Clarity with Foundations
Interviews with organizations successfully navigating grant funding consistently highlight the importance of clear, candid communication with foundations. These conversations help clarify programming and address misconceptions about eligibility.
Many organizations assume they are ineligible for funding from foundations that do not support “religious organizations.” In practice, this often refers to organizations engaged primarily in proselytizing or houses of worship, rather than faith-based organizations providing services to the public.
Being explicit about the distinction between religious identity and program activity, and clearly communicating non-discriminatory service provision, is often a key step in overcoming this barrier. Several organizations described how direct engagement with foundations opened doors to funding they initially believed were inaccessible.
Strategies to Build Funding Diversity
Across organizations, funding sustainability is often described as the result of intentional diversification rather than reliance on a single source.
“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
