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Progression Tracker
Introduction
Do You Need a Funding Plan?
Introduction to the Six Steps
Step 1: Establish Priorities
Step 2: Assess Capacity
Step 3: Set Fundraising Goals
Step 4: Identify Funding Sources
Step 5: Evaluate & Select Funding Sources
  • Fundraising Environment
  • Diversification
  • Estimated Returns
  • Sustainability
  • Key Evaluation Questions
Step 6: Write & Implement Plan
Final Quiz
Sample Finance Plans
List of Case Studies
References & Additional Resources

Step 5 (continued). Diversify your Sources

Graphic illustrating key concepts included for Step 4: Identify and Evaluate Funding Options. A four-legged stool with the caption "Diversity Your Base of Funding" is pictured with the following labels: 1) "Government Funding" with an arrow pointing toward the first leg; 2) "Earned Income" with an arrow toward the second leg; 3) "Private Funding" with an arrow toward the third leg; 4) "Individual Donors" with an arrow toward the fourth leg; and 5) "Your Organization" with an arrow pointing at the stool seat.Watershed organizations should pursue a variety of funding sources to support their projects. Groups that rely on a single source, such as government grants, place themselves in a vulnerable position. As your organization starts growing, think about diversifying to a few reliable sources.

In choosing diverse funding sources, do your research: know what works in your area, what other groups may be competing for funding, and what resources are available. As mentioned in Step 1, look to your mission and strategic plan for developing fundraising ideas that would complement your organization's vision.










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