Applications for Grants

Grant applications is the process for winning a government grant. Applications for grants contain everything a funder needs to evaluate your merit for a grant. Typical grant applications contain a proposal narrative, budget, attachments, and a signature from the top officer.

The majority of government grant applications are submitted online via Grants.gov.You do not need to be registered with Grants.gov to search for funding opportunities. However, registration is required to apply. Grants.gov provides detailed guidance on registering to complete an application for grants.

Elements of a Government Grant Application

Application for Federal Assistance SF424: This the main application template to fill out organizational information and upload attachments such as the narrative and budgets. The form has some information already filled in (pre-populated) and the applicant enters the rest of the data. The only technology needed is a reliable internet connection and the ability to create PDF documents.

Narrative. Most government grant applications require a written description of the proposed project. Lengths of narratives vary, but most agencies have strict page limits. The narrative must be closely aligned with the requirements of the Request for Proposals (RFP) to maximize points. Usually narratives and grant applications are reviewed on a point scale.

Budget. Most grant applications require the submission of an operating (total agency) and program budget. Sometimes matching funds are required, but not always. The budgets should match the narrative and be consistent and correct. Budgets should clearly show how the money will be used. Money secured through a government, foundation, and corporate grant application should be used for services and not overhead. Indirect costs or overhead is costs associated with running the organization. These costs can be written into a budget, but federal grants usually have a cap of 9-10% overhead.

Attachments. Every government grant application asks for at least one attachment. Missing attachments could disqualify your proposal from consideration. An attention to detail is important in the proper assembly of attachments.

Signature. Every grant application has a signature from a top officer of the organization. The signer takes responsibility for the award if it is granted. Online applications often do not require a signature, but ask for contact information of an executive level person.

The Review Process

Most government grant applications are reviewed by a neutral peers or technical experts. A panel of about 3 reviewers read and score the grant application. The applications with the highest scores usually win funding. Usually, government agencies publish online press releases with all the winners of the awards. Those who are rejected usually are sent a letter.

If rejected, applicants are allowed to ask the funder for feedback. The Federal government is required to give feedback on all applications, on request. The procedures for “debriefing” are written into the RFP.