It’s easy to think of donors as large institutions, with rigid guidelines and layers of bureaucracy. But at the end of the day, donors are real people who care about creating impact. They’re just like you: driven by passion, motivated by purpose, and eager to see real change.

When preparing your proposals, remember that the person reading your application isn’t just ticking boxes. They’re looking for projects and partners who inspire them — initiatives that align with their own hopes and beliefs. They want to see the heart behind the work.

So, before you send that final proposal, take a moment to consider who’s on the other end. Can you connect with them directly, perhaps through a phone call, an email, or even a brief meeting at an event? Can you show them your story, your team’s commitment, and the human impact of your work?

Don’t underestimate the power of a personal connection.

Knowing the decision-makers, understanding their backgrounds and motivations, and engaging with them authentically can turn a standard application into a conversation. It transforms your project from an abstract idea to a relatable, human story that resonates deeply.

This approach takes effort, but it’s worth it. Because when you build relationships with the real people behind donor organisations, you’re not just chasing funds — you’re building partnerships grounded in shared vision and lasting impact.

And that’s how you move from faceless paper to funding that changes lives.