Grant writing is also a skill, and youll get better at it the more you do it.
Along the way, Ive picked up a few tips to help beginners get off to a good start.
Unfortunately, such compiled lists dont typically exist, and searching for funding sources is an arduous process.
Otherwiseonce the pandemic is overyou can go into any of Candids officialin-person locationsto browse their database for free.
Look for opportunities that are the closest match to your own work.
See who theyve funded in the past.
Its most important to remember that you shouldnt attempt to alter your work to fit any one funders mold.
A right fit means your mission and vision match theirs, and that you meet the opportunitys eligibility criteria.
First and foremost, tell the funder exactly what you do, forgoing flowery language or jargon.
If you run a youth choir, state that specifically in your proposal.
If their experience lies elsewhere, you otherwise might wind up with a very odd-looking sandwich.
Generally, a funder is only willing to support about 30% of your full project budget.
you could see how much a funder generally gives and can base your numbers off of their past behaviors.
Asking for too much is an issue, but asking for too little can raise red flags as well.
Is the narrative clear or confusing to read?
Can you find the evaluation criteria and funder priorities?
Does it flow/ read well?
Take this into consideration when are planning out a timeline for your utility process.
The first draft is most likely not your last, so give yourself adequate time to reflect and edit.
And dont be afraid to ask for help.
