Grantseeking websites with subscriptions

I'll say "amen" to the comments about having a robust strategy which identifies which funding you should be looking for.

I'll also support Martin's comment about the need to invest.

And then if you really do need a Trust database, I'd recommend Trustfunding. I find Funderfinder to be a very blunt instrument, and I'm amazed Sandre has never been contacted by DSC - they certainly check the Charity Commission info on a regular basis.

On statutory funding, I've yet to find anything as useful as a good local network - whatever any of the guides say, the information is nearly always different when it reaches the grassroots.

And I'd say the same with corporate - with a few notable exceptions, corporates don't put much thought into the design or implementation of their CSR budgets!

All just opinion, of course - and you really should begin with that strategic process.

Cheers

Gerry

Gerry Beldon FInstF
Director, 26-01 CIC
www.26-01.com

Most experienced fundraisers (and even the less experienced ones like me) recognise that relying on one source of funding is a Bad Thing. By source, I mean "type" as much as individual organisation. Lots of statutory funding, but your work may be of interest to trusts? Then you probably want to consider a trusts information service. Lots of trust funding but no corporate support, although there is potential for it? Well, you get the drift.

Review your fundraising strategy. If you don't have one, then the trustees need to agree one - they may ask you to design it/draft it, but the board still needs to "own" and support it. Amongst other things, a good FR strategy will identify 'gaps' in funding and where there is potential for growth.

If you definitely want a trusts information service, then get a reputable one. Unbelievably, there are numerous directories out there that apparently know what we do/what we want *so* well that they don't need to check their information with us and potential applicants can take their word for what we will and won't fund (<<< sarcasm: in my opinion, a *good* service will make it absolutely clear that all information that they hold should be checked with the potential donor concerned - via a trust's website if there is one, etc.). I don't know whether we are listed on Trustfunding or how accurately - because you have to pay to see it and they have never contacted us to check their records. Funderfinder sends regular requests for information updates - they are obviously keen to be accurate. Directory of Social Change is also careful.

Your local volunteer bureau or local authority community unit may well have access to some of these databases (many have Funderfinder for example). They should certainly be happy to let you have a look.

Finally, no insult intended, for all I know you have years more experience than I do! - but the question should be considered: do you really need a directory, or would training in e.g. prospect research or identifying and communicating with a type of funder that you're not experienced with fit the bill better?

Sandre
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Your question is very much like 'what sort of new car should I buy?'.

The thing is, each subscription service will have its own plus points, its own ease of use, its own ability to help you find what you are looking for.

I use trustfunding. A friend of mine uses anything but trustfunding. Each of us finds useful information, each of us keeps repeating subscriptions.
Ask yourself what you want from the service. And if possible ask around your local area, see if any charity can let you come in and see their preferred subscription in action.

I am somewhat suprised a medium sized charity doesn't have a large fundraising budget. Fundriaisng being one of those areas charities do need to invest to maintain themselves or grow.

Martin