A few days ago I read a post about a small non-profit community organization looking for advice on how to get funding. Starting a nonprofit is difficult, and figuring out where to find the money to run it can be challenging. New charities rarely have the ability to show that they have the place to become a sustainable organization rather than just being a fly in the night.
If you have a new nonprofit, you know you have a lot of research to do.
Finding money is not impossible. You have to be ready to turn every stone and look at every opportunity. Before you begin, one of the best things you can do for your organization is to get a group of experienced experts and advisors associated with your nonprofit. This will be particularly helpful with corporate and foundation grant applications because it will show you have the brains to help your organization become an essential part of your community. Doing intensive research is another critical element in making sure your nonprofit becomes a sustainable and vital part of the conversation about your cause.
If your nonprofit is very new and still in formation (e.g., you don’t have an IRS 501(c)(3)) and you’re looking to start fundraising, one thing you might consider finding a fiscal sponsor . Partnering with a fiscal sponsor will allow you to apply for and obtain funding for your nonprofit, even as you work to obtain the necessary documents to be fully operational. When you work with a fiscal sponsor, funds will be accepted using the fiscal sponsor, who will charge you a small administrative fee and provide you with the money you need for your operation.
- Corporate Giving Startup Programs
Corporate financing is a great place to look for start-up funding, especially since corporations are familiar with investing in research and development. Double the Donation has an excellent resource for corporations that help fund nonprofits and charities.
- Federal Programs
The federal government provides grants to community organizations and can provide substantial funding, although the process can be somewhat lengthy and cumbersome. To find federal grants that can help you, visit Grants.gov.
- GrantWatch
Another great tool for research is GrantWatch. GrantWatch is a great site to find federal, state, and corporate grant opportunities that may be significant, depending on your mission and award criteria.
- spark plug foundation
Sparkplug Foundation is a family-owned foundation that helps start-up groups involved in music, community organizing, and education. The grants the organization provides are generally those that are significant enough to make a non-profit organization sustainable.
- Center of Excellence for Non-Profit Organizations (CNE)
CNE secures three grant opportunities each week and provides its members with a diverse selection of grant prospects. The group also provided information to nonprofit organizations that are new to foundation grants or looking to diversify and grow their grant program.
When you’re looking for money to start a business, many groups will suggest that you reach out to your network of friends, family, and community to raise funds. While reaching out to those who know you is the best place to start, the most important funding for your organization may come from government and corporations. Also, remember that the Foundation Center has many opportunities for corporate and foundation grants.
One last tip is to Google “nonprofit business grants” or a variation. Make it a point to look for start-up grants. There are more of them available to your organization than you might imagine.
