In the nonprofit world, fundraising is about much more than raising dollars— it’s about building relationships, demonstrating impact and ensuring organizations have the resources to serve their communities for the long term. Seasoned nonprofit consultant Ann Cooper and Central Alabama Community Foundation (CACF) President, Burton Crenshaw, offer a roadmap for organizations navigating this essential work.
Laying the Groundwork
For new or growing nonprofits, one of the biggest challenges is simply knowing where to begin. Cooper, founder of Ann Cooper Consulting and a veteran of statewide nonprofit leadership, shared, “There is nothing unique about grant writing. I tell my students and clients that anyone can write a grant. What it takes to be successful is a passion for the problem being addressed and the ability to tell your organization’s story in the language of today’s funder.”
She also emphasizes the importance of research. “If [prospective clients] want to start a new program, I ask them to find out how many groups are already in the area providing similar services,” Cooper said. “Chances are, their vision may already exist under a different name. Doing your homework before investing time and money can save a lot of heartache.
Simple Grant Writing Strategies for Every Nonprofit
Cooper advises a simple strategy. Funders want to know three fundamental things:
- First, a funder wants to know what the problem or need is.
- Secondly, they want to know how much it will cost to address it.
- Third, they want to know what nonprofit organizations expect of them.
“What it takes to be successful is a passion for the problem being addressed and the ability to tell your organization’s story in the language of today’s funder.” Ann Cooper
What Grant Funders are Looking For
Central Alabama Community Foundation’s (CACF) support goes beyond writing grant checks. They provide essential funding for nonprofits through competitive grants and serve as a resource partner to help them grow and thrive. While competitive grants remain a key avenue for support, the foundation also invests in the long-term success of local organizations through capacity-building opportunities, technical assistance and networking platforms.
Burton Crenshaw, CACF President, draws a picture of what CACF looks for when evaluating grant applications. “We look for mission-driven organizations that under – stand the communities’ needs and can demonstrate measurable outcomes. Strong leadership, financial transparency and a clear plan for using funds are also critical. We love seeing collaboration and organizations that work with others to amplify their impact.
Attention to Detail Matters
“After serving as a grant review team member for the River Region United Way, the Alabama Department of Education and as an instructor, the most common mistake I see is failure to follow directions. It’s that simple!” Cooper said. “The applicant either fails to attach a required document or fails in their methodology to effectively explain how they will solve the problem the grant must address.”
Fundraising as Community Building
Ultimately, successful fundraising is about more than transactions—it’s about transformation.
“Grant writing isn’t just about funding an organization, it’s about economic development at the basic level,” said Cooper. “Nonprofit organizations provide jobs—approximately five percent of Alabama’s workforce—and at the same time, they provide community services which build better places to live and work for us all.”
Crenshaw highlights the effect of strong nonprofits across the region. “All the nonprofits we support are success stories in themselves. The amazing work they do in our communities always reiterates the good in humankind.”
Beware of Big Grants
Fundraising is about more than applying for every grant available—it’s about finding the right fit. When it comes to grants, bigger isn’t always better.
“There are grants that certain small- to medium-sized organizations shouldn’t apply for. Yes, injections of millions into an organization’s budget are tempting, but the fact remains, if you don’t have the depth of staff to carry out the grant proposal, you could find yourself in big trouble with a funder if you fail to carry out the grant program,” said Cooper. “Secondly, do not use grant funds for anything other than the approved grant program budget. To misdirect grant funds is illegal.”
Practical Steps for Stronger Fundraising
For nonprofits looking to strengthen their fundraising efforts:
- Do the research. Avoid duplicating services and target funders whose priorities align with your mission.
- Be realistic. Match your funding goals to your organization’s capacity.
- Build relationships. Fundraising is built on trust—with donors, partners and the community.
- Focus on impact. Demonstrate measurable results for every dollar invested.
How CACF Supports Local Nonprofits
CACF’s impacts extends well beyond grant funding. The foundation strengthens nonprofits through:
- Competitive Grants: Funding mission-driven organizations with measurable community impact.
- Capacity-Building Programs: Training in grant writing, board development, marketing, fundraising and strategic planning.
- Technical Assistance: Guidance to improve operations and sustainability.
- Networking Platforms: Connecting nonprofits with community leaders, donors and peer organizations.
- Donor Partnerships: Creating customized charitable giving solutions to align philanthropy with community needs.
About Ann Cooper
With more than 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Ann Cooper has guided over 21 organizations in building capacity, securing funding and strengthening community impact. As founder of Ann Cooper Consulting, she specializes in grant writing, organizational planning and training—including her popular Grant Writing 101 and 102 courses in partnership with the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. Her career has focused on amplifying the voices of underserved communities and helping nonprofits secure the resources they need to thrive.
About the Central Alabama Community Foundation (CACF)
CACF strengthens communities across a 14-county region by connecting donors with the causes they care about most. Under the leadership of President Burton Crenshaw, CACF provides competitive grants, capacity-building resources and strategic guidance to nonprofits. With offices in Montgomery, Dothan and Opelika, CACF serves as a bridge between philanthropy and impact—helping nonprofits move from surviving to thriving while improving quality of life across Central Alabama.
