Just as in a diet, a single source of sustenance cannot keep an organization healthy. Grants should be part of a mosaic of funding sources including individual and corporate donors, fees for service, membership, and other revenue sources that keep cash flow steady and secure. Grants should enhance other types of fundraising, making up no more than 20% of your total income. (See Ken Ristine's chart of revenue sources in different types of organizations.) If you are a start-up or are hoping grants can save a struggling organization, you probably need a fundraising consultant.

Foundations are very cautious about funding organizations without track records. If you build a solid base with individual donors and other sources before seeking grants, you will be more competitive when the time comes to submit proposals.

For more information about fundraising in general, try these websites:

• Nonprofit Fundraising and Grantwriting
• Roadmap to Fundraising Success Center on Philanthropy, Indiana University
  
• Capital Quest, Inc.: Capital Campaigns
• Help 4 NonProfits: Boards and Organizational Development
• An excellent basic book is Kim Klein, Fundraising for Social Change.