Sustainability Questions Are Offensive
Do you agree?
I recently read an article that mentioned how offensive the sustainability question was to potential grantees on grant applications. The author gave examples of different ways grant writers could respond to funders that ask about their efforts to create sustainable funding.
The premise was:
• Funders have a job; that job is to give money to non-profits.
• Funding is difficult to obtain, never mind sustain.
• Applicants need funds and writing grants takes a lot of time.
The sustainability question is a distraction and waste of time.
• The economy will turn around and funding will be back to old levels; this funding request will help bridge the grantee until that time.
In other words; your job is to fund, and my job is to ask for funding.
WHAT IF SUSTAINABILITY IS AN ACHIEVABLE CONCEPT
Look at funding through a funders eyes; funding is an investment. Funders have a mission and guidelines for fund disbursement, just as non-profits allocate funds to support and execute their mission.
Imagine a scenario where a non-profit serves the homeless community with a specific goal to help the homeless obtain housing first and a job second. Would it be reasonable for an out of work mortgage broker to utilize the non-profit's employment program because they need a job? Or, would their use of the program divert funds from the non-profits target population; mission work?
Well-matched partnerships that fund shared priority areas and initiatives build strong long-term relationships that serve each and the communities both serve.
SUSTAINABILITY IS REAL, EXPECTED AND NECESSARY
Sustainability is possible; you must diversify your income opportunities and put consistent effort into developing each.
Donors and funders expect transparency, strong business practices, and income diversification. Sustainable funding expectations are not a trend that will go away.
Most organizations just need some direction on how to succeed within the new funding landscape.
Begin by asking a few questions, does your organization:
• Onboard properly?
• Make contacts specific and targeted for the recipient NOT the organization?
• Cultivate interest and relationships?
• Thank those who support your organization?
Focus your efforts year-round on these issues to create sustainability.
Consultants are a cost effective tool to utilize while an organization reassesses and adjusts its strategy. Contact us today; we work off of a menu to create sustainable funding for your organization. We believe in coaching current employees to execute these efforts.