BEWARE OF BIG GRANTS
BEWARE OF BIG GRANTS
Fundraising is about more than applying for every grant available— it’ s about finding the right fit. When it comes to grants, bigger isn’ t always better.“ There are grants that certain small- to medium-sized organizations shouldn’ t apply for. Yes, injections of millions into an organization’ s budget are tempting, but the fact remains, if you don’ t have the depth of staff to carry out the grant proposal, you could find yourself in big trouble with a funder if you fail to carry out the grant program,” said Cooper.“ Secondly, do not use grant funds for anything other than the approved grant program budget. To misdirect grant funds is illegal.”
What Grant Funders are Looking For
Central Alabama Community Foundation’ s( CACF) support goes beyond writing grant checks. They provide essential funding for nonprofits through competitive grants and serve as a resource partner to help them grow and thrive. While competitive grants remain a key avenue for support, the foundation also invests in the longterm success of local organizations through capacity-building opportunities, technical assistance and networking platforms.
Burton Crenshaw, CACF President, draws a picture of what CACF looks for when evaluating grant applications.“ We look for mission-driven organizations that understand the communities’ needs and can demonstrate measurable outcomes. Strong leadership, financial transparency and a clear plan for using funds are also critical. We love seeing collaboration and organizations that work with others to amplify their impact.”
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Attention to Detail Matters
“ After serving as a grant review team member for the River Region United Way, the Alabama Department of Education and as an instructor, the most common mistake I see is failure to follow directions. It’ s that simple!” Cooper said.“ The applicant either fails to attach a required document or fails in their methodology to effectively explain how they will solve the problem the grant must address.”
Fundraising as Community Building
Ultimately, successful fundraising is about more than transactions— it’ s about transformation.
“ Grant writing isn’ t just about funding an organization, it’ s about economic development at the basic level,” said Cooper.“ Nonprofit organizations provide jobs— approximately five percent of Alabama’ s workforce— and at the same time, they provide community services which build better places to live and work for us all.”
Crenshaw highlights the effect of strong nonprofits across the region.“ All the nonprofits we support are success stories in themselves. The amazing work they do in our communities always reiterates the good in humankind.”
About Ann Cooper
With more than 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Ann Cooper has guided over 21 organizations in building capacity, securing funding and strengthening community impact. As founder of Ann Cooper Consulting, she specializes in grant writing, organizational planning and training— including her popular Grant Writing 101 and 102 courses in partnership with the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. Her career has focused on amplifying the voices of underserved communities and helping nonprofits secure the resources they need to thrive.
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