Fishing for Foundations
The first step in launching a foundation strategy is to research the prospective foundations in your local area. For a minimal monthly subscription, you can access the Foundation Center online directory (foundationcenter. org). Use it for several months to develop a prospect spreadsheet. Once you know the foundation names, you can access their IRS 990 forms on the Foundation Center website or for free on guidestar.org. Research foundations that may be a match by reviewing their previous grant list for similar organizations they have funded. Many foundations have websites that explain their application guidelines and funding priorities. Some offer online application forms or downloadable applications.