INNOVATIVE GRANT WRITING KIMBERLY O’NEIL, CAUSE STUDIO FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

Overview of Topics and Objectives Innovative Grant Writing Objective(s) How do you find grants to apply for? What goes into a grant? What makes a good grant? Who Should Write Your Grants?

Where to Find Grants Foundation Center Dallas Public Library 6th Floor Grants Section Corporate Websites (Corporate Giving or Corporate Social Responsibility) Grants.gov Internet Searches Nonprofit 990s

What Goes Into a Grant Executive Summary – High Level Overview Program Description Goals and Objectives Organizational History and Achievements Performance Metrics Short and Long Term Impact Description of Problem Funding Request Statement of Need Use Partners/Supporters Funding Post Grant Period MOUs Letters of Support

What Goes Into a Grant Possible Attachments Detailed Program Budget (Expenses) Detailed Organizational Budget (Expenses and Income) Organizational Chart Most Recent 990 Most Recent Audited Financial Statements IRS 501c3 Determination Letter (Updated) List of Board Members with Affiliations Key Staff Resumes and Bios Year to Date Financial Reports

What Makes a Good Grant? Request Aligns with Funder’s Goal(s) Support with Quantifiable Data Compelling and Clear Need Format Well Written Organize Thoughts No Typos Spell Check Limit Industry Jargon

Who Should Write Your Grants? Experienced Grant Writer (High Priority Requests) Internal Staff, Board Member or Consultant Record of Achievement Cradle to Grave Management of Proposal Process Understand Budget Needs Less Experienced Grant Writer (Low and Medium Priority Requests) Volunteer or Entry Level Staff Interest in Learning Grant Writing Process Focus on In-Kind Requests Dedicate Time and Establish Timeline for Proposal Knowledgeable of Organizational Goals and Achievements

Next Steps/Tips for the Future Complete Common Grants Application form Determine grant funding need for current fiscal year Develop a Fund Development plan, which includes a grants submission strategy Create a 2017 Grants Calendar Establish a “high-low” and monthly priority for submission Track grants submitted Ask for feedback on denials Invest in training. Grant writing is a skill. Add opportunities to your calendar and update annually Rinse and Repeat

Q&A

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