Turn Insights Into Action – Connect with Funders
Ready to take the next step in your grant search? Now that you've had some time to search for prospects and started building your prospect list, use these three steps to convert prospects to funders.
Tip 1: Start with Who's Who
Review the list of staff and affiliations within your chosen grantmaker profiles by navigating to the Who's Who section of the grantmaker profile.
Tip 2: Leverage FDO to connect with funders
See who you’re connected to at the foundation with FDO’s LinkedIn integration. The LinkedIn icon will appear next to staff you are connected to—click on the LinkedIn icon to open their profile from FDO (functionality accessible in Professional only). To see your connections to grantmakers make sure you’re also signed in to LinkedIn.
Tip 3: Reach out to prospects
Look beyond searching for open RFPs and connect with funders who fit your work and mission. Understand funders’ priorities and start cultivating partnerships. Introductions are one of the most effective ways to open the door with a new funder.
Have you tried these top tips on how to approach funders? Take the next step and reach out to funders that match your organization’s mission and program. You can also apply these best practices and view this sample outreach letter from our development expert.