In many cases, cultivation of the grantor leads to additional support, both through the grantor and through other funders with whom the grantor has contact. This usually depends upon direct personal communication between the grantee and the grantor. A grantee should be creative in cultivating this expanded support. For example, grantees should invite grantors on expeditions or short field trips, keep grantors informed about the progress and problems of the work, and seek the advice of grantors in areas where the grantor may have expertise. In short, grantors usually give to people rather than projects.
Personal contact is therefore vital.
Persevering Not all grant proposals can or will be funded, especially in the initial effort to gain support. You should not be discouraged by such results, but should look for opportunities to refine and improve the proposal, to identify more promising sources of support, and to learn from the process. In some cases, it may be necessary to redefine the focus, breadth, or organization of the project. In other cases, it may be useful to work with other individuals or non-profit organizations in your region on joint projects that offer different funding possibilities and that convey multiple benefits. In any case, it is important to continue to seek out information and contacts, and to communicate your enthusiasm for the project.