Grant Writing Tips

Grant writing can seem intimidating, but if your organization relies on special funding, it's worth it to learn grant writing tips that will make the process go more smoothly. By learning best practices for grant writing you increase your chances of a positive outcome, making all that time spent grant writing worthwhile!

Here are 15 grant writing tips to help your organization secure the funds you need to continue doing great work!

1. Choose Wisely - Don't just pick a subject for your grant proposal because you think it will be the one picked or because it is the most impressive. If you choose a subject that you are truly passionate about, this will shine through in all areas of the grant writing process.
2. Get Organized - Before applying for grants, get all of your information together. You'll want all types of data on your organization, as well as clearly thought out details on the program you need a grant for. Gather information as if you are the agency that will be reviewing the grant proposal and ask yourself, "What would I want to know before investing?" Typical materials include details on your organization, mission statement and values; details on the program background, in-depth details on the program plan and projected budgets and timelines, collaborations, community partnerships and even potential stakeholders.
3. Diversify your Applications - It's easy to be attracted to the big fish, but you can be just as successful by securing a series of smaller grants that others may not be going for. Plus, you'll be building relationships with organizations that may want to continue partnering with you in the future. If you are a newer organization, you may have a higher acceptance rate with smaller grants drawing from a smaller pool of applicants than larger agencies who are used to dealing with more established organizations.