This course introduces students to the necessary steps in developing a comprehensive approach to building supporting relationships with various types of funders – private foundations, institutional foundations, corporations, governments, and individuals. Students will also learn how to research appropriate funders, develop project budgets that make sense to funders, and communicate effectively and compellingly a case for support. The course will also seek to evaluate the scope of philanthropy in light of the recent economic downturn. Topics covered include funding trends, planning, grant types, research, developing relationships, communicating funding requests, and budget preparation.