Writing a successful grant proposal is hard work. There are no easy answers or shortcuts. Funders are looking for innovative, creative proposals that are based on a compelling vision with a common-sense plan of action. While this may feel overwhelming, if your organization takes the time to carefully analyze its mission and goals, you can develop an exciting (and fundable) project. Remember that it is usually easier to receive grants for a specific project than general support.

The process of writing a grant proposal can also serve as an organizing tool. By developing your proposal, you step away from the frequently compelling and time-consuming aspects of your work. As a result, you have the chance to re-examine how and why you maintain your commitment to the struggle. A proposal based on this analysis can serve as both a fundraising tool and a workplan for the future.

When filling out an application, you should closely follow the guidelines and procedures suggested by the grantmaker. Funders have written these documents so that you can decide if your proposal will meet their decision-making criteria and they want you to follow the specific directions they provide for submissions. Applications which do not follow their guidelines may be rejected without review. It is in your organizations best interest to apply only for projects which are clearly within the funders scope of interest. If you are not sure that your proposal meets the funding criteria, be sure to contact the grantmaking department and ask for clarification.

A typical proposal includes:

1) A statement of your organizations mission or goals;

2) A summary of the organizations history and current activities;

3) A description of the project for which you are seeking funding;

4) A description of the structure of the organization, including how decisions are made; who comprises the membership; the organizations constituency; and the leadership of the organization;

5) An outline of any current or future fundraising plan;

6) A recent financial statement;

7) A budget both for the organization and the specific project; and

8) A notification letter from the IRS documenting the organizations tax-exempt status (or the status of its fiscal conduit) under Section 501-c(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. A letter from your state revenue agency indicating the organizations local tax status will not be sufficient.

When writing a grant proposal, it is important to be as clear and concise as possible about the need for the project and how it will fill a gap in the area. Explain how the goals of the project are reasonable and achievable. Demonstrate that the organization has the skill and ability to carry out the planned activities. Indicate how the group will evaluate its work and what criteria it will use in planning to go forward based on that analysis. In addition, it is often a good idea to discuss how the group will work in coalition with other activist organizations and individuals to accomplish the goals of the project.


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