I can’t imagine writing 1-2 grants for an organization and then going on my merry way. Successful grant strategies take time and relationship building.
This is one reason I only write grants on a monthly retainer.
When a grant is awarded, I want to be responsible for communication with the grant funder. All communication from the time you are awarded a grant until the next application is due can help you build a relationship that can result in recurring funding.
I talk about the importance of recurring funding here.
Grant reporting is a big part of that communication.
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Most grant funders want to know details about the impact their funding had on your organization and the community you serve.
As a new grant writer, I was annoyed by grant reports. However, as I became more experienced, I learned that they are a great way to build relationships and secure additional grant funding. Now, I submit grant reports even when they aren’t required if I want to secure recurring funding.
Here is my general grant reporting strategy for winning recurring funding:
- Two months before the grant report is due, reach out to the funder to touch base. Ask about their grant reporting requirement and the format they prefer.
- If possible, use visuals and infographics in your reporting.
- If possible, use clickable links to videos to support your report.
- Even when I am required to submit your report through an online portal, I also email it directly to my contact and let them know how grateful we were for the funding.
- Before submitting a new application, I schedule a call with my contact for feedback on my report and suggestions for future funding.
- When I apply for future funding, I refer to the impact report and the content within.
- Once I submit the new application, I reach back out to my contact to let them know, and thank them again for the opportunity.
Through phone calls and emails, grant writers can foster ongoing relationships that improve chances for recurring funding.
Grant reports should be an important part of that strategy.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants
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