10 Things to Consider When Writing a Grant Proposal

You can write a successful grant, even if you have never applied for a grant before. Here are 10 things to consider when creating your grant.

1. RESEARCH

Research the institution. Many foundations have websites that list preferences for what they like to fund. This can also help you form your narrative to a specific idea that you discover while researching the granting organization, or even help you better describe your specific program or project. It is well worth the time to do this first!

2. GET ORGANIZED

Make sure that you have all the elements that you need when putting together the paperwork for the grant: Have copies of your most recent 990, your 501(c)3 determination letter, a list of key employees, a list of other organizations you’ve asked for help, your organization history, program description, and budget. If you have all the documents in hand or nearby, you won’t get sidetracked when trying to track it all down later.

3. FOLLOW THE APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Foundations have specific ideas that they like to see in grant proposals. If they have taken the time to describe to you exactly what information they want to see, you are well advised to follow their instructions. Many times you’ll even get a checklist to help you ensure that you’ve included all required information and in the order they want. Be sure to use that checklist!

4. ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY

You are introducing yourself through your organizational history. Make sure that it is interesting and relative to the focus of the foundation. If you can, include successes and impacts in the history. It is helpful to tweak the narrative of your organization history to reflect the connection to the problem area that the foundation wants to fund.

5. TELL A STORY

As you develop the program description, and even in the organizational history, creating a narrative that tells a story keeps the narrative interesting and will also help the reader REMEMBER your nonprofit.

6. BE SPECIFIC ON THE PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAM AND THE AREA ADDRESSED

Foundations want to help solve a problem. Be clear about the problem, including data to support the existence of the problem in your area. Make sure that your program will address and help ease the problem in your area.

7. BE SPECIFIC WITH OUTCOMES

If you want to impact 50 families, say so, or if you want to increase attendance by a percentage, state it. Be specific on the impact you expect to have with the program you want funded.

8. BUDGET

Make sure that your budget has been developed completely. Give as much information as you can about costs and expenses to enact your program. Don’t wait until the last minute to throw together a budget. Many times developing a budget will help you flesh out specifics of the program itself. Email Common Cents to receive a free budget template spreadsheet (excel file).

Remember that this budget will also become your tracking tool. The clearer and more inclusive you can be about costs the better chance you have to succeed once you start your program.

9. KEY PLAYERS

This is your opportunity to show the foundation the extent of the expertise that will be supporting the program. Make sure you list the relevant experience of the players and how they will become a part of the program.

10. COMMUNICATE

If you can, directly contact the foundation. Many do not take phone calls or emails, but if you find a way to connect, do it. For major grants, it’s best to plan a visit to talk in person about your organization. Any positive way to get them to remember you will be a plus.