How to provide support beyond grantmaking dollars

There are various ways for funding organisations to support nonprofits. While financial aid is undoubtedly the most popular form of support, non-monetary assistance is equally vital. This can come in varying formats, such as donations, contributions or assistance to help recipients in ways that go beyond traditional philanthropy.  

Providing non-monetary support is a good way to get started in trust-based philanthropy while ensuring that nonprofits are primed for great impact and sustainability.    

Let’s examine various non-monetary grant examples that funders can consider.  

1. Networking

Networking opportunities are vital to nonprofits. With a larger network comes enhanced visibility, knowledge and resources for greater impact. Funding organisations can connect nonprofits with other grantors, nonprofits and collaborators to support the grantseekers in achieving their goals.

It’s important to consider the needs and goals of your grantees. Ask them what resources they need so you can best plan and provide relevant networking opportunities. 

Here are a few networking ideas: 

• Host conferences, roundtable discussions and seminars that bring different nonprofits and potential grantors together
• Set up online platforms and communities such as dedicated websites and social media groups so nonprofits can interact and share information
• Provide a structure for nonprofits to find potential grantors or collaborators

By helping grantseekers build a broad network of supporters, the nonprofits will be positioned for long-term success.      

2. Coaching

Running a nonprofit involves multiple moving parts. Without sufficient capacity, charitable organisations can fall short of their mission and goals. Grantmakers can help nonprofits grow by offering industry advice to help build their organisational capabilities and better equip them to accomplish their missions effectively. 

To achieve effective coaching and mentoring, funding organisations can work with nonprofits and grantees to understand their challenges and help set goals in the relationship. Find experts and leaders who can guide grantees towards maximising their potential. This could be someone from within the funding organisation or outside, as long as they have relevant experience and knowledge in the nonprofit space.

Grantors need to commit to this capacity-building process over an extended period and ensure that the mentorship is customised to the needs of the grantees. This coaching process can enhance the nonprofits’ leadership skills, board development, crisis management abilities and decision-making.       

3. Technical guidance

It can be challenging to manage the technical aspects of a program for small nonprofits and organisations. To ensure that grantseekers function optimally, funding organisations can provide technical assistance in areas where needed. This could include finance management, fundraising strategies, data analysis and technology implementation.

It’s essential to create a thorough plan for any technical guidance; it should detail the goals, milestones and timeline of the advisory program. Give the nonprofit staff access to resources and materials in the relevant technical area. Follow up by offering tailored training sessions and workshops. 

Recognise that the regulatory terrain can prove complex for nonprofits, and this is a helpful area for expertise. Engage law firms or attorneys seasoned in nonprofit law to provide legal services to them pro bono or at reduced costs. These legal practitioners can also serve as the legal helpline to quickly answer legal questions that might arise. 

Regularly provide compliance training to nonprofit staff and conduct compliance audits to ensure there are no loopholes in their operations.            

4. Marketing and promotion  

Grantmakers can serve as flag bearers for their grantees. By spreading awareness about the nonprofits and championing their causes, the funding organisations help boost the visibility, reputation and influence of the nonprofits. 

Promoting grantees requires grantors to create a comprehensive marketing plan that aligns with the nonprofits’ goals. They can help guide the nonprofits on branding and strategic messaging to help build central messaging that instantly communicates their mission. 

Funding organisations can also help the grantees maintain a strong online presence. Helping them set up and manage their websites and accounts on social media platforms is a good way to help. Consider providing experts who can guide them on content development and storytelling to share their stories effectively.

 Grantmakers can also help nonprofits spread the word about their mission and efforts by helping them start advocacy campaigns. Such initiatives can enhance their reach and cultivate more support.            

5. In-kind donations

Funding organisations can also provide nonprofits with non-monetary support in the form of donations. These donations can include necessary items that help reduce the grantees’ operating costs and operate more efficiently.

Grantors can donate supplies such as office equipment, computers, office supplies, books and software to name a few. They can also donate office space or meeting facilities to give the nonprofits a physical presence for their operations along with reduced expenses on rent. 

Likewise, funding organisations can offer event space, equipment and logistical support to help nonprofits efficiently host events, conferences, meetings, workshops or other necessary activities. Grantmakers can also donate their time, providing their employees and staff to assist when possible.

Grantmakers can support nonprofits in many ways beyond traditional funding. This type of support can be invaluable, and help ensure grantees are well-equipped to carry out their charitable missions.