The high but reasonable expectations of donors

After much deliberative planning, you have been awarded a grant to implement a worthy cause. You are extremely excited about this accomplishment but don’t forget that you have to meet the expectations of the donor and keep your promise of your capacity to implement. I have outlined seven high but reasonable expectations of donors that you should always remember:

• You will follow grant rules. I could end the article here but I won’t…. Upon signing the contractual agreement, it is understood that you have read and agreed to conditions of the agreement between you and the donor. Be sure to read the contract carefully and ask questions, if necessary. You should also review the contract after you have signed it and highlight any important dates or submission requirements.

• You will meet reporting deadlines. Donors may provide a timeline for submission of progress reports with the expectation that you will adhere to them. These reports allow donors to track your progress, identify any issues and facilitate disbursements. Don’t be afraid to share your issues with your donor as they can provide valuable insights and recommendations.

• You will not change the budget. Before making the decision to reallocate funds to another budget line or a new budget category, always contact your donor to request a budget reallocation and be sure to provide justification for the change.

• You will deliver agreed project outputs. If you agreed to have 20 managers trained as protected areas specialists to management effectiveness, then fulfil your agreement. Remember you received funding due to your project’s potential, particularly its societal, environmental and/or economic impact.

• You will communicate and be responsive to requests. I cannot emphasize the importance of regular communication with your donors which show a high level of commitment. Donors may send requests for facilitating project monitoring, reporting, sharing lessons, participating in initiatives/exhibits. Be sure to participate in these initiatives to promote your project.

• You will follow the delivery timelines. Try your best to meet the deadlines stipulated in your contract. Donors can be forgiving especially if you have been communicating your challenges. If needed, you can renegotiate time to complete activities or the donor may extend the project period.

• You will give them credit. Give credit where credit is due. Be sure to contact your donor for their branding guidelines/policies. Be sure not to use logos without their permission. The same applies to project partners.

If you have worked with a donor/funding agency, tell us some of your expectations. If you were awarded a grant, what expectations did you have to meet?