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Funder Prospect Research Flashcards

7 cards from real Grant Writing practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning โ€” missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Funder Prospect Research flashcards as text
  1. Which database is most widely used by nonprofit professionals for foundation prospect research in the US?

    Answer: Foundation Directory Online (Candid)

    Foundation Directory Online, now part of Candid, is the premier database for searching US foundation grants and giving history.

  2. What does a foundation's 'geographic focus' restriction mean for a grant seeker?

    Answer: The foundation only funds organizations headquartered in specific locations

    Geographic focus restrictions limit eligibility to organizations or projects located within a funder's designated service area.

  3. A funder's 990-PF form is valuable for prospect research primarily because it discloses:

    Answer: All grants awarded, including recipient names and amounts

    The 990-PF lists all grants made by a private foundation in a given tax year, including grantee names, purposes, and dollar amounts.

  4. When a foundation states it does NOT accept unsolicited proposals, a grant seeker should:

    Answer: Seek an introduction through a mutual connection or board member

    Foundations that don't accept unsolicited proposals typically fund through invitation only, so a warm introduction is the best pathway.

  5. Which of the following is an indicator that a corporate foundation is a strong prospect for your organization?

    Answer: Their employees volunteer in your community and the company has a local office

    Corporate funders often prioritize communities where their employees live and work, making local presence and volunteer ties strong alignment signals.

  6. What is 'due diligence' in the context of funder prospect research?

    Answer: Thoroughly vetting a funder's history, values, and past giving before applying

    Due diligence means carefully investigating a funder's track record and priorities to confirm they are a genuine fit before investing application resources.

  7. A grant seeker notices a foundation has dramatically increased its giving to climate organizations over three years. This trend suggests:

    Answer: The foundation's priorities have shifted toward environmental issues

    Tracking giving trends over multiple years reveals shifts in a funder's strategic priorities that can signal new funding opportunities.