Follow the Directions in the Guidelines

I've written and reviewed many applications in my career, and one of the easiest tips I can give you is to read the guidelines. And, even more importantly, answer every topic or question in the guidelines. An easy way to do this is to list all of the topics in an outline form as a first step to writing. Then as you write, answer that topic. Having the topic as a heading in your proposal will help you make sure you answer every topic and make it easier for grant readers to find your answers.

This seems like such a simple strategy but it can make a difference on whether your application is even considered.  Not following the guidelines can put you out of the running before it is read. If the guidelines say 10 pages, write 10 pages not 11! In the past VALF has had to not consider a proposal when an applicant went over our page limit.

VALF President, Sandy Newell

Volunteers for Adult Literacy in Florida (VALF): VALF Grant Due February 25

Volunteers for Adult Literacy in Florida (VALF): VALF Grant Due February 25

You Are Not Alone!

Too often I have gotten excited about a grant idea and have a short turn around time to meet the grant deadline. I have been guilty of writing the grant--alone in my room, and am disappointed when it doesn't get funded.

I have learned why this may not work. Sometimes it is just a bad idea, and you need to talk with others to learn this. Other times, you need to hear from those benefiting from the project, and reflect their suggestions in a proposal. The more specifics you provide the stronger the proposal. Parnters can provide words you can put into the proposal which gives it a better chance to get funded.

As you consider writing a grant, bring together a team to help. Consider asking a tutor and student to advise on your project idea. Talk with partners and others. Let them know your project ideea, and adjust the project based on their advice.

I can hear you saying, "I don't have the time. The grant is due next week!!" The way to get around this, is to go ahead and pull together a team to help you develop a plan for your literacy organization. The plan can provide a template for future proposals and can include a description of the need and likley partners. It should cover several years and be your road map when a grant opportunity presents itself.

             VALF President, Sandy Newell

Why Should A Funder Invest in You & Your Idea

When writing a grant, you have to prove there is a need for your specific idea, and that you are the best literacy group to fill that need.

There are numbers to back up the need for literacy instructions for adults, but what do you do if your town is not be as bad as another applicant. Make the case by narrowing down to a specific target audience.  For example, you could target the parents of children in a low performing school, hospitality workers, the unemployed etc. When you do this, collect stories and research that backs up the need.

The next point to cover is why your solution will work. Do some research that supports  yourstrategy. For example, if the grant funds will set up a student support group, find out what  others have done successfully and use it to backup your rational.

Funders want their dollars to be well spent. Include your successful track record to convince grant readers that you can really do what you say. Include a descriiption of your past experience --especially as related to your grant idea--not just adult literacy in general. Include how you track outcomes.

Also, speak the same language as the funders. Learn their priorities, and speak to them in your grant. For example, library funders want more library customers as well as a more literate community.

Writing Drafts

Any good writer knows that the more you write and rewrite, the better the end product. This is also true with grants. In your first draft, put everything in that you think is needed. Then weed out the extra material that does not make the case. This is even more vital for grants that have a max number of pages. Some funders will read drafts. Take advantage of their offer, and include their suggestions in your next draft. Pass the draft around to your team. The more you do rewrites, the more competitive your application.

One last tip, if you don't apply you will not get the grant!