Abstract
With the rapid expansion of the nonprofit sector, there is approximately 43 percent of nonprofits that are not surviving past five years of operation. As there are many misconceptions about start-up organizations, this may affect their growth and financial viability. A qualitative study was conducted to understand the perception of start-up nonprofit organizations and how that may influence funder giving behaviors. Interviews were administered with three funders of Greater Richmond area foundations and corporations. Five major themes were developed from the findings to include mission alignment, life cycle stages, perception, elimination of bias, and organizational barriers and common mistakes. Funder perceptions proved to be relevant, however not a major factor in funder decision-making. Data was analyzed to report findings, implications, and recommendations useful for start-up organizations as well as funding establishments.
Chris George is a Behavior Support Facilitator with Henrico County Public Schools who also has a passion for serving her community. She has a Master's in Nonprofit Studies from the University of Richmond and a B.S. in Business Administration and Management with a concentration in Entrepreneurship and Small Business from VCU. She most recently established Blow Out Your Candles Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides birthday parties for hospitalized and displaced children.
Recommended Citation
George, Christina
(2019)
"The Funding of Start-up Nonprofits: An Exploration of Funder Perceptions, Attitudes, and Advice,"
VA Engage Journal: Vol. 7, Article 4.
Available at:
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/vaej/vol7/iss1/4