Below is a snapshot of what often takes place in front of and behind the grant scene. We understand it can be hard to know what grantmakers want. So here are some FAQs.
Q. I'm a writer, and a friend asked me to help him write a grant for his organization. Does Doing Good Better offer grant writing seminars?
A. We do offer workshops under our Introductory Level Service | Guidance for Start-ups. However, grant writing is neither the first step nor a way to kick off your organization. Grant writing includes highly specialized technical writing, research, experience, and a clear concept. Therefore, we do not teach grant writing in a seminar.
Q. I'm in the process of starting a nonprofit corporation. Should I look for a grant first?
A. The first item you need to have in hand is your tax exemption letter from the IRS. While there are a few exceptions, most grants require a 501(c)(3) letter. The IRS may take up to 6 months. Because funders want to see that your organization can carry out programs, the area to focus on first is your tangible ability to make a difference. The ongoing funding comes second.
Q. Do you work on a contingency basis?
A. We do not work on a contingency or percentage basis. Usually, the fees to prepare a grant may not be paid from the money granted. Therefore, barters are generally unethical, sometimes illegal, and just bad accounting.
Our fee is based on the services required for each project. Fees usually are paid from resources, such as donations, reserves, and the organization itself. Our team not only understands today's requirements but makes your nonprofit program and vision statistically understandable, measurable, and fundable!
Q. Do you donate or offer a discount for your services for a worthy cause?
A. Our fees are the same for all clients and are based on the level of work for a given project, not the organization's perceived worth. We would not be in the business of helping people who help people if we played favorites. Since our clients are in the business of assisting a sector or the greater good, we do not donate our services.
Q. Do the best grant writers have a special relationship with funders?
A. No, it is the opposite. We should not seek individual relationships or try to influence a funder's decision through favors or lobbying. Supporters are typically not aware of the involvement of a specific writer. We offer, instead, an understanding of funders' priorities in a proposal. Funders want to know that their support makes a material difference and that the nonprofits they support are effective.
Q. I have a for-profit business that does research work. Can I apply for a grant?
A. With a few exceptions, most grants are awarded to a nonprofit organization or a public agency with the proper tax designation. There are exceptions to this rule.
Get in touch to discuss how we can help with funding your nonprofit.
