How to Network with Other Nonprofits

Perceived duplication of services and increased competition for funds during economic downturns are two reasons for partnering with other local nonprofit agencies. Getting the message out into the community about your specific services and collaborative efforts will help dispel these perceptions and eliminate the competitiveness for funds.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Dedicate a section on your website to other nonprofits by having a link to their websites. Many nonprofit services compliment each other such as domestic violence counseling and domestic violence shelters. By linking other organizations, this shows you are unified and not competitive like for profit businesses.
2. When applying for grants, split the duties with another organization. Networking will allow you to apply for and receive more grant funding. Not every organization can fulfill every duty alone, but by working together, all needs can be met. For example, one organization can provide mental health services to the children of families of domestic violence, but a second organization can provide temporary housing for the same families.
3. Organize an awareness month campaign for your cause. For example, the month of April is National Child Abuse Awareness Month. Many nonprofits in the field have their employees wear blue ribbons that month. When asked about the meaning of the lesser-know blue ribbon, it becomes an opportunity to explain about child abuse treatment and the organizations in town that work in the field. Network with other organizations about the awareness campaign by featuring a special section on your website, showcasing the cause and the nonprofits involved.
4. Share booths at street fairs and other community events with other nonprofits. This not only builds awareness about your organization, but also puts the spotlight on a bigger issue, such as the cause it serves. Showing a united front in public significantly raises awareness about your nonprofit’s mission.
5. Have a benefit fundraiser for your cause in collaboration with other nonprofits. By networking with other nonprofits you can have a major annual fundraiser showcasing your cause, potentially raising more money and sharing the work involved with the fundraiser. You will also reach more people especially if your nonprofit is small.