Writing a grant application can seem overwhelming. There is fear that you might not use the correct wording to capture the attention of the grantor and be awarded the grant. Sometimes the elements of what a grantor is looking for are not well know. Other times a grantor published a very detailed list of what they are asking for and you don't know how to fit it all in to your application.
Below are some common elements of what need to be in a grant application. The comes from my experience of having been on grant-making boards and also writing grant applications.
1. Look at what elements the grantor has published for the grant application. Most grantors are great about listing the exact elements they are wanting in an application, or they give specific criteria for the application. If not, always ASK. Better to ask than simply write an application in the dark.
2. Leverage. Grant makers like to see leverage in their applications. Leverage is where you use other resources are you disposal to maximize the grant money you may receive. For example, IF you get the money from then grant and start a part of the program, another community partner MAY help with more money or resources. You are leveraging the grant money to maximize resources that you have.
3. Partners. Partners are a great way to get leverage. Parternships may take the form of money, co-workers, building space, shared expertise, etc. Partners can help round out an organization's weaknesses to make the money from a grant more effective. Partnerships help to show the grantor that you are not alone in what you do and with partnerships you are more likely to succeed.
4. Sustainability. Most grantors want to see that the work they are investing in will continue on. Sometimes a grant is for a very specific work or project, which is great. But often times grantors want to see how a program or project can continue on without their funding. This needs to be part of the planning in any organization anyway! While one grant may get a program or project started, another grant may keep it sustainable. Always be thinking about how to keep the work moving forward.
Grant applications can be frustrating, no matter the amount of the money awarded. Hours can be spent on a grant application, only to then find out it was nothing near what the grantor wanted! Nevertheless, if you follow the elements above, it will get you closer to a grant application being awarded.
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