http://bravenewfilms.org/topics/solutions 2008-07-25T20:50:44Z http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/46475-andy-atkins-friends-of-the-earth-s-director 2008-07-25T20:50:44Z Friends of the Earth <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/x2etW6oBYZY&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/x2etW6oBYZY&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/46475-andy-atkins-friends-of-the-earth-s-director"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/54787" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Andy Atkins talks about his role, his inspirations and his high hopes for the future of our planet</p> </div> <a href="/blog/46475-andy-atkins-friends-of-the-earth-s-director">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/45863-climate-change-lessons-from-the-montreal-protocol 2008-07-25T20:40:36Z Carnegie Council <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/X2HAwuRyzxU&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/X2HAwuRyzxU&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/45863-climate-change-lessons-from-the-montreal-protocol"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/53170" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>What lessons were learned from the Montreal Protocol's success in curbing ozone depletion and how can we apply them to global climate change? EPA officials and industry leaders discuss the need for sound science, a flexible international agreement, and business innovation. <br />This video by Steve Dorst was prepared for the Carnegie Council program, Global Policy Innovations, in October 2007.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/45863-climate-change-lessons-from-the-montreal-protocol">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/45340-catastrophe-as-opportunity 2008-07-25T20:29:32Z dharma dog pictures <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wRiFGnWzyCA&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wRiFGnWzyCA&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/45340-catastrophe-as-opportunity"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/52449" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Catastrophe As Opportunity: from the Ashes at Lama <br />The world in which we live spins wildly out-of-balanced. From natural resources being near exhaustion, industrial poisons indiscriminately dumped into waterways, chemical pesticides once used as weapons of war, now dumped by the gallons on our food sources and injected into our soils, while global warming gives rise to temperatures significant enough to cause catastrophic fires, hurricanes and the melt of the Polar Ice Cap. With warning signs like these, still most refuse to see the edge of collapse to which we all live perilously close. There are those however, who see this edge in clear view. Travel with us as we visit one such community of seers. Among Americas oldest</p> </div> <a href="/blog/45340-catastrophe-as-opportunity">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/45339-heaven-on-earth-short-version 2008-07-25T20:29:30Z dharma dog pictures <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1l86jcJeL5M&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1l86jcJeL5M&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/45339-heaven-on-earth-short-version"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/52448" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Heaven On Earth <br /> Is a Environmental Travel Video Blog shot this past <br />winter in Sikkim and India. It offers insight into the work of Rico <br />Zook and what he feels is a revelation into heaven,hell and purgatory <br />with-in the context of permaculture design.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/45339-heaven-on-earth-short-version">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/45165-global-warming-solutions-act-of-2008 2008-07-25T20:28:04Z Susanna <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/t9uiiYtBOgg&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/t9uiiYtBOgg&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/45165-global-warming-solutions-act-of-2008"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/51986" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Hundreds converge on the Maryland state capital in Annapolis to support the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2008. This bill would mandate a reduction of global warming pollution levels in Maryland by 90% by 2050!</p> </div> <a href="/blog/45165-global-warming-solutions-act-of-2008">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/45163-citizens-rally-with-governor-o-malley-for-global-warming-solutions 2008-07-25T20:28:01Z Susanna <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Y7PnP2GItIE&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Y7PnP2GItIE&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/45163-citizens-rally-with-governor-o-malley-for-global-warming-solutions"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/51984" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Maryland Citizens rally with their Governor in support of the Global Warming Solutions Act.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/45163-citizens-rally-with-governor-o-malley-for-global-warming-solutions">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/43274-top-podcast-marketing-tips 2008-07-25T18:37:09Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DpssLyFYZyA&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DpssLyFYZyA&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/43274-top-podcast-marketing-tips"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/49472" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>The continued development of Web 2.0 technology has produced new and exciting ways to market your products and services. The ability to broadcast audio and video online has emerged as a beneficial means to get the word out about your business. In particular, I address how podcasting can help you sell more products while helping you connect with your customers.</p> <p>Essentially, podcast marketing is the art of publishing audio programs on the internet with the intention of raising product awareness, establishing a brand, and, of course, increasing sales. </p> <p>There are many advantages to podcasts. Namely, most people have a computer or other MP3 compatible device. Since people are spending more time at the computer, rather that in front of the TV, it's easy to hit them right where they sit.</p> <p>Thanks to cheap digital recording equipment and software, you can record, distribute, and test your podcasting activities that were too expensive and cumbersome only a few years ago.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/43274-top-podcast-marketing-tips">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/43266-using-web-videos-to-promote-your-business 2008-07-25T18:37:09Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JCjO2u-DE-M&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JCjO2u-DE-M&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/43266-using-web-videos-to-promote-your-business"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/49462" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Web videos offer internet marketers an excellent opportunity to reach out to their prospective customers and showcase their expertise. It is a skillful combination of the advantages offered by TV advertising with the interactivity of the Internet.</p> <p>With the potential of increasing traffic and revenue by as much as 300%, online videos are helping businesses reach beyond traditional marketing horizons. Web videos offer marketers a cheap and fairly easy opportunity to generate additional website visitors. </p> <p>Three vital aspects to take into consideration if you plan to add videos to your web site include: </p> <p>Your video should be powerful enough to capture the attention of the viewer in the opening seconds</p> <p>Your video should be convincing enough to get the viewer to take positive action.</p> <p>Your video should be relevant to your brand and should appeal to your target audience</p> <p>All three elements are equally important if you want your video marketing campaign to be a success. A video that is very amusing and holds the viewers attention but is irrelevant to your product, may succeed in getting the viewer to sit through to the end, but it will not convince anybody to buy anything.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/43266-using-web-videos-to-promote-your-business">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/43060-tips-for-producing-great-video-content 2008-07-25T18:37:09Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RN443OK_qe0&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RN443OK_qe0&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/43060-tips-for-producing-great-video-content"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/48639" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Producing quality video content for the web has never been as easy as it is today. Recording equipment and editing software is now widely available, at reasonable prices, so nearly anyone can make the jump to producing content.</p> <p>The phenomenal popularity of YouTube proves that web video is a great way to increase website traffic or market products directly. Many companies have gained massive exposure to millions of potential customers by uploading and sharing video content.</p> <p>However, with millions of videos circulating the web, you need to produce something that's interesting, informative, or entertaining to get noticed. As with most marketing techniques, it takes persistence and a willingness to adapt to feedback.</p> <p>Preparing to create video content will take more time than creating text only content. That's because video can't be edited real time, like text.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/43060-tips-for-producing-great-video-content">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/43059-how-to-publish-your-business-video-online 2008-07-25T18:37:09Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/UKOMF-u-XSI&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/UKOMF-u-XSI&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/43059-how-to-publish-your-business-video-online"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/48638" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>If you produce your own videos, or you will be in the future, you need to publish them online. In this article I look at some of the options you have for publishing your video content.</p> <p>When you finishing the video editing process you will have to make several important decisions. First, you will decide how large your video will be and the data rate. 320 x 240 pixels is a common size used for web video. The data rate will depend on how fast you think your viewer's internet connection speed is. Just because you have broadband doesn't mean everyone else will. In the mean time, 512kbps is a fairly safe choice that should allow most readers to stream your content.</p> <p>You will also have to choose a format for your video files. QuickTime and Windows Media are the most common video formats. Any decent editing software should allow you to convert your videos to either format.</p> <p>If you wish to self publish your videos on your own website, you need to have a hosting service that will stream video and that can provide enough bandwidth. Remember, a simple 5 minute video can end up being 10mb or more as a final production. All of the sudden, 10GB of bandwidth seems small. My advice, especially if you plan on producing a lot of content, is to get a dedicated server. You won't need to extra space or bandwidth up front but you'll thank yourself later when your audience grows.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/43059-how-to-publish-your-business-video-online">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/43058-benefits-of-video-marketing 2008-07-25T18:37:09Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Qs59CkjX16M&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Qs59CkjX16M&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/43058-benefits-of-video-marketing"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/48637" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Video marketing is a relatively new trend in the area of ever-changing, innovative marketing strategies. It's at the intersection of digital video and traditional internet marketing strategies. </p> <p>Video marketing cannot and does not replace or substitute existing internet marketing strategies — strategies like affiliate marketing, article marketing or pay-per-click campaigns. However, it adds great value and can significantly leverage these existing marketing techniques. </p> <p>Traditional internet marketing, or Web 1.0 marketing, involved product and service marketing through static interaction, primarily text based web pages. "Brochure-ware" pages were just an extension of the traditional advertising model. Web 2.0 has turned this concept on its head. Potential customers are no longer restricted to reading static text about products and services. In other words, potential customers can interact with you—and the content you publish. </p> <p>Enter video marketing, which plugs video into the interaction — giving Web 2.0 a whole new dimension. Despite the social characteristic of web 2.0, it still lacked the all important face to face interaction. This is where video marketing comes in. It allows you to blend your message and personality into the consumer's online experience, influencing the consumer in their buying decisions.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/43058-benefits-of-video-marketing">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/43057-leverage-your-business-with-web-video 2008-07-25T18:37:09Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/EuY8f7D75wQ&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/EuY8f7D75wQ&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/43057-leverage-your-business-with-web-video"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/48636" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Online videos offer internet marketers one of the best platforms for engaging an audience and building a solid clientele. </p> <p>This innovative new marketing medium allows marketers to communicate with their viewers on several different levels using music, visual imagery and visual text.</p> <p>Online video allows you to reach out to the global audience with a minimal investment, thus increasing your ROI tremendously. Moreover, it requires no technical expertise to set up or use. Adding a basic video to your web site only requires that you have access to a computer and a webcam or a digital camcorder. </p> <p>Of course, knowing how to edit the video and add special effects by way of graphics, music and specialized text would give you the competitive edge over other businesses that use online videos for marketing. </p> <p>Although there are no restrictions as to the kind of video you may produce for the purpose of marketing, remember the main aim of the video is to generate more business by keeping the customer engaged. With this in mind, it's critical that the video should be riveting enough to hold the viewers attention and yet it should remain relevant to your area of business.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/43057-leverage-your-business-with-web-video">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/43056-making-web-video-work-for-your-business 2008-07-25T18:37:09Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/O5xt-TYG0zA&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/O5xt-TYG0zA&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/43056-making-web-video-work-for-your-business"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/48635" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>If you want to make take advantage of web video, and make it work successfully, you have several options. From simple promotional videos on your own website to a viral information marketing campaign, web video can be used to augment products sales or drive targeted traffic directly.</p> <p>The type of web video you produce will depend on your target audience and skills. Take a look at the following video types to determine which one, or combinations, will work best for you.</p> <p>Instructional Videos</p> <p>This is by far the most popular type of video. If you can produce quality instructional videos that show viewers how to do something specific, you will increase your exposure dramatically. For example, if you sell software you could — and should — make instructional video for your software. In fact, entire websites, such as www.vtc.com, are dedicated to software training videos, charging users monthly subscriptions to watch them.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/43056-making-web-video-work-for-your-business">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/43007-great-content-the-key-to-social-bookmarking-success 2008-07-25T18:37:10Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/AegJeRDQxRA&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/AegJeRDQxRA&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/43007-great-content-the-key-to-social-bookmarking-success"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/48574" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>If you visit an article submission site, you'll find out right away that most of the content is shallow. The content is designed to "tease" readers into clicking a link in the author's resource box. While it's a good way to get traffic, this process, writing and submitting articles, is more about quantity than quality. In effect, it places little value on the content itself.</p> <p>Creating great content is, by far, the best way to get qualified traffic. But, creating great content for inclusion on social bookmarking sites is critical. Why? Because you actually have to deliver something worthwhile — something readers will value and likely vote for.</p> <p>Social bookmarking sites naturally appeal to a younger audience. This audience is technically savvy and extremely anti-marketing. If they sense a piece is too commercialized, it will be ignored at best.</p> <p>Don't confuse the term social bookmarking, or networking, with social marketing. You don't market directly on social media sites unless you're buying advertising directly. What you are doing is establishing yourself as an authority on a subject.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/43007-great-content-the-key-to-social-bookmarking-success">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/43006-selling-yourself-in-video 2008-07-25T18:37:09Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/chYeLd38yNM&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/chYeLd38yNM&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/43006-selling-yourself-in-video"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/48573" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>With the arrival of Web 2.0, the art of marketing yourself and your product on the internet is changing. While SEO, link building and article submissions remain important marketing techniques, now is the time to look at more innovative and sophisticated ways of getting your message across.</p> <p>One of the most successful ventures of the Web 2.0 revolution is YouTube. It's an amazing "rags to riches" story that you can capitalize on with little investment. In fact, making a video can be done for next to nothing. Both Mac OSX and Windows ship with video editing software. Throw in a digital camera and you are ready to make your own videos.</p> <p>If you don't have a video camera, you can also you desktop software to record images on screen. Instead of letting others see you talk about your product or service, you can simply show them on your desktop.</p> <p>What kind of video material you choose to produce is entirely up to you, but ideally it should be relevant to your product. If it genuinely has something to offer viewers and can generate interest it could significantly increase traffic to your website.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/43006-selling-yourself-in-video">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/42544-re-gas-prices-at-all-time-high-how-to-save-money-on-gas 2008-06-20T01:34:06Z MayorGalvan <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/erqBibycbjY&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/erqBibycbjY&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/42544-re-gas-prices-at-all-time-high-how-to-save-money-on-gas"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/48015" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Video Cam Direct Upload</p> </div> <a href="/blog/42544-re-gas-prices-at-all-time-high-how-to-save-money-on-gas">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/40294-social-media-optimization-basics 2008-07-25T18:37:10Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/sqXe00lqCY0&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/sqXe00lqCY0&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/40294-social-media-optimization-basics"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/45460" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>We've all heard of search engine optimization, but the new buzz word is social media optimization (SMO).</p> <p>SMO refers to the tools and techniques you can use to increase your website, or blog's, popularity using social networking, bookmarking, and online community websites.</p> <p>There are a number of social networking and bookmarking sites that have the potential to drive thousands of visitors to your website. RSS feeds and the use of sites like YouTube and Flickr all fall under the definition of social media.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/40294-social-media-optimization-basics">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/39461-social-media-marketing-an-overview 2008-07-25T18:37:11Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Y6lrfnbUyfA&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Y6lrfnbUyfA&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/39461-social-media-marketing-an-overview"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/44544" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Word-of-mouth marketing has become one of the most exciting marketing opportunities on the web. The Web 2.0 revolution has allowed web users the ability to reach across the globe to voice their opinions, connect with like minded users, and vote on the best content.</p> <p>Users like good content. In fact, they want good content. Therefore, you can quickly gain buzz if you can reach above the crowd and make yourself stand out with good content.</p> <p>Below is a quick overview of some of the tools available to generate buzz in the social media sphere.</p> <p>Social Networking Sites</p> <p>Social networking and bookmarking websites have taken the internet world by storm in the past few years. Sites like FaceBook, MySpace and Digg are now among the most visited in the world and opportunities are emerging for smart and creative marketers.</p> <p>Rating Sites</p> <p>If you have a good product, especially software, you can submit it to a rating site. Editors of these sites can rate and recommend your product to other visitors.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/39461-social-media-marketing-an-overview">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/39444-how-to-write-a-grant-proposal-that-works-part-1 2008-07-25T18:37:12Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Cs103BzFNQY&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Cs103BzFNQY&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/39444-how-to-write-a-grant-proposal-that-works-part-1"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/44526" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>For many organizations, grants can be an essential source of capital and funding. However, there are only a limited number of government agencies and foundations offering grant assistance so competition for funding can be fierce. So, it is essential that any grant proposal should contain all the necessary information and be presented in the right manner for it to be successful. In this two-part article I look at the elements that make a successful grant proposal.</p> <p>Most funders will provide their own application forms and instructions for any grants that they make available. So the first thing you should do is to request the proper forms. In some cases they may accept a generic application form but it won't increase your chances of success. Be sure to read all instructions before you begin preparing your application. If you have doubts about anything or any questions you should contact the funder for advice.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/39444-how-to-write-a-grant-proposal-that-works-part-1">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/39443-how-to-secure-technology-funding-online 2008-07-25T18:37:11Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/eSJDMd8Iu6o&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/eSJDMd8Iu6o&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/39443-how-to-secure-technology-funding-online"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/44525" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Securing technology funding may not be as difficult as you think. While traditional sources of funding such as grants and donations from government agencies and private foundations can be an excellent source of funding, there are other alternatives. And with the competition for grants being so competitive, it is well worth considering some online funding tactics for your technology needs.</p> <p>Of course this is not an effective method for private businesses. However, for non-profit organizations it is a perfectly legitimate and potentially lucrative source of funding. There are a number of different strategies for raising technology funding online.</p> <p>At the most basic level, you can simply add a button to your website and the facility for visitors to donate to your organization. This is often done using PayPal and PayPal even provides a ready-made button you can put on your website to facilitate this. This can be an ongoing source of funding with no upper or lower limits on the amount people can donate.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/39443-how-to-secure-technology-funding-online">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/39442-tips-for-securing-technology-funding 2008-07-25T18:37:11Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/4CXkvrj3UL4&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/4CXkvrj3UL4&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/39442-tips-for-securing-technology-funding"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/44524" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Gaining funding from outside sources is essential for non-profit organizations if they are to keep their technology up to date. However, there are countless organizations in competition for limited funding so it is important to have a good knowledge of the grant funding landscape before submitting an application.</p> <p>One of the most important things to remember when seeking technology funding is that funders want to help non-profit organizations improve and reach their goals. However, any technology spend should be practical and within reasonable financial limits in relation to the size of the organization.</p> <p>For this reason, the greater the apparent need for the technology the better the chances of securing funding. For example, a school with very old or defunct computers for students will have an excellent chance of securing funding, whereas an application for funding to improve the school's already strong online presence may fail.</p> <p>The most important points to consider when seeking funding are to submit an excellent grant application and to have a good knowledge of possible funding sources.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/39442-tips-for-securing-technology-funding">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/39440-social-media-marketing-strategies 2008-07-25T18:37:11Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kwW8A6yR0f8&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kwW8A6yR0f8&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/39440-social-media-marketing-strategies"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/44522" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Below are several social media marketing strategies that will help motivate you to consider Web 2.0 as a viable marketing option:</p> <p>Reach Out First. The key to successful social media marketing is determining where your target audience is and then reaching out to them...where they are. You may have to start out in smaller communities, building brand awareness. Remember, social media isn't about interruption. You have to prove that you can engage your audience.</p> <p>Listen First. How do you reach out? By listening first. Traditional marketing focuses on hitting a market with products and services that may or may not be relevant. It's easier because it doesn't require the up-front work. But, if you want to be effective and relevant to a social media crowd, you have to listen first. You have to locate the psychological hot spots.</p> <p>You are the Brand. As opposed to traditional marketing where the focus was on the product, web 2.0 marketing focuses on the promoter. That's why interruption marketing doesn't work in social media. People don't care about the product until they can trust, and eventually care, about you. Your audience doesn't buy your product, they buy you.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/39440-social-media-marketing-strategies">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/39441-technology-research-funding 2008-07-25T18:37:11Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/BMBzv9IYulg&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/BMBzv9IYulg&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/39441-technology-research-funding"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/44523" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>Some of the most significant technological advances in our society have depended on funding to make them a reality. For the most part, research funding comes from governments and usually stands at somewhere between 1.5% and 3% of GDP in developed countries.</p> <p>However, it can be even higher than this in more progressive countries. Of course, not all of this money is dedicated to technology funding. Science and social science research projects also get their fair share. </p> <p>In fact, competition can be fierce both between and within disciplines when it comes to securing funding. In general, securing funding is a competitive process where the most suitable applicants get the money.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/39441-technology-research-funding">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/39428-how-to-prepare-a-grant-budget 2008-07-25T18:37:12Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ohXxWNyAezw&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ohXxWNyAezw&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/39428-how-to-prepare-a-grant-budget"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/44508" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>If you or your organization is making a grant application there are a number of sections you will have to complete. However, what you do or do not include in the budget section of your application could be the difference between success and failure. In this article I take you through some of the do's and don'ts of preparing your grant budget.</p> <p>The first thing you should do is read the application guidelines carefully so you are sure of what you need to include—or exclude—in your budget. For example, some funders will not cover overhead costs or additional staff costs.</p> <p>On the other hand, include everything that applies to your project, no matter how trivial it seems. So, for example, don't omit training costs, copying costs, and all other relevant costs associated with your proposed project.</p> <p>In the budget section of your application, you need to present your information in a format that is easy to understand, such as in a table. It should include all of the projected costs of the project and all sources of income and funding.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/39428-how-to-prepare-a-grant-budget">Watch the video</a> http://bravenewfilms.org/blog/39427-how-to-write-a-grant-proposal-that-works-part-2 2008-07-25T18:37:12Z David Skul <object width="375" height="308"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/V16YZO_teuY&border=0&rel=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/V16YZO_teuY&border=0&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="375" height="308"></embed></object> <a href="/blog/39427-how-to-write-a-grant-proposal-that-works-part-2"><img src="http://bravenewfilms.org/pictures/medium/44507" width="140" height="105" border="0" align="left" style="border: solid 1px black;" /></a> <div class="post_content"> <p>In the first part of this article, I explained how to write the opening sections of your grant application. In part two of the article, I explain how to complete the process.</p> <p>Now that you have identified the goals of your project, it is time to give details about how you are going to achieve these goals. Basically, you need to answer any questions a funder might have about the project so think about all the basic questions - Who, Where, When, What and Why.</p> </div> <a href="/blog/39427-how-to-write-a-grant-proposal-that-works-part-2">Watch the video</a>