Grant Research Part III: Cultivation & Engagement
How to Build Meaningful Relationships With Funders Before You Apply
Before you submit your next grant proposal, take a step back—have you built a relationship with the funder? In Part 3 of our grant prospecting series, we dive into the often-overlooked stage of cultivation and engagement: the art of connecting with funders before you apply. This guide walks you through why early outreach matters, how to do it well (even without existing contacts), and how to avoid common missteps. From sample email language to affordable tracking tools, you’ll learn practical steps to build trust, align your work with funder priorities, and boost your chances of success.
June 26, 2025
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5
min read
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