The Covert Operator
The organization provides unrestricted operational support to grantees working in the public policy space. They may fund policy research or employ a lobbyist.
Tactics
- Funding nonprofit organizations using general operating grants allows them flexibility to optimize their lobbying capacity for important mission-aligned policy work. Granting general operating (not project-specific) grants also do not count toward a foundation’s own H-cap.
- Develop relationships with key policymakers in your geographic footprint. Invite them to receptions, convenings, to build rapport. Then, leverage that pre-existing relationship (don’t forget staff!) when your organization or partners would like to weigh in on a policy.
- Leverage your board, donors, and extended network’s relationships to elected officials. Reaching out to them about a priority (either in support or opposition) can be via an official letter, phone call, or meeting. While all communications with lawmakers and staff are public record, you do not have to take a public stand in order to make a phone call.
Resources
- Grants and Lobbying: What Foundations Need to Know / Bolder Advocacy
- The Project Grant Rule / Bolder Advocacy
- Making the Case for Funding Multi-Year General Operating Support / CEP
- Taking the 501(h) election / National Council of Nonprofits
Next Steps to Consider
- Map your board and stakeholder networks and tap them for making strategic calls to policymakers on priority issues
Champion
Learn about the next persona
Florida Examples
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