Grant writing can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling deadlines, technical requirements, and the challenge of presenting your organization in the best possible light. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner in the field, these tips will help you craft proposals that shine and resonate with funders.
Before diving into an application, take the time to plan out your projects. Define the need, your proposed approach, expected outcomes, and a preliminary budget. Aim to have your ideas “shovel-ready” so that when the right funding opportunity arises, you can act quickly. Remember to carefully match potential funders with your project to increase your chances of success.
Engage the community or individuals you serve in the design of your programs. Their insights can strengthen your project, make it more impactful, and demonstrate to funders that you value inclusive and collaborative approaches.
As the saying goes, “You can’t be a lone ranger.” Intentionally map out potential collaborators. Look at businesses, educational institutions, civic groups, and other community assets that align with your mission. Partnerships not only expand resources but also enhance your credibility with funders.
Reviewers are human too! Write clearly, avoid jargon, and ensure that your proposal is engaging and easy to follow. Funders are more likely to respond positively to proposals that appeal to both the heart and the mind.
Grant guidelines are there for a reason. Whether it’s font size, page limits, or required attachments, compliance matters. Review the funder’s scoring sheet and ensure that your submission aligns with their priorities.
Funders are investing in solutions, not problems. While it’s essential to communicate the importance of your work, focus on the positive outcomes your project can deliver. Demonstrate how your solutions will create meaningful change.
Writing a winning grant proposal takes time. Start by listing all the documents you’ll need, assign tasks, and create a detailed schedule. Build in extra time for reviews, edits, and troubleshooting submission issues.
Your budget tells a story. Go beyond the numbers by including a detailed budget narrative that explains your costs and justifies your request. Funders appreciate transparency and a clear demonstration of value.
Study successful grants from your network or resources like GrantStation. Federal proposals can often be accessed via Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. Understanding what worked for others can guide your approach.
Grant funding is competitive, and rejection is part of the process. Use reviewer feedback to refine your proposals, and don’t hesitate to reach out to funders for guidance. Often, persistence and continuous improvement are the keys to success.
Applying for grants is both an art and a science. By following these tips and keeping a strategic, prepared mindset, you can create compelling proposals that stand out to funders.
Alice Ruhnke is GrantStation’s President of Education and Outreach. As a former nonprofit leader and Founder of The Grant Advantage, she brings 20+ years of experience helping nonprofits build fundraising capacity. Alice has trained over 6,000 individuals on grant writing, community change models, and measuring outcomes, equipping them to drive meaningful impact.
Top photo: Shutterstock.