Work
1. Fix the Grantor's Problem. Many grant seekers view grants as charity to fund their charitable services. In that thinking the grantor's work is overlooked. They, too, have a mission to accomplish, but they can do it only through the efforts of local organizations. Grant applications that connect projects with high probability of success in meeting the mission goals of the funding agency are the ones most likely to receive support.
2. Do the Project Cost-Effectively with Qualified Personnel. This is the core substance of the grant request and requires the most planning efforts. It details how the awarded funds will be handled in order to maximize the outreach, output, and outcomes through the project. Budgets, staff, marketing, data collection and reporting systems, and accounting must all be analyzed to take the project to successful conclusion.
3. Tell a Successful Story. If you reach the end of the project and the clients' needs have been met (or exceeded), you have reason to celebrate and shout it loud. This is when you reverse your view and pass the kudos back up the line. The clients have been helped, the agency can be proud of their work, and the funding organization knows they made a right decision. Everyone wins.
