Free Money! - Grant Writing Tips

Do’s and Don’ts of Grant Writing: I just found these great tips on the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation site:

 Don’t:

• Send a generic, "one size fits all" request without reference to the foundation's guidelines or interests;
• Send a list of possible project ideas and invite the foundation to select the one that most interests them;
• Tell the foundation that their funds are required to match a government grant;
• Ask for all of the funds you need from a single source;
• Send too much or too little ie a 20-page proposal with numerous attachments—or a one-page letter with minimal information;
• Use jargon or acronyms that are not spelled out;
• Request a meeting (or feedback on an idea by telephone) in advance of sending anything in writing;
• Approach a family member (if a family foundation) or board members directly to ask for their support;
• Send a request to the wrong name at the right address or the right name at the wrong address.

Do consider the following:

• Find out as much as you can about a foundation before approaching them (research their website, annual reports, etc.);
• Tailor your request to the interests of the particular foundation (we're all different);
• Send your request in the form specified by the foundation. For example, some foundations do not accept applications by email, while others prefer that format;
• Make sure you send your letter of enquiry to the identified contact person. Sending it to someone else could delay the processing of your application.
• Send brief letters of enquiry containing all of the pertinent information;
• When submitting a full proposal, include an executive summary;
• Come to the point. Somewhere near the beginning of your proposal, state in one or two sentences precisely what you want to do, and what part of the project the foundation’s grant would be used for;
• Advise the foundation of other potential or actual funders, any prior evaluations that have been conducted, and how you plan to evaluate the project over the course of the grant;
• Demonstrate that you are submitting the proposal as part of a longer-term strategy and that if the project is not slated to end, steps will be taken to ensure it is sustainable beyond the period of foundation funding;
• Demonstrate community support (volunteer hours, financial contributions, etc.). Indeed it can be effective to have a board member or other active volunteer write the covering letter;
• Whenever possible, show that you will be collaborating with other organizations in implementing your project;
• Continue to approach a foundation from time to time (but not too frequently!) even if you have been declined; foundations evolve and priorities change (be sure to do your homework—have another look at their website, annual reports, etc.).

J.W. McConnell Family Foundation is a private family foundation funding programs, often innovative, to foster a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient society. Their vision is a Canada where all people feel a sense of belonging and contribute as active citizens to improving the well-being of all. (from their Website)