Grant Writing Tips & Best Practices
Expert advice to help you craft compelling grant proposals that stand out
Understand the Guidelines
Read the grant guidelines thoroughly before starting. Understand the funder's mission, priorities, and specific requirements. Follow instructions precisely and address all evaluation criteria.
Start with a Strong Hook
Begin with a compelling opening that captures attention immediately. State your project's significance clearly and concisely. Make reviewers want to keep reading from the very first sentence.
Use Data and Evidence
Support your claims with concrete data, statistics, and evidence. Include relevant research, case studies, and testimonials. Show that your project is based on solid evidence and need.
Know Your Audience
Tailor your language and tone to match the funder's values and priorities. Research past funded projects to understand what they're looking for. Speak directly to their mission and goals.
Be Clear and Concise
Avoid jargon and overly complex language. Use clear, straightforward prose that anyone can understand. Make every word count - reviewers appreciate brevity and clarity.
Create a Realistic Budget
Develop a detailed, itemized budget that aligns with your project narrative. Justify major expenses and show that you've thought through all costs. Be realistic and transparent about funding needs.
Essential Best Practices
Tell a Compelling Story
Weave your data and facts into a narrative that engages reviewers emotionally. Include real examples and case studies that illustrate the problem and your proposed solution.
Define Clear Objectives and Outcomes
Articulate specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Explain how you'll measure success and what concrete outcomes you expect to achieve.
Demonstrate Organizational Capacity
Show that your team has the expertise, experience, and resources to execute the project successfully. Highlight past successes and relevant qualifications.
Include an Evaluation Plan
Describe how you'll track progress and evaluate impact. Include specific metrics, data collection methods, and reporting timelines. Show that you're committed to accountability.
Show Sustainability
Explain how the project will continue after grant funding ends. Describe plans for securing additional funding or generating revenue to sustain operations long-term.
Proofread Thoroughly
Review your application multiple times for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors. Have colleagues review it with fresh eyes. Errors undermine your credibility.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Submitting a generic proposal without customization
- • Ignoring page limits or formatting requirements
- • Providing vague or unmeasurable objectives
- • Overestimating what can be accomplished
- • Neglecting to explain the problem or need clearly
- • Submitting at the last minute without time for review
- • Failing to follow up or maintain relationships with funders
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