How can we make applying for a grant easier?
By Allie Watson
February 21, 2017
This is a question we have worked on in recent years and we have done our best to come up with the answer: access to support and online applications.
Writing a grant can seem like a daunting process. I recently met with four individuals from a local organization who were extremely intimidated by the grant writing process. They were told by another funder to apply for a grant which is always a good sign that the funder is interested in your project! These individuals didn’t know where to begin, what to ask or how to handle it. I realized during that meeting they may not be alone.
One key point to keep in mind is that we’re all just people. You can contact a funder and ask questions. Listen to what they’re saying about your project or idea and take their advice. One of the greatest benefits of connecting with a community investment officer at a foundation is that person has contact with board and committee members who are making decisions about your grant application.
You’ll want to start writing – figure out what you’re trying to accomplish and how much it’s going to cost then write it down. It’s always great to see a rough draft and follow along your process to determine goals and outcomes for your grant application. A community investment officer is happy to help you craft the best application possible.
In 2016 the Richland County Foundation moved all of our grant applications online. This means you can start an application, click ‘save’ and come back to it three hours or three weeks later. You can create an idea, ask the community investment officer to review a rough draft and then finish up before the deadline. You can work on this at work, at home or on your phone; whatever is most convenient for you.
Community investment officers are happy to meet with you, help you through a process and determine the best application for your program. You can schedule a meeting by calling 419-525-3020.
