10 Grant Writing Best Practices to Improve Your Success

When it comes to securing funding for your nonprofit, grant writing can make or break your chances. A well-written grant proposal is more than a formality. It is your opportunity to inspire, persuade, and prove your organization’s worth. Whether you are a new grant writer or a seasoned pro looking to improve your results, these best practices will help you stand out in a crowded field.

1. Understand the Funder’s Mission and Priorities

Before writing a single word, research the funder’s mission, goals, and previous grantees. Funders want to invest in projects that align with their values and priorities. Reading their website, annual reports, and past funding announcements will give you valuable insight into what they care about. Tailor your proposal to reflect this alignment and avoid generic applications that could be sent to anyone.

2. Follow the Guidelines Exactly

Every funder has specific requirements for format, length, and submission. Ignoring these details, even accidentally, can lead to instant rejection. Read the guidelines carefully and double-check your work before submitting. If the application says to use a 12-point font and a three-page limit, do not submit four pages in 11-point type. Attention to detail shows professionalism.

3. Craft a Compelling Executive Summary

The executive summary is often the first (and sometimes only) section reviewers read in depth. Use it to capture their attention immediately. Summarize the problem, your solution, and the expected impact in clear, persuasive language. This is your chance to make reviewers want to read the rest of your proposal.

4. Tell a Clear and Emotional Story

Numbers and data are essential, but stories connect emotionally. Share a brief, relevant story that illustrates the problem your nonprofit addresses and how your project will make a difference. Avoid overly dramatic language, but do not be afraid to show the human side of your work.

5. Use Data to Support Your Case

Strong stories need strong evidence. Back up your narrative with statistics, research, and measurable outcomes from past programs. Data demonstrates credibility and shows funders that you are results-oriented. Be sure to cite reputable sources and keep the data relevant to the problem and your solution.

6. Develop a Realistic and Transparent Budget

A solid budget shows that you understand the resources required to achieve your goals. Break down costs clearly and justify each expense. Funders want to know their money will be used responsibly, so avoid vague categories. Transparency builds trust and increases your credibility.

7. Focus on Measurable Outcomes

Funders want results, and they need to see how you will measure success. Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives. Explain how you will track progress and report outcomes. This reassures funders that their investment will make a tangible impact.

8. Proofread and Edit Thoroughly

Even the most compelling proposal can lose credibility if it contains typos, grammatical errors, or confusing sentences. Review your proposal multiple times and ask a colleague or professional editor to review it as well. Fresh eyes can catch mistakes you might miss.

9. Build Relationships Before and After Submission

Grant writing is not just about the proposal. It is about building trust with funders. Whenever possible, connect with funders before you apply. Ask questions, attend their events, and follow them on social media. After receiving a grant, stay in touch, provide updates, and express appreciation. Strong relationships can lead to future funding.

10. Learn from Every Application

Whether you win or lose, each grant application is a learning opportunity. If rejected, request feedback from the funder. If funded, review what worked well and how you can replicate it. Continuous improvement is key to long-term grant writing success.