Scroll through any social media channel to see celebrities endorsing businesses and products. My IG feed is an endless stream of Dua Lipa basking in perfume by Yves Saint Laurent and Kevin Durant posing in his fresh new Nike gear. Why do advertisers invest so much money in celebrity endorsements?
Because it works.
No one wants to be the first person to try something new. When consumers see people they value and respect using certain products, they assume those products must be the best.
Grant funders are similar.
They have a finite amount of grant funding dollars, and they want to be certain that they award them to trustworthy organizations that will have a strong impact. One way to convince them you are worthy of their funding is to show them other funders who are convinced you are worthy.
Grant Writing Tip of the Day
Tailor each grant application to the specific funders’ areas of interest.
Some grant applications will include a question about other funders. They want to make sure they aren’t the first, and they aren’t the only. Even if the application doesn’t ask the question, mention your other notable funders in the proposal.
I write grants for a new organization that provides marginalized students with sports opportunities. Six months ago, we were awarded a significant national grant from a well-known clothing brand. The minute I received the funding email, I began mentioning the grant in every proposal.
Just like magic, we noticed an increase in grant awards. One new funder even mentioned being impressed that we were awarded the national grant.
An organization’s history of grant achievement is a testament to their dedication and impact within their community. Leverage it and watch it pave the way to new opportunities and successes.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants