Starting a non-profit (NPO) or non-government organization (NGO) can be really tricky. You may find yourself asking questions such as how to get possible donors or how do I get funding opportunities for NGOs. These questions may lead to deterred success and can put the stability of your NGO at jeopardy.
On layman’s term, an NGO is an organization that runs independently of government and are focused on educational, environmental, humanitarian, health care, human rights causes. Usually, NGOs are not supported by government but reality speaking; these organizations will still need funding in-order for them to jumpstart their projects.
Getting the right funds means having the right sources. Creating as many connections as you can help you find the sources you need. When talking about sourcing for the right NGO funding agencies or NPO funding agencies, it is important that you create a concrete plan in-order to utilize all the resources you need for your NGO. At the end of the day, it all boils down to better planning and research to get the right results.
Do some extensive research
This should be at the top of your list when searching for the right funding agencies for your NGO. Nothing beats an extensive research for a well-rounded output! Look for donors that match your cause and do a background check by reading through websites, databases and NPO funding directories. The bottom line is that, good research can take you to places.
Be clear with your vision and mission
Establishing a strong image in the NGO industry is essential for resource gathering. Always be transparent, be clear with your objectives and make sure you share it with your partners and prospect funders. Letting them know about your goals will provide them a strong grasp of your NGO and your chosen cause.
Go Social
Looking for that perfect funding agency for your NGO? Then start calling the internet your trustworthy sidekick.
Just one click in the World Wide Web, and you’ll be greeted with a plethora of funding agencies for your organization. Technology is not only acting as platform for boosting wider reach and rapid progress but is also linking NGOs to their respective funders. On other hand, funders and donors can utilize the power of internet to look for non-government organization list that they can support.
Let the public know about your NGO
Same as making use of the internet and social media, there are other ways for you to get funding sources for your NGO. Whatever your cause or advocacy is, let the public know about your NGO by using billboards, fliers, newspapers and magazines, going on air on TV or radio. Even the simplest things such as printing personalized t-shirts for your members will not only entice the community but also future partners and funders as well.
Connect within the sector
Looking for funding agencies means building connections to survive this fast-paced generation. NGO/NPOs should start forging partnerships within the sector and getting familiarized with the ins and outs of the development sector.
Seek help from partners and current donors for recommendations and references. Explore forging partnerships with big business in-order to secure funds. Not only these businesses will provide advertisement and promotion, but being affiliated with a brand that boasts respectable reputation can attract more donors in big numbers. Funding for NPO projects can be challenging, but with right connection you can ensure support for your organization.
Consider a fund raising event
A fund raising event may be your last resort, but it can also be one of your biggest resources when searching for the right funding agency.
A fund raising event can appeal to different agencies such as funding agencies for project proposals, funding agencies for startups and microbusiness, sustainable brands, etc. But before you start organizing your event, familiarize with the demographics of your target audience and consider the costs, location and duration of the event.
