How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Government Grant for Your Nonprofit
Getting a government grant is the perfect way to raise funds for your nonprofit organization. Competition is fierce, but there are ways to improve your chances.
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Instructions
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Outline your goals and your strategy to achieve them. Plan exactly how you will be using the money and how much you will need. Write a list of procedures for executing your plan. The more detailed and organized your proposal, the greater the chances are that you'll be awarded the grant.
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Begin prospecting grants. Websites such as grants.gov or cfda.gov are good places to start searching. Most grants have a synopsis that describe the specifics regarding the grant. Create a database of this information so that you can easily keep track of any pending grants.
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Visit your local public library to search for government grants, and while you're there check out some books on grant writing.
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Begin the application process. Government websites offering grants will usually require you to create a user name and password for submitting your application. If you are not a good writer then you may want to hire a writer who specializes in writing grant proposals. A well-written proposal can present your idea in a way that sounds professional and can add credibility to your organization.
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Read the requirements carefully. Each grant is different. Some may require that you mail or fax specific documents.
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Don't be discouraged if you are denied -- you may be able to resubmit. Make adjustments to your strategy and try rewriting your proposal. Be sure to include in your proposal details as to why your organization is the most qualified for the task. Do some research on other similar organizations and look for a way to set your organization apart the rest.
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Tips & Warnings
grantproposal.com notes that government grant awards can be political. Consider enlisting the help of an elected official to plead your cause.
Social service project grants are often awarded for one initial year and must be renewed annually. Many grants are not renewed because the organization did not meet the proposed outcomes or failed to meet reporting deadlines.
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