A well written proposal, along with clear and concise supporting materials is just one element to receiving grant funding. What is equally important, and less discussed, is the communication with a funder before the proposal is written, as well as the continued relationship during the life an awarded grant. This session outlines the elements of a successful grant application, how to collaborate with a funder, which, along with attention to a few key details, can make the difference between a large grant and a large disappointment. This session will reinforce those things that may seem obvious, that preparation and developing and maintaining relationships with funders leads to long term success. The session will also include an informal and sometimes humorous and insightful look into how a grant application is reviewed and what areas receive the most attention, as well as key aspects of the applicant/funder dynamic. The presenter spent 20 years at land trusts successfully raising funding from foundation and government grants before become a grant maker himself and combines those experiences into sound advice.