Grant application writing is a process that requires time and skill and unless you are a seasoned grant application writer you may not know where to start. However, there are a few questions that you can ask yourself prior to any grant writing process to ensure that you are able to get to the point and stay focused. Let’s have a look at some of the questions you can map out for a grant application and how this will help you complete the process in record time.
1. Who are you?
Grant writers need to be able to clearly articulate who you are and what your business / company / organisation stands for. So, take some time to ensure you are aware of the vision and goals of the company and how this fits together to support the grant application you are applying for. Find out about the structure of the company, staffing arrangements and read some of the relevant policies and procedures to ensure that, as a grant application writer, you can clearly articulate what your company is all about.
2. What do you want to do with the funding?
Experienced grant application writers always have a plan about what they want to do with the funding and how they will achieve this. Not only this, grant application writers are also able to say why they want to do it and what they want to achieve. So, ask and answer three questions:
a. What is it we want to do?
b. Why do we want to do this?
c. How will we do this?
d. What will we achieve?
Take the answers to these questions and use them to write the grant application. Being clear and concise goes a long way in the grant application writing process and answering these will get you off to a flying start.
3. How much will this cost?
Almost all grant application writing involves a detailed budget that outlines all the costs of the project. This is something that you cannot get way with so make sure you take the time to work out the figures accurately. There is nothing worse than receiving funding only to find out six months later that it has only covered half of the project. You can’t go back for more, so estimate a little more than expected. It is also common for grant application funders to provide part-funding or a contribution towards your project. Be clear on what your company can contribute and what you need from the funding body.
4. How long will the project take?
We are all aware that any project takes time and resources. When preparing your grant writing application be sure to map out a timeline that provides adequate time to complete each task. Allow some breathing space for staff that may resign or have to take time off. Good grant application writers know that ever the most well organised and highly planned project will have hick ups and that extra time should always be factored in.
5. Extra tip: Keep good records
Grant application funders expect a report at the completion of your project or a period of time (e.g. 12 months) so keep meticulous records. This include not only financial records but records on who accessed your project, how long were people engaged in the project and what were the outcomes. A good way to record some of this information is to create a client survey that can provide feedback on the project.
Sometimes the thought of the grant writing application process can be overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Red Tape Busters has been operating for over 15 years and has hand-picked its consultant to ensure that they have all the grant application writing skills mentioned above. Each consultant has worked in the industry for several years and will work with you to produce the best grant application possible.
Visit http://www.redtapebusters.com/ for more information. We are specialists in providing the following services:
· Lobbying;
· Tender Writing;
· Grant Writing;
· Resumes/Job Applications;
· Organisational/Business Development.
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