It is common to feel FUD (Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt) when you first start the grant writing process.
Many organizations don’t know where to start and decide to push their search for funders to the bottom of their to-do list. Some leaders think that there is simply not enough time in their schedule to start looking for grants. Others believe that a tight budget means an investment in a grant writing strategy is out of reach.
Luckily there are many tools available to help you combat the FUD and set your organization up for success! Below is a list to help you get started today:
Join a Proposal Writing Boot Camp - You will network with and learn from other nonprofit professionals who are committed to improving their grant writing skills. You will learn how to write a grant proposal from start to finish and have your peers critique your work in real-time. Learn more on Candid’s website.
Review Resources from Grantmakers in Aging - Take a look at the comprehensive Resource Library from Grantmakers in Aging.
Sign Up for a Newsletter - Many funders publish a newsletter that outlines the work of their current grantees and announces upcoming funding opportunities. Don’t know where to start? Sign up for newsletters by: The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Grantmakers in Aging.
Build a Prospect List - As you start to find potential best-fit funders, start a spreadsheet that tracks their contact information, submission guidelines and funding priorities. Need a list to help you get started? Get in touch with us for help!
Familiarize Yourself with Fundraising Language - If you need a crash course in fundraising terminology, take a look at the Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) website where you can download a comprehensive glossary.
The only mistake you can make is deciding not to start grant writing today!