You have a fabulous idea for a project that will help transform our planet into a more just, sustainable, and healthy place.
The catch is that your project involves travel to a foreign country, or obtaining video cameras, or is so intensive that it requires significant time off from work. You’ve researched foundations and have even downloaded a grant application, but when its time to put your idea to paper, fear leaves you with a case of the writer’s block.
“How can I possibly make my grant application stand out amongst hundreds while our country is in a recession?” you ask.
Resources for grant seekers can help mitigate some of those application-writing jitters. The following five tips may help you craft a stronger proposal and increase your confidence when it’s time to submit.
Read the application guidelines carefully
You’re eager to get the application process started, but take time to read the fine print. Most foundations put limitations on how long your written sections should be, and some even specify font size. Ignore these details and you risk disqualifying your work.
Deliver a clear message
According to the Women’s Sports Foundation’s Top Ten List for Grant Seekers, your proposal should must answer the following three questions:
- Who is your target population?
- What is the problem/demonstrated need that you have identified for the target population? (If possible, include statistics, research data.)
- How will you assist in solving the problem?
Use active verbs
Avoid using passive verbs in your written sections. Passages laced with passive verbs are less fluid whereas passages that utilize active verbs tend to be easier to read. Before you submit your application, ask a grammar-wiz friend to scour your written portions for passive verbs. While you’re at it, you should also ask your friend to check for spelling, grammatical and formatting errors.
Invest time in your budget
Don’t spend so much time on the narrative that you neglect the financial sections. Creating a budget requires significant planning. Dedicate several blocks of time to brainstorming a list of each item you’ll need to purchase to complete your project, ranging from equipment to plane tickets. Don’t forget include living expenses. If your project requires travel, what are the average meal, lodging and communications costs in your destination? If you require help will you provide stipends or can you recruit volunteers?
More budget tips can be found here: http://www.grantproposal.com/tips_budget_inner.html
Browse foundation websites
Most foundation websites will include a Q&A section as well as a toolbox for grant seekers. Utilize these invaluable but often free resources for a better chance at fundraising success.
Source: BecauseAction.com
