Hello everyone,
As someone who has successfully secured several grants for projects, NGOs, and social enterprises, I’ve also had the opportunity to review over 200 applications from nonprofits and individuals across the globe. Unfortunately, many promising applications get rejected due to avoidable mistakes. Based on my experience, here are 16 common pitfalls and how you can avoid them to improve your chances of success:
1. Lack of Online Presence
In today’s digital age, not having a website or active social media presence can be a dealbreaker. Funders want to see that your organization is transparent and active. A simple, professional online presence goes a long way in building credibility.
2. Director’s Online Conduct
As a leader, your personal online behavior reflects directly on your organization. Funders do their homework, so make sure your digital footprint is professional and aligns with the values of your work.
3. Budget Mismatch
One of the biggest red flags in an application is a budget that doesn’t align with the project goals. Ensure that your budget is realistic and fully supports the proposed activities.
4. Unexplained Funding Gaps
If your total project budget is $30,000 but you’re requesting only $1,000 from a funder, you need to explain where the rest of the funds will come from. A lack of clarity here can cause concern about the project’s viability.
5. No Sustainability Plan
Grantmakers want to fund projects that have a life beyond their contribution. Include a clear plan for how your project will continue once the grant funding ends.
6. Inadequate Gender Balance and Inclusivity
Ensure that your project promotes equality and benefits diverse groups. Funders are keen to support initiatives that reflect inclusivity and gender balance.
7. No Child Safeguarding Policies
If your project involves children, you must have clear policies to protect them. Funders will be wary of any initiative lacking these important safeguards.
8. Lack of Research and Data
Support your project with solid research and relevant statistics to demonstrate the need for your intervention. Data strengthens your case and shows that you understand the problem you’re trying to address.
9. Ineffective Monitoring and Evaluation
Your application should include a clear plan for how you will track your project’s progress and measure success. Funders need to know how you’ll assess impact.
10. Project Outcomes Don’t Address the Problem
Ensure your project’s goals directly align with the problem you’re trying to solve. If the outcomes don’t match the challenge, your application will likely be rejected.
11. Using Internal References
While it’s easy to list colleagues or team members as references, funders prefer external references who can provide independent validation of your work and credibility.
12. Lack of Innovation and Creativity
Think outside the box! Funders are often drawn to projects that present creative and innovative solutions to persistent problems. Don’t be afraid to propose bold ideas.
13. Poor Stakeholder Engagement
Involve relevant stakeholders in your project from the start. A project that is designed and implemented without key stakeholder input will lack long-term support and sustainability.
14. Unclear Budgets
A vague or unclear budget raises trust issues. Be detailed and transparent in your financial planning so that funders can see exactly where their money will go.
15. No Eco-Friendly or Tech-Based Solutions
In today’s world, funders are looking for projects that integrate eco-friendly or technology-based approaches. Showing awareness of environmental sustainability and modern tech solutions can give your proposal an edge.
16. Overuse of Technical Language
While you may be an expert in your field, not everyone reviewing your application will be. Avoid overcomplicating your proposal with technical jargon. Stick to clear, simple language to ensure your ideas are easily understood.
