Grant Writing Notes

Map Check: Grant Application Components

  • Overview of the grant application process, focusing on key components.
  • Organizations mentioned: AIDS United, Transgender Leadership Initiative.

Preparing to Apply

  • Reread the application information, often in a "Request for Proposals" or RFP document.
  • Copy the application questions into a Word or Google document for easier drafting.
  • Review all required attachments to ensure they are available and ready for submission.

Typical Parts of a Grant Application

  • Mission Statement: Describes the organization's purpose.
  • Organizational History/Overview: Details the organization's background and structure.
  • Population Served: Identifies the specific group the organization aims to help.
  • Need Statement: Explains the problem the organization is addressing.
  • Project Proposal: Outlines the planned activities to address the identified problem.
  • Objectives/Outcomes: Specifies the measurable goals of the project.
  • Attachments:
    • Budget: Financial plan for the project and organization.
    • 501c3 letter: Proof of non-profit status.
    • Other relevant documents.

Organization Overview: Introducing the Hero and Main Characters

  • Focuses on presenting the organization's identity and background.
    • Mission Statement and Organization Overview
    • Who you are and what you’re about
    • When/how you were founded
    • Accomplishments

Population Served

  • Define your priority populations.
  • Explain why you're prioritizing this population.

Need Statement: There Be Dragons!

  • Focuses on defining the specific problem the grant will address.
    • What’s the problem you’re trying to address?
    • Be specific and use stats or anecdotes where you can!
    • Williams Institute
    • US Trans Survey
    • Research by local and regional organizations, government, etc.
    • Your own on-the-ground experience

Your Proposed Work: Facing the Dragon!

  • Project Proposal

    • Description of your project
    • Project activities
    • Be specific

  • Objectives/Outcomes/Timeline

    • What you hope to accomplish and when
    • Evaluation
    • How will you measure your success?

Attachments: Your Required Traveling Companions

  • Project Budget
  • Organization budget
  • 501c3 letter
  • 990 forms, audits, previous years’ budget-to-actuals (if available)
  • Etc.