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Funding 101: How has the economic crisis affected Lehigh Valley Non-profits?
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With over a decade of non-profit development experience, I must admit I have seen few changes in funding over the years – until now. Sure, there are common trends in fundraising. What we call “themed giving” occurs when a particular subject floods the media, sparking additional funding for projects and programs related to that subject. For instance, an orphanage in another country is demolished by an earthquake; photos and stories of orphaned children flood the media. It won’t be long before children’s charities start receiving a higher volume of donations. When the Catholic Church received negative media attention, there was a dramatic drop in giving and funding for Catholic charities worldwide.
So how does the economy play a role? A neighborhood center here in the Lehigh Valley can tell you. Hewlitt-Packard, who on average, issued grants of $50,000.00, sent them a response to their grant proposal stating they [have re-directed funding to a higher priority within the company and will not be awarding grants until further notice]. Other grant-makers and local corporations have reported that due to the economic crisis, both the amount and number of their donations has decreased in the past twelve months. To add to the problem, struggling individuals are also cutting back on charitable giving. When J-Lab: The Institute for Interactive Journalism, announced the awards for their McCormick New Media Women Entrepreneurs grant of $10,000.00 each, they were surprised by the 129% increase in the number of proposals received.
An increasing number of organizations in need of a reduced amount of funding? What’s a charity to do?
1. Try to appeal to smaller local businesses for yes, smaller, but more numerous donations. You can do this by offering free promotion, exchanging website links, selling ads in your newsletter, co-sponsoring a community event or even establishing a scholarship/sponsorship program. If they don’t offer a tax-deductible grant for your project – ask “why not?” – and be prepared to give them reasons why they should!
2. Partner with another local charity experiencing the same challenges. Not only can you swap ideas, you can barter marketing and services or share expenses, such as bulk-runs on printing.
3. Make your grant proposals and gift appeals work for you, whether written or in person. Design is key and worth the expense of a professional. Again, barter when possible to trim costs or invest in a tax-deductible course if you have time to DIY.
Persistence, Patience and Positivity are free and effective, no matter what your mission.
For more info:
Unique Fundraising Online: http://www.firstgiving.com/
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