Applying for a grant is extremely competitive but can be a great way of taking your business forward. Here are my tips for grant writing success:
- Make sure you meet eligibility criteria
For-profit businesses may be eligible for government and corporate grants. The first step is to check that your organisation meets the grantor’s eligibility criteria. Normally this will be clearly spelled out in the program guidelines. If it’s not clear, you can usually telephone the funding body to confirm before you get started on your application.
2. Tailor your application to meet the grantor’s objectives
Always remember that it’s not about your business, it’s about the funding body. Have a close read of their program objectives to understand what they are trying to achieve. Then make sure your application aligns with and supports these goals. Clearly present the business case for your funding application so the grantor feels confident backing you.
3. Request funding to achieve a specific endeavour
Seek funding from different sources as it gives grantors confidence to see that others have backed you. They are also more likely to fund you a small amount to achieve a specific endeavour than provide general funding for your business as this reduces risk for them. This approach also makes it easier to measure outcomes from your project, which invariably will be a reporting requirement for the grantor.
4. Make sure your grant application is SMART
Grant assessors always favour proposals that are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Resourced and Timebound. This detail demonstrates the planning that has already gone into the project and shows that the business is well-positioned to achieve its goals. From a governance perspective, it shows the funding has a clear purpose.
5. Provide evidence of your ability to deliver
Details of prior experience, the track record of key people, testimonials, photographs, diagrams, research and any necessary approvals all provide valuable evidence of your business’ capability to deliver. Carefully answer all questions in the application and attach supporting material if permitted.
6. Make sure your application is well written
If you know your grant assessors are subject matter experts, then you can use technical language and industry acronyms. However, it is generally best practice to write in a plain English style. Make sure you use active verbs and avoid the passive tense where possible; the assessors need to know who is doing what and when!
For help with your grant application, contact Caroline Roberts on 0404 960 908 or caroline@luminous-copy.com
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