a foundation’s giving patterns and funding priorities increases the likelihood of securing the right grants for long-term sustainability.
🟠 Building Relationships Is Just as Important as the Proposal – Family foundations often prioritize personal connections with grantees. A well-crafted introduction, strong networking, and clear alignment with their mission can open the door to funding opportunities that may not be publicly advertised.