Because of requirements by the American government, many American grantmakers require international organizations to provide certain organizational documents. Interviewees said that before you apply, make sure your organization has the following documents:
• Founding documents. This document is often
called a Constitution, By-laws, or Charter and it includes information
about your organization’s mission, objectives, structure, and financial
management. It is important that this document is recognized by your
organization’s Board and/or the local government.
• Certificate of registration. This certificate
should be issued by your local government and certify that your
organization is registered within your country or region.
• Dissolution information. This information
specifies what will happen to your organization’s money and assets when
your organization dissolves or closes. This is usually found in your
organization’s founding documents.
• Detailed financial records. Almost every
grantmaking organization that participated in the research commented on
the importance of financial records. Funders like to see that
organizations have strong financial reporting systems. It is important
that your organization keep records of all income and expenses,
including keeping receipts and even hiring outside auditors. Each year,
your organization should create a budget for its entire operating budget
and provide a detailed breakdown of how much money is spent and on
what. For more information on financial reporting, check out Mango’s Financial
Management Guide.
For more information about U.S. grantmaking regulations,
visit the Council
on Foundation’s International Grantmaking Website.