Attracting the Right Funders: From Chasing Grants to Leading with Strategy
What if your organization didn’t have to reshape itself for every new funding opportunity?
What if funders came to you—aligned with your strategy, values, and approach?
It’s not just a dream. Some nonprofits have successfully positioned themselves so funders adjust to them, not the other way around. Here’s how.
🧭 Step 1: Get Clear on Impact—and Prove It
Funders want results. But showing up with passion isn’t enough. You need proof that your model works.
Ask yourself:
- What change are we driving?
- What’s the evidence behind our approach?
- How are we learning and improving?
When your impact story is grounded in evidence, you’re no longer just requesting funds—you’re inviting investment in a proven solution.
💸 Step 2: Fundraise for Your Strategy, Not Just Programs
Too many organizations fall into the trap of grant-by-grant survival. But there’s power in asking funders to support your full strategy, not just a project.
How?
- Build a single strategic plan and budget.
- Invite funders to contribute to your overall mission.
- Cultivate trust so they give you flexibility, not just restrictions.
This approach boosts agility, ownership, and long-term resilience.
🗣️ Step 3: Change the Conversation
Rigid reporting and project funding often come at a cost. One smart prompt to shift the mindset:
“Would you rather we write reports—or deliver more impact?”
Framing the trade-offs helps funders understand the true cost of micromanagement and short-term funding cycles.
🚀 Step 4: Shift from Outbound to Inbound Fundraising
Want to spend less time chasing RFPs and more time delivering impact? You’ll need to become findable and trusted:
- Share your work widely through blogs, panels, media.
- Cultivate champions who advocate for you behind closed doors.
- Become known for doing what you do—exceptionally well.
👣 Ready to try a new approach?
Review your fundraising strategy. What’s one way you can reframe your next funder conversation—from pitching a project to inviting them into your long-term vision?
