|
Fundraising
Integrating Communications Into Grants
The art of effective grant writing is a widely
covered topic in the volumes of books and manuals on
non-profit fundraising. However, what is often
missing from the literature is guidance on building
strategic communications into the grant request.
Appropriations for communications
should not be an after-thought when writing program requests.
According to program officers, the best way to increase
funding of a communications plan is to integrate
communications into planning at the outset of the
program design.
Tools for Getting Started
The W. K. Kellogg
Foundation has encouraged its grant recipients to use
"logic models" in designing program strategies. The logic
model approach encourages users to connect inputs to
outputs and outcomes based on assumptions and resources.
This
online tool can help make the diagrams come to life
for your organization.
Another resource that can
help non-profits make the link and determine the best
strategies is the Smart Chart created by Spitfire
Strategies with funding support from the David and
Lucile Packard Foundation.
Once a plan is developed
using a process that answers a series of critical
planning questions, the funding request will be
stronger.
Questions often asked
about the role of communications in advancing programs:
-
Who is your target
audience?
-
What research and
information do you have about their attitudes regarding your
issue and/or work?
-
What assets does your
organization have to reach this audience?
-
What expertise does
your agency have to execute the plan?
-
What are the indicators
of success that will assist in mid-course corrections
and planning?
I'd
like to ...
>>
Provide Feedback on this article
>>
Learn more about The Communications Network
|
