I wish I could say that my writing
skills guarantee a win for each grant proposal submitted. I wish I could, but I
can’t.
Grant writing and baseball have a lot in common. Much like the sport, the competitive grant process requires
a strong line up, a solid organization, practice and inherent optimism
regarding the next time at bat. Plus, it's impossible to hit line drives or home runs on
100% of the pitches.
“We regret to inform you …” is never easy to
read or hear, especially when it comes to fundraising. While rejection may sting at first, it’s important to keep your eye on
the long-term strategy ball.
We’re all aware of the relationship building that needs to take place on the front-end of corporate and foundation grant proposals. But too often we figuratively write off a funder when a proposal is denied. This is a mistake and a missed opportunity.
Think of it this way. The proposal
itself was a chance to demonstrate the value of your organization or client’s
programming. What you do when it’s denied is a way to demonstrate
professionalism.
If your next funding request doesn’t
garner financial success, make it a point to contact the foundation/corporation.
Especially if the request was part of a local or regional selection process,
reach out to the executive director or program manager to gain insight
regarding their decision. Find out why
other proposals were approved. Did it have to do with funding priorities, or
with the grant content? How could your proposal be improved?
Gaining feedback strengthens your
relationship with the potential philanthropist. What you hear may help refine the
program or your budget. It also sends a
strong signal that the organization you represent is committed to its work.
This, in turn, can lead to positive outcomes for future funding.
Winning support in the competitive
funding market is a cause for celebration; but rejection doesn’t represent
failure. Hopefully your next go-around will result in a hit right out of the
ballpark!
