4 Ways Funders Can Streamline the Grant Application Process for Grassroots Nonprofits

Securing grants is vital to the success of every nonprofit. However, for grassroots nonprofits, which face many unique challenges, securing grants can make or break organizations that offer critical support to marginalized communities. 

Historically, nonprofits have been burdened by cumbersome grant applications, which detract them from the core of their mission-driven work. Funders can ease this burden by simplifying and streamlining the grant application process, saving time, resources, and complicated, laborious processes. 

This blog post will outline steps funders can take to assist grassroots nonprofit leaders in becoming more competitive candidates for securing grants. 

Ensure that the grant application process is transparent and straightforward. 

Funders can alleviate unnecessary stress on overwhelmed nonprofit teams by ensuring that the grant application process is straightforward and clear. They can do this by clearly communicating eligibility criteria, deadlines, and selection processes. 

Creating an open and transparent line of communication between funders and applicants can improve the experience for nonprofits and increase their chances of securing grants.  

Making program staff available to answer questions during the application phase can help streamline the overall grant awarding process for both funders and nonprofits. 

Funders should strive to provide enough resources, including additional funds for staffing, to support their partner organizations. This includes ensuring staff members can provide guidance during all hours of operation, both online and over the phone. Funders can use automated response systems such as chatbots to help nonprofits respond quickly to application questions and challenges. 

Provide multiple ways for nonprofits to apply for grants. 

Many smaller grassroots nonprofits may need more resources or capacity to complete a lengthy application or write an in-depth proposal. Funders can level the playing field by accepting applications through video, webinars, or even through social media.

One example is to allow organizations to submit their materials through a web-based platform or provide samples or templates illustrating successful proposals to help guide submissions. Consider all available options that can offer nonprofits the best chance at securing the grant funding they need while allowing them to focus on their mission and core purpose.

Funders can help nonprofit organizations access resources and apply for their grant confidently by striving to make the grant process as seamless and straightforward as possible. 

Create an environment that fosters open dialogue. 

Funders are encouraged to create an environment that fosters open dialogue. One way to begin this process is by asking if the communication style fosters a welcoming environment. If potential applicants feel intimidated by the funder's tone or organizational structure, it can hinder their ability and willingness to reach out for help when needed. By making sure that there is an equitable experience for all applicants and that prospective grantees aren't discouraged from reaching out for assistance, funders can help ensure an accessible approach to their grant process.

Another way to achieve this is by organizing grantor/grantee forums or feedback sessions, which can help build mutual understanding between both groups and provide information that can improve the grant application process in the future. This could include providing contact information with clear directions on how and when to reach out, offering office hours or designated times for questions, or even having step-by-step video tutorials that walk through the application process. 

These methods can provide timely support and boost confidence during the often daunting task of applying for grants. Funders who can provide quick, reliable answers are more likely to help nonprofits secure the resources they need in a timely manner.

Provide valuable guidance materials and online tutorials. 

By offering comprehensive guidance, nonprofit leaders can learn best practices to improve their chances of successfully securing funding. For example, having easy-to-understand video tutorials or webinars on different topics related to the funding process can help provide applicants with the necessary information to make their applications stand out.

• Online tutorials. Funders have an invaluable opportunity to provide nonprofits with effective guidance materials and online tutorials that can make the grant application process smoother. These could include helpful grant-writing tips and up-to-date information on grant requirements and expectations. Any instructions provided should be clear and concise, with relevant links to other resources related to filling out the application correctly. 

  Funders can also offer templates that provide suggestions on the type of information and evidence required to "fill in the blanks" quickly and accurately – saving nonprofits time and frustration. This thoughtful, detailed guidance material is invaluable for nonprofits unfamiliar with grant writing processes as it provides concise direction on structuring proposals correctly.

• Webinars. Offering live or recorded webinars for nonprofit organizations that thoroughly explain what is required during the application process can be hugely beneficial. These webinars should provide advice from staff members who are most familiar with the funder's organization and understand how its grant application process works. 

• Virtual Q&A sessions. Q & A sessions, either synchronous or asynchronous, can clarify any remaining issues nonprofits may experience while completing their applications. Address the most common questions asked by applicants, along with some time in the end to answer any additional questions they may have.

By giving nonprofits access to comprehensive guidance materials, webinars, and Q&A sessions, funders can empower them to submit accurate and compelling applications quickly and efficiently. By following these steps, funders can empower grassroots nonprofits, lead them towards a successful path in securing grants, and ultimately help create a more equitable nonprofit sector. 

Visit the Resilia website to learn more about how funders can support grassroots nonprofit grantees through the Resilia Funder Program.