Applying for foundation funding can sometimes be an overwhelming endeavor. One foundation in New York City funds only 2,000 of the 44,000 applications that it receives annually – less than 5 percent! Fortunately, local not-for-profits have a better chance of securing a grant from the Community Foundation as we typically fund approximately 50% of applications received. Given that, what are some factors to consider in presenting an application that stands the best chance of being funded?
Our mission is to improve quality of life in our community. So, the first step is to articulate how well your application fosters the overarching goals of community impact, community building and diversity. Among other criteria, your application will be strongest if it demonstrates that the project:
- Addresses a vital community need and shows shared community support for the proposed approach
- Will result in significant, sustainable impact and measurable outcomes
- Will foster diverse civic participation and inclusion
- Will promote mutual trust and reciprocity among stakeholders
- Has long-term viability and additional funding sources
What else would help the application? It is useful to think about Aristotle’s philosophy on the means of persuasion to frame a proposal idea. In order to successfully appeal, your idea must incorporate three elements - - Ethos, Logos and Pathos. What does this mean in the context of a grant application?
1. Ethos
(credibility)
- You have done your homework - your project clearly identifies a need, presents a systematic plan to address the need and shows that the pieces required for implementation are aligned.
- You are the right organization to do the work, have taken the larger community context into account and are aware of how your project fits in.
2. Logos (reasoning)
- The proposal has realistic objectives and demonstrable impact. In your planning, show that you are thinking in the long-term.
- Your writing is concise and logical. You articulate the funding need and why it is essential to your project goals.
3. Pathos (passion)
- Your writing communicates enthusiasm for your work and the community gains to be realized.
- You want to give the sense that the Community Foundation would be missing an opportunity to be part of something great if we did not get on board with your project
We strongly encourage applicants to contact us to discuss their proposal ideas before submitting an application. Please feel comfortable calling our grantmaking department at 422-9538 to discuss your proposal before submission.