The development sector is a huge sector to begin with. Before you can even launch your non-government organization, you may find yourself lost in a pool of similar organizations that all seem to pack a punch. Reality speaking, there are a lot of advocacies and projects you can choose from. But with all related causes battling for funds in the development sector, how do make your brand or project stand out?
The rules on acquiring international development grants and international grant funding are pretty simple, you have to make your development projects appealing and enticing. With thousands of NGOs that have similar advocacies as yours, you have to ensure that your chosen cause will stand out among the rest.
Know your target audience
Who are your target audience? Why did you choose this advocacy? Who are the people your NGO is addressing to? You may need to answer these questions before you start catching the attention of international foundations. Knowing your target audience also means the exact necessities of your target audience.
Nothing beats the original
Donors and funders prefer supporting NGOs that offer new to the table. Hit up the web and you’ll find several organizations focusing on poverty alleviation and inclusive education. It may sound cliché, but nothing beats an original. Slight similarities will not be avoided, but an NGO having a unique brand will help donors and funders cherry pick the best organization to support.
Be constant at all times
People looking for international grants for non-profit organizations often fall in the same mistake. They go extra mile to get international foundations as many as they can, but this is actually steering the main objective of their NGO into different directions—confusing potential funders or donors. Be consistent, stick to what your NGO is originally targeting.
Competition is healthy
In a pool of NGOs, you may find it difficult to gather prospect partners and funders for your development projects. Competition is healthy, but this will be more beneficial if you will take advantage of the stakes involved. Do not settle to mediocrity. Be bold. When looking for funds especially grants for international development projects, a more competitive brand will stand out.
Sincerity is the greatest heart
They say being true to everything you say and do is the secret for positive feedback. It applies to NGOs and businesses with development projects. Sincerity doesn’t only look good on the outside, but in the long run it will help your NGO is building healthy relationships with your future funders or donors.
Create your persona
How do you appeal to foundations and get hold of international grants for NGOs if you haven’t established your voice in the development sector? When you communicate within the sector, make sure that your identity is promotional, professional and informative at all times. This will give international foundations a strong hold of what your NGO is addressing.
Walk your talk
Say your advocacy is bringing access to food to far-flung areas in attempt to solve famine and malnutrition. It would be bad for your NGO if you practice food wastage right? One way to attract foundations for your NGO is if you apply the core values of your NGO. In return, this will enable your NGO to shine amongst other NGOs because of the good reputation that was built upon your organization.
Passion is the foundation
Indeed, passion will take you to places. A dedicated NGO will manifest into its roots, and will provide bigger opportunities not only in acquiring funds but especially for grants for international projects. In the long run, it will create a harmonious bond within the sector and a strong groundwork that can inspire other NGOs as well to do well on their chosen advocacy.
