Activists! I want to brush up on my grant writing skills...

[LaydeeBug]

are there any online resources *that you recommend*?

It might be time to be the change we wish to see in the world...or at least see about it.

[ellie]

1. Me too!

I am interested in this topic as well.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

2. I've written a bunch of them, but just for a small arts organization.

They are a huge PITA to put together. Usually the organization that is offering the funds will have specific information about what they want to see in the application so you should probably start there.

[JonathanRackham]

3. A starter

http://m.dummies.com/how-to/content/grant-writing-for-dummies-cheat-sheet.html

I worked with several local artist to secure grant funding for studio lighting energy upgrades. We learned on the fly with the above starter book. The first one felt like a thesis but got easier. If your heart and soul go into it things work. An uphill learning process with rejection. But you learn and keep trying. Don't be afraid to revise and resubmit rejected grant applications. I feel like a professional pan handler.

[LaydeeBug]

4. wow, thanks for all of that. I am going to check it out

Thanks again.

[whistler162]

5. Just remember to start with Dear Hugh....

[aikoaiko]

6. Every time your grant is rejected ask to meet with the program dir. to discuss strengths/weaknesses

You'll learn more about what you did well and not so well and you'll be working the secondary relationship strategy.

[JonathanRackham]

7. Bingo.

[Poiuyt]

8. FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES!

That's the most important consideration. Most grants will have you follow specific questions to which the want answers. Answer these as strictly as you can and follow their rules to the letter (if they say 200 words in a section, they do not mean 201).

If they don't have specific guidelines, be sure to include:

1) Who you are and why they can trust you to do what you say you're going to do.
2) What is the problem you want to address.
3) State your objectives in terms that are measurable, specific, obtainable, and time limited.
4) What methods you will use to achieve your objectives.
5) How you will measure the results.
6) Have an accurate budget. Where are their funds going?

Write with the funder's goals in mind. Look at it from their point of view. Imagine you're reading your proposal—how will the funder perceive your request?

Here's a good site with more detailed information:
http://foundationcenter.org/

Good luck!