Yesterday, I mentioned that I would share more about my “answer bank” and how it saves me time completing grant applications.
A recent grant survey reported that 39% of grant questions are the same. We already know this because we literally see variations of the same question asked over and over on nearly every proposal.
For each of my clients, I keep a working “answer bank.” When I see a recurring question on a grant application, I head over to my answer bank. I copy/paste it into the response and then edit it to fit the specifics of the grant and program.
I store the answers in a few different ways:
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When I started grant writing 20+ years ago, I created a simple Word doc and sorted the answers into loose categories. It worked well when I had one small client, but as I began writing more grants for more clients, it quickly became overwhelming, and I needed a better system.
One of my clients used Fluxx.io, and that platform included an answer bank, but it was clunky and didn’t work well for me. I couldn’t categorize responses well enough to make it simple and efficient.
Recently, I started using Grantable and it has streamlined my processes. While not a traditional answer bank, I upload all my grant proposals, and it will use them to format responses for new grants. Read more about how I use Grantable AI here.
I also use Intrumentl’s Document Library. I create a folder for each client and then create projects within the folder. I have a central area for universal responses like “Organizational History” and “Mission/Vision Statement.” Then, within the projects, I have more nuanced responses. I also store all deliverables in the document library, like W9s, 990s, budgets, etc.
Having this organizational system saves me at least 5 hours each month.
It isn’t important which method works for you- the important thing is that you create an answer bank to become a better, more efficient grant writer.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants