Building Partnerships and Securing Support for Rural Nonprofits

Running a rural nonprofit comes with unique challenges that nonprofit leaders in more urban settings may not fully grasp. Rural organizations often operate with smaller teams, fewer resources, and a deep connection to the communities they serve. While these nonprofits are vital lifelines for their areas, securing the funding and support needed to sustain and grow their impact can be a major hurdle.

One of the biggest obstacles for rural nonprofits is the lack of human capital. Many rural organizations don't have dedicated staff experienced in grant writing or fundraising, which can make it difficult to compete for national funding. However, the solution isn't just about finding a grant writer; it's about understanding the broader funding landscape and building relationships that can open doors. In rural areas, collaboration and partnerships are key. Forming connections with local organizations and regional funders can help nonprofits tap into resources they might not have otherwise considered. National funders are showing an increasing interest in supporting rural initiatives—though that support often comes through intermediaries rather than direct grants.

Leaders of small rural nonprofits must also rethink the way they approach partnerships. Being a small organization may seem like a disadvantage, but it allows for deeper, more meaningful collaborations with local stakeholders. Nonprofits can form consortia with nearby counties or agencies, building a coalition that can tackle regional issues in a more holistic way. Funders are looking for these kinds of strategic collaborations, particularly in rural settings where solutions often require multiple partners working together.

Besides partnerships, rural nonprofits can benefit from lifting up the unique expertise that exists in their own communities. Many rural areas have local leaders with deep, lived experience—school principals, local business owners, or retired professionals—who understand the community’s needs and challenges. Highlighting these individuals’ involvement, whether on the board or in a volunteer capacity, strengthens the case for funding by showing that the nonprofit is truly rooted in the community it serves.

For nonprofit leaders, it’s critical to set aside time for relationship building. With limited staff and resources, it’s easy to focus solely on day-to-day operations. However, taking time each week to network, attend virtual meetings, or engage with funders can pay off in the long run. Even a small investment in building these connections can lead to significant funding opportunities down the road.

Finally, rural nonprofits must embrace adaptability. Rural communities, by nature, are often more flexible because of their smaller size, allowing nonprofits to pivot quickly when new challenges arise. This ability to adapt in real-time is a major advantage when presenting to funders, who are increasingly looking for partners that can innovate and react swiftly to changing conditions.

In the end, rural nonprofits may be small, but their impact can be enormous. By focusing on building local partnerships, leveraging community expertise, and fostering long-term relationships with funders, even the smallest organizations can secure the support they need to thrive and continue making a difference.

Resources

Visit Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership Podcast episode 286 with Allen Smart for more information on this important topic. 

Looking to expand your own nonprofit leadership skills? PMA is here to help! Learn more about our unique programs designed specifically for advancing your nonprofit career. 

Let us guide you on your unique Path to Nonprofit Leadership. 

Connect with us to speak with one of our expert consultants.

Leave us a comment below! We would love to hear from you!