When some time ago someone asked if grantwriting could happen on
commission I sent this out to a wonderful grantwriter for her response,
so here it is, sometime later.

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Date: 19 Feb 96 09:13:19 EST
From: Anne Butterfield <[log in to unmask]>
To: ELAINE HEUMANN GURIAN <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: Fwd: Re: Directory of Grant Writers
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Generally speaking, any fundraising counsel that works on commission
has been
considered to be unethical in the past -- in the United States.

The successful proposal is usually only the visable tip of the iceberg
of
successful fundraising -- grantsmanship or otherwise.

Startup and small museums are not usually competitive in the national
fundraising or grant-making world and must rely heavily on more
local/state
level resources.  I would recommend you look for a good development
professional
in your part of the state;  one whose local reputation is very good and
work
with him or her to get an overall development plan in place.  If
proposal
writing becomes an important compontent then look for a knowledgeable
writer who
has experience in the types of proposals you need -- or in writing for
the
potential funders you've identified.  Talk to people in a lot of other
local or
regional museums and cultural non-profits;  even in social service or
educational non-profits to get potential names.  Check references.
Analyze the
extent to which you can work with someone to create a "standard"
proposal you
can adapt to spepcific funders.  Be prepared to pay for the services
you want
and be very leery of someone who will do it on "spec".

Good luck!

Anne Butterfield
Anne Butterfield Company
A Member of The Museum Group, independent museum professionals
providing
services to the field.