A grant is a gift for a particular purpose, usually given by a government agency or private association or society. A grant is typically a sum of money. The purpose of grants is to help the recipient achieve a certain goal or purpose, such as write a book, carry out medical or scientific research, school projects, funding for non-profit organizations, etc. In order to be given this gift, the applicant must be eligible for it, then must apply for it. Filling out this grant, or writing the grant proposal, is a critical step. The applicant must fully understand effective grant writing in order to increase the chances of receiving the grant.
Writing grants can be a very complex process; it is well worth your time to research and study to learn how to write grants. The grant application process differs according to the grant you are seeking and the organization offering the grant. Before you write your grant proposal, investigate and understand what the grantmaker really wants, so you can meet their requirements and write the most effective grant.
I highly recommend spending the time to read the following books about writing a grant:
Grant Writing for Dummies. A book teaching how to get funding from governments, corporations, and foundations. Whether you're a first-time grant writer or a veteran fundraiser, putting together a grant proposal can be a daunting task. This friendly insider's guide shows you step-by-step how to research your options, deal with application forms, give prospective funders the specifics they're looking for, and get the money you need.
The Only Grant-Writing Book You'll Ever Need. An insider's guide, written by two authors who have won millions of dollars in grants, provides a comprehensive step-by-step guide for grant writers, de-mystifying the process while offering indispensable advice from funders. This book will show you how to figure out what a grantmaker really wants, and how to make the most effective pitch.
Also, these great websites will teach you how to write better grants:
- www.nmfs.noaa.gov/trade/howtodogrants.htm
- http://research.microsoft.com/Users/simonpj/papers/Proposal.html
- www.bioscience.org/current/grant.htm