ABSTRACT
Mentoring programs look to outside funding to either start or expand operations. The most logical place to look for funding is grants, either from a unit of government, from foundations or other community funders, or from individuals. For smaller organizations, asking directly for help from service clubs, individuals, or community groups may make more sense at the start of an effort. While service clubs such as Rotary are often overlooked by smaller organizations, they can provide a good platform for recognition, as well as a source of small amounts of funding. Writing a grant can be the most straightforward way to seek external funding for a mentoring program. Government agencies usually offer Requests for Proposals (RFPs) that seek programs that accomplish certain activities, and there is a dollar amount attached to these. Social enterprise offers ways of running programs that can be financially supported over the long haul, sometimes with the use of a business that supports the non-profit activities.
