School = funding + greater opportunity??

It isn't the "Big Name" of a school that is important to me (I didn't realize U Penn was Ivy League until someone told me long after I'd applied - I just knew they had a good program) but I've had discussions with people regarding the future and one point was made that gave me reason to reassess the importance of a well known institution. If I were working on a research project, a people's clinic, or some other kind of outreach program and I needed funding, where would I be more likely to get it? Which school would offer the resources and contacts to make something happen? Perhaps I'm a bit naive at this point regarding the protocols of such things, but it did make me wonder. If you have an opinion, I'd love to hear. Thanks...

Ethan:roll