Always heard it’s not easy writing grants. I’ve found some are definitely more challenging than others. Making sure you answer the questions posed in their entirety. Providing the foundational data to support your need. Clearly. Concisely. Succinctly. In some respects, it’s a purer form of writing; a truer communications style  – get your point across in as few words as possible yet be persuasive and passionate about your cause.

I’ve learned a lot and am still learning what makes a stellar grant application. I’ve also learned I need to help educate some organizations I’m working with. Can’t just assume that all non-profits know the terminology. Or what documents are what. How to look at and interpret budget documents, for instance, and use them to answer some of the questions. What demographic data might paint the picture of need.

Some organizations know what grant opportunities they want to pursue. Others don’t. It’s a time consuming process so it’s important to make sure that your program, your need, synchs up with what a foundation or other entity may be funding. Resources to check out include Nonprofit Connect (www.npconnect.org) and the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation (www.gkccf.org).

Make sure you have the right documentation. You don’t want to get to the point of being ready to submit – being at that deadline – only to find out you’re missing a very important document. Some standard ones include: 1) IRS letter of determination on your 501(c)(3) status, 2) IRS 990 Report, 3) annual audit, 4) certificate of incorporation, 5) current (sometimes previous) year’s operating budget, and 6) a listing of the board of directors. Of course, there might be others; depends on the grantor.

I actually enjoy writing grants – it’s given me an opportunity to learn about some organizations doing great work in the Kansas City area. Learn more than I ever would have as a volunteer. Through the grant writing process, I help them get more exposure (and hopefully funding). And what a feeling it is when you hear that the work you’ve done has been successful!

If you need a little assistance, let’s get together and chat over coffee (tea for me!).

If you like, leave a comment. I’d love to know your thoughts. What has helped you write or develop successful grants?