Every grant application is different, but some things are universal. Whether you’re seeking funding from a local trust, a large foundation, or a government source, there are certain things you can do to make the process easier. From gathering the appropriate documents to reviewing your strategic plan, following these steps will help ensure that your organization is ready to pursue grant funding.
Vital Records
In the same way a person’s vital records can reveal important details about their life and history, an organization’s vital records can help grant writers glean important information to support the writing process. Plus, most applications require copies or excerpts from these records anyway—so one of the best things you can to do get “grant ready” is to gather these items and be ready to produce them on demand.
The Grant Professional Association recommends that all organizations compile the following vital records:
Proof of 501(3)(c) status / IRS Tax Exemption Letter
EIN or BIN
Current Financial Statements, 990 and audit
Current Strategic Plan
Current Organizational Budget
Annual Reports
Resumes for current key staff
List of current board members and their professional affiliations
Articles of Incorporation and By-laws
Organization Overview
In addition to vital records, I recommend creating a brief “organization overview.” It’s a great way to help your grant writer understand your organization’s identity. It’s also very likely that this information will be included in your grant proposal, so it’s easier to provide a snapshot upfront (rather than making your grant writer ask for it repeatedly).
Your Organization Overview should include:
Mission Statement
Organizational History
Goals
Programs
Leverageable Assets & Resources
Outcomes & Achievements
You might also consider including any brochures, newsletters, articles, or promotional materials. A good example of an organizational overview can be found on The Bridgespan Group’s website.
Preparing both your vital records and an organizational overview will go a long way in helping to ensure your organization is “grant ready.” Your grant writer will also thank you. Profusely. ;)
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