smARTstart

Some Basics

Think of grant development as a more formalized fundraising process. You are still making an ask, but most often the contributor will tell you how and for what to ask.

Grants can come from giving foundations, corporations with giving programs (or sometimes called community relations departments), and government entities. Giving foundations range from small family foundations with very little guidance and possibly no interest in unsolicited proposals to community trusts that consolidate and distribute resources.

The field for grants is competitive and always adapting to the environment. Some foundations change their areas of focus every few years, or sometimes when there’s a turnover of executive staff. You need to keep current on grant guidelines – what might have excluded you last year may not pertain this year.

Restricted/Program Grants vs. Unrestricted/General Operating Grants

Grants you receive will fall into one of these two categories. Be sure you understand which you are requesting or have received.

• Restricted: program grants typically require you to fulfill any objectives or goals you have described in your proposal within a certain time frame.
• Unrestricted: general operating grants are typically provided to sustain your organization’s work without requirements to fulfill specific program goals.

Carefully read all grant guidelines and requirements before applying and after receiving support.