Connecting with new foundation funders can be one of the biggest challenges in grant fundraising. Many organizations spend hours researching potential funders only to struggle to begin building relationships with new foundation partners. A compelling Letter of Inquiry (LOI) is often the first step in building those relationships. More than simply an introduction, an LOI is a concise case for support that highlights your organization’s impact, shows alignment with a funder’s priorities, and opens the door to further conversation.

In this hands-on, practical workshop, you’ll learn a simple six-step framework for creating a compelling Letter of Inquiry that captures a funder’s attention and leaves them wanting to know more. As you move through each step, you’ll work with a guided LOI template that includes prompts to help you organize your ideas, clarify your message, and begin drafting with confidence. Whether you’re new to grant fundraising or looking to strengthen your approach, you’ll leave with practical tools you can put to work right away.

Participants will leave with a stronger understanding of:

• The purpose of a Letter of Inquiry and when it is the right tool to use.
• A practical six-step framework for writing effective, funder-focused LOIs.
• How to clearly communicate your organization’s impact and align it with a foundation’s priorities.
• A completed LOI template with ideas and content to support your writing after the workshop.

workshop details

suitable for: anyone who wants to write or improve their LOI and walk away with a first draft
commitment: 2 hours
workshop size: maximum of 12
format: this workshop is held over Zoom and a video connection is preferred (but not mandatory) for attendance
investment: $75 per participant*

*The New School of Fundraising is committed to reducing barriers to access our programming. If you are unable to pay a registration fee please reach out directly to Rowena at rowena [at] nsof [dot] ca to discuss options.