CFHC Program Office has put together a list of 5 tips for writing a grant request. It is strongly encouraged to review these tips prior to submitting a grant request.
- Read the documents and published information regarding the grant program you are applying for:
- Make sure your organization is eligible and aligned with the funding values of that program by reading the eligibility requirements.
- Check out the lists of past grant awards for the specific program you are hoping to apply to. See what the average size grant is for projects most like yours.
- Read the story about the grant program and its background. This can be helpful in understanding funding motivations and priorities.
Check the deadlines and granting timelines to make sure that the funding timeline aligns with your project’s needs, and that the deadline(s) are on your calendar. All grant programs close on 11:30p on the evening of the close date.
Call the Program Office
Isabella and Kris are here to help! If you have questions, would like to talk over a project, or want to discuss technical components of your grant – please feel so comfortable reaching out to us. If you are new to the Foundation, working on seeding a program, or are a new non-profit it is highly encouraged that you talk with the Program Office prior to submitting an application.
Write your grant as if the reader knows nothing about your work.
Many times grant writers will assume their reader has knowledge or background on the subject, or will use sector specific internal language or acronyms. This may inadvertently confuse the grant reviewer or create more questions for the agency. Take the time to explain the need, nature, purpose, and goals of your project/program like you would to someone who was learning about your work for the first time. The clarity will help the reader and save everyone time.
Be candid
Many times, organizations only want to highlight the positive, but understanding, preparing for, and communicating the risks/barriers can ensure the reviewers that you have a comprehensive understanding of the project and the challenges involved.
- Double check your work before you submit
Before you hit submit, proofread. Not only for spelling/grammar but for clarity and completeness. Make sure you:
- Answer the entire question: some questions contain multiple points that need to be addressed or contain follow up questions. Make sure after you draft your response that you go back and double check that you answered the question in its entirety.
- Double check your project budget: ensure your budget, the project cost, and the request amount all contain the same information. It is always helpful when your budget accounts for the expense of the entire project, contains other funding sources, when applicable, and highlights how requested funds will be utilized.
- Get letters of support (when applicable): letters of support are always helpful, because they help highlight the need and investment of other community partners. If you are collaborating on a project or hosting a program/project at a partner agency (i.e. the schools, retirement facility, etc.) please include a letter of commitment or support that shows that partner is aware of your application including them, and that they are committed to working alongside you on the project.