The Hidden Path to Invite-Only Grants: Relationship Strategies from a Nonprofit's $1M+ Funding Model
Description
Want to land invite-only grants and corporate sponsorships? Hear how Surge for Water built trust-based relationships that unlocked over $1M in funding. Founder Shilpa Alva shares actionable strategies for grant writers and nonprofit leaders to move from cold outreach to long-term funder partnerships, boost corporate support, and secure sustainable funding for water access, menstrual health, and community-led solutions.
Most grant writers never get access to invite-only funding…but Surge for Water cracked the code. In this episode, founder shares how building trust and transparency helped the nonprofit unlock over $1.7 million in foundation and corporate funding. You’ll learn how relationship-building, cultural sensitivity, and community ownership can position your nonprofit for exclusive funder invitations — not just open calls.
Key Takeaways:
-How Surge for Water earned funder trust before ever applying
-Turning reports into relationship tools
-Steps to get noticed by invite-only grant funders and corporate sponsors
-How community ownership fuels sustainable solutions
Tune in today to listen to this podcast.
To learn more about the podcast episodes go to https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-writing-podcast/
"Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts
Favor, please?
If you love this podcast, would you please do me a favor and leave a review on iTunes or your podcast listener?
This helps others find the podcast and I read each and every review!
“Every time I listen to Holly’s show, I learn something” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show!
Thanks for listening!
Warmly,
Holly Rustick
Coaches new and experienced grant writers to earn high 5-6 figure incomes writing grants from home!
Get Freelance Grant Writing Spicy Tips when you Join the weekly newsletter series “Write Grants. Get Paid” https://grantwritingandfunding.com/
Freelance Grant Writer Academy: Replace your Full-Time Income Writing Grants Part-Time from Home.
https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy/
———————————————————————————
This podcast episode was lovingly sponsored by GEMS!
This podcast episode is lovingly sponsored by Grant Easy Management Software (GEMS). Break Up with Your Spreadsheet – Get GEMS Grant Easy Management Software and NEVER MISS A DEADLINE AGAIN! Book YOUR FREE demo now! Click here: https://www.grantwritingandfunding.com/gems
———————————————————————————



