Testimonials
From Susan Jennings
What was the program/project that was requiring funding and how much were you seeking?
The Bryant Pond Learning Center needed a facility wide renovation and needed a year round classroom center to move away from a summer camp to a Western Maine Regional Learning Center focus. We were seeking $400,000 for the building and $250,000 toward repairs on the first round.
Whom did you approach for external funding and how?
We approached private funders, Maine Foundations, banks, board members, and community partners.
What was the funder’s response and expectations?
Positive and wanting to be involved with the project and Bryant Pond Learning Center sustainability.
What did you learn from the experience?
The realistic time frame, the need for planned and coordinated materials and efforts with all volunteers and staff.
What would you recommend to colleagues considering this pursuit of external funding?
Begin with a team of dedicated individuals and build a plan for the development over a long period of time.
From Kathy Savoie
What was the program/project that was requiring funding and how much were you seeking?
We were seeking funds to underwrite food and supplies for our Master Food Preserver training series in Cumberland County.
Whom did you approach for external funding and how?
We approached Whole Foods Market (WFM) in Portland after reviewing their charitable giving goals and realized they aligned with our goals of promoting a safe food supply; locally sourced produce and care for the environment. We initiated contact with the Marketing Leader for the Portland WFM store via a letter followed up by an e-mail and phone call to explore the partnership in detail.
What was the funder’s response and expectations?
WFM was interested in supporting our Master Food preservation series and after consulting with their regional office, they requested in-store food preservation classes and poster displays for their customers during the growing season. They also requested that our web pages on food safety be listed in 2.5 million of their brochures on safe summer food grilling distributed across the country.
What did you learn from the experience?
Do your homework to ensure your program goals and prospective donors/sponsors’ goals align. Find the right person who can make decisions for the company or know how to get decisions made. Work closely with our Marketing Leader to have a clear and consistent message and brand in all promotional materials.
What would you recommend to colleagues considering this pursuit of external funding?
Begin with a conversation with your supervisor; engage our marketing and development staff early on; believe in your program; and convey the mutual benefits to the sponsor and Cooperative Extension.