The R.A.T.E.S. Framework™ — From Startup to Funded
New Skills Online uses the R.A.T.E.S. Framework™ to move your organization from startup to funded — systematically, not accidentally.
Easy Readiness AssessmentWhat Is the R.A.T.E.S. Framework™?
The R.A.T.E.S. Framework™ gives organizations a clear, practical roadmap to building fundable infrastructure. Developed by Dr. Margaret Jamal from two decades of front-line nonprofit work — as grant writer, Program Director, donor, grant maker, and Federal Grant Reviewer — it addresses the five pillars that every funder evaluates, whether they name them or not.
Most organizations I've worked with believe the funding gap is about having a compelling mission. It isn't. It's about having the documented capacity to deliver on that mission. The R.A.T.E.S. Framework™ closes that gap.
R — Response-Ability
Can you clearly articulate the need your organization responds to — and prove you have the capacity to respond consistently?
Before a funder invests, they need to see that your organization understands the problem deeply and has the infrastructure to respond effectively. This means documented needs assessments, clear program models, and evidence that your approach works.
A — Accountability
Do you have financial controls, a functioning board, and documented governance systems that satisfy funder due diligence?
Funders are accountable to their own stakeholders. If your organization cannot demonstrate financial integrity, governance oversight, and operational transparency, no funder — private or public — will place their money with you.
T — Technical-Ability
Are you using technology and data systems to improve your operations and demonstrate efficiency?
Technology is not optional. Funders want to see that your organization uses data systems to track outcomes, manage operations, and demonstrate efficiency. This includes databases, impact tracking tools, and digital infrastructure.
E — Evaluation-Ability
Can you prove what changed because of your program — in outcome data, not just output counts?
Outputs are what you did. Outcomes are what changed. Funders increasingly require outcome-based evaluation — proving that your program created measurable change in the lives of the people you serve, not just counting how many people you served.
S — Sustainability
Is your organization built to survive the end of any single grant — with diversified revenue and a real succession plan?
The most fundable organizations are the ones that don't need any single funder. Sustainability means diversified revenue streams — grants, individual giving, earned income, and partnerships — plus leadership succession planning that ensures the organization outlives its founder.
Grant Readiness, Not Just Grant Writing
Competitors teach HOW to write grants. New Skills Online teaches HOW TO BECOME READY to receive them. This distinction is the difference between writing proposals that get rejected and building an organization that funders seek out.
The R.A.T.E.S. Framework™ doesn't just help you write a better proposal. It helps you build the documented infrastructure that makes your organization fundable — before you ever submit an application.
Deepen Your Training
Go beyond the framework with structured training built on the R.A.T.E.S. methodology.
RATES Learning Hub
Access the full R.A.T.E.S. training platform with video lessons, webinar libraries, instructor-led courses, and participant dashboards.
Start TrainingBook-Based Course
Transform Dr. Margaret Jamal's R.A.T.E.S. Complete Readiness Guide into an interactive learning experience with structured lessons, quizzes, and assignments.
Start the CourseStart Your Easy Readiness Assessment
Before you write a single grant proposal, know where your organization stands. The Easy Readiness Assessment shows you exactly where your gaps are — across all five R.A.T.E.S. pillars.
Easy Readiness AssessmentR.A.T.E.S. Framework™ — Developed by Dr. Margaret Jamal, New Skills Online, LLC (2005)