The subject of grants is largely misunderstood. Contrary to what the media and non-informed people will have you believe, becoming grant ready is not an overnight process. As a nonprofit, grants should be one component of your overall business strategy, just not the primary component. For those of you who are funding your nonprofits from your own personal funds and you are wondering how to escape this seemingly never-ending trend, earned revenue is your savior. So how do you tap into that elusive funding stream? Just as many people promise, there are funds out there to support your organization, but your organization must be ready to be supported!
You must learn what being “grant ready” is. Grant readiness is your ability to apply for a grant. Each application has funding priorities/strategies; it is your job to know if you fit into those priorities. To do this, you must know:
- The need for your services
- The clients you serve
- The benefit to the community you serve
- If your organization is a good investment
- Are you good at what you do, and do you have proof?
Just because you are grant ready, does not mean you will receive the funding. Grantmaking is incredibly competitive, throwing everything but the kitchen sink into a proposal will make your program difficult to fund. Showing you have a well thought out program/idea with realistic measures will make your proposal stand out. To do that, you must have a clear understanding of who you serve and the work your organization does.
Interested in learning more about our grant writing services? Contact us.
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