What makes a great grant application? Passion, purpose, and precision. But how do you hit those three Ps?
In this article, we will explore the essential elements that make up a stellar grant application, helping you navigate the often intricate landscape of securing vital funding for your charity.
Explain your Cause
One of the biggest challenges funders come across is reading through applications from top to bottom, and still feeling uncertain about what the charity actually does. Give a clear and concise explanation in the first paragraph (or the first relevant question on the application form).
Yes, your mission and values are important and should be mentioned, but funders are more interested in who you help and what you do day to day.
Always sense check your applications by reading through them and asking yourself; “Would someone who doesn’t know the charity sector at all understand what we do?”
Why is your charitable work needed?
Before you begin fundraising for your project work, you need to ask people if they want you to deliver your proposed service. It might seem obvious, but many charities still fall into the trap of developing services that they think will help, and forget to ask beneficiaries.
Of course, not all causes can ask a beneficiary, so having research to back up your plans is another great way to prove your work is needed.
If you are an arts charity or a charity protecting a “thing” rather than providing services to people, you can still ask your community for their guidance. A community doesn’t have to be local, it could be a community of people connected through a particular interest or background.
Include feedback from focus groups, mention letters of support, and/or cite research to show funders that your work is truly needed.
Clearly Defined Goals and Objectives
Your grant application must present crystal-clear and well-defined goals and project objectives. Provide SMART objectives and outcomes i.e. specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
Make sure your service delivery team is aware of these objectives, so they know that they need to measure for them. This will become very important when it’s time to report back to the funder and will help you secure future funding.
Strategic Alignment
Demonstrate how your project aligns with the funder’s mission and priorities. This is the first thing they will look for. If they are oversubscribed with hundreds of great applications, the closest fit to their priorities always wins.
Read their funding priorities thoroughly before you start. When you are finished, go back through your application and ensure you are highlighting how you fit throughout the text.
Clear Project Finances
Are you clearly showing the following?
- The overall cost of the project over a specified time frame.
- What is each cost related to? i.e. don’t simply put “Project Costs: £10,000” – explain what those costs are.
- How much you have raised so far and how much you have left to raise.
- Other sources of funding i.e. other grant funders, a trading arm, training, community fundraising, corporate sponsorship etc.
- Are you asking the funder to contribute to the overall budget? Or are you asking them to fund specific costs?
- What is your strategy for fundraising in the long term? Either for this specific project or for the organisation as a whole.
- If you are asking for staff costs, is this a new role or is it someone who is already employed? Make this clear.
Collaborative Partnerships
Partnership working is becoming more and more important to funders. Highlight any partnerships or collaborations that strengthen your project’s implementation. Whether it’s working with local communities, government agencies, or other nonprofits, showcasing a collaborative approach enhances the credibility and potential impact of your initiative.
A Great Story
We have left this one to the end because we know you have heard it a hundred times! But we couldn’t write this article without mentioning the power of stories. Don’t just present facts; share compelling case studies, photos, and quotes that evoke emotion and resonate with the reader.
Help the funder visualise the positive impact their grant will have. Always keep in mind that, although you are applying to an organisation, it is people who read your applications. And if they work in the charity sector, chances are they are empathetic, caring and kind.
What Makes a Great Charity Grant Application?
Crafting an excellent grant application requires a thoughtful blend of strategy, passion, and precision. As you embark on your funding journey, keep these essential elements in mind to increase your chances of securing the support your charitable endeavours deserve.
By presenting a compelling narrative, aligning with funders’ priorities, and showcasing a clear plan for impact, you’ll be well on your way to turning your vision into reality. Good luck on your grant application journey!
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