3 Steps from Idea to Grant Application

We are passing through difficult times for charities and nonprofits. The old school fundraising activities and donations are not available anymore. The only two alternatives look like social media and grants. Unfortunately, both of them have challenges. In this article, I want to talk about grant applications and three simple steps.

Idea

The first step is the idea. We need to have an innovative approach to respond to the new needs of our communities. Innovative thinking and idea generation may be the most challenging parts, but if you listen to your stakeholders and staff members, you can figure out many original ideas.
During challenging periods and in complex environments, one of the best strategies is to empower your staff and volunteers and nurture an innovative atmosphere. The ideas will grow naturally.

Project

The second step is to convert your idea into a project which has five project management components.
a. Budget plan
b. Time plan
c. Scope
d. Partners
e. Human resources (including staff and volunteers)

Project management is relatively new in the nonprofit sector and quite different than routine operations and daily activities. The PMI (Project Management Institute) defines a project as “a temporary endeavour undertaken to create a unique project service or result.” Since they are temporary, they need to have a specific timeline, budget and scope.
It is not difficult. It is just slightly different than the continuous operations.

Grant application

The grant application is maybe the most straightforward step if you have correctly finished the first two. Before you apply for a grant, check your eligibility and make sure you have the necessary capacity to implement your project.

The following step is to understand the objectives of the grants. Keep in mind that it won’t matter how good your project is if it is not aligned with the grant opportunity. Don’t fight with the waves. Don’t try to change the grant requirements. Change your project to match the formal needs of the application.

During the crisis, not only governments but all funding organizations, including simplified their grant application processes for faster access necessary community services.

As the Vectors Group team, we assist charities and nonprofits in all steps of this process. Please do not hesitate to contact us to learn more about our services.

One last suggestion. Be quick, be smart and be safe.

Omer Livvarcin is the co-authors of the book “Risk Management for Non-Profits,” published by Business Experts Press. Omer is also the founder of Charify.ca and Vectors Group.