Rick Middleton Copywriting

The grantwriting process – like most activities in a busy organization – works best when it is approached in a methodical, organized and systematic way.

Some organizations try to put out “institutional fires” by whipping out a flurry of grant requests to meet a sudden need or campaign . . . then they wonder what to do next. However, the smart organization will develop a plan, and a system, that provides a rationale and a roadmap for their activities. Guess which organization will be more likely to achieve their goals?

The Grantwriting Process Simplified: Use This Step-by-Step Approach to Reach Your Goals

Below, I’ve identified some of the basics of a strategic grantwriting process. While you may not follow each step of this process, it provides a systematic grant-seeking template for organizations starting at Square One.

1. Identify institutional needs and goals.
2. Prioritize – decide what needs funding first.
3. Design a funding plan and identify the kind of funds needed.
4. Create a planning team representing everyone who has a stake in the project (monthly meetings). This includes development/marketing, program, board representatives.
5. Assign research, writing and follow-up tasks.
6. Find out when grant applications are due and place on master funding calendar.
7. Contact potential funders via phone or email (when possible).
8. Determine what kind of application format is required.
9. Develop draft funding-request documents (project briefs and core proposal language) for critique and review.
10. Incorporate comments into final, well-written proposal drafts.
11. Submit requests to funders (foundations, corporations, government grantors), tailoring information to their requirements.
12. Track all details on funding spreadsheet.
13. Follow-up with funders and team members.
14. Place follow-up tasks/action steps on spreadsheet.
15. Develop follow-up reports when required.
16. Grantwriter to provide weekly updates to development team.

Still have questions about the world of grantsmanship? Please contact me anytime to discuss your organization's needs and aspirations.