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Are you making these major grant writing mistakes?

The other day, I sat down with a new fundraiser who was eager to get started with grant writing, but also feeling overwhelmed by everything there is to learn.


With a background in journalism and a talent for writing, they expected the transition to be natural—until they realized that grant writing requires so much more than simply putting words on a page. We talked about the range of skills it takes, from understanding funder criteria, presenting data in an impactful way, capturing the full scope of a program, and mastering the art and science of project management.


As they asked for advice, I remembered how often new (and even experienced) organizations struggle when it comes to grants. I’ve been there myself, learning many hard-earned lessons along the way. That’s why I’m sharing these common grant writing mistakes with you now—so you don’t have to learn the hard way!


  1. Not answering the entire question


One frequent error I see is not fully addressing each part of the question being asked. Funders want clear and complete responses that hit all the points they’re looking for.


Example: Consider this question: “What are the key components of your project, and how will you measure success?” This question requires you to provide not only a list of all the project components but also specific details on how you plan to measure the success of each aspect.


  1. Applying for the wrong grant


It can be tempting to apply for every grant opportunity you find, but submitting proposals that don’t align with your organization’s mission can waste valuable time and resources. Take the time to research funders and ensure your project matches their goals and funding priorities.


Tip: Not sure how to determine if a grant is a good fit for your nonprofit? Check out this blog post for tips and advice.

  1. Giving up too soon


It’s easy to feel disheartened after receiving a rejection for a grant proposal. However, remember that rejection is a normal part of the process and doesn’t reflect the quality of your work. Grants can be turned down for various reasons unrelated to your writing skills, such as budget constraints that force funders to prioritize certain projects.


Tip: Instead of getting discouraged, view rejection as an opportunity to learn. Consider reaching out to funders for feedback on your proposal. This can provide valuable insights that will improve your chances next time. Remember, persistence is key!


  1. Not casting a wide enough net


Many organizations make the mistake of applying for just one or a few grants, which can seriously hurt their chances of securing funding. On average, grant success rates hover between 10% and 40%. These rates can vary based on the quality of your application, the level of competition, and how well your mission aligns with the funder's priorities.


Tip: The more grants you apply for, the better your chances! Set a goal to submit a certain number of proposals each month and explore different funding sources. To help increase your prospects and broaden your search, check out my free grant calendar which includes funding deadlines throughout the year.

  1. Giving vague answers


Unclear answers can weaken your chances of winning a grant. Funders may not be familiar with the specifics of your project or industry terminology. Avoid using acronyms or jargon without clear explanations, as they can leave funders confused about your project’s objectives.


Tip: Always include detail and context. Consider using the five Ws: who, what, when, where, and why. Clearly define who is involved in the project, what you aim to achieve, when the project will take place, where it will be implemented, and why it’s important.


  1. Not using data to support your case


Credible data strengthens your argument and illustrates the need for your project. Funders want evidence that your program is grounded in reality. Solid statistics from reliable sources (like Stats Canada) add weight to your proposal, showing it’s based on sound research.


Tip: Always cite your sources and ensure your data is up-to-date to reinforce your credibility!


  1. Assigning grant writing duties to untrained staff or volunteers


Handing grant writing over to an untrained employee or volunteer can lead to missed opportunities. Grant writing requires more than strong writing skills; it involves project management, financial understanding, research abilities, program planning, and more. An inexperienced writer might overlook key details, resulting in proposals that don’t resonate with funders.


Tip: Consider bringing in an experienced grant writer to boost your chances of success. If budget constraints are a concern, I offer expert grant writing support without the commitment of a full-time hire. Let’s connect for a free, no-obligation consultation call to discuss how I can help you secure the funding you need!


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