The Power of Effective Communication: How Access Plus Capital's Annual Impact Report Secured a $150,000 Grant
Case Study: Access Plus Capital Annual Impact Report
In addition to the written report, we also created a video version of the impact report. This video allows us to tell the stories of our impact in a more engaging and visual way. We encourage you to watch the video to learn more about the work we do and the impact we have on our communities.
Executive Summary
Access Plus Capital (APC), a non-profit organization that provides loans, grants, and training to small businesses in underserved communities, embarked on a mission to transform its annual impact report into a compelling narrative that would showcase its impact and attract potential partners and donors. Through a collaborative effort involving leadership, the data team, employees, and business clients, a comprehensive and engaging report was crafted, ultimately serving as a pivotal tool in securing a $150,000 grant from The Hewlett Foundation.
Challenge
APC's traditional one-page annual impact report failed to capture the full scope of the organization's impact and its potential to transform lives. The need for a more comprehensive and engaging report became evident, one that could effectively communicate APC's mission and achievements to a wider audience.
Solution
To address this challenge, a comprehensive strategy was developed to create an annual impact report that would not only highlight APC's impact but also serve as a valuable tool for fundraising and attracting new partners. The report would feature a story-driven approach, showcasing the transformative impact of APC's programs on individual businesses and their communities.
Implementation
A cross-functional team was assembled, bringing together leadership, the data team, employees, and business clients. This diverse group provided valuable insights and perspectives, ensuring that the report accurately reflected APC's work and its impact on the communities it serves.
Key Features
The new annual impact report underwent a significant transformation, evolving from a one-page document to a comprehensive 33-page booklet. The report featured a bold and colorful design, making it visually appealing and engaging for readers.
Impact
The new annual impact report proved to be a powerful tool for APC, generating significant interest and engagement from donors, partners, and the community. The report effectively communicated APC's impact, highlighting its role in supporting small businesses and revitalizing communities.
Hewlett Foundation Grant
The compelling narrative and comprehensive data presented in the annual impact report played a crucial role in securing a $150,000 grant from The Hewlett Foundation. The foundation recognized APC's commitment to empowering small businesses and its dedication to creating positive change in underserved communities.
Key Takeaways
The Access Plus Capital annual impact report serves as a testament to the power of effective communication and collaboration in achieving organizational goals. The report's success demonstrates the importance of:
Storytelling: Sharing the stories of individual businesses and their communities creates a human connection and allows readers to relate to the impact of the organization's work.
Data-driven approach: Using data to support the narrative adds credibility and reinforces the organization's commitment to measuring and evaluating its impact.
Cross-functional collaboration: Involving leadership, staff, and business clients ensures that the report accurately reflects the organization's work and its impact on the communities it serves.
Conclusion
The Access Plus Capital annual impact report stands as a model for effective communication and a powerful tool for fundraising and attracting new partners. The report's success highlights the importance of storytelling, a data-driven approach, and cross-functional collaboration in achieving organizational goals.
