Introduction to Grants Research
With more than 30,000 nonprofits in Massachusetts, demand for funding is high.
How can your organization stand out? The first step is to do your homework. Identifying funders whose priorities align with your mission and programs is essential to a successful proposal. Because many foundations do not maintain a public website, Google alone is not an effective research tool. Knowing where to find reliable, up-to-date information is key.
This introductory session is designed for grant seekers who are new to the process or who want to refresh their skills. Participants will receive a brief tutorial in the Foundation Directory Pro and gain an understanding of the full grants research process—from the first search to the initial approach. Topics include:
Key resources for identifying potential funders
How to locate Requests for Proposals (RFPs)
Tips for effective research and evaluation
Finding contributors to peer organizations
Assessing whether your organization is “grant-ready”
Best practices for making first contact with a foundation
- Phyllis Corkum, Summer Fund Program and Development Manager, Philanthropy Massachusetts