This is the second of a six-part series on 2024 foundation grant prediction. If you missed part 1, you can still check it out here. In this series, Millionaire Grant Lady and Associates are sharing our insights into foundation giving. These predictions are based on the most up-to-date information available as well as our in-the-trenches work with our nonprofits. To date, we have won more than $103 million in funding for our clients. Every day, we use these insights to win more dollars for a wide variety of organizations all across the United States, and these insights can help increase your funding, too.

The presidential primaries are well underway, and political commercials are about to be the only commercials you see on TV. Yep, we know what that means, this is an election year. Every election year features critical issues that impact the everyday lives of people living in the United States. Did you know that an election year can impact what and to whom foundations give?

How will the election year impact foundation giving?

While the stock market is a strong predictor of funder behavior, each foundation is ran by real people who care about real issues that matter to them. An election year can spur funders to distribute funds in larger amounts and to a wider range of organizations than they might otherwise.

What organizations stand to see increased funding in 2024? To understand this, we need to look at how the election itself, as well as the political figures involved, might be motivating funders.

First, nonprofits may seek to fund organizations who work in voting rights or sway legislation. Especially in an election year, these causes may be top of mind for foundations.

Second, nonprofits may seek to bolster organizations doing work they feel may be threatened by the outcome of an election. For this year, issues related to environmentalism, reproductive rights, gender equity, public safety, and education may be top of mind.

While some foundations may be motivated to give based on politics, this is certainly not true of all foundations. This is our second foundation grant prediction.

If you are unsure of a foundation’s priorities, it is best to handle political issues with care. It is always a good idea to focus on the good work you do and the real impact your work has on people when crafting a request to a foundation.

If you want to better understand what be motivating a particular funder, I recommend that you simply get to know them—visit their website, read their mission statement, learn about their board members. You can also review their 990 which is freely accessible online, but remember this is more an indication of what they have given and not an indication of what they will give. By learning about your funder, you will better understand how your program fits in with issues they care deeply about.

Foundation Grant Prediction 2: Some foundations will increase giving to specific causes, but this is certainly not true of all foundations.

Want us to put our insight to work for your organization? Schedule a call with us today.

Did you miss part 1? Don’t worry, you can still check it out here.