Grantmaker Relationship Resources: Moving Beyond the Transaction

Grants are about more than just paperwork; they are built on trust and partnership.

At DH Leonard Consulting, we believe that Relationships are the single most important factor in grant-seeking success. In a landscape increasingly influenced by AI and high competition, the organizations that stand out are those that treat funders as partners in their mission. Whether you are reaching out to a new foundation or stewarding a long-term funder, these resources will help you build authentic, lasting connections.

Funder Cultivation & Outreach Tools

Master the art of the “first impression” and learn how to initiate meaningful conversations with grantmakers.

[FREE] Grantmaker Relationship Guide Our signature step-by-step approach to reaching out. Includes talking points, a funder questionnaire, and practical tips for making a confident first impression.
The 2026 Word of the Year: RELATIONSHIPS Read why our team believes doubling down on human connection is the mandatory strategy for success in the current funding environment.
4 Tips for Maintaining Grantmaker Relationships Learn how to keep funders “in the loop” without being pushy, from tailored proposals to social media spotlights.

Stewardship & Retention Resources

Winning the grant is just the beginning. Use these tools to turn a one-time award into a multi-year partnership.

[FREE] Grant Stewardship Success Checklist Don’t leave your follow-up to chance. This checklist guides you through the four phases of stewardship: Cultivation, Initiation, Implementation, and Closeout.
Thankuary: The Power of Pure Thanking Learn how to create “undiluted moments of gratitude” that strengthen funder ties without asking for anything in return.
Funder Cultivation & Stewardship Advice Read our expert Q&A on how to handle “lapses” in stewardship and how to get your leadership team comfortable with funder outreach.

Relationship-Based Training

Webinar Resources

Deepen your team’s ability to communicate impact and align with funder goals.

[$19.99] How to Build Authentic Relationships with Your Funder
[$19.99] Don’t Treat Your Grantmaker Like an ATM
[$19.99] Funders Are Asking Did You Use AI to Write Your Grant… How Do You Answer?

Build Your Relationship Strategy with Us

Need help coaching your Board or Executive Director on funder outreach?

Relationship building is often the most intimidating part of the grant process. Our team provides customized coaching and strategy sessions to help you: