21. Philanthropic funding: A/Prof Nicholas Van Dam on raising $10M for a new research centre

View the full show notes, including a summary of practical tips on the Amplifying Research website: https://www.amplifyingresearch.com/podcast/21-nicholas-van-dam 

 

Today’s episode is a deep dive with Associate Professor Nicholas Van Dam on how he raised $10M in philanthropic funding for the University of Melbourne's Contemplative Studies Centre.

Nicholas shares how he reframed his thinking to land that significant donation, and we discuss the importance of diversifying your funding portfolio, building connections with the right people, and effectively pitching your vision to potential donors.

If you’re a researcher or part of a research organisation looking to tap into philanthropic funding, this episode is packed with practical advice and strategies you can apply to your own work.

 

Our conversation covers:

• Strategies for reframing your thinking to attract significant donations.

• The importance of diversifying your funding sources and not relying solely on traditional grants.

• How to build and maintain connections with potential donors and key stakeholders.

• Listening and self-reflection — the importance of listening to potential donors and understanding their priorities while also reflecting on your own passions and long-term satisfaction before committing to funding agreements.

• The value of dedicating time to develop the necessary skills for securing funding and taking meetings, even when uncertain about the outcomes.

• Effective pitching techniques to communicate your vision and its impact compellingly.

• The role of media appearances in building your reputation and increasing your visibility to potential donors.

• The significance of surrounding yourself with the right people, seeking mentorship, and consciously building a strong, supportive team.

• Tips on leveraging your existing networks to open doors to new funding opportunities.

 

Find A/Prof Nicholas Van Dam online:

• https://www.nicholastvandam.com

• UniMelb — https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/profile/796489-nicholas-van-dam

• LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-van-dam-7784a85/