Grant writing is a skill that can help you secure funding for your philanthropic projects, but it can also be challenging and competitive. How can you win the grant writing game and increase your chances of getting approved by potential donors? Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling and effective grant proposal.
Before you start writing, research the funder you are applying to. What is their mission, vision, and values? What are their funding priorities, criteria, and deadlines? How do they evaluate and monitor their grants? Knowing your funder will help you tailor your proposal to their specific needs and expectations, and show that you have done your homework.
Funders aren't shy about this - their website (if they have one) is an excellent source. Their tax returns will at least tell you who they fund and what the missions of their funded organizations are. If you can, schedule a brief call with the funder to discuss your proposal - that's the best way to determine fitness. If you don't get the grant the first time, call them and ask what you could do to strengthen the proposal next cycle and then do it. In my experience, funders have a vested interest in helping you make the strongest application you can; their job is to spend money on things that advance their own missions. Of course, this all assumes that you are grant-ready. An experienced grant writer can help you determine this.
Your proposal should clearly demonstrate how your project aligns with the funder's goals and objectives. How does your project address a problem or gap that the funder cares about? How does your project contribute to the funder's desired outcomes and impact? How does your project fit into the funder's strategy and portfolio? Aligning your goals will help you establish a common ground and a shared vision with the funder.
Start with the two mission statements - how does fulfilling your mission statement advance theirs? Once you articulate that, then it should be easier to show how your outcomes (ie the results of the program you're asking them to fund) will also advance your mission and, in turn, theirs. Finally, make sure you are explaining somewhere how your program actually achieves the outcomes you are claiming.
Your proposal should tell a compelling story that engages the funder's interest and emotions. What is the context and background of your project? What is the need or opportunity that your project addresses? What are the benefits and value of your project for your target population and community? How will you measure and report your progress and results? Telling your story will help you communicate your passion and purpose, and show the funder why your project matters.
Trustees and application evaluators are people. Yes, they'll want data, and the big picture. But the biggest thing that separates good grant writers from bad, IMHO, is that good ones can seamlessly weave in concrete, specific examples. We're emotional creatures, giving is an emotional decision, and you move people emotionally with stories they can relate to. In other words, don't just tell me that 87% of youth in your program go on to college, tell me about Wes, the eldest child of a single mom who had to babysit three younger siblings growing up, still earned a scholarship while in your program, and credits your after-school program for introducing him to computers and motivating him to get his degree...
Your proposal should be clear and concise, avoiding jargon, acronyms, and unnecessary details. Use simple and direct language, short sentences, and active voice. Organize your proposal into sections with headings, subheadings, and bullet points. Use charts, graphs, tables, and images to illustrate your data and evidence. Be clear and concise will help you make your proposal easy to read and understand, and show the funder that you respect their time and attention.
Your proposal should follow the guidelines and requirements of the funder, such as the format, length, structure, and attachments. Check the instructions carefully and follow them exactly. Proofread and edit your proposal for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and consistency. Ask someone else to review your proposal for feedback and suggestions. Following the guidelines will help you avoid errors and omissions, and show the funder that you are professional and reliable.
Your proposal should be submitted on time, preferably before the deadline. Don't wait until the last minute to write and submit your proposal, as you may encounter technical issues, delays, or emergencies. Plan ahead and give yourself enough time to write, revise, and finalize your proposal. Submitting on time will help you avoid stress and frustration, and show the funder that you are organized and committed.