Grant Writing in Uncertainty -- Planning for Success through Crisis

By now most of us have settled into the initial shock of the COVID-19 virus; we stayed up late nights trying to turn our programming on a dime as schools, libraries, and restaurants around us closed. What to do if you can no longer provide services? Some were able to transition into online and virtual support some closed their doors to after school program, but opened their kitchen to grab-and-go meal services, some canceled volunteer programs, and some utilized volunteers for a community organization providing meals on wheels! Congrats, you did it!

But we are facing a second wave of concern: How will we have to expand our services after this time of social isolation is over? Financial and food security, under and unemployment, and instances of domestic, sexual, and financial abuse are likely to increase over the next few weeks particularly among vulnerable populations. If you support development in your organization, you will have to prepare for the unknown in addition to addressing all the changes occurring day to day. Here’s how to move forward with strength in a time of uncertainty.

Contact your existing funders.

Reach out to the foundations and sponsors with which you have open agreements. Let them know how you have changed your services in the wake of the crisis, how you are taking measures to ensure the health of your participants and your employees, and how you expect this will impact your normal programming. If they funded a specific project or program, provide updates on what you’ve accomplished so far and how you think your objectives or timeline will change. If you are offering an alternate service (i.e. you’ve switched from out-of-school care to grab-and-go meal service, or you’ve utilized your volunteers to perform tutoring via video conference) let them know and provide updated objectives to the best of your ability. There is an off chance your funder may choose not to continue funding, but honesty up front is always the best policy.

Update your funding strategy.

Every grant writer I know is in fundraising overdrive. We are all trying to support our clients, participants, and employees during the crisis. Foundations, giving circles, local philanthropists are all pitching together, crowdsourcing to support those in need have popped up among artists, service workers, and those with chronic illness. As we work to support each other, resources will become competitive and scarce. Focus instead on strategic partnerships and fundraising now, and begin planning for the significant need for funding after the crisis has passed. Lean on your community: ask restaurants providing carry-out services if they have extra food and produce they’d be willing to donate or sell at cost for your local soup kitchen. Ask mom and pop boutiques if they have soaps and lotions they can contribute. Work within your community to support businesses that may otherwise flounder.

Then turn your eyes to the future: in three months, where will you see an influx of need for services? Workforce development, food security, preventative health care, tutoring and out-of-school programs for students who have missed months of school. Create a strategic plan to meet these needs.

Fine-tune your approach.

Who around you has canceled their annual fundraising? Who has postponed, or changed platforms, or instead began a virtual campaign? Take a step back from the panic of making payroll and begin crafting a strong and unique approach that will stand out in a crowd. Be mindful of the likely pending compassion fatigue, the overload of applicants to emergency funding, and desperate last-minute pleas. Can you partner with other nonprofits to double the impact and increase your chances? Instead of turning to crowdsourcing, explore opportunities for focused corporate sponsors. Seek out opportunities for in-kind donations that support your revised fundraising strategy, find new ways your volunteers can support your work.

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It is hard not to panic with so many unknowns. For those serving the public it is heart wrenching to watch your participants, peers, and neighbors struggle. By working through trying times with focus and determination you can pacify your unease and move forward with purpose.

Good luck to everyone, and wash your hands!