Due Diligence: The Basics
Date: TBA
At its core, Due Diligence simply means “doing your homework” before presenting a proposal. If only it were that easy!
The due diligence process starts with research. You need to understand your potential funder – what they’re looking for, their priorities, requirements, etc. – but you must also know your own organization. Not only must you evaluate whether to apply for funding, you must also adapt your proposal if you do decide to move forward. (And this is just step one!)
Due diligence involves a lengthy – and often complicated – process of assessment, adaptation and editing, then repeating those steps in greater detail. Our Due Diligence Webinars cover these processes from start to finish, while providing ways you can speed up the process while improving your presentation and increasing your chances for successful funding.
The Basics Webinar Modules
- 1. Website
First port of call for foundations. We spell out 10 specific points that foundations look for in assessing your organization. Examples from successful websites are provided as case notes. Check out what’s critical for you to know.
- 2. Your organization details
Out of all that you do—and all of your programs—what are the most essential points that are make -it or break- it to present it to foundations? We’ll spell out key points, help you focus on what’s most important, and prioritize their importance to successful fund raising. This is also designed to help determine what needs improvement in your programs.
- 3. Project or Program key elements
Foundations are changing their standards of excellence. We detail the new attributes that foundations are looking for in top notch programs and projects. Learn what 10 critical points to address in your LOI’s and Proposals.
- 4. Financial health
Foundations give to organizations that are financially healthy. We indicate key points that foundations look for in reviewing financials. Importantly, we help you think about financials in new ways—from programs to organization. Learn how to use key ratios to determine the real levers that drive your success.
- 5. Strategic Management
Strategy guides growth. Learn the 4 factors that drive successful strategies, and how to identify and use these to make your organization more effective. More effective strategies mean greater differentiation, and help your organization move to the top of the pile for funding.
- 6. Capacity
Foundations have a keen ability to determine if you have the capacity to meet your goals. We’ll teach you how to define capacity, how to address capacity issues, and how to leverage your limited capacity. Included are management strategies to leverage resources outside of your organization to even the playing field with larger organizations.
