Clarity with Foundations
Across interviews with faith-based organizations who have successfully navigated the grant funding process, they highlighted the importance of being willing to have candid conversations with foundations to dispel any misconceptions and clarify the organization’s programming. Many organizations assume that they will not qualify for funding from foundations who say they do not fund religious organizations. However, “religious organizations” often means houses of worship or organizations whose programming is solely proselytizing. Thus, clearly articulating what elements of their programming are inherently religious versus what things are not and emphasizing that they do not discriminate in terms of who may receive their services is a key strategy to address this barrier. Indeed, several organizations described stories of how forming relationships with foundations and describing their mission and programming opened doors for funding opportunities they previously thought were closed.
Strategies to Build Funding Diversity
“Diversification has been intentional and strategic. We pursue a balanced mix of private foundation grants, corporate partnerships, individual donors, and local, state, and federal funding opportunities. Success has come from cultivating long-term relationships with funders, clearly demonstrating measurable outcomes, and communicating our impact in ways that resonate with both faith-based and secular audiences. Strong financial stewardship, transparency, and consistent reporting have also strengthened funder confidence and sustainability.”
— Chris Yancey, Executive Director of JIFF (Juvenile Intervention and Faith-Based Follow-Up
