Requests for calls

Hello, @SusanVanMeter I don't know of any clients currently doing this, but I have seen processes where the application form is built out to be the "get to know you" form. Just remember you'll need to think through what to do with the request within the context of a process. Do you just abandon all of them? Do you approve them with no $?

Talking with organizations first like you're currently doing could also prevent organizations that are ineligible to apply from creating accounts. Since it is a conversation rather than a form, you also get to ask questions. Setting up a form may save you some time in the short run, but if you have questions once the form is submitted, you'll still have to have a conversation with the organization. And as I mentioned before, you'll still have to process the form to move it off your dashboard. It may be just as efficient and certainly more personable to continue the phone conversations.

I'd love to hear how other folks are handling this! Thanks for the topic!

Best,

Ashley Harper, CSM

Hi @SusanVanMeter!

We do not use a form of any kind, but also don't have requests coming in at the numbers you do. In fact, I reach out to many of our local nonprofits to find a time for that "Get to Know You" piece. I have seen other CF's specifically indicate on their website that a potential grantee should look through grant eligibility and previous funding on the CF's website before reaching out to ensure there is alignment. Perhaps this simple step could help eliminate some conversations that aren't serving you or the nonprofits? If it's simply a matter of time, maybe you can clearly state only a certain number of slots in your calendar are available each month for new solicitations and create a space on your website listing those spots at the beginning of the month and when they're full the nonprofit should wait until the next month? Certainly a good problem to have - lots of interest in your CF! Best of luck!

Ellie