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Writer's pictureDebra A. Gill

The Devil is in the Details

A Quick Guide to Writing Successful Grant Proposals



I recently spoke with a funder who expressed disappointment in the quality of grant applications they were receiving. Despite the application form's clear and specific questions, many applicants provided brief and incomplete responses, relying on the prestige of their missions rather than submitting well-crafted proposals. This highlights the importance of focusing on the quality of grant submissions to stand out in the competitive funding landscape.


Writing a compelling grant proposal requires careful planning, clear communication, and a deep understanding of the funder’s priorities. A well-crafted application not only presents your organization in the best light but also builds a compelling case for why it deserves support.


Here are some key tips to crafting a successful grant proposal.


Build Relationships

Whenever possible, establish a relationship with the funder and key personnel before submitting your proposal. Attend their events, connect on social media, and engage with their content. A positive relationship can sometimes be as valuable as the proposal itself.


Understand the Funder’s Goals

Before you start writing, research the funding organization thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and priorities. Tailor your proposal to align with their goals and demonstrate how your project will help them achieve their objectives.


Follow the Guidelines

Each funder has specific guidelines for grant proposals. Follow these instructions meticulously. Adhering to formatting requirements, word limits, and submission procedures shows attention to detail and respect for the funder’s process.


Clearly Define Your Objectives

Your proposal should have clear, measurable objectives. Define what you aim to achieve and how you will measure success. This clarity helps funders understand the impact of your project and how their investment will be utilized.


Develop a Strong Narrative

A strong narrative is crucial for engaging funders. Start with a compelling introduction that outlines the problem you aim to address. Describe your project in detail, including your methods, timeline, and expected outcomes. Use data and evidence to support your claims and show the feasibility of your project. Tell engaging stories about the need and anticipated impact.


Highlight Your Qualifications

Demonstrate why you or your organization is uniquely qualified to undertake this project. Highlight your expertise, experience, and any previous successes. This builds confidence in your ability to deliver on your promises.


Create a Realistic Budget

Your budget should be detailed and realistic. Break down costs clearly and justify each expense. Funders need to see that you have a well-thought-out financial plan and that their money will be spent wisely.


Show Potential Impact

Emphasize the broader impact of your project. How will it benefit the community, advance knowledge, or address a significant issue? Demonstrate to funders that their investments will make a meaningful difference.


Edit and Proofread

A proposal containing errors can undermine your credibility. Thoroughly proofread and edit your document. Consider having colleagues review your proposal to catch mistakes you might have missed and to provide feedback on clarity and persuasiveness.


Be Persistent

Rejection is part of the process. If your proposal is not funded, seek feedback, and use it to improve future submissions. Persistence and continuous improvement can eventually lead to success.


Writing a successful grant proposal is no small feat. It requires a blend of strategic planning, persuasive writing, and meticulous attention to detail. From aligning your project with the funder’s goals to crafting a compelling narrative and developing a detailed budget, every element must be carefully considered and executed.


Remember, the devil is in the details—overlooking small aspects can undermine the strength of your proposal. By focusing on clarity, precision, and thoroughness, you can increase your chances of securing the funding needed to bring your project to life. Keep refining your approach, and don't be discouraged by setbacks. With persistence and dedication, your efforts will pay off. Happy writing!


Alliance Philanthropy’s philosophy is to inspire staff, volunteers, and board members for all types of not-for-profit organizations to raise funds enthusiastically and passionately - at maximum levels - in support of their mission.

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