What are the essential functions of the Office of Corporate and Foundation Relations?
We assist faculty and staff in proposal and concept development, private foundation or corporation research, and write and submit grant proposals.

How does the Office of Corporate and Foundation Relations differ from the Research Foundation or the Office of Sponsored Research?
The Office of Corporate and Foundation Relations cultivates and stewards private foundations and corporate funders and continues to do so after a gift is given to the university. Our focus is on outreach and relationship maintenance of these types of donors.

We serve as a conduit for faculty seeking gifts from corporations and private foundations (we cannot accept federal or state funds)—conducting searches for donors whose interests align with yours, developing proposals to the identified donor agencies, writing proposals and providing information to the donors about the impact of their gifts.

We do not enter into contracts with corporations or manage Intellectual Property or patents that may emerge as a result of funded research. These services are provided in the Office of Research and we often partner with the Office of Research, helping you as you seek external funding for your program or research initiatives.

I have an idea or current program that needs private foundation or corporate funding, what do I do next?
Your next step is to engage in the funding process—call or email us with your inquiry. We will collaborate with you and your associates to match a potential funder with your program or initiative. This process can be lengthy as private foundations and corporations receive numerous funding requests each day; however, with our expertise in building and maintaining relationships with private foundations and corporations, we are better positioned to find funding.

When will I know if my program or initiative is funded?
That depends on the solicited foundation or corporation. Many times, funders will review proposals every time their board meets. Other times, funders may have a rolling submission schedule and reply within a certain timeframe. Regardless, we will keep you informed throughout the funding process.

How can I stay up-to-date on current opportunities for funding?
The Office of Corporate and Foundation Relations subscribes to a database that identifies current and brand new request for proposals (RFPs) that are applicable to Florida State University. Add my name to the listserv.