How to Write a Grant for a Nonprofit

How to Write a Grant for a Nonprofit thumbnail
Grants make a large portion of a nonprofit's budget.

Many nonprofits depend on grants to fulfill their mission. Writing grants requires you to follow directions carefully, because each grant has specific instructions for submitting proposals. Agencies that give grants to nonprofits are looking for information that shows the nonprofit is worthy of receiving the grant. You do not need to have expert writing skills to write grants, but must effectively communicate how the nonprofit will use the money to help others.

Things You'll Need

  • Nonprofit budget
  • Mission statement
  • List of nonprofit programs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Create a cover letter to explain the purpose of the nonprofit, state its mission and what you are requesting in terms of funds. Address the cover letter to the person in charge of the grant you seek.

    • 2

      Include an executive summary, which should serve as a compelling overview of your grant proposal. The mission statement, costs of project, need for your programs and implementation time is included in the executive summary.

    • 3

      Write a statement of need. This explains in detail the issue your nonprofit organization is trying to address with the money you seek. Include supporting statistical data and quantitative figures to make your statement of need stronger.

    • 4

      Detail your nonprofit's goals and objectives, which should state what you hope to achieve through your nonprofit. Goals are usually broad, but objectives are focused and detailed.

    • 5

      Explain your methods for achieving your objectives. Grant proposal reviewers want to see exactly how you plan to accomplish your objectives. Make your methods as specific as possible.

    • 6

      Write an evaluation. This is used to explain how you plan to measure the success of your nonprofit projects. The evaluation is one of the most important parts of grant writing.

    • 7

      Enter a section about your organizational information. This part of the grant proposal explains in detail the purpose of your group. Your organizational information will allow the reviewer of the grant proposal to connect with your nonprofit's vision and mission.

    • 8

      Include your budget. Your budget should tell the organization giving the grant exactly how much money you will need. It is important to make sure all of your figures are accurate.

Tips & Warnings

  • Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of each grant you write. Grant writing differs slightly depending on the requirements of the organization giving the grant.

  • Including incorrect figures or statements may disqualify your nonprofit organization from receiving grants.

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References

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