Navigating the Nonprofit RFP Process: Insights from Kismet Saglam

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, our guest Kismet Saglam sheds light on the intricacies of the nonprofit Request for Proposal (RFP) process. Kismet emphasizes the need for discretion and privacy in certain situations, acknowledging that publicizing an RFP can attract unwanted attention and distractions.

By maintaining a controlled communication approach, organizations can focus on the task at hand without unnecessary inquiries. Kismet also discusses the challenges of managing an overwhelming number of responses, highlighting the importance of specialized services and the natural process of elimination that occurs when targeting specific vendors.

Topics We Cover:

• The need for privacy and controlled communication in the RFP process
• Strategies for managing an influx of responses and filtering applications effectively
• Various platforms for communicating RFPs, including websites, LinkedIn, listservs, and RFP portals
• Preparing internal discussions, stakeholder buy-in, and assessing resources before initiating an RFP
• The significance of allocating dedicated personnel to ensure smooth RFP execution and implementation
• The role of budget considerations in shaping RFPs and adjusting projections based on vendor proposals
• Balancing the factors of scope, timeline, and budget during the RFP process and potential adjustments
• Fostering transparency and collaboration between nonprofits and vendors for a mutually beneficial partnership
• The ethical approach of providing guidance to vendors without influencing the final decision-making process

Join us in this insightful episode as we dive into the world of nonprofit RFPs and gain valuable insights from Kismet Saglam, an expert in navigating the complex landscape of nonprofit procurement.

To Learn More and Connect with Kismet:
LinkedIn
Email: kismet.associationconsulting@gmail.com

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