Landing Your First Nonprofit Grant

Read time: 3-4 Minutes

I still remember my organization’s first grant, years ago.

We got lucky with a $5,000 grant from a family foundation that saw our potential – and our passion. We were able to build on that momentum and grow from there.

You always remember your first. 😁

Grants can be a game-changer for nonprofits, but trying to land your first one? That can feel daunting. If you’ve ever wondered — where do you even start? Or, what are funders really looking for? — You’re not alone.

The good news? With the right strategy and a little prep work, your nonprofit can absolutely increase its chances of securing your first grant.​

In this issue of Changemaker Mondays ☀️ ☕ 🌍, we’re breaking it down into 3 simple steps to help you get started.

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Before jumping into grant writing, there’s something important to know:

The thing is, most funders aren’t just looking for great ideas—they want to see preparation, data, and a solid plan. Successful first-time grant recipients tend to follow a strategy.

Let’s go through that strategy step by step!

1. Get Your Documents & Data Ready

👉 Before you start applying, funders expect you to have certain documents in place. Without these, your application could be delayed—or worse—dismissed. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Proof of nonprofit status – Have your IRS determination letter ready, not just your state incorporation paperwork.
• Your organization & project budgets – Funders want to see how funds will be used.
• List of Board Members – Include names, affiliations, and brief bios.
• Community Need Data – Use statistics, research, and testimonials to show the problem your nonprofit is solving.

💡 New nonprofits: If you don’t have much impact data yet, start collecting testimonials or survey responses now! Even small wins help build credibility. Oh, and also! You might include research and data showing the success of similar programs in other cities – this at least shows proof of concept!

2. Finding Grants that Match Your Mission

Starting with smaller, aligned grants builds your credibility and sets a strong foundation for future funding and greater impact.

⬇️Here’s how to start:

• ​Start with small grants ($500–$5,000)—these grants are more accessible and help build your track record. They really add up!
• Look for funders who already care about your cause. For foundations – Check their websites or past grantees to see if your mission aligns. For corporate grants – Most companies have a “social responsibility” or “community” page on their site that will share info about any funding opportunities they have.
• Prioritize simple applications – If a grant requires hours of work for a small amount, it might not be worth your time.
• Focus on local grants at community foundations, family foundations, and small business or corporate giving programs—they often have less competition. Did you know – some banks, car dealerships, and other local branches sometimes provide small grants to nonprofits their employees recommend? That’s a great starting point!

3. Write a Grant Request That Stands Out ✍️

Be specific and clear about what your nonprofit needs, who you’re helping and why it matters.

Need help framing your story? Here’s my quick guide to telling your nonprofit’s story in just 3 sentences.​

• For your first grant, it might be helpful to focus on a specific funding request – Instead of asking for broad support, request funding for one clear need.
• Connect funding to impact – Don’t just say, “We need $2,000 for a storage fridge.” Instead, explain how funding that need will lead to community outcomes: “With a $2,000 grant, we can buy a storage fridge, enabling us to provide fresh, healthy meals to 500 low-income families in our community.”

💡 Tip: Funders are more likely to say YES when they see a clear outcome tied to their support!

Have you applied for your first grant yet? What’s been your biggest challenge?

Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear from you!

3 more ways I can help you

1. I have lots of free content for you! Check out my library of 250+ educational videos on nonprofits, social entrepreneurship, fundraising, and more on my YouTube channel. If you like what I’m trying to do, help me reach more people like you – who want to make an impact – by subscribing to the channel and sharing it with a changemaker friend! 😁
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2. Need extra support to build or grow a nonprofit or social enterprise? Check out my Changemaker Accelerator membership. Learn more and join.
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3. Need a speaker or training workshop for your social impact event? I’m currently booking 2025 speaking engagements — check out my speaking and workshop opportunities to learn how I can help you make your event inspiring and actionable!