What do interviews have to do with grant applications? Every grant writer worth their salt knows that successful grant applications are made up of more than just facts and figures. Sure, winning applications have those quantifiable elements, but they also need heart, and heart comes from storytelling. Adding the element of storytelling turns your grant application into a narrative. For many writers, interviews unlock powerful, human-centered stories that connect with funders because they demonstrate those quantifiable facts and figures in action.
At GrantWriterTeam, we often hear from professionals who want to make their proposals more compelling. One proven method we recommend is adding storytelling, specifically through interviews with other donors, staff, board members, partners, and most importantly, the individuals you’ve helped with your mission. They add a human dimension to your mission and show the lived impact of your programs. These interviews allow you to gather authentic stories from people who have benefited from your organization’s work, making your proposal more engaging and credible.
Interviews Improve Storytelling in Your Grant Proposals
How to Prepare for Strong Interviews
To start, identify people who can speak from experience. Invite them to participate and explain the purpose of the interview. Always obtain consent and provide a general overview of the topics you hope to cover. Keep questions open-ended to prevent rehearsed responses. Yes or no questions count too, of course, but you want your interviewee to give you details that should be included in natural storytelling.
Before interviewing participants, decide what type of stories will support your proposal. You may want narratives that show:
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The measurable impact of your programs
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How donors helped drive change
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The role volunteers play in community outcomes
How to Conduct Interviews That Capture Impact
You need more than one interviewee. Sample from at least six people to gather diverse perspectives. In-person interviews work best, but video or phone meetings still produce strong results.
During conversations, listen closely and allow the interviewee to guide the flow. Ask follow-up questions to draw out details funders value. A few simple prompts include:
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What need brought you to our organization?
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What services or support did you receive?
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How did this experience improve your life or situation?
Keep conversations comfortable, authentic, and focused on real experiences.
Follow Up on Each Interview
After the interviews, thank each participant and express your appreciation. Then begin weaving their stories into your narrative. Many grant writers include quotes or anecdotes in the needs section, project goals, or program description.
If a story is longer than a proposal allows, include it as an attachment. You can also reuse these stories for donor communications, annual reports, campaigns, or promotional materials.
Stories help funders visualize the outcomes they are supporting, making your proposal stronger and more memorable.
Final Thoughts
It’s clear, interviews elevate storytelling in grant proposals. When you gather authentic stories from people touched by your work, you build a powerful case for support. These stories demonstrate outcomes, reinforce your mission, and highlight the real-world change your organization delivers. With the right interview approach, your proposals can stand out, resonate with funders, and help secure the resources your organization needs.
About GrantWriterTeam
Are you a nonprofit or small business in need of some help? If you are searching for grants but are feeling overwhelmed, hiring a grant writer may be the perfect choice for you! Grant writers thoughtfully grant opportunities and consider the pros and cons of applying and the chance of success. Consider your writer an extension of your organization. They will coach you throughout the entire process and curate the project to fit your needs. Your grant-seeking success is our priority at GrantWriterTeam.
Disclaimer: There is no guarantee that grants will be awarded as a result of this information.
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