How to Get Funding to Start an Animal Shelter

Starting an animal shelter takes dedication, time and, unfortunately, a lot of money. County and city governments do not usually have funds to help nonprofit private animal shelters, so you have to get money elsewhere. The key to asking for and getting donations is to have a well-developed, professional-looking plan and mission for the animal shelter. This will show that the shelter will be well-run and able to meet the needs of the animals in the community. The shelter will be an organization people will want to give money to.

Things You'll Need

• Grants
• Website
• Fundraiser
• Presentation
• Business plan

Instructions

1. Write a business plan for the animal shelter that lays out a timeline, mission and the community's need for the shelter. Potential donors will ask for this information.

2. Set up a great-looking website on which you provide people with an easy way to donate online for by sending a check.

3. Apply for grants designated for starting an animal shelter. Apply for grants yourself or hire a professional grant writer.

4. Have a fundraiser. One big fundraiser, with a lot of publicity, is usually more successful than several small ones. Some ideas: Hold a silent auction and dinner, or stage a pet fair or art show.

5. Give presentations about your animal shelter to local companies. Explain why a shelter is needed and how your animal shelter will fulfill the need. State what the shelter will cost to get started and the amount of money you're asking for.

Resources

• HSUS: Financial Assistance
• American Grant Writers Association
• Fundraising Ideas