Private Funding

Private funds originate from three geographical areas:

• National
  
• State
  
• Local

Start with local private funders, because local people are the most likely to fund local projects.

Human interaction is critical in private funding. Private funders often will want not only to talk to you before you submit a proposal, but also to help you write it. Remember to always be in touch with private funders before you begin preparing your proposal. They can provide you tips—and sometimes tell you up front what they think about your chances of winning a grant.

Partnerships can be an important strategy in securing funding as well, because both private and public foundations look favorably on projects that involve multiple organizations. Establishing a partnership before searching for a grant opportunity is a good idea, because the grant application often will require a quick turnaround, while the partnership itself takes significant time to develop.

How do you find private funding opportunities?

• Research nonprofits with whom you can collaborate.
  
• Research foundations that may award you funds.
  
• Sign up for e-mails and e-newsletters that list funding opportunities.

Most private support comes from these sources:

• Businesses
  
• Community-Based Organizations
  
• Private Foundations

Learn more:

• For more on private funding, see our Resources.