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Tips and Answers
to Your Questions
Deciding to Restructure
When approaching other nonprofits regarding a merger,
is it helpful to use as the primary contact a person who is well known
to and has influence with the other nonprofit?
It depends. If this person has a logical connection to both organizations,
and is trusted by both, it can be helpful. A common funder, for example,
may act as a facilitator for a first discussion between the two organizations.
However in many cases it is wise for someone from within the nonprofit
itself to make the first approach. Often the ED or a board member -
depending on who has the best contacts at the potential partner organization
- will be the best choice. The key to a successful first contact is
making it non-threatening. Remember that the organization being approached
may be surprised by the request. Make it clear that the suggestion
is tentative, and you are interested in exploring the idea together.
You also may want to avoid suggesting a merger in your first approach,
but instead suggest a meeting to discuss ways the two organizations
could work more closely together.
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