Nonprofit Grant Prospecting Playbook (finding grants)

Understanding the intricacies of grant prospecting for nonprofits with a peek into the challenges and strategies surrounding the grant-seeking process. Featuring special guest Rachel Fidler Cannella from Instrumentl.com

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Rachel begins by providing insights into how Instrumentl's platform simplifies grant management. She highlights the platform's ability to consolidate various aspects of the grant process, from prospecting to tracking funders, which is particularly beneficial for small nonprofit teams where one person often wears many hats. "Instrumentl is an all-in-one grants platform management system," she explains, noting its efficiency and collaborative tools that help nonprofits manage their grant-seeking efforts more effectively. 

A big part of this informative discussion is the misconception that grant writing is a simple task. Rachel describes the need for a deliberate approach, saying how many organizations fail to consider whether they are truly a good fit for a grant before applying. She explains: “On average, 75% of grant writers spend 10 hours or more on a single application.” This statistic highlights the significant time investment required, making it essential for organizations to carefully evaluate each opportunity to ensure it is worth the effort. 

The conversation also touches on the latest changes in grant writing, with a focus on the integration of new technologies, including AI. Rachel discusses how AI tools, such as Instrumentl’s grant rating feature, are helping grant writers streamline their work, allowing them to reuse and adapt content more efficiently. This innovation, she suggests, could significantly reduce the time spent on each application, ultimately allowing organizations to apply for more grants without increasing their workload. 

Show host Julia Patrick, and Rachel, conclude with a chat about the critical role that grant writers play in the nonprofit sector. Despite the often isolating nature of the work, they are instrumental in securing the funds that keep nonprofit organizations operational. As Rachel aptly puts it, “Grant writers are the backbone of so many organizations,” a sentiment that resonates with anyone familiar with the demanding and vital role these professionals play.

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