Hi Reader

Back-to-school season always brings a certain energy: sharpen the pencils, clean out the backpack, get a little more organized than we were in July, and brace ourselves for the return of deadlines (although in the grant world it’s like finals week every week😉).

For nonprofits, it is also the perfect time to do a little grant strategy reset.

This summer on the Carinci Consulting blog, we explored three big shifts in the current funding landscape: federal grants, foundation grants, and corporate/state-local opportunities. The common thread? The old “let’s just apply and hope for the best” approach is not cutting it. Funders are more selective, competition is real, and strategy matters more than ever.

Here are the CliffNotes as you head into fall:

1. Federal grants still matter—but so does realism. Federal funding can be transformative, but it also comes with more uncertainty, compliance, and administrative lift than ever. The nonprofits best positioned to compete are not chasing every opportunity. They are focusing on readiness, fit, and whether they can actually manage the award if they win it. Read the full post here: May Blog​

2. Foundation funding is still moving—but it is getting more intentional. The money has not disappeared, but foundations are being thoughtful and selective. That means nonprofits need more than a worthy mission. They need clear alignment, strong relationship-building, believable outcomes, and asks tailored to the funder’s priorities. Read the full post here: June Blog​

3. Corporate and state/local grants may deserve a bigger place in your mix. These opportunities are often closer to your work, your community, and your partnerships. They can be a smart way to diversify funding, reduce dependence on any one source, and pursue grants with strong local fit and practical momentum. Read the full post here: July Blog​

🎒The takeaway for fall? This is a great time to pause before the busy season gets even louder and ask:

• Are we pursuing the right grants—or just the loudest ones?
• Are we diversified enough?
• Do we have a strategy that matches today’s landscape?

If your team could use a clearer roadmap for the months ahead, We’d love to help.

Reply to this email or reach out at hello@carinciconsulting.com to talk about building a smarter, lower-stress grant strategy for fall and beyond.

Cheering you on this fall,

Jennifer

​