Beverly A. Browning

Creating and operating a nonprofit organization can be a gratifying and worthwhile endeavor. Success depends on developing a good idea that meets a real need, testing that idea, planning (and then planning some more), and inspiring others.Though the work is demanding, it’s also deeply rewarding. Here, we include helpful information to help you raise money when you’re just starting out and apply for e-grants.

Whether you wind up helping as a volunteer, joining a staff, or serving on a board, you connect with a nonprofit organization because, first and foremost, you believe in the work it’s doing.At some point, you realize that the fundraiser’s role is right at the heart of the organization. Without funding, the organization wouldn’t be able to do any of the good work that got you hooked in the first place.

The backbone of your fundraising campaign is a strong case statement. A case statement outlines what need your agency addresses, how you address it, what makes your organization unique, and how others can help, whether through time or money.Here are some tips to keep in mind as you write your first draft: Make it clear.

As if a fundraiser’s job weren’t hard enough, sometimes the economy takes a tumble, causing contributions to your organization to slow down. You may need to revamp your fundraising message to make it clear that demands on your program are up, but donations are down. It’s also a good idea to take a look at your budget to see what you can live without until funding picks up again.

Building your grant seeking and grant writing skills is the best way to secure funding for your organization. The keys to finding grant funding opportunities and writing award-winning grant proposals are knowing where to find opportunities and understanding what funders want to read.In terms of your professional development as a grant writer, it also helps to know how to document your productivity and impact.