Confirm fit before writing
Read the funder’s objective, eligible applicants, geography, activities, costs, project dates and exclusions. A grant can be real and still be wrong for your organisation or project. Record the official deadline and time zone, required registrations and whether a concept note precedes the full proposal.
If questions are permitted, ask only after checking the published guidance and frequently asked questions. Keep written clarification with your application records.
Define the problem and the change
Describe the problem using reliable evidence and the experience of the people affected. Explain the specific change the project can reasonably make, who will benefit and why your approach fits the context. Avoid claiming that a short project will solve a broad problem permanently.
Turn activities into a logical plan: inputs enable activities, activities produce outputs, and outputs contribute to outcomes. Define how progress will be measured without collecting more personal data than necessary.
Build a transparent budget and delivery plan
Cost every activity using the funder’s eligible categories. Explain assumptions and make the narrative, timeline and budget agree. Include permissions, procurement, safeguarding, staffing and reporting work where they genuinely apply.
Identify material risks and practical mitigations. A credible proposal acknowledges dependencies instead of presenting certainty where none exists. Describe the relevant experience of the team with verifiable examples.
Follow the submission rules exactly
Use the required template, respect word and file limits, and provide every requested attachment. Check authorisations and partner commitments before submission. Save the final version and confirmation, then prepare to answer due-diligence questions without changing the project’s facts.
Practical checklist
Applicant, activities, costs and dates are eligible.
The problem and proposed outcome are supported by evidence.
Activities, timeline, measures and budget agree.
Risks and safeguarding responsibilities are addressed.
Every required form, approval and attachment is complete.
Further guidance
These independent, official resources provide additional context. Always use the current rules published by the organisation responsible for an opportunity.
US Grants.gov: Grant lifecycle
European Commission: Funding and tenders