Grant Writing 101: 5 Tips to Strengthen Your Next Proposal

Grant writing can be transformative—but it’s rarely easy.
It’s not just about filling out forms. It’s about telling your story in a way funders trust, understand, and believe in. Whether you’re new to grants or refining your approach, these five tips can help your next proposal stand out.

At Advocate Fundraising, we understand the hurdles nonprofits face—and we’re here to help you navigate them with clarity, strategy, and confidence.

1. Understand the Funder’s Priorities
Research the funder thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and priorities. Reaching out and talking to their team can provide valuable insights. Don't hesitate to ask essential questions: What are the deadlines? Ideal ask amount? Priorities? Mission? Potential partnerships? Tailor your proposal to align with their interests and demonstrate how your project supports their goals.

2. Craft a Compelling Narrative
Tell a compelling story about your organization and the impact of your project. Share successes, obstacles, your organization's "WHY?", and provide reassurance that you can handle this project and manage the funds effectively. Use data and personal stories to illustrate the need for your project and the difference it will make. A strong narrative helps the funder connect emotionally with your cause.

3. Be Clear and Concise
Funders often review numerous proposals. Make your proposal easy to read by being clear and concise. Avoid jargon and complex language. Imagine you are speaking to someone who has never heard of your organization before. Use layman's terms to paint a clear picture. Utilize headings, bullet points, and white space to make your proposal visually appealing and easy to navigate.

4. Provide a Detailed Budget
A detailed, realistic, and balanced budget is crucial. Clearly outline all project costs and justify them. Include quotes or estimates for major expenses where possible. Many people are scared of numbers, worried about asking for too much or too little, or not having enough information about the expenses of their project. Being comfortable with numbers and your budget is essential. A well-prepared budget shows that you have thoroughly planned your project and understand the financial requirements.

5. Proofread and Review
Before submitting your proposal, thoroughly proofread and review it. Typos, grammatical errors, and inconsistencies can make your proposal appear unprofessional. Having additional eyes review your proposal ensures that you've captured the voice of the organization perfectly. Consider having a colleague or a professional editor review it to catch any mistakes you might have missed.

Final Thoughts
Grant writing is both an art and a science. By understanding the funder’s priorities, crafting a compelling narrative, being clear and concise, providing a detailed budget, and thoroughly proofreading your proposal, you can significantly increase your chances of securing funding. At Advocate Fundraising, we’re here to support you every step of the way.