Apra
Apra (previously an acronym for the “American Prospect Research Association” and, later, the “Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement”) defines itself as “the premier organization for professionals who strategically harness information and data to drive fundraising for philanthropic institutions.”
Apra hosts PRSPCT-L, a discussion group and mailing list of subscribers who work in nonprofit fundraising, specifically those engaged in prospect research, data mining and analytics, and relationship management.
Access Apra resources by registering as a website-only guest, which allows you to participate in PRSPCT-L and purchase online educational sessions, or purchase an individual or organizational membership.
BestBizWeb.com
“Since 2000, the Best of the Business Web monthly e-letter has scoured the business Web to locate substantive, valuable, and reliable business research sites that are free or nearly free, and report our discoveries back to you in a simple succinct listing with just the information you need.”
David Lamb’s Research Page
Compiled recommendations for sites that should be useful to a prospect researcher
Helen Brown Group (HBG)
Fundraising research consultancy with a resource library that contains learning media (presentations, podcasts, etc.), wealth lists, and a list of prospect research links. Resource Library requires (free) registration.
MSU Libraries Resource Guides: Grants and Related Resources
Resources for grant and financial aid seekers, compiled by Michigan State University Libraries
Prospect-dmm
A discussion group for development professionals involved or interested in data mining and modeling, particularly as such concepts may be applied to major gifts
Prospect Research Institute
Online courses, a membership community, and other educational content for professionals working in prospect research, fundraising analytics, and relationship management. Free registration offers access to lists of web resources, blogs, vendor sites, podcasts, etc.
Resources for Investigating Tax-Exempt Organizations
ProPublica created a guide for investigating nonprofits for those just getting started as well as for seasoned pros.
Supporting Fundraising
This robust site offers a “primary focus on the ‘back room’ including database management, fundraising software selection, data quality, data acquisition, policies and procedures, systems, web sites, e-philanthropy, reporting and analytics, finance and administration and other resources and samples that can help you in your day-to-day jobs – supporting fundraising organizations.”
For links to international resources, look under “International“