How can non-profit organizations successfully fundraise through grant administration?

1 Know your funder

Before you apply for any grant, you need to do your homework and research the funder's mission, goals, priorities, and preferences. You want to align your project with their interests and demonstrate how you can help them achieve their objectives. You also want to understand their application process, requirements, and deadlines, and follow them carefully. Don't waste your time and resources on grants that are not a good fit for your organization or that have unrealistic expectations.

2 Craft a compelling proposal

Your proposal is your chance to showcase your organization's strengths, achievements, and impact, as well as your project's relevance, feasibility, and sustainability. You need to write clearly, concisely, and persuasively, using evidence, data, and stories to support your claims. You also need to follow the funder's guidelines and format, and answer their specific questions. Make sure to proofread and edit your proposal before submitting it, and ask for feedback from others if possible.

3 Build a relationship

Grant administration is not a one-time transaction, but a long-term partnership between you and the funder. You need to communicate regularly with them, update them on your progress, acknowledge their support, and invite them to your events. You also need to be responsive, honest, and respectful, and address any issues or challenges that arise. Building a relationship with your funder can increase your chances of getting renewed or additional funding, as well as referrals to other potential funders.

4 Manage your budget

One of the most important aspects of grant administration is managing your budget effectively and efficiently. You need to track your income and expenses, and report them accurately and timely to the funder. You also need to adhere to the funder's policies and regulations, and comply with any audits or reviews. Moreover, you need to avoid overspending or underspending, and use your funds wisely and ethically. Managing your budget well can enhance your credibility and accountability, and prevent any financial problems or disputes.

5 Evaluate your outcomes

Another key component of grant administration is evaluating your outcomes and measuring your impact. You need to collect and analyze data and information that show how your project has achieved its goals and objectives, and how it has benefited your target population and community. You also need to report your findings and lessons learned to the funder, and use them to improve your future performance and planning. Evaluating your outcomes can demonstrate your value and effectiveness, and justify your need for continued or increased funding.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?