Thursday, July 22, 2010

Let Us RE Introduce Ourselves

I know it has been a while since we have updated our blog. Yes, three years is a long time to wait for a blog entry (and we know you've been waiting with bated breath.) So instead of making excuses for why we haven't updated, how about we just reset this whole blog thing and start from scratch.

Hello! Welcome to the Advancement Ink, LLC blog! We are happy that you have chosen to follow us and learn more about our company and the services that we offer our clients. Advancement Ink was founded in January of 2006 by the mother/daughter team of Katherine Johnston and Bethany Piersol as a full-service consulting agency specializing in grant preparation services.

What does that mean, you may ask? Simply stated, we manage the grant submission process from inception to submission. We help our clients turn their ideas and programs into organized and compelling funding proposals. Our work is typically completed in four stages:

Stage 1 - Information Gathering - We do our homework on your organization, goals and objectives, and programs. We thoroughly review your web site and all accompanying written materials. Then, we ask questions. We interview key staff and other important stakeholders to learn the ins and outs of your organization.

Stage 2 - Research - After completing Stage 1, we take the information that we have gathered and reviewed and use that to research funding options. We search for funding opportunities in the private sector (corporations and foundations) as well as state and federal government opportunities. Once we locate opportunities, we compile them into a prioritized list that is ranked by programmatic fit, regional proximity, and deadline. We also make strategic recommendations to maximize your budget and make the best use of time and resources.

Stage 3 - Writing and Packaging - Once the client has given us the go-ahead, we begin the proposal preparation process. We strictly adhere to the guidelines and requirements of each funding entity when preparing proposals. We communicate regularly with clients to set timelines, collect necessary information, and give progress updates. Once we have completed the rough draft we generally need two rounds of review and editing by the client to finalize the proposal. In addition to the written proposal, we work with our clients to create program budget requests. (again, adhering to guidelines and requirements) One of our most appreciated services is our interactive budget model that eases the stress and confusion of preparing federal budget requests. The final step in this process is the packaging of the proposal. We work with our clients to compile the necessary attachments that accompany the final proposal. We double and triple check all of our work to make sure that nothing is overlooked. If requested, we will send out the finalized proposal (either in hard copy format or via electronic uploading as the funding entity dictates.)

Stage 4 - Management, Reporting and Stewardship - Once you have received your grant, we will assist you in managing the award, setting up the proper accounts and mechanisms for tracking spending, as well as all required reporting. (both financial and programmatic) In addition, we will create correspondence to corporations and foundations in the form of letters and reports (whether required or not) as a way to show appreciation and responsible stewardship of their grant or gift to your organization. Advancement Ink believes in the power of showing appreciation to those who invest in our clients.

These are our stages of work. Some of our clients choose to retain Advancement Ink on a full-service basis. This makes great sense. However, we want to be flexible to our clients and provide them with exactly what they need. So, some choose to utilize only certain stages of work.
This is okay, too. We will be happy to discuss your needs on an individual basis and design a plan of work that will best serve you and your organization.

Speaking of work plans. Advancement Ink ALWAYS provides project or service estimates up front and does not begin work until the client has signed off on the estimate. We stick closely to our project estimates and do not exceed them unless the client agrees to an addendum that is then signed by both parties. We require a deposit of 1/3 of the project estimate and then once work is completed we invoice the client for the project estimate less the 1/3 deposit. We NEVER work on contingency and charge a reasonable hourly rate. Advancement Ink's services can also be retained on a monthly basis for a set fee.

We encourage you to go to our web site (www.advancementink.com) and learn more about us and our services. Give us a call and let's discuss your grant writing needs.

Until next time...