We would like to think that corporations and foundations give because they are overflowing with altruism and good intentions. However, corporations and foundations run their business first and give money second. Pure philanthropy is rare.
Funders have developed their corporate giving and/or foundations for a reason. They have goals that they want to achieve. If your organization can help them achieve their goals, you have a shot.
Most corporations and foundations like to see requests for projects and programs, not endowments or general operating support. They like to see the beginning and end of things and will often ask for progress reports.
Funders also like to have some room for flexibility. They want to be involved, but not tied-down by a funding opportunity. It takes too much time and too many resources to manage a long-term funding relationship. If they need to change direction in response to something like a recession, they want to know they can get out and not be the single reason for your program’s downfall.
Authentic philanthropy does exist and foundations and corporations generally are motivated by the fact that they can make a difference and see the business benefits of their transaction.
Don’t underestimate the power of people to see the good work you do. Still, your project must be aligned with the foundation’s or corporation’s goals or you simply will not even be considered. Ever heard “I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine”?
~Cheers!
Friday: Making a Good Match
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