Spring grant cycles are just around the corner, and if you’re a nonprofit leader, you know that competition for funding is fierce.
A rushed or incomplete application can cost you funding, while a well-prepared, data-backed proposal increases your chances of securing the resources you need.
In this month’s Ask Nicole, we’ll go over a simple but effective grant readiness checklist so you can confidently apply for spring funding.
Before you hit ‘submit’, make sure your organization is fully prepared.
Identify gaps in your program’s data
A strong grant application requires solid evidence of your program’s impact. Before applying, make sure you:
Conduct a quick data audit
Take stock of the program data you’re currently tracking. Are there key performance indicators (KPIs) that would strengthen your case but aren’t being measured? Consider how these gaps might affect your ability to demonstrate impact. If you’re missing this data, use this as an opportunity to position your application strategically. Highlight how additional funding could be used to build your data collection capacity, improve evaluation methods, or invest in better tracking tools. Funders appreciate transparency and a proactive approach to strengthening impact measurement.
Gather stories & testimonials
Numbers are great, but funders also love hearing the human side of impact. Reach out to program participants, volunteers, or community members for short testimonials that showcase the difference your work is making. These can serve as powerful supporting evidence in your application.
Align metrics with funder priorities
Ideally, you’re seeking funding from funders whose priorities align with your organization’s. With that in mind, grant funders have specific goals—they want to invest in organizations that align with their mission. Your job is to show them that your impact directly connects to what they care about.
Review the funder’s guidelines carefully
How much do you know about this funder? Before starting the application, analyze the funder’s priorities and previous grant recipients. Do they emphasize community health? Education? Racial equity? Make sure the data and stories you highlight align with their focus areas.
Use clear, fundable language
Avoid vague stuff like “We help underserved communities.” Instead, get specific: “Last year, our literacy program increased reading proficiency by 30% among 200 middle school students.” Funders want measurable outcomes, so be clear and precise.
Storytelling with data
Numbers alone won’t win you the grant—funders need to see the real-world impact behind the stats.
Follow the “Problem-Solution-Impact” Formula
Frame your grant narrative using a simple but effective structure:
- Problem: Describe the issue your program addresses (backed by data)
- Solution: Explain your organization’s approach to tackling this problem.
- Impact: Share specific, measurable results that prove your approach works.
Make it visually appealing
If the application allows, use visuals like charts, infographics, or simple graphs to illustrate key points. A well-placed graph can quickly communicate impact in a way that long paragraphs of text simply can’t.
Key takeaway
Applying for funding doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you take the time to prepare. By ensuring your program data is solid, aligning your impact with funder priorities, and telling a compelling story with data, you’ll significantly improve your chances of securing funding.
Grant season is a great opportunity—so let’s make sure you’re ready to make the most of it. Good luck!
Raise Your Voice: In the comments section below, share one thing your organization can do before applying for funding.
Was this useful? Subscribe to the Raise Your Voice newsletter, and explore my consulting services.
