Does anybody know of materials that will help me with writing funding applications.

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I've been writing funding bids (filling in the answers to questions posed by a potential funder) for twenty years. Times are really tough now, though, and I need to keep my charity/nonprofit going. I need to improve my copy/writing skills in this area. A lot of the 'salesy' copy isn't appropriate. Does anybody know of programmes or anything that will help me make my answers sound more compelling and exciting and fundable.

Thanks all.
#copywriting #applications #funding #materials #writing
  • There are companies that help non-profits market themselves as well as providing a wide array of professional tools to hep you raise money through various types of fundraising, as well as grant writing resources.

    A quick Google search will bring them up.
    • [1] reply
    • Great. Thanks Opted. I'll have a look. It very much depends on the cost which is why I am hoping to do some self study too.
  • The fact you are still fielding questions shows interest. Why are times tough now? What has changed? The old adage; "go to the well that gives you water" is a staple of fundraising for non profits.

    Bigger ones have development people. Sounds like you are doing it all for a small organization? Is this correct?

    A good first book is by Jeffrey Lant, DEVELOPMENT TODAY. Also Eric Hanberg's THE LITTLE BOOK OF GOLD. Both good and cheap resources.

    Lant also has a decent copywriting book you might want to check out.

    But basically, you do the same with donors as you do with customers, TARGET who they are. What is the basic avatar, or person who has supported you in the past, what can you do to reach out to old donors who may still be viable to you?

    Do you have any continuity programs, some form of endowments, or could you tap into an estate or foundation for support?

    The main issue is the WHY? Why has it changed? Has your topic fallen out of mainstream grace or attention? Many have.

    Good luck.

    GordonJ

    PS Check out the Association of Fundraising professionals too. afpnet.org
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    Does anybody know of materials that will help me with writing funding applications.

    I've been writing funding bids (filling in the answers to questions posed by a potential funder) for twenty years. Times are really tough now, though, and I need to keep my charity/nonprofit going. I need to improve my copy/writing skills in this area. A lot of the 'salesy' copy isn't appropriate. Does anybody know of programmes or anything that will help me make my answers sound more compelling and exciting and fundable. Thanks all.