Talking with more than one funder about technology is akin to asking a roomful of people to look through a kaleidoscope pointed out a window. Even with the same instrument and the same view, each person will likely describe a different scene before them.
Consider this: a foundation recently awarded a technology grant to a nonprofit for a network server, several personal computer workstations, and outside consulting assistance. What do you think is the overarching purpose of the grant?
* To replace an unstable peer-to-peer network and to enable a new fundraising database to be installed.
* To close the digital divide between technology haves and have-nots in the community.
* To help local youth develop new digital media and content as a form of self expression.
* To access a funding organization's intranet as a tool for reporting and collaboration with other nonprofits.
* To create a new model of community organizing and advocacy via the Internet.
The correct response, as you may have already surmised, is that each answer represents a strong and compelling, yet different, reason why a funder would support a nonprofit's technology. Funders arrive at technology funding from different places -- some view it as essential capacity building, others as a way to facilitate communication, connection, and collaboration, while still others see it as a key component to empower and engage clients through community-based services and programs.
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