As a small business owner seeking government funding, you may have heard the saying, “it’s all about who you know.” It’s true – having a strong network can make a huge difference in your grant application efforts. Your contacts can open doors for meetings with key points of contact, secure in-kind resources more quickly, and even remove barriers that may stand in your way.
Building connections need not be done all on one’s own. As a smart grant applicant, you can leverage your organization’s board, staff, and volunteers to identify and tap into their own contacts as well. By working together, you can expand your network and increase your chances of success in securing government grants.
Grants
Government grants can be a great source of non-dilutive funding for small businesses, but the application process can be overwhelming and competitive. In our experience, we have found that it can be beneficial to have a personal rapport with a reviewer. Leveraging your network is a great way to build a connection with the person or panel that will be reviewing your proposal.
Leveraging social media
Social media can be a great way to meet other like-minded founders! Consider joining an online group or channel such as Slack, Clubhouse, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. LinkedIn is another great way to make new connections and grow your professional network. These channels are also a great way to stay up to date on industry-related news and events.
Having a strong network can also increase your chances of success. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your current contacts and ask for introductions to others who may be able to help you secure government grants. And don’t forget to tap into the networks of your organization’s board, staff, and volunteers. With a little effort and collaboration, you can build a strong network and achieve your goals of securing government grants for your small business.
Ready To Take the Next Step?
We assist our clients in locating, applying for, and evaluating the outcomes of non-dilutive grant funding. We believe non-dilutive funding is a crucial tool for mitigating investment risks, and we are dedicated to guiding our clients through the entire process—from identifying the most suitable opportunities to submitting and managing grant applications.