Few things stall a proposal faster than:
“We don’t track that.”
You need outcome data.
Or demographic breakdowns.
Or baseline numbers.
And they don’t exist.
This is a common struggle for grant writers — especially when stepping into organizations without strong evaluation systems.
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Here’s how to move forward strategically:
1️⃣ Work with What Exists — But Be Transparent
If you have outputs but not long-term outcomes, say so. Then explain how you will strengthen tracking moving forward.
Funders respect honesty more than inflated claims.
2️⃣ Use Proxy Data Carefully
If internal data is limited, incorporate reputable external research to support your approach.
Just don’t present national statistics as your organization’s results.
3️⃣ Build Evaluation Into the Proposal
Frame improved data collection as part of the grant request: “This funding will allow us to formalize our evaluation system…”
4️⃣ Advocate Internally
After the deadline passes, use the experience to push for better tracking systems.
Strong data isn’t optional anymore — it’s competitive leverage.
If you want to win more grants long-term, measurement has to become part of the culture — not an afterthought at submission time.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants