Applying for Grants
Applying for a grant can seem overwhelming at first, but if you break it into steps, the process becomes manageable.
Here’s a clear guide you can follow:
Identify the Right Grant
- Research funders: Look for government or philanthropic grants that align with your project or organisation’s goals.
- Check eligibility: Make sure you meet all the criteria (location, sector, size, type of activity).
- Understand the priorities: Funders want to see their money make an impact—understand their mission and tailor your application.
Prepare Your Organisation
- Have clear goals: Be able to explain your mission, objectives, and target audience.
- Get documents ready: Many applications require incorporation certificates, ABN/ACN, audited accounts, budgets, and policies (e.g. governance).
- Build evidence: Collect data, testimonials, and community needs assessments to support your case.
Plan Your Project
- Define the problem: What issue are you addressing? Why is it important?
- Outline your solution: What activities will you run, and how will they achieve impact?
- Set SMART outcomes: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.
- Budget carefully: Show exactly how you’ll spend the grant funds (staff, materials, overheads).
Write the Application
- Follow guidelines: Answer every question as asked—don’t recycle a generic proposal.
- Use clear, plain language: Avoid jargon and be concise.
- Highlight benefits: Show how your project creates value for the community or the funder’s priorities.
- Provide evidence: Back up your claims with data or case studies.
- Check attachments: Some grants won’t consider your application if required documents are missing.
Review and Submit
- Proofread carefully: Spelling and formatting errors weaken your credibility.
- Peer review: Ask someone outside your organisation to check if it’s clear and compelling.
- Submit early: Don’t wait until the deadline in case of technical issues.
After Submission
- Keep a copy: Save the full application for future use.
- Follow up: Some funders allow progress checks or clarification.
- Be prepared for reporting: If successful, you’ll need to show how funds were spent and outcomes achieved.
- Learn from rejection: If unsuccessful, ask for feedback—it strengthens your next application.