A mission statement is arguably the most important part of a nonprofit. It communicates the organization’s purpose and values and inspires support and community engagement. The mission should guide all activities and keep the train on the tracks.
So, what happens when the mission statement is ineffective and/or poorly written? A mission statement is typically the first piece of information grantmakers ask for and can make or break grant funding.
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Having the “mission conversation” can be delicate and challenging. Most organizations spend much time on their mission statement, but that doesn’t mean they get it right.
A true mission statement consists of the following:
- Purpose– Why does the organization exist?
- Business– What are they in business to do?
- Values– What core beliefs guide their activities?
The statement should be 1-3 sentences, inspire support, be clear and concise, and use active language.
It should not be a list of programs or specific goals. The mission statement should be an overarching statement that can stand the test of time.
Grant funders look for these elements and read to ensure their funding goals align with the mission. The mission statement is the first qualifier/disqualifier.
As grant writers, if we feel that a mission statement isn’t as effective as it could be, we should have the conversation with our Executive Director. When I have done this in the past, I framed it in terms of winning more grants. When we structure our philosophies and programs in a way that makes sense to funders, we gain more resources to effect the change we strive to create.
Here are a few examples of powerful, grant funder approved mission statements:
- “We strive to strengthen and instill pride in family and community through the development of programs and services that cultivate self-development, teach self-discipline, build confidence, and promote cultural awareness, health, and one’s highest human potential.” (This organization recently won a $2M MacKenzie Scott grant)
- “Our mission is to enhance the social and economic development of disadvantaged groups through community empowerment.” (This organization is decades old and has overwhelming community grant support.)
- “We are dedicated to help people help themselves. We seek to restore the dignity and quality of life for people affected by conflict by eliminating barriers to success through innovative education, entrepreneurial development, and community-driven aid. Guided by the aspirations of the people we serve, we pursue this mission with compassion, transparency, and generosity.” (The organization is 10 years old and receives millions in grant funding.)
Don’t be afraid to discuss the mission statement if you feel that revising it will bring additional grant funding.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants
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