Securing grant funding can be a game-changer for nonprofit organizations looking to expand their impact. But where do you start? Crafting a solid grant plan involves preparation, research, relationship building, and follow-through. Let’s review the steps that will set your organization up for success.
Step 1: Get Grant-Ready
Before diving into grant applications, make sure your organization is truly grant-ready.
Grant-Ready Checklist
- Capacity Check: Do you have the staff or volunteers to manage the application process and fulfill grant requirements?
- Documentation: Ensure your organization has up-to-date financials, budgets, mission statements, program data, and letters of support readily available.
- Impact Stories: Collect compelling anecdotes and data that showcase the results of your programs.
By completing this checklist, you’ll be better equipped to approach funders with confidence.
Step 2: Research with Purpose
Research is the backbone of a strong grant strategy. But to be effective, you need to start by knowing your organization inside and out.
Define Your Funding Priorities
- What do you need funding for?
- How do these needs align with your strategic goals?Once your priorities are identified and agreed upon by key decision-makers, you can focus on finding grants that truly fit.
Avoid FOMO
We understand the fear of missing out! While it’s tempting to chase every opportunity, prioritize quality over quantity. Invest in a high-quality grant search tool to filter opportunities that align with your mission. Many tools also provide updates when changes occur to funding areas or deadlines, keeping you ahead of the game.
Do Your Homework
- FAQs & Guidelines: Thoroughly read through funder guidelines and FAQs. Alignment is everything!
- Learn About the Funders: Explore their website, social media, and history. Check 990 forms to see which organizations they’ve supported and why.
- Reverse Engineer Success: Research other nonprofits in your sector and identify their funding sources from their 990s or website. Could those foundations be a fit for you?
Step 3: Build Relationships with Funders
Grant applications shouldn’t be the only way a funder hears about your organization. Building relationships is key to standing out.
Reach Out Early
- Ask Questions: Contact funders to clarify eligibility, competitiveness, and how to strengthen your positioning.
- Learn from Their Insights: What do they prioritize? What makes applications stand out to them?
Stay Connected
Remember, a good rule of thumb is to steward funders at least three times a year. Share updates, celebrate milestones, and keep them in the loop about your work. This isn’t just about the proposal—it’s about the relationship.
Step 4: Write Competitive Proposals
When it’s time to write, make every word count.
Tailor Your Proposal
Customize your application to each funder’s priorities and restrictions. Avoid generic submissions, rather make your requests very specific and compelling.
Focus on Impact
Use data and stories to paint a compelling picture of your work. How will their funding help you create measurable change? Be specific about your goals and how you’ll achieve them.
Step 5: Stewardship and Reporting
Winning a grant is just the beginning. Stewardship ensures you maintain funder relationships for future opportunities.
Report Back
Fill out funder reports with care and attention to detail. Share how their support has made an impact and thank them sincerely.
Stay Engaged
Keep funders updated regularly. Send a thank-you email, card, or video. Invite them to events, share success stories, and continue to recognize their contribution throughout the year. Some foundations have specific preferences and policies around public recognition, so be sure to review their requirements first.
Grant Calendar
Create a grant calendar to stay organized. Use tools like Google Sheets to track:
- Opportunities
- Submission deadlines
- Requested amounts
- Results
- Notes and logins
A well-maintained calendar helps you prioritize and ensures no opportunity slips through the cracks. Everyone has a different tracking style, the important thing is to make the tracker work for you!
Encourage Team Effort
Grant opportunities can pop up at any time. Having multiple team members keeping an eye out for opportunities makes a real difference. Encourage everyone to forward potential grants for review—it’s a small action with big potential.
Finally, finding and securing grants doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By focusing on readiness, research, relationships, writing, and stewardship, your nonprofit can build a robust grant strategy that fuels your mission. Stay organized, remain authentic, and lean on your team to help uncover opportunities. With a little strategy and persistence, you’ll open doors to funding that helps you keep doing the amazing work you’re already doing.
