Written by Kent Mulcahy, Grants Resource Librarian, Downtown Main Library
Although our libraries have been back open to customers since summer 2020, we know many people have become accustomed to the convenience of "to your door" services that have popped up during the pandemic. With that in mind, the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library is bringing the tools you need to research the perfect foundation funder for your 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to your neighborhood.
Get Personalized Training on Foundation Research
If you’re not already familiar with Foundation Directory Online, it’s the industry-standard tool for nonprofits to research foundations interested in what you do and where you do it. Here’s a quick demonstration of this powerful funding research tool in action:
If you’re new to Foundation Directory Online and would like an introduction, I’m here to help! Contact me and I’ll set you up with videos, handouts, and general tips and tricks to get you started on the database. Or, if you’d simply like to know more about its features to find out if it’s right for you, I’d be happy to chat.
And the Library provides free access to it. Previously, the database was only available for in-person use at our Downtown Main Library. While it’s still absolutely available for use there, I’ll now meet you at the library branch most convenient to you for a research session.
No matter where you choose to use the database, set up an appointment by emailing kent.mulcahy@chpl.org or calling 513-369-6934.
Or, Sharpen Your Skills in an Online Class
Additionally, I offer a free virtual class on the database every month. If you’d like to join me for a deep dive into its amazing features and learn the best strategies for quickly getting a handle on the Foundation Directory Online, join me by registering for the next session at 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 19.
Get More Nonprofit Resources from the Library
The Library, of course, has all the best books for your nonprofit information needs. For a peek at a hand-selected list, check out my Recommended Grant and Nonprofit Books list. Place your holds and pick them up at your home branch library.
If you’re involved in the nonprofit world and you’ve never heard of Candid Learning, you need to click that link, right now! Candid Learning is the organization, itself a nonprofit, that the Library partners with to bring you the Foundation Directory Online and the 501(c)(3) classes we offer. Candid Learning is your one-stop shop for all nonprofit questions. From how to start a nonprofit to examples of full grant proposals, you’ll find it all here. And what’s more, by heading to Candid Learning, you’ll know you’re getting your information from a safe place free of scams and amateur content. These are the pros.
So, there you have it, a quick peek into the resources the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library offers nonprofit organizations. Want to get started? Reach out to me to set up a time to use the Foundation Directory Online. Let’s get you funded!
Kent also co-produces the Library’s "West End Stories Podcast" with West End Branch Manager Keloni Parks and hosts the "My Favorite Album is Terrible" show on CHPL's Facebook page.
Add a comment to: CHPL Brings Nonprofit Grant Research Tools to Your Neighborhood