Storytelling for Grantseekers: A Guide to Creative Nonprofit Fundraising

HOW MUCH MONEY TO REQUEST

Executive directors and development directors often ask how much money they should request from a particular funder. Suppose that a community foundation normally makes grants in the $5,000 to $50,000 range. Should a first-time applicant request a safe $5,000 or “go for broke” and ask for $50,000? To properly answer this question, it is important to keep in mind that first-time applicants are trying to establish a relationship with a new funder. And you should be aware that the first grant is the hardest money to get from a grantmaker. Therefore, my general rule of thumb is not to be too aggressive with a first-time proposal submission. Ask for an amount somewhere in the middle of the range. It may even be a wise ...