Before You Apply

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.

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