What every new Nonprofit needs to know

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BLOG POST FOR EMPOWERING ED BY SHARON

 

“Grant Writing 101: How to Prepare Your Organization for Funding”

 

If you’re new to grant writing, you’re not alone. Many small nonprofits, ministries, and community-driven organizations feel overwhelmed when it’s time to look for funding. The good news? You don’t have to start with perfection—just preparation.

 

At EmpoweringEd by Sharon, I help organizations move from confusion to clarity. Whether you’re a brand-new nonprofit or a church starting its first outreach program, understanding the basics of grant readiness is the first step toward success.

 

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What Is Grant Writing?

 

Grant writing is the process of requesting funding from foundations, corporations, or government agencies to support a project, program, or mission.

 

But here’s the secret most people overlook:

 

Grants aren’t awarded because of good ideas—they’re awarded to organizations that are READY.

 

Grant readiness is the foundation of your success.

 

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5 Grant Readiness Essentials

 

Before writing a single sentence of a grant, make sure these five pieces are in place.

 

 

1. A Clear Mission + Purpose

 

Funders want to know why you exist and who you serve.

 

Your mission should quickly answer:

 

  • What problem you solve
  • Who benefits
  • Why your work matters

 

If your mission statement is unclear or too broad, refine it.

 

 

2. A Defined Program or Project

 

Grants do not fund general ideas.

They fund specific, structured programs with outcomes.

 

Ask yourself:

  • What exactly do we want to do?
  • Who will participate?
  • What activities will we provide?
  • What difference will this program make?

 

If you can answer those questions, you’re ahead of most beginners.

 

3. A Simple, Realistic Budget

 

Every grant requires a budget.

It doesn’t need to be complicated—but it must be honest and accurate.

 

Your program budget should include:

 

  • Personnel or staffing
  • Supplies/materials
  • Equipment
  • Training
  • Travel
  • Administrative costs

 

A good rule:

 

If it’s not in the budget, you won’t get funding for it.

 

4. Proof of Organizational Structure

 

Funders want to invest in organizations that are stable.

 

This includes:

 

  • 501(c)(3) status (or fiscal sponsor)
  • Board of directors
  • Bylaws
  • Policies & procedures
  • Financial records

 

If you’re missing any of these, EmpoweringEd can help you get organized quickly.

 


5. Community Need + Data


A great grant argument answers:

Why is this work needed?

Use data such as:

  • Local statistics
  • School performance numbers
  • Health data
  • Poverty rates
  • Testimonials
  • Community surveys


This shows funders that your project addresses a real, documented needs

 

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The Biggest Mistake Beginners Make

Writing the grant before preparing the foundation.

Grant writing is 20% writing and 80% planning.

Once the planning is strong, the writing becomes simple, structured, and powerful.

 

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How EmpoweringEd by Sharon Can Help

I specialize in supporting:

  • New nonprofits
  • Small churches and ministries
  • Women-led organizations
  • Rural and small-town programs
  • Community development groups

 

My services include:

  • Grant writing
  • Grant research
  • Program design
  • Nonprofit setup
  • Business plans
  • Leadership and training

Whether you need help writing your first grant or preparing your organization to be grant-ready, I walk with you step-by-step.

 

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Ready for Grants? Start Here.

If you’re serious about funding your vision, begin with these three actions:

  1. Clarify your program
  2. Build your budget
  3. Gather your documentation

If you need support, you’re not alone—EmpoweringEd by Sharon is here to help you build, grow, and secure the resources you need.

 

 

 

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Connect With Me

 

Sharon Reed

📧 r.sharon97@yahoo.com

EmpoweringEd by Sharon – Guiding your vision. Growing your impact.