Photo description: Learning from Kodiak regional leaders at the Afognak Native Corporation building.

Working with funders can feel overwhelming. Applications and processes differ across funding entities; rules vary, and it can feel like a complex place to navigate. We know that is the case and are always thinking of ways to make things more straightforward. We offer grants of varying sizes to create space for those new to our funding or who need something smaller. Then we have those larger grants that often may need to go to the board for review.

No two requests are exactly alike, especially given our mission, which allows us to fund a broad swath of needs. When we look at a request, each one comes with its own set of challenges and details. There’s no magic word that will instantly ensure an application is approved, but there are steps organizations can take to ensure their funding requests are processed as quickly and smoothly as possible.

  • Complete information.
  • Clear project plan.
  • Financials.

Here are three tips for making a strong grant request:

Submit a complete application. Check all the boxes, fill in all the blanks. Our program officers follow up on missing information when they review applications and Letters of Inquiry, but reaching out to an organization to ask about those blank spaces takes time. Help keep the process running smoothly by ensuring you submit all requested information. If you have questions about the application, you can reach out to a program officer at any point in the process. They can walk you through the application, help you refine your ask, and answer any questions you have.

Have a clear project plan. Know exactly what you’re asking for and why. State your project concisely: What is your plan for engaging partners and involving the community? What is the timeline for the project?  How will you complete your project? Your description should be clear and specific, laying out the “who, what, why, where, how, and when” of your project. No need for complicated or flowery writing; use clear and simple language that conveys what you are going to do.

Be ready to talk financials. Not just the project budget, but your organization’s financials. Your organization may have a large budget or may have experienced a change in finances. These realities won’t necessarily hurt your chances of receiving a grant, but we need to understand the “why” behind things like fluctuations in an organization’s financial situation. Keep in mind, too, that all grants other than Tier 1 also require additional sources of funding, which you will need to provide in your application.

We support organizations with great ideas, projects with long-lasting benefits, and efforts that help Alaskans help others. Whether you’re applying for a $10,000 Tier 1 grant or a $350,000 Legacy grant, a clear, complete, and transparent application will make the process easier for the Foundation and for your organization.

And remember: Our program officers are always here to answer questions about the application process and requirements. We strongly encourage you to book a call with a program officer before you apply, via our bookings feature available on our website.