Grant writing tips
You can greatly increase your chances of securing funds for your project with good planning, preparation, communication, and enough time to gather the information and supporting documents you need. Applications should support the identified goals of the grant, meet a clear need in your community, and be able to show community support.
Having a good understanding of the short and long term impact of your project on the community, not just the goals of the project itself, will help you communicate that message to the grant providers. If you’re stuck, contact us for advice.
When You Find Funding Opportunities
Check your eligibility and the grant program timeline, then consider whether this funding is suitable for your projects. A good test is, ‘Does my project fit easily into the grant, or will I need to significantly change my project to make it fit?’ It’s normal to have to think about your project from new perspectives when applying for funding, but if you need to significantly change your project to fit the grant, it’s likely not a good fit.
You’ve decided to apply! First things first:
Contact the funding body. There will be a phone number or email included in the grant information. Always reach out indicating that you’d like to apply, so they know to expect your application. You’ll have an opportunity to discuss your proposal, ask questions and learn the important aspects of your project that align to the grant’s purpose. Next, understand the deadlines and aim to have your application completed and ready to submit early. Ideally, this would be a few days before applications close.
Give Yourself Time
Don’t underestimate how long it may take you to prepare a budget, source quotes or permissions, and obtain letters of support. Respect the time of suppliers and supporters by giving them ideally two weeks’ notice to provide you with documents. If you have project partners, agree with them beforehand about how the funds will be allocated. If your project costs more than the maximum grant available in a program - how do you propose to make up the balance? Estimate how much volunteer time will be contributed by members of your organisation and other supporters. This can help to indicate the degree of community support for the project.
Most importantly, don’t forget to tell us in the main body of your application specifically how you’ll be spending the funds! It might seem obvious, but many applications come with wonderful detail about the project, but little information of how the funds will be spent. Remember, your budget and quotes are supporting information, not the application itself. Your application needs to include both why you need funds, and how you will use them.
Grant writing tips
Be aware of word limits.
Use simple language to make a compelling argument.
Be clear, concise and persuasive. Don’t repeat yourself, except where the same information is needed under different headings.
Ensure your project is grounded in fact. Don’t exaggerate problems or benefits, and be open about risks.
Tell us what you will achieve if your project is funded and how that will help the community
Tell us how you will tell the community about our support. This helps us show our impact in community, helping us raise more funds for future grants.
Use statistics, verified data, community plans, and letters of support to add credibility.
Before you submit your application, get an independent opinion. Have some fresh eyes look over your document; ask someone who hasn’t been involved to read it and to check its flow.
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