Our team here at GrantWriting.net.au specialise in writing grant applications for all industries across Australia and New Zealand. However, for everyone out there looking to have a go on your own, here is a short guide of pointers on how to write a grant application.
Decide what your purpose is as well as the type of grant you wish to apply for.
The purpose of your project or business needs to be clear and you need to have a clear understanding of the industry you operate in, key demographics and the outcomes you wish to achieve. You also need to understand and identify the type of help you are looking for before you write a grant application. Think about if you are looking to secure a government grant, a small business grant or corporate grant.
Start to search for available Grants
At this stage, it is critical that you take a pragmatic and realistic approach to looking for available grants. For example, rural grants are just that – rural. If you are in a regional city, it is unlikely that you will secure such a grant, particularly from a government department. You can search through a grant search hub, or ask one of our consultants for a list of grants which may apply to your business. We complete these all the time.
Comply with the Guidelines
You need to understand your audience, their needs and what they want to achieve with the grant. You then need to tailor your application to their needs in order to write a grant application. It sounds simple, however, it is tempting to deviate and be too self focused. You need to read through the guidelines thoroughly, to ensure you will comply, and allow lead team to arrange tasks such as insurances and certifications that the grant may require and you do not have on file.
Support your submission with facts and figures
It is critical when you write a grant application that it is grounded in fact. Everything can be quantified and an evidence based application is critical to getting your grant over the line. If you are writing for a community project grant, you will need to get qualitative feedback from running surveys and searching supportive Council documentation.
A comprehensive use of secondary sources, such as information available from local council and the ABS, is equally important. Budgeting and business plans are often required and need to:
- Be accurate and realistic
- Include approriate budgeting and rates of pay
- Include all overheads
- Include multiple quotes for any equipment you propose to purchase
Present your submission professionally
When writing you write a grant application you need to adopt modern writing techniques including:
- Use clear concise language
- Write with flair
- Write with clarity in a well structure manner
Finally, if you need a hand, call us on 1300 556 201
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