This Simple Strategy Can Help You Win Grants

Do you need help winning grants? The first question to ask yourself is: How much time does it take to compile a grant proposal? Do you find yourself usually rushing through the grant process? If so, this could be your problem. Strong applications take time and effort to get right. It can be difficult to write a clear and compelling proposal when you feel rushed. So my advice is to start the process as early as you can. 

The amount of time required to compile, write, and submit an application can vary between grants. This may take time away from other important business activities, so you should first establish if the effort is worth the return. Before you start, it is important to make sure you have the time to commit to the grant process.

The simple strategy you need to know to help you win grants is preparation.
Below, GrantWatch has listed two tips that help applicants prepare and submit strong grant proposals.

1. You should work out how long it will take to: 

• retrieve and compile relevant business information;
• gather supporting evidence required in the right format;
• write compelling application content, especially if it’s a competitive application;
• review your application and get approval from all business stakeholders;
• move your application content to the grant portal and complete any troubleshooting. 

Working out the time it will take to do everything will help you understand when you have to start the process. Each grant will have a date and time that the application will close. You must ensure you can complete your application in time. For most programs, even if you start an application before the close date, funding sources will not accept a late application. Ideally, to save time, your organization should be grant-ready.

2. Double-check your proposal. For most grants you’ll need to: 

• meet the grant eligibility;
• address all the merit criteria;
• invest time to write your application;
• show you’ve done your research;
• use evidence to support your claims and reference your data;
• report on how you’ll spend the funding. 

The process of applying for a grant can vary between each one; however, the main components of the proposal are generally the same. Using a checklist is one of the most efficient ways to make sure you have a strong grant proposal and increase the chances you will win grants.

Never underestimate the power of preparation. Although it is a simple process, many people still fail to put enough time into creating a quality proposal. At the end of the day, if you are unable to prove to the funding source that you have the ability to invest the necessary effort into your writing, you will most likely not be awarded the grant.

GrantNews Notes

With close to 8,000 grants currently available, GrantWatch.com is the leading grant listing directory. Upgrade to a MemberPlus+ subscription to view the full grant details, including eligibility criteria and application information. For more information, you can also visit the GrantWatch FAQ page. To see the great value of all 20 of the top GrantWatch features, click here.