Our Foundation Manager at Track15, Ashley, likes to say “grants are not a scratch-off ticket.” She believes that a successful grant program relies on the combination of an organization’s proven outcomes and a true partnership with the grantor. Below, we examine the “Track15 Approach" and other best practices when it comes to writing grants.

Grants are not a scratch-off ticket.

When an organization asks us to help them with grant writing, we usually recommend hitting the pause button.

There are over 1.5 million registered non-profit organizations in the United States, 42,000 in North Texas alone. The odds of winning a grant without any prior relationship with a grant-maker are, as we like to say, about as good as winning the lottery with a scratch-off ticket. Sure, there are rare stories about a successful, "cold" grant submissions, but we find that pairing a good application with an even better relationship is what yields success.

What makes a "good" application?

Foundations are looking for the same thing - confidence in their investment will support a quality team, program, and execution that achieves a significant outcome. This requires trust, and trust takes time to build. From our experience, here are a few points for your organization to consider while embarking on a new relationship with a potential funder:

Financial accountability: Can you report on your program expense ratio; is your 990 current; do you have an independent audit or financial review?
Impact - Is your mission in alignment with their criteria for funding; can you show evidence of program success; is the outcome an effective solution for change?
Culture - Is your organization's internal and external community inclusive and equitable?

How do you get on a grant-maker’s radar?

Once you have checked all the boxes required for the application, next, be ready to boldly share your mission. Funders are looking to build relationships with organizations that stand out as innovative and able to generate excitement for their mission. Don't be shy; look for opportunities to share your mission through:

Collaborative Partnerships - Funders want to support organizations that play well with others and innovatively share services. Collaborative work builds a united voice and will provide more opportunities to draw the attention of grant-makers.
An Elevator Pitch - Equip your staff, board of directors, and volunteers with a 3-5 minute pitch about your organization and empower them to share it with their community. If they feel confident and excited about the work your organization is doing, they will seek opportunities to share.
A Letter of Introduction - Send a Letter of Introduction to the grant-maker and ask for the opportunity to meet to discuss your organization's mission.
Community Events: Look for opportunities to feature your organization and amplify your mission by attending or speaking at a Community event.

Most importantly, don’t give up. While it may take some time to secure a relationship with a grant-maker, applying for grants is one of the most beneficial exercises for your organization. The process sheds light on gaps that may be getting in the way of your organization’s growth. Taking the time to address organizational gaps will make your grant application competitive and your organization better equipped to ask for funding from grant-makers, corporations, and individuals.

Need help with your grant program or applying for grants? Email hannah@track15.com for more information on how we can help your organization.