Tuesday, June 14, 2016

6 Secrets To Successful Grant Writing

By Pamela Roberts


A successful grant proposal must capture the imagination of sponsors or the vetting team. It is always a very competitive process that can only be won by outstanding papers. It calls for attention to certain grant writing guidelines that will make your application memorable. While there are general rules, other specific ones will make your application outstanding and thus qualify for funding.

Story tellers have captivated humanity for centuries. This trick also applies when you are writing your proposal. The idea is to create a scene that describes your situation best. Stories have the potential of making listeners or readers emotional to the point of crying. It is this appeal to emotions that will push them to make a positive decision on funding. Your story should be relevant, logical and short. It is not meant for entertainment or cosmetic purposes. It must push your case.

The inclusion of a case study leaves a reader with clear understanding of the situation your organization is dealing with. The case should be for a real issue your organization or group is dealing with. For confidentiality purposes, the names of characters should be changed. It is such cases that highlight the need or urgency for funding.

The words you use and your ability to express your needs will plead your case. Language is the medium you will use to communicate to potential sponsors. As such, find the appropriate words to make the case sensible. Language communicates meaning. Use the recognized format to avoid skipping sections or leaving out crucial details. A sample will make drafting easier. There are drafting tools online to help you master the structure and wording.

Funding organizations are swayed by expert opinion. This opinion is an indication that your organization understands the situation on the ground and is informed by relevant intelligence. Quote an authority in the field to provide justification for your work. The words used should indicate awareness of the field you are operating. They show your expertise and technical ability to execute the project.

Check from monitoring and evaluation reports to identify what the donors say about previous projects. This helps you avoid mistakes that have resulted in funding decline for other applicants. This is an opportunity to read into the mind of the donor and know exactly what is required. By the time your proposal lands on their desk, it shall contain all the elements that entice them to release funds.

The competitive nature of grants requires the best proposal. In case you doubt your ability to produce the best application, there are professional writers who will come to your aid. Look for an experienced drafter who knows what the sponsors want. You will provide details on the specific aspects that affect this application. This increases the competitiveness of your application and the chances of getting funding.

A compelling proposal is written in hard hitting and short sentences. Complex and winding sentences confuse readers. The details given should be very specific. Provide fresh facts to support your arguments. Include all relevant details without being too wordy while still making it precise without leaving our crucial details.




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