4 Top Tips for Writing Compelling Grant Proposals

Seeking funding can be a daunting task, but with insights from CEOs and fundraising managers, it becomes an art of persuasion and precision. From articulating the problem clearly to illustrating impact with data, we've gathered the top four strategies for crafting compelling grant proposals. Dive into the wisdom of seasoned professionals and elevate your grant writing game.

• Articulate the Problem Clearly
• Transform Knowledge into Impactful Pitches
• Align Storytelling with Grantor Priorities
• Illustrate Impact with Data

Articulate the Problem Clearly

One top tip for writing compelling grant proposals is to clearly articulate the problem or need that your project addresses. Begin your proposal by providing a concise and compelling description of the issue you aim to solve or the gap you intend to fill. Clearly show why this problem is significant, who it affects, and what the potential positive outcomes would be if your project is funded.

Support your case with relevant data, statistics, and real-life examples that highlight the urgency and importance of your proposed project. Clearly outlining the problem not only helps the grantor understand the context but also emphasizes the relevance and impact of your work. Additionally, ensure that your proposed solution aligns seamlessly with the identified problem, demonstrating a thoughtful and strategic approach to addressing the issue at hand. 

By clearly defining the problem and presenting a well-aligned solution, you make a compelling case for why your project deserves the grantor's support.

Andre Oentoro, CEO and Founder, Breadnbeyond

Transform Knowledge into Impactful Pitches

I've written several successful grant proposals, and what I find with my clients is that, while they have all the knowledge about their organization, they don't know how to sell it to potential investors and grant organizations. 

With my background in sales, I have a unique perspective and take what they do, what they know, and turn their documents into “pitches” that also maximize the reality that the work they are doing has impact. I work to tell the story that will help cast the vision for why investing in this nonprofit is not only important but vital to community success.

Amy Vogel, Author, Speaker, Story Coach

Align Storytelling with Grantor Priorities

The key to successful grant writing is effective storytelling that aligns with the priorities of the grantor. Proposal writers must clearly identify the urgent need for funding and state how the project will effectively address the problem. Grantors want to know that their investment in the project will help to bring about change and that their funds will be used effectively, with measurable results. Ultimately, the narrative must highlight how this partnership is crucial to creating a positive impact.

Lesley Whyte, Grant Writer, One Tree Planted, Inc.

Illustrate Impact with Data

For me, it's all about the numbers when crafting a grant proposal. What does the data say relative to the community you intend to benefit? How many people are experiencing a problem that your organization can help solve? 

For example, at SMSKPC, we know that two-thirds of young adults say their mental health challenges started when they were children. To a funder, we would say, “With your support, together we will deliver the skills of resilience and stress management to 25% of all elementary-aged students in the region.” Presenting data will help you to not only illustrate the impact of your work but also help you present a clear and specific path forward with a funder.

Katie Mitchell, Fundraising Manager, Strong Minds Strong Kids, Psychology Canada

Fox Grants has a team of expert prospect researchers, grant writers, and grant managers to help you navigate the grant world. Reach out to us when you're ready to take your grant game to the next level!