If you’ve ever stared at a blank grant application, wondering, “What do grant funders even want from us?” — you’re not alone. Grant writing can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling program delivery, staff meetings, and trying to keep your nonprofit running on a shoestring budget. But here’s the good news: once you understand what funders are really looking for, writing a compelling grant proposal gets a lot easier.
Whether you’re a small grassroots organization or an established nonprofit, this guide will walk you through exactly what funders want—and how to give it to them.
Understanding What Grant Funders Seek
Clarity Over Complexity: Tell Them What You Do and Why It Matters. Grant funders don’t want to decode your mission statement. They want a clear, concise explanation of your work, your impact, and why your organization matters.
A Realistic Plan (With the Budget to Match)
Your proposal should show that you’ve got a plan—and that the plan actually makes sense. That includes timelines, outcomes, staffing, and yes, a budget that aligns with the work.
Avoid asking for $50,000 with three bullet points and a dream. Funders want to see that your nonprofit is strategic, organized, and capable of delivering.
Proof of Impact: Show You’re Doing the Work
Data is powerful. So are stories. Funders want both. Show that your program is more than a good idea—it’s actually happening and making a difference. Include:
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Number of people served
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Outcomes or success rates
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Testimonials from participants
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Photos or videos from events
If you’re a newer nonprofit, share pilot results, community feedback, or early wins.
Relationships Matter: Be a Human, Not Just a Proposal
Funders aren’t just checking boxes—they’re building relationships. Introduce yourself before applying, follow up after, and keep them in the loop even if you don’t get the grant. A thank-you email goes a long way, whether or not you’re awarded funding.
Transparency > Perfection
Not every program goes exactly as planned. That’s okay. Grant funders understand that real-life community work is messy. What they don’t like is silence when things go sideways. If you’re honest about setbacks and communicate regularly, you’ll build long-term trust. Funders appreciate openness way more than sugarcoating.
Community-Centered and Relationship-Driven
Today’s funders are increasingly prioritizing approaches that center community voice, lived experience, and shared accountability. Beyond outcomes and budgets, they want to understand how decisions are made and who is at the table. Funders are asking thoughtful questions such as:
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Who is involved in shaping programs and priorities?
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How are community members—especially those most impacted—engaged and heard?
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In what ways is your organization accountable, transparent, and responsive to the people it serves?
Being community-centered does not require perfection. Even small, intentional steps toward inclusion, trust-building, and shared leadership matter—and they are worth naming in your proposals. Funders want to invest in organizations that are grounded in their mission, rooted in relationships, and committed to learning alongside their communities.
At the end of the day, funders and nonprofits are aligned in their goals: meaningful, lasting impact. Donors are more likely to engage with organizations that demonstrate clarity, integrity, and genuine care for the communities they serve. Keep your grant proposals honest, organized, and relationship-driven.
If grant writing feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Whether you need support with writing, editing, or clearly communicating your impact in a way funders understand, GrantSmarts Consulting is here to support your organization every step of the way.
Email Us: info@grantsmarts.com
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Our Address: 7055 Engle Rd. Building 6-601, Middleburg Heights, Ohio 44130
Connect with Samoine Flanagan, Grant Pro | Principal Owner on LinkedIn to start getting your grants funded with less stress.
