How Do I Make My Grant Proposal Stand Out?

One of the best pieces of advice a nonprofit can take into account when writing a grant proposal is to make it stand out. Funding sources receive hundreds of grant applications, so it is imperative that your application makes a lasting impact on the funder. In this article, GrantWatch is sharing several tips to help nonprofits make sure their grant proposal rises to the top of the pile.

1. Ensure Eligibility

When you are seeking grant funding you must only apply to the grants you are eligible for. Thoroughly read the guidelines provided by the funding organization to ensure that your organization is eligible for the grant. GrantWatch’s proprietary grant detail page provides comprehensive information on the grant requirements, eligibility, application process, funder’s contact details, and deadlines (including LOI or conference dates). It is crucial to ensure that a funder’s goals align with your organization. Do not change your mission to fit the grant. Funders will see right through your smoke and mirrors. Your best chance at making your proposal stand out is when your organization strongly aligns with the funder’s current guidelines.

When funders read your proposal, they look for specific words or phrases highlighting your eligibility. However, don’t go overboard and stuff keywords into your proposal. Make your grant proposal stand out by using hard data to quantify your need for the grant while highlighting your agency’s track record meeting that need.

2. Research The Funder

Make your grant proposal stand out by researching information related to the funder. For example, foundations list all of their past grantees on publicly available tax-exempt forms known as 990s. GrantWatch.com provides this critical information with its 990 Finder and Foundation Search. Not only does this information show what kind of organizations the funding source has given to over the years, but it also shows its financial history and board information.

Funders choose their funding focus areas for a reason. Understanding what the funder is supporting is crucial and will help you know if you are eligible for the grant and how to best tailor your grant application if you are.

3. Follow Directions

You would think this is an obvious rule of thumb. However, many grant applicants miss this basic step. So, if you want your grant proposal to stand out, your organization must follow ALL of the instructions. Use the specific format the funder wants your application to follow. Submit all required documents with your application. If the funders are requiring a budget, you must have this item submitted with your proposal. The funder will check your proposal to ensure the required elements are included. Your organization’s application will be rejected if the required items are missing. This denial can happen even if you meet the eligibility requirements.

4. Write With Passion

After you have confirmed that your organization falls within the funding guidelines, the next step is to apply. New grant writers often fall into the temptation of using a standard template for all their grant proposals. However, it’s essential to recognize that grant review committees seek uniqueness and specificity tailored to your nonprofit’s vision. With countless proposals to assess, they are on the lookout for something exceptional. This is where displaying genuine passion becomes invaluable.

When you write a grant your job is to ensure the funder understands why your organization’s work is important to your community. Show how your organization is ready to use funding or other support to help your vision become a reality. Grant funders are eager to see your unwavering dedication to the project. They want to be captivated and share the same enthusiasm for your nonprofit’s endeavors. Allow your passion to shine through the pages of your proposal, leaving a lasting impression on the reviewers.

5. Build An Online Presence

The funder may want to know more about your organization after reading your grant proposal. One of the first places they will go to learn more is the internet. A strong online presence can help establish your credibility and help your grant proposal stand out. In general, your website and social media pages are a great opportunity to enhance your reputation. In short, funders will look to see what you’re saying about yourself. Not to mention, what other people are saying about you. Be sure to highlight your past accomplishments, any partnerships you have built, testimonials, and success stories. Your website and other channels should present your organization as capable and forward-thinking. If your online presence is outdated or non-existent the funder may feel unsure about choosing you.

About GrantWatch

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