Once you have identified the grant opportunity you are interested in apply for and completed the registration process, it is time to write the grant.
You are now ready to begin the grant writing of the application, but, wait, where do I begin? This is a common reaction when you download the grant application packet and the instruction outline a twenty page narrative to be completed on for your grant request. It is easier to complete the grant writing portions of a grant, if you understand the overall application information. Most granting agencies will specify what information they want you to include in your grant writing under each section. When you are grant writing you must be sure to include ALL requested information. This practice requires comparing the application to the instructions of each narrative section to see how to grant write each area. There are instances that the application will ask for additional information that is not included in the instruction portion of the grant due to each request being different. When grant writing a federal or state grant, you should complete your narrative to reflect more the impact of the project upon the area and people versus the benefit to your organization. Government grant writing can be challenging due to the need to confirm the adherence to federal restrictions. Just remember to grant write in a clear manner to avoid any confusion on the intent of the project.
It can be a discouraging experience the first time you realize there are over 100 pages of instructions and requirements included in a federal or state grant! Remember most of the instruction packet contains standard information that is common to all government grant applications. It is mainly informative and does not necessarily mean that you will need to grant write numerous pages to address the additional information. Just be prepared to adhere to the restrictions and requirements, if the grant application is awarded.
When you are grant writing an application there is required information on all applications regardless of the funding source. Most grant applications are going to require basic information about the company, not-for-profit, or individual applying for the grant. Be prepared in your grant writing process to fill out two-three pages of general information, financial information (plus several attached pages on budgets, IRS documentation, etc.), and legal information. Depending upon what grant application you are applying for, your narrative sections will take the most time for grant writing. It is important to follow these three c’s when completing you grant writing – clear, concise, and creative. Not only do you want to be creative when grant writing your narrative, but make sure you can document all data used in the grant writing of the application. Your grant can be revoked if false information is discovered during the oversight of the project. If you follow the above steps when completing your grant writing and submit all required documentation, you are well on your way to receiving funding for your endeavor. Good luck on your grant writing your application!