Grant Writing 101: Simple Tips for Stronger Applications
Grants help small businesses, nonprofits, and community groups grow. They provide funding to launch programs, expand services, or invest in operations. Writing a strong application increases your chances of success.
1. Get grant ready
Funders want to know you can handle their money. Have these documents ready before you apply:
Mission statement
Recent financials or tax filings
Leadership or board list
Clear project budget
2. Match your work to the funder’s goals
Funders invest in specific areas. Some focus on small business growth. Others focus on education, workforce, or community projects. Show how your work fits their mission. Example: If a grant supports job training, highlight how your program creates jobs or builds skills.
3. Tell your story with data
Stories connect. Data convinces. Use both. Share the impact you’ve made in your community. Then back it with numbers. Example: Instead of saying “we helped families,” write “we provided housing support for 120 families in 2024.”
4. Write clearly
Reviewers read many applications. Keep your writing simple. Avoid jargon. Use short sentences. Break up long sections with bullet points. Clear writing helps reviewers understand your work quickly.
5. Build a realistic budget
Your budget shows if you can manage funding. Make it clear and accurate. Show how each dollar will be used. Example: Instead of writing “program costs,” write “$2,000 for training materials, $3,000 for staff time.” Include matching funds or volunteer hours if you have them.
6. Proof before you submit
Mistakes lower your chances. Review your application. Check attachments. Ask someone else to read it. A second set of eyes can catch errors you missed.
Why this matters
Strong applications get funded. Weak ones do not. Preparing your documents, aligning with funders, telling a data-backed story, and writing clearly puts you ahead.
For more tools and training, visit Grant Ready Kentucky. It is a statewide program that helps organizations like yours prepare for funding.
Stanley-Casey House exists to support local builders, founders, and community leaders. Grants can help you move your idea forward. With the right approach, your next application could open the door to real growth.
