Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work. --Thomas Edison
When most people hear of grants, they think ‘ah, free money! Let’s go for it!’ and then when they start the application process, they realize how much work the grant process is and give up. If they complete the application, odds are they have made these common mistakes:
Being ineligible for the grant
Not following the application directions
Talking about the needs of the organization instead of the needs of the community or group that the organization serves
Failing to match the budget to the proposal
Lack of editing
Asking for the wrong amount of funding
Not meeting the application deadline
Forgetting to include required attachments
These mistakes will cost your organization funding and possibly will hurt your relationship with the funder for future grant opportunities.
No need to fear! Here are some tips on how to make your grant application stand out from the crowd:
Make your proposal original and unique to the funder
Know what your organization does, how it does it, and how good it is at “it”
Determine the details of your project that needs funding
Have your accountant or business manager double check your budget
Review your proposal with your team
Ensure you have other types of funding for your project
Use a calendar
In our extremely competitive funding climate, it is critical for grant writers to write clear, cohesive, and compelling proposals that highlight their organization. You do not want your grant application to come back with feedback that says it was thrown out. Follow the grant guidelines from the funder; they expect you to be able to follow directions. Don’t miss out on the opportunity of funding simply because you didn’t want to wear overalls!