Some grants look strong on paper. (Especially government grants)
Until you read the requirements IF you are awarded.
- Extensive reporting
- Complex compliance standards
- Detailed documentation
- Ongoing administrative burden
For many organizations, especially smaller ones, it’s becoming a barrier to entry.
And, it should be a barrier for responsible organizations.
In some cases, teams are deciding:
“It’s not worth it.”
And that’s a real strategic decision.
Action steps for grant professionals:
✅ Help our leadership understand and evaluate the true cost of compliance before applying
✅ Factor in staff time, not just funding amount
✅ Be selective about high-burden opportunities
Not every grant is worth pursuing.
Even if the dollar amount is high.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants