A couple of weeks ago, I watched an Instrumentl webinar with a guest from a foundation that offers invite-only grant funding.
I have been pursuing this foundation on behalf of a client for years- trying to find a way in.
Although I have sent a couple emails in the past, I sent another one to the email address provided during the webinar. I personalized the email, telling her that I enjoyed her webinar and mentioning a few points that resonated with me.
I continued by giving her some info about the organization and why I feel that we would be an excellent match for a partnership.
Here’s what happened next…
Sponsored Content
Take the FREE Grant Fix It Quiz
Are there gaps in your grant process that you struggle to fill? Instrumentl has developed a simple quiz for grant professionals designed to identify areas of improvement and deliver a customized action plan.
Two days later, I received a response expressing her gratitude for attending her webinar and her interest in the organization.
She suggested setting up a call to explore a partnership further.
Today, the Executive Director and I met with her on a call. It went exceptionally well, and it was recommended that we set up a second call to include a higher decision maker.
I am confident that we will be funded by this foundation in the near future.
What did I learn? Research the contact person and try to find a personal connection of some sort. Sandwich your ask between two positive observations.
For example, my ask was something like this, “I was thrilled to see you hosting an Instrumentl webinar today. The information you gave was insightful. I represent an organization that is interested in partnering with your foundation. We feel we align with your funding interests and would like to explore a collaboration. We notice the impact you have on our community, and we hope to be part of that soon. Please let me know next steps.”
I am going to continue to try this method, and hopefully it continues to work.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants
P.S. Are you new to Write Epic Grants? Don’t worry; all past emails are archived here. Head over there and don’t miss a thing.