7 Integrations Your Grants Management System Should Support

Grantmaking organizations are constantly seeking ways to increase efficiency. Ideally, this involves keeping all of their grantmaking data and processes within a single system. Third-party integrations are a great way to leverage the power of tools that specialize in services like document management, data visualization, and digital signature, without the need to switch between multiple platforms on the fly. 

Integrations are not just a convenience; they’re a necessity for any organization aiming to streamline its grantmaking processes and provide a seamless experience to grantees. Here are 7 third-party integrations that every grants management system (GMS) should support. 

Document Management and Storage

Integrating tools like Microsoft 365, Google Drive, Box, and OneDrive into a grants management software ensures that all documents are easily accessible and shareable. These tools facilitate seamless collaboration and ensure information is accessible to team members when they need it. In GivingData, grantmakers can seamlessly link to documents from these file storage services to keep all documents in one place. 

Digital Signatures

The approval process in grantmaking often involves multiple stakeholders and extensive paperwork. Integrations with digital signature management tools, such as DocuSign and Adobe Sign, streamline this process by allowing documents to be signed and managed electronically. An integration allows this to all be done in the place where most of the grantmaking process is already handled – the grants management system – which saves time for both foundation staff and grantees. 

Data Management

Access to accurate and comprehensive data is essential for informed decision-making. Tools like LexisNexis provide robust data solutions for conducting thorough due diligence. GivingData’s integration with Demographics via Candid allows funders to gain insight into an organization's demographic data through Candid to measure progress toward your grantmaking goals and prevents grantees from having to submit demographic information more than once. 

Communication

Effective communication is key to effective grantmaking and positive grantee interactions. Integrating email tools such as Gmail, Microsoft 365, and Outlook into a grants management system ensures that all communications related to grant activities are centralized. This makes it easier to track the history of a grantee relationship and mitigates staff turnover by keeping conversations accessible in one location.

Security and Authentication

Authentication and single sign-on (SSO) tools provide robust security measures throughout the grant lifecycle. Integrations with Okta, OneLogin, and Microsoft Active Directory ensure that user access is managed securely and efficiently, protecting sensitive information and simplifying the login process.

Due Diligence and Finance

Managing financial transactions and workflows can be complex, but integrations with financial tools like Bill.com automate accounts payable processes, helping organizations manage their finances more efficiently. GivingData’s integration with Bill.com provides foundation finance teams with real-time visibility into the status of payments to grantees, the ability to verify charitable status and perform other time-intensive batch processes. 

Data Visualization

Transforming data into actionable insights is crucial for strategic decision-making. Integrations with data visualization tools like Power BI and Tableau enable organizations to create compelling data visualizations and dashboards. These tools provide a clear and comprehensive view of grantmaking activities, helping organizations analyze trends, measure impact, and make informed decisions. The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation uses GivingData’s integration with Power BI to identify bottlenecks and flag delays in the grants lifecycle. That data combined with GivingData’s workflows allowed the team to improve the turnaround times of grants. 

Open API Connectivity

While not a direct third-party integration, GMS providers with an open API allow for the seamless integration of bespoke solutions, ensuring that the grants management software can adapt to any tech ecosystem. For example, GivingData’s open API makes it easy for foundations to synchronize contact data with other CRM systems they use to engage donors, grantees, and other constituents.

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At GivingData, we recognize the critical role of integrations and offer a wide range of third-party connections, as well as an open API. These integrations empower grantmakers to operate more efficiently and make data-driven decisions, ultimately maximizing their philanthropic impact. To learn more about the integrations available in GivingData, contact our team today.