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How To Apply For Government Grants

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Government Grant Applications Require Smart Preparation

If you're looking to apply for a government grant, just know that it's similar applying for a grant from a private foundation. However, there are subtle differences between the two sources that anyone seeking a government grant needs to keep in mind. Here are four smart moves you can make that should help you increase the odds of getting your grant approved.

Government grant money waiting to be claimed 

Smart Move #1: Do Your Research

Every government grant requires a good reason for it to be approved. While this is true of just about any project proposal, keep in mind that the government is the one footing your bill for this grant. To that end, when doing your research for your proposal, make sure that a majority of the sources you look into are government sponsored. Furthermore, when actually forming the proposal, make sure that the main thrust of your presents the potential benefit to the government and it's constituents.

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2011 Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance and Federal Grants: Government Assistance for People and Small Business: Grants, Loans, Aid, Applications, New Programs, FOIA Records, Foundations (CD-ROM)

2011 Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance and Federal Grants: Government Assistance for People and Small Business: Grants, Loans, Aid, Applications, New Programs, FOIA Records, Foundations (CD-ROM)

by: U.S. Government

Newly revised and expanded for 2011 with updated material not found in earlier editions - including complete coverage of the stimulus package (ARRA) - our unique electronic book on two CD-ROMs has an amazing collection of the finest federal documents and resources on government grants, loans, and assistance programs for individuals, non-profit groups, businesses, students - everyone!

Smart Move #2: Attend Sponsored Workshops

Federal-sponsored workshops are provided on a regular basis for citizens seeking a grant. Make sure to attend these workshops, as even having your name on the attendance record can count in your favor when submitting your application.

Listen closely at these seminars, because they will be geared towards teaching the attendees the specific criteria required to make an application successful.

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Winning Grants: Step by Step, 2nd Edition

Winning Grants: Step by Step, 2nd Edition

by: Mim Carlson, The Alliance for Nonprofit Management

Amazon Price: $11.99 (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

Reviewer's Statement: "In addition to an excellent introduction which gives an overview of the proposal writing process, the book includes a special resource section on how to research funders, how to write a letter of intent, and how to evaluate a proposal through the funder's eyes."
--Northwest Nonprofit Resources

Smart Move #3: Connect With The Right People

Take the time to get in touch with the local government representative who will ultimately be responsible for the approval or disapproval of your grant. While you can't expect to get a commitment from that person to approve your proposal (he or she really CAN'T give one beforehand anyway), you CAN and should seek advice on what steps you can take to increase your chances. This input is extremely invaluable, and at the same time you may pique the interest of the said person by this display of initiative. However, be careful to refrain from becoming too pushy.

Smart Move #4: Make A Great Presentation!

When it's time to submit your application, make sure that it is BOTH factual and attractive. Don't try to focus on one and neglect the other. Many an application has failed due to this oversight. Facts given without proper presentation of it's merits come across as flat and unappealing, whereas a light show without any real substance behind is is quickly taken apart and rejected. Keep a balance between presentation and facts, and you'll do fine.

More Help On How To Apply for Grants... Successfully

Getting Funded: The Complete Guide to Writing Grant Proposals

Getting Funded: The Complete Guide to Writing Grant Proposals

by: Mary S. Hall, Susan Howlett

Amazon Price: $86.41 (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

Compete Successfully for Shrinking Funding Dollars. In the existing climate of increased competition for reduced funding dollars, writing a winning grant proposal is essential. Get the answers to your most troublesome questions.

Do you like these grant application tips?

  • KristinaParker Feb 3, 2009 @ 10:42 pm | delete
    Thankyou that was really helpful.
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