Exploring funding opportunities: Our latest Meet the Funder with the Johnson Foundation
- zelrodgers
- May 2
- 3 min read
A summary of our recent Meet the Funder
At the recent Meet the Funder event with the Johnson Foundation, the room was buzzing. This gathering provided local Wirral organisations with an invaluable chance to connect with Kate Eugeni and Lorraine Wynne from the Johnson Foundation.
As someone actively involved in our Meet the Funder events, I found the event a joy, it was concise and everyone was able to ask meaningful questions. Opportunities for collaboration and information sharing can be had at events like these, making it a great forum for organisations to stay informed about the resources available to them.
The Importance of Meet the Funder Events
Meet the Funder events are critical for building connections between funders and organisations. They serve as a platform for our local Charities and Community Interest Companies to engage in dialogue, ask questions, and present their unique selling points to potential funders in a more personal manner.
Establishing relationships with funders is just as important as writing a compelling project proposal.
Hints and Tips from the Johnson Foundation
The Johnson Foundation has built a solid reputation for supporting local causes with a keen interest in local community health and education. At the meeting Kate made the following important points:
Kate described the Trustee team and some of the particular things that they would look for in an application. For example, one of the trustees does not live locally so therefore would not understand any local references. Organisations should be explicit and not rely on trustees having local knowledge. Organisations should also make sure that they address the correct person when applying. Take some time to check for the correct details.
They do like organisations to work in partnership and are happy to fund regular activity with a known track record. They will fund capital and project costs but no staffing costs. It is worth having a conversation with Lorraine if your project costs include paying for staff time. Kate also emphasised the importance of realistic costs and measurable outcomes.
Although the Johnson Foundation may fund organisations from £500 upward, if you don't have a track record with them, then you should look at applying for funding under £20,000. It is important to ask for what you need rather than round up to get a certain amount.
If you are applying to other funders, do let the Johnson Foundation know. They often speak to other funders and it is useful to understand where else you have applied.
Kate encouraged groups to get in touch with the office with any questions about their projects before applying.
Tips for Engaging with Funders
To get the most out of events like these, here are some effective strategies for engaging with funders:
Research Beforehand: Learn about the funder's mission, priorities and previously supported projects. For instance, understanding that the Johnson Foundation values a track record can help you tailor your proposal accordingly.
Prepare Your Pitch: Develop a clear and concise pitch that outlines your project’s impact. For example, instead of just mentioning your programme, quantify its potential benefits, such as improving educational outcomes for 200 children over the year.
Be Open to Feedback: Interactions with funders are opportunities for growth. Be open to their suggestions as this can strengthen your proposal and ensure it aligns with their interests.
Follow-Up: After the event, send a thank-you note to any funders you interacted with. This gesture shows appreciation and opens channels for future communication. This is equally important after you have had a successful grant. Johnson Foundation says that only 30% of successful organisations came back to thank them.
A shout out from the Johnson Foundation
Kate mentioned that the Johnson Foundation have bought a new building in Birkenhead to create a halls of residence for young people that have just come out of care while they navigate the world of further education and employment. The setting will house 24 young adults from the ages of 18 to 24. She asks if there are any local organisations who would like to link into this project in supporting these young people. Contact Lorraine at the Johnson Foundation if you are interested.
Get in touch
I hope you enjoyed our take on the event and do get in touch with Wirral CVS if you would like funding support by e-mailing me at zel.rodgers@wcvs.org.uk.
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