Building strong relationships with grantmakers is essential for nonprofit success. While securing funding is a primary goal, fostering genuine partnerships with grant funders can lead to long-term support, collaboration, and shared impact. Grantmakers are more than financial backers—they are mission-aligned partners who invest in organizations that reflect their values and priorities.
If you’re looking to strengthen your connections with funders, here are six key strategies to consider:
1. Do Your Homework
Before reaching out to a grantmaker, take the time to thoroughly research their mission, funding priorities, and past grant recipients. Review their website, annual reports, and 990 tax forms to understand their giving patterns. Tailor your approach to demonstrate alignment between your organization’s work and the grantmaker’s interests.
2. Engage Beyond the Application
Successful relationships with funders don’t begin and end with a grant application. Attend funder-hosted webinars, networking events, and panel discussions. Engage with them on social media, comment on their posts, and share relevant updates that showcase your organization’s impact. Establishing a connection before submitting a proposal increases your credibility and recognition.
3. Make the First Interaction About Relationship-Building, Not Just Funding
When you initiate contact with a funder, resist the urge to immediately ask for money. Instead, introduce your organization, share your mission, and express your interest in learning more about their funding priorities. Ask insightful questions about their grantmaking philosophy and areas of interest. This approach fosters a more authentic and collaborative relationship.
4. Communicate Transparently and Consistently
Grantmakers appreciate clear and honest communication. If you receive a grant, provide timely updates on progress, challenges, and impact. Even if you don’t receive funding, maintain the relationship by sharing occasional updates about your work and demonstrating how your organization continues to grow. Regular communication helps funders see your nonprofit as a trusted, long-term partner.
5. Showcase Your Impact and Alignment
Funders want to support organizations that make measurable change. Be prepared to share compelling stories, data-driven impact reports, and testimonials that demonstrate how your work aligns with their mission. If possible, invite funders to site visits, program events, or meetings with beneficiaries to help them experience your impact firsthand.
6. Express Gratitude and Keep the Door Open
A simple, heartfelt thank-you note—whether for funding, a meeting, or valuable feedback—goes a long way in relationship-building. If your organization is not selected for funding, express appreciation for the opportunity and inquire about ways to strengthen your proposal for future opportunities. Many funders appreciate persistence, especially when coupled with demonstrated growth and mission alignment.
Final Thoughts
Building relationships with grantmakers is not just about securing funding—it’s about cultivating partnerships that can amplify your mission. By engaging proactively, communicating transparently, and demonstrating impact, you position your nonprofit as a credible, mission-driven organization worthy of long-term investment.
Have you built strong relationships with funders? Share your experiences and tips in the comments!