Part 2 (For Mid-Sized Rescues Looking to Scale Up)
Your rescue has made it past the early stages—you’ve saved lives, built a reputation, and maybe even secured a few small grants. But now, you’re looking to scale up, expand programs, and secure larger funding opportunities.
Mid-sized rescues face a unique challenge: You’re big enough to need substantial funding but not yet large enough to have a dedicated grant writer or full-time development team. This guide will show you how to increase your grant success rate, find higher-value funding, and position your rescue as a top-tier grant recipient.
Step 1: Build a Strong Grant Portfolio
Winning one grant is great—winning multiple grants consistently is how you create long-term financial stability.
What Makes a Rescue Grant-Ready at the Next Level?
✅ A History of Funding Success – Even small grants prove that you’re trustworthy and capable of managing funds.
✅ Clear Financial Records – Funders want transparency. Use software like QuickBooks, Wave, or donor management systems (e.g., Kindful, Bloomerang) to track grant funds.
✅ Impact Data – Show numbers + stories. Instead of “We saved 50 dogs,” say:
- “In 2023, we rescued 50 dogs, 80% of whom were adopted within 60 days. With funding, we can increase adoptions by 30%.”
✅ A Professional Online Presence – Funders Google you. An outdated website or inactive social media can cost you opportunities.
💡 PRO TIP: Create a “Funding Wins” page on your website listing previous grants received + impact results. This builds credibility!
Step 2: Apply for Larger & Recurring Grants
Mid-sized rescues should focus on:
🔹 Grants offering $10,000+ (versus small $500-$2,000 grants)
🔹 Multi-year funding opportunities (so you’re not reapplying annually)
🔹 Government & corporate grants, not just animal-specific funding
📌 Examples of Larger Grants to Target:
1️⃣ PetSmart Charities Adoption Grant – $25,000-$100,000 for increasing adoptions
2️⃣ ASPCA Grants – Supports mid-sized rescues scaling up programs
3️⃣ The Humane Society Grant – Focuses on spay/neuter and advocacy initiatives
4️⃣ The Petco Love Foundation Grant – $5,000-$100,000 for rescues with measurable impact
5️⃣ The Open Philanthropy Animal Welfare Grant – Supports high-impact animal rescues
(I’ll include a full list of 20 grants in a separate section.)
Step 3: Improve Your Grant Applications for Higher Success Rates
Larger funders receive hundreds of applications—so standing out is key.
🔹 Tailor Each Application – Never copy-paste the same proposal. Funders can tell.
🔹 Use Data + Emotion –
- Bad: “We need funding for medical care.”
- Good: “Last year, we spent $42,000 on emergency surgeries for 78 injured animals. With this grant, we can provide lifesaving care to 100+ rescues in 2024.”
🔹 Show Financial Sustainability – Funders don’t want to throw money into a black hole. Show you have other income sources (adoption fees, donations, sponsorships).
🔹 Include Letters of Support – Testimonials from local vets, community partners, or past funders add credibility.
💡 PRO TIP: If a funder has an online Q&A session, ATTEND IT. Funders remember applicants who show up and ask smart questions.
Step 4: Strengthen Relationships with Funders
The biggest mistake rescues make? Applying once and forgetting about it.
✅ Build relationships BEFORE applying – Email the funder, introduce your rescue, and ask if they’d be willing to review a draft before submission.
✅ Follow up even if you’re rejected – Ask for feedback and apply again next year.
✅ Show gratitude – If awarded a grant, send a thank-you letter + impact report (even if not required). Funders often renew grants for rescues they trust!
💡 PRO TIP: Keep a funder database with grant deadlines, requirements, and notes on past interactions. This makes future applications much easier.
Step 5: Diversify Your Funding to Reduce Grant Dependency
Many rescues make the mistake of relying too much on grants. The best strategy? Combine grants with other funding sources.
🔹 Corporate Sponsorships – Partner with local businesses for funding + resources
🔹 Monthly Giving Programs – Even 200 donors giving $10/month = $24,000/year
🔹 Fundraising Events – Adoption drives, auctions, community days
🔹 Social Media Fundraising – Run targeted donation campaigns (Facebook & Instagram)
The more diversified your income, the stronger your grant applications look.
What’s Next?
You’ve got the tools—now it’s time to start applying for larger, recurring grants.
📌 Coming Next:
📢 See Part 1 of this Blog Series (Beginner Guide)
📢 List of 20 Grants for Animal Rescues
📢 Grant Application Checklist