I recently visited a conservation center primarily funded by Exxon.
It made me think about a question grant professionals don’t always discuss openly: What should we do when a funding opportunity conflicts with an organization’s values? Could certain money put its reputation at risk?
I’ve seen organizations answer that question differently. One client, an animal-rights organization, was awarded a grant from a fast-food restaurant and chose to decline it because of the maltreatment of animals.
A wildlife refuge client is concerned that a corporation might use its name or partnership to suggest environmental leadership without making meaningful changes to its practices. (Greenwashing)
There is no universal answer. A funder that feels acceptable to one organization may be completely inappropriate for another.
The grant professional’s job is not to impose a personal verdict. It is to help the organization make an informed decision and then respect it.
Before pursuing or accepting a contentious grant, encourage leadership to ask:
- Does the funder’s source of support align with our mission and values?
- Could accepting the money undermine trust with the community, members, staff, or donors?
- What recognition, publicity, data, or access does the funder expect?
- Can we set clear limits on how our name, logo, and work may be represented?
- Could the relationship be framed as an endorsement we do not intend to give?
- Who needs to be involved in making this decision? Board, staff, community members, or legal counsel?
Be especially attentive to the difference between receiving funds and endorsing a funder. If an organization proceeds, written terms may need to address publicity, logo use, site visits, claims about impact, and any right to review public statements.
As grant professionals, we can surface the questions, explain the funding terms, and make space for a values-based conversation. The decision belongs to the organization’s leadership and community.
Not every available dollar is a suitable dollar. A grant strategy should reflect not only what an organization needs, but also what it is willing to stand beside.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants