Get Ready for Grant Season

In the last few days I have been approached to compile funding applications for several governmental and nonprofit organizations. The wave of funding applications is starting to crest over my desk, and I am starting my writing regime. Here are a couple of helpful tips for those preparing applications.

1. Get organized--pull all your information in one place, one file folder on your desk and one file folder on your computer. Scan any documents needed for electronic submittals.

2. Create a task spreadsheet--assign tasks, names and deadline dates.

3. Develop your outline from the RFP. Make sure you put everything you will be required to submit into the grant application in the outline. I typically work from this outline.

4. Check out submission information. If you need to register with grants.gov in order to submit your application, make sure you do it right away.

5. Inventory printers, copiers and any other equipment you will need to produce the application. I recently completed a grant for a client, sent it to her for review, print out and submission. Her printer churned out a copy with yellow streaks down the page--not very appealing to a funder.

6. Get resolutions, and other signatures as soon as possible. Don't wait till the last minute for signatures.

7. If you need support, technical assistance or help make sure you ask well before the deadline. Grant writing firms are very busy this time of the year, and waiting till the last minute can impact the cost to prepare an application.

Roberts & Associates is here to help you compile your RFP's. Send us an email at carrie@carrierobertsinc.com and we will get right back to you!