Top 10 Grant Writing Tips– Even If You Aren’t a Grant Writer
By: Sarah Pita and Mike Esposito, CFRE
Grant writing can feel like a take-home exam, only with money on the line. Maybe you have written hundreds of grants, or maybe you live in secret fear of being ambushed by grant writing one day. Well, we’re here to help, with some tested tips to help you through get through it and see sunlight on the other side:
1. Check Eligibility and Instructions First
Before you do anything else, read the full instructions. Make sure your organization is eligible and confirm the deadline.
2. Request Key Materials Early
Identify what you don’t have- budgets, board lists, 501(c)(3) letters- and request them as soon as possible.
3. Reach Out to the Program Officer
Try to schedule a conversation with the program officer to discuss the opportunity. It can give you an edge and helpful context.
4. Set Up Your Grant Portal Login Now
If the grant is submitted through a portal, set up your login early- don’t wait until the day it’s due.
5. Create a Shared Document for Collaboration
If you're working with a team or consultant, create a shared document (like a Google Doc) to draft, comment, and track edits in one place. This keeps everyone aligned and avoids version confusion.
6. Look for Hidden Application Questions
Once logged in, preview the full application. Some questions only appear after you answer others. You don’t want surprises on deadline day.
7. Let AI Lighten the Load
Use AI to repurpose existing language, check grammar, and trim or expand text to meet character or word counts.
8. Align Your Budget and Narrative
Make sure your numbers and story match. A great narrative can be undermined by a confusing or inconsistent budget.
9. Ask Someone to Review It
A second set of eyes can catch errors or unclear language you missed.
10. Submit It Early (Seriously)
Don’t submit it an hour before the deadline. Aim for at least two hours early—your future self will thank you.
About the Authors:
Sarah Pita is Director of Development at the Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York, where she leverages AI tools daily to maximize impact as a department of one. With over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she brings a comprehensive understanding of organizational needs to her fundraising strategy and communications work across multiple sectors. Her presentations on practical applications of AI consistently receive praise for making complex technology approachable and immediately useful for nonprofit professionals.
Mike is the Founder and Lead Fundraising Strategist of Mike Esposito Fundraising, a New York City-based consultancy dedicated to helping small to midsize nonprofits strengthen donor relationships and achieve long-term fundraising success. A CFRE-certified strategist, mentor, and coach, Mike partners with organizations to develop tailored solutions that align with their mission and goals. His expertise spans fundraising strategy development, major gifts, donor stewardship, campaigns, and board and staff coaching- offering nonprofits the tools and guidance they need to build sustainable, high-impact fundraising programs.