Why Grant Support is Everyone's Business
Nonprofits, government entities, and even for-profit businesses often rely on grants to fund vital programs and projects. But securing grant funding isn't just the responsibility of a dedicated grant writer. It's a team effort. At MC2 Collaborative, we call this collective effort "grant supportive services," and we believe everyone has a role to play.
Think about it: No single person writes a grant. From initial research and project development to application submission, grant management, compliance, and closeout, the process touches multiple departments and individuals. As our COO, Lisa Mueller, often says, "The hardest grant to write is the first one." That's because it lays the groundwork for future funding success, and that foundation benefits from diverse input.
What does this mean in practice? It means fostering a culture where everyone understands the importance of grant funding and how their contributions, no matter how small, can make a difference. This could involve:
- Sharing relevant data: Program staff, frontline workers, and even clients can provide valuable insights and data points that strengthen grant applications.
- Networking and relationship building: Connecting with potential funders and community partners can open doors to new funding opportunities.
- Reviewing and editing proposals: A fresh pair of eyes can catch errors and improve the overall quality of a grant application.
- Championing the organization's mission: Passionate advocacy from all members of the organization reinforces the value and impact of the work being done.
By recognizing the value of group contributions – including partners, stakeholders, local government, and even consumers – we can unlock the full potential of grant supportive services. This collaborative approach is essential for organizations of all sizes, across all sectors, and for projects of every scale. Let's move beyond the idea of a single grant writer and embrace the power of a united front in securing the resources needed to thrive.
