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Is your nonprofit ready to apply for grants?


Is your nonprofit ready to apply for grants?

I recently had a consultation call with a nonprofit that had been tirelessly applying for grants, only to face rejection. They were frustrated, having invested so much time and energy with little to show for it.


As we dug into the details of their organization, the issue became clear: they were missing some foundational elements that were preventing their grant applications from being considered.


This is exactly why grant readiness is so important. Without the right foundations in place, even the best-written grant applications can end up being a waste of time and resources.


So, how can you make sure your nonprofit is truly grant-ready? Let’s break it down!


  1. Your nonprofit has a clear mission, vision, programs and services


Are you crystal clear on your what your organization does and why it matters? Funders want to know exactly what you’re trying to accomplish and the broader impact you hope to achieve. You also need to have specific programs or services that demonstrate how you’re working toward achieving those goals. Funders like to see well-established programs that are impactful and sustainable.


2. You’re well established (or you’re working on it)


You have a strong reputation and presence in the community. This includes achievements like awards, successful partnerships, or high-impact programs that have made a difference in your cause area. It also means that your community knows who you are and that you have the infrastructure in place to deliver on your promises.


Tip: Don’t forget about your digital presence! A strong website and active social media show that you are transparent, credible, and engaged with your audience. These platforms also allow potential funders to learn more about your work.


3. You can show project impact


You don’t just talk the talk, you have the data to back it up. Funders want to know that their funds are being used effectively. Ensure your programs are evidence-based and research-backed.  If you can provide data, metrics, research, success stories, or testimonials to bolster your programs, it’ll greatly strengthen your case.


Tip: Keep track of your results, whether through surveys, evaluations, interviews, or personal stories.


4. You have financial stability


Funders want to know that your nonprofit can manage and use their funds responsibly. Financial stability doesn’t mean you have a large surplus of funding; it’s about having up-to-date financial statements, a clear budget, and a proven track record of managing funds effectively. If you're thinking, “We’re a grassroots organization, of course we’re not stable—that’s why we need grants!”—don’t worry! It’s about demonstrating that you can handle the funds well and have a plan for budgeting and tracking expenses.


Tip: Get your financial statements organized and ready to share. This will help funders feel confident in your ability to manage their investment effectively.


  1. You have legal and governance structures in place


Having the right legal status, like being a Registered Charity (in Canada) or a 501(c)(3) organization (in the U.S.) is a must. You’ll also need a solid governance structure, including a board of directors that actively supports your nonprofit, bylaws that guide decision-making, and clear policies and procedures that ensure transparency and accountability.


Tip: Be ready to share your status, governance documents, and any policies that show your nonprofit is running smoothly and in compliance with regulations in your area.


6. You have a plan for equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)


Today’s funders are paying close attention to how nonprofits integrate equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) into their work. It’s not enough to just say that you value diversity, you need to show specific actions and practices that make your organization inclusive.


Tip: Be prepared to share examples of how you’re integrating EDI into your programs. This might include actions such as: training for employees, accessible facilities, cultural integrations, and addressing language barriers.


7. You have the staff and resources to manage grants


Even if you have everything else in place, you need to have the staff, systems, and resources to manage a grant properly. Funders want to know that you can track budgets, meet reporting requirements, and deliver results. If you have a staff member or team that can oversee grant reporting and compliance, you’re in good shape.


Tip: Assign someone to oversee the grant process, whether it’s a grant writer or a team member.


Ready to get started? Make sure all your ducks are in a row, and if you need some extra help with the grant application process, consider partnering with a professional grant writer to ensure your applications are top-notch. Book a free consultation call and let’s talk about how I can support you!

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