Grantors are investors.
It is important that grantseekers remember this investment principle as a fundamental principle of grantseeking.
Social investors (i.e., grantors) are not generally interested in a financial return on investment (with some exception for social impact investment). Social investors ARE interested in a social ROI (return on investment). They want an account of what their funds accomplished, how they were used and what difference they made. Some key reminders as you approach a new year of grantseeking:
🗝 It's not about you. Few grantors are interested in helping you grow your business or strengthening your organizational infrastructure for the sake of your organization alone. You may have done great things and have great strategies for accomplishing your goals, but never lose sight of the difference made by your work.
🗝 You are part of the greater good, a part of a whole. Nonprofits do not operate in a vacuum or as a lone wolf. You may be the only provider of certain services, programs or work in your community, but you are not the only one doing good. Never lose sight of your place in the Circle of Good. Investors that give to others are contributing to the Greater Good; and, investors who invest in your work are also contributing to the Greater Good.
🗝 Know and share your impact. Know whom you serve, quantity (how many are served) and quality (how deeply they are served). Understand your achievement toward outcomes. And, know how to share your story with honesty and with passion. Find creative and impassioned ways to share your story of impact.
🗝 Your story is always an 'our' story. You cannot achieve without others. No CEO, Board or executive leadership accomplishes the work alone. All stories must acknowledge contributions of staff, leaders and supporters. Make sure your language of sharing depicts an accurate picture of 'we'.
Grants provide opportunities for those looking to invest to do so with integrity and intention. Seek grants? Certainly. But do so remembering that grantors are investors.
-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP
#getorganizedgetfunded #resourcedevelopment
