Prepare for philanthropic funding

Kristina opened a recent UTS research workshop by explaining that foundations and government funding schemes operate in fundamentally distinct ways. 

They both support research, but foundations are generally not bound by rigid application cycles. Nor are they accountable to legislatures or taxpayers. Foundations are generally more flexible in how they interpret alignment and impact and are usually relationship‑driven.

Avoid a “one-size-fits-all” approach  

Foundations vary widely in what they fund, how they assess fit and what outcomes they value. Because philanthropy is relationship-led, Kristina said that foundations respond best when you invest time in understanding what they care about. 

“Different foundations care about different things, from early‑stage ideas to specific populations, to long‑term systems change,” Kristina said, adding that you need to take the time needed to explore which foundations might be the best fit for your research ambitions.

Because family foundations often reflect the passions of the founder, understanding origin stories and personal drivers can be as important as aligning with formal focus areas. Reviewing previously funded projects can also help clarify what the value of a typical grant is and themes that are of interest to the foundation. 

Unlike when applying for government grants, connecting with foundation program staff is not only acceptable, but often essential. 

“Conversations with funders can help you understand what they care about, how they frame impact and whether your idea is a good fit.”

Having this kind of in-depth knowledge is important before you write a proposal and knowing that there is strong alignment saves time and improves the quality of later conversations. 

Kristina suggests you take these practical steps for developing a mental map of the foundation landscape:

• research foundations well beyond their websites
• pay attention to how a foundation describes its mission and values
• look for patterns in what they have funded previously
• understand where your work sits within a foundation’s broader goals.

Conversations with funders can help you understand what they care about, how they frame impact and whether your idea is a good fit.

Outreach is part of the process

In seeking to develop a long-term relationship, Kristina suggests thinking about foundation funding as a cycle, not a one‑off application process. 

A considerable amount of work is needed before making an actual submission to a foundation, from designing and refining a feasible project idea and creating a concept note to aligning your work to a foundation’s priorities and making approaches to program staff.

In foundation grant-seeking, engaging with foundation program staff is a core skill that helps you:

• test whether your idea is timely and relevant
• refine your framing and language
• learn what foundations are not funding
• build relationships that extend beyond a single application.

Kristina said that a “not right now” response can open doors to other funders or future opportunities. Foundations are increasingly networked, so it could be that program staff can point you to better‑aligned organisations.  

Articulate your vision in a brief concept note

Kristina describes a concept note as being like a mini grant proposal.

“It's very digestible. It's a document that you could walk through on the phone call without having expected the program staff to have read it in advance.”

In grant seeking, Kristina said that we never chase the funding. 

“Instead, it is about being clear on how you articulate exactly what it is you want to see funded, and why it matters. You can think about grant seeking as a way of strategic planning.”

Although it’s short, your concept note needs to touch on the goals and objectives of your research, important details and the scope of your project and why the work matters. 

“You're not just thinking about how to pitch your research to a funder. You're developing a concept note because this is what you want to achieve in the world,” Kristina said.

“I'm a big believer in developing your concept note, funder agnostic as a strategic planning document, where you lay out the work you are excited to do and the impacts it will have.” 

You're not just thinking about how to pitch your research to a funder. You're developing a concept note because this is what you want to achieve in the world.

“You are not chasing that funding. You're still in control of what you want to do. And it is a hugely valuable document for your own clarification.”

 Once you are happy with your concept point, you can then tailor your pitch to make sure that you're hitting some of the notes that the funder cares about. That is the point at which you should start to consider who you would partner with. 

“A targeted concept note should position your research as a clear match to a funder’s priorities and giving history.”

Stewardship matters

Kristina warned that what happens after having submitted a funding application is just as important as what happens before making an approach. Investing in relationships is key, as foundation funding is built on trust, and stewardship is how that trust is sustained. 

“If you receive funding, stewardship means maintaining communication, delivering on expectations and demonstrating impact over time,” she said.

If your proposal is declined, thoughtful follow‑up and continued engagement can strengthen your relationship with the funder and position you well for future opportunities.

Get support early 

Kristina recommends those new to foundations seek coaching and strategic support in developing effective concept notes, one‑pagers and preparing early for any conversations.

UTS Advancement Manager Sarah Angus added that it’s important to:

• discuss philanthropic ideas with your faculty leadership early
• seek advice on alignment and readiness from the Advancement team
• access grants consultancy and coaching support through the Research Office.

As not every idea is suited to foundation funding, early guidance can help focus your effort in the areas where it has the greatest chance of success. 

Foundation grant seeking rewards patience, curiosity and relationship‑building. By understanding how foundations operate, investing in alignment and outreach and thinking long‑term, you can build funding pathways that extend well beyond a single application.

What’s next?

UTS staff can access: 

• The recording, additional Hanover Research resources and slides from the "Cultivating Foundation Relationships" workshop at the International Research Grants SharePoint
• The UTS Advancement Team’s Trust & Foundations Toolkit.