Securing grant writing funds could be challenging for nonprofits due to high competition and complex application processes. Implementation of several distinctive strategies could significantly enhance the success rates of securing funds through grants. CLASS has identified nine practical tips nonprofits can apply to level up their grant writing and secure those crucial funds. Ready? Dive in and discover how to make your next proposal stand out!
Making Grant Writing Easier with AI: Your New Best Friend
AI tools can give a competitive edge.
Many nonprofits are still hesitant about using AI, worrying it might take away the "human touch." However, it’s all about balance. Let AI handle the repetitive tasks like formatting or researching similar grants, while you focus on creating a compelling story that truly resonates with the funders.
Improving Storytelling Techniques: It’s Not Just About Numbers
Integrate your data with a narrative. Use storytelling to describe the problem your project addresses and how it will make a difference.
For example, instead of mentioning, "We served 500 meals," tell the story of a single mother who received a hot meal during a tough time. This puts a face to the numbers and helps funders connect emotionally with your cause.
Many funders outline specific requirements for the grant narrative in their Request for Proposal (RFP) documents. Customize your narrative to highlight how your project fits into their funding strategy and how it can help them achieve their mission.
Tip: Incorporate real-life examples and testimonials, quotes or anecdotes from beneficiaries to humanize the data. These narratives will make your proposal memorable and compelling.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Why they Happen and How to Overcome Them?
Common Pitfall | Why It Happens | How to Avoid It |
Vague Goals and Objectives | Goals are too broad or lack specific outcomes. | Use the SMART framework to clearly define your objectives. |
Not Following the Funder’s Guidelines | Overlooking specific instructions or requirements. |
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Lack of Clear Need Statement | Failing to explain why the project is necessary. | Provide data, statistics, and real-life examples to demonstrate the problem your project addresses. |
Overloading with Jargon | Using overly technical language or industry jargon. |
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Ignoring Deadlines | Underestimating time needed for writing and review. | Create a timeline with key milestones and allow extra time for revisions and approvals. |
Failing to Demonstrate Impact | Not showing how the project will create positive change. |
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Poor Proofreading | Typos, errors, and unclear writing hurt credibility. |
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Focusing Only on Funding Needs | Emphasizing your need for money rather than the project’s benefits. |
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Tip: Many grant writers skip this step, but funders often appreciate the initiative. It shows you're committed to improving and building a relationship beyond a one-time request.
Detailed and Realistic Budget Planning: Transparency is the Key
Funders want to see a tangible difference their money will make. Provide evidence and data to support why the project is necessary and the impact it will have on the community. You may use data, success stories, and specific examples to illustrate how you will address the issue at hand and how you will measure and report the outcomes to ensure transparency and accountability.
A sample of budget categories with the relevant justification could be described as shown in the table.
Category | Expense Item | Amount (USD) | Justification |
Staff Salaries | Program Manager | $50,000 | To oversee project implementation and manage program activities. |
| Outreach Coordinator | $35,000 | To engage community partners and participants effectively. |
Marketing Costs | Social Media Campaigns | $5,000 | To increase awareness and reach target audiences online. |
| Print Materials (Flyers, Brochures) | $3,000 | For local community outreach and visibility of the program. |
Staff Training | Professional Development Workshops | $6,000 | To equip staff with new skills and knowledge, enhancing program delivery. |
| Specialized Training Programs | $4,000 | For certifications and specialized skills, improving service quality. |
Evaluation | Monitoring & Evaluation | $5,000 | For data collection, analysis, and reporting on program impact. |
Tip: Outline how the project will continue after the grant period ends. Funders want to know that their investment will have a lasting impact. For example, include the ‘Staff Training’ Category, it helps in capacity building, increasing the program’s effectiveness, and demonstrates commitment to continuous improvement.
Setting SMART Goals: Make It Measurable
Use the SMART framework and make your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
Here’s an example of how you can make a goal SMART:
Vague Goal: “Increase community outreach.”
SMART Goal: “Increase community outreach by 20% over the next six months through monthly workshops.”
See the difference? By making it measurable, you give yourself a clear target and a timeline to achieve it. This way, you can track progress and know if you're on the right path.
Tip: Tailor your SMART goals to align with the funder’s priorities. If they focus on education, show how your goal supports educational outcomes. For example, “Host four educational workshops per month, improving digital literacy among 100 participants over the next year.” This not only demonstrates your impact but also speaks directly to what the funder values.
Understanding Funder Expectations with AI insights
Using AI for data analytics can provide insights into funder preferences based on past awarded grants. Tools like Candid’s Foundation Directory Online can show trends, helping you tailor your proposal to align with what funders are currently prioritizing.
Tip: Analyze the language used in successful proposals. If you notice funders’ focus on "impact" or "sustainability," use these terms in your application to align with their expectations.
Strategies for Resilience: Bouncing Back from Rejections
Grant rejections are tough, but they can also be helpful in providing valuable insights. Don’t just ignore the rejection letter, connect with the funder instead!
Tip: Use rejection feedback as a networking opportunity. Engage with the funder and ask how you can better align with their priorities in future applications.
Building Long-Term Funder Relationships: Beyond One-Time Grants
Think of grant writing as the start of a conversation, not a one-time transaction. Regular updates on your project’s progress can turn a one-time funder into a recurring partner. Share your wins, lessons learned, and ongoing challenges to keep them engaged.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to share setbacks with funders. They appreciate honesty and transparency, which can strengthen your relationship.
Staying Updated on Trends: Lifelong Learning for Grant Writers
The nonprofit world is always changing, with new funding opportunities and trends. Keep yourself updated by signing up for industry newsletters (Example, GrantStation Insider, Instumentl Blog Newsletter, Candid’s Philanthropy News Digest (PND), Grant Professionals Association newsletter), attending webinars (CharityHowTo, Funding for Good, Grants West) and participating in grant writing forums.
Tip: Set aside time each month for professional development. Whether it’s a new tool or a grant writing workshop, continuous learning can give you an edge.
Finally, grant writing is a mix of creativity and strategy, and in 2025, staying ahead means more than just preparing a solid proposal. Following these nine tips will help you stand out by building real connections, learning from every experience, and keeping up with the trends shaping the nonprofit world.
"Ready to make your grant writing easier and more effective? Contact The CLASS Consulting Group for additional insider tips, tools, and trends in the nonprofit sector!"
Very nice informative article.