How nonprofits can get started with grant writing
Nonprofits often view grant writing as an inevitable part of running a nonprofit. As soon as that 501(c)(3) letter arrives from the IRS, nonprofits are eager to get to get started with grant writing.
But while grants can be a helpful revenue stream, the reality is that they are extremely competitive. And without certain preparedness measures, most nonprofits’ grant writing efforts are doomed to fail.
Before you jump into grant writing, begin with strategic planning, thorough research, and building a strong foundation with other funding sources. This preparation includes having clear goals, measurable outcomes, and essential documents in place—not just submitting applications. Grants are not a quick funding fix, nor a standalone solution.
Why grant writing is more than just writing
Grant writing goes beyond crafting persuasive proposals. It involves building relationships with funders, demonstrating measurable impact, and proving you are running a strong and healthy organization. While grants can provide vital financial support, planning to rely solely on them isn’t advised.
Grants also come with obligations like detailed reporting and program accountability, which can strain nonprofits that aren’t ready. Treat grant writing as a piece of a broader sustainability plan for long-term success.
Preparing for the grant writing process
Jumping into grant writing without preparation can waste time and resources. If your nonprofit has never written a grant before, it may be helpful to look at the grant requirements released by a handful of local funders. Find the prominent community foundations and family foundations in your area. Look at their websites. If you can find an application, RFP, or other grant submission guidelines, you’ll get a better sense of what they—and other funders—require for a grant. Can you meet all of those requirements before you get started with grant writing?
Once you’re sure you’re ready, here’s how to get started:
1. Research local funders
Identify community foundations, family foundations, and other local funders aligned with your mission. Review their guidelines, application requirements, and deadlines to determine eligibility and expectations.
2. Gather essential documents
Most applications require:
- Two recent 990 tax forms
- Organization and program budgets
- A current board member list
- Articles of incorporation and bylaws
- Annual reports or program evaluations
If your nonprofit is new or doesn’t file 990s, you will need to wait until these items are ready to apply.
3. Understand funders’ expectations
Funders assess governance, financial health, and measurable outcomes. Ensure your nonprofit meets these criteria before applying.
Building a strong organizational foundation
Grantmakers look at grants as an investment, and they want to ensure they’re making a wise one. Your nonprofit needs be strong on multiple fronts. This way, you’ll compete with other organizations doing great work in the community.
- Qualified board of directors: Ensure your board is diverse, experienced, and free from conflicts of interest. Staff, including the executive director, should not be part of the board.
- Skilled staff members: Showcase your team’s qualifications and capacity to deliver results.
- Proven impact: Use measurable outcomes, data, and community recognition to demonstrate your success. Show you are making progress toward your objectives.
- Community connection: Prove your organization has a deep understanding of the population served, and strong reasoning on why and how your nonprofit developed the programs it is running. Back all of this up with academic studies and data if possible.
Without these items, you should wait to start grant writing.
Diversifying your fundraising
Another aspect of grant readiness is a strong and realistic budget—and the ability to fund all aspects of your programs and operations. Attempting to do this exclusively through grants will set your nonprofit up for failure. And that’s something readily apparent to grantmakers.
Before you seek out your first grant, make sure you’re pulling in money from other areas. These include special events, individual donations, and major gifts. Then, you’ll have the ability to operate your programs while you wait to hear back from grantmakers. And you’ll be in a great position to show the strength of your organization. Grantmakers don’t want to fund a nonprofit on the verge of closing its doors due to lack of funds.
- Individual donations: Build relationships with donors passionate about your mission.
- Special events: Host fundraisers that engage the community and generate revenue.
- Major gifts: Cultivate long-term relationships with major donors for significant contributions.
Knowing when to wait
If your nonprofit lacks key elements like a strong board, financial health, or measurable outcomes, it’s better to wait. Use this time to strengthen your foundation and prepare a competitive application.
Moving forward with confidence
Grant writing is an opportunity to enhance your nonprofit’s impact and sustainability. By researching funders, preparing essential documents, and diversifying your revenue streams, you’ll approach the process with confidence.
Grant writing isn’t just about asking for money—it’s about proving why your mission matters and how funders can help create meaningful change. With thoughtful preparation and strategic planning, your nonprofit can secure the funding needed to make a lasting impact.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to learn more about our grant writing services!
No Comments