Grant Writing Tips – Nonprofit Organization Edition ?

Are you getting ready to write a grant for the first time or are experienced but need a little refresher? We have compiled a list of the top 10 grant writing tips, laser-focused on nonprofit organizations. Most nonprofit organizations are able to operate thanks to donations and grants. Being able to write a grant for a nonprofit organization is an in-demand skill that will continue to grow for many years to come.

1) Create a calendar tracking all of the grants

Keep track of all of the grant deadlines in a calendar so that you are always up-to-date. GrantWatch offers a feature that allows you to add grants to your calendar so you can easily keep track of all of the information in one place.

2) Build relationships with grant funders

Many grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations that have relationships with the funders. Build those relationships by contacting the funders and introducing your nonprofit organization. Tell them all about what you do and find common ground to spark conversation.

3) Use SMART objectives

SMART objectives are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. These SMART objectives are used to measure progress. They need to be very specific of what it is that you wish to accomplish, include some kind of measurement, that measurement must be attainable and realistic, and you must assign a time to attain it by.

4) Get your nonprofit organization grant ready

Assess the quality of your IRS, grants.gov, and specific state requirements before you start applying for grants. Make sure that the nonprofit organization is at a level that allows them to apply for grants, and specific kinds of grants.

5) Evaluate your impact

After you receive the grant, make sure to evaluate how the grant has impacted the organization by assessing the SMART objectives you created. By assessing the impact, you can see how your organization has progressed and reported back to the funders all of the work that you have done.

6) Review the application again

Once you are ready to submit the application, complete one more pre-submission check to assess the grant application to see how well it aligns with the requirements.

7) Learn everything about the grant funders

Research the makers and funders of the grants so that you are aware of everything. Know the deadlines, their grant-making history, where the grants are being awarded, and compare them to what you are searching for.

8) Acknowledge grant funders after you receive a grant

After receiving a grant, make sure to acknowledge the grant funders by inviting them to an open house, writing them thank-you letters, or doing something extra special.

9) Have someone edit your proposal

After you write the proposal, make sure that you have someone else edit the application so they can see things that you might have missed.

10) Create a budget that is consistent with your story

When creating your budget, create it so that it tells the complete story of how you plan on using the money. Include everything that the funds will be used for, including staff and equipment.


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About the Author: The author is a staff writer at GrantWriterTeam.com