How Entrepreneurs Can Prepare for Grant Writing Success (Yourself and Your Business)
- Risss - Peace & Grind
- May 9
- 3 min read
How Entrepreneurs Can Prepare for Grant Writing Success
Grant writing for entrepreneurs/organizations sounds scarier than it is I promise you. The key to snagging these grants is simple- properly preparing yourself and your business. So today, let’s talk about how to get yourself grant-ready and write an application that stands out from the crowd, and at the end, I will give you a couple of grants currently available. Because free money is out there you’ve got to be prepared and strategic to claim it!
1. Get Your Business Grant-Ready
Before you even start filling out applications, make sure your business house is in order. Here’s what you need:
Solid Documentation: Most grants will ask for your business license, tax returns, financial statements, and sometimes a certificate of good standing. Keep these documents organized and updated so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
Clear Business Plan: Grant reviewers want to see you have a vision and a plan. Your business plan should outline what you do, who you serve, your revenue model, and your growth goals. If you need help writing your business plan check out our Plan My Small Business Workbook.
Check Eligibility-Every Time: Don’t waste time applying for grants you don’t qualify for. Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each opportunity and focus on the ones where you’re a strong fit.
2. Create a Standout Grant Application
Now, let’s talk about writing an application that gets noticed:
Tell Your Story: Don’t just list facts-share your business journey. Why did you start? What impact are you making? Why does your business matter? Grant reviewers want to connect with your “why” as much as your “what”. And please, please, pleaseeee do not just use Chat Gpt to write a robotic response. This may honestly be the hardest part of the grant process and for business owners in general. Sharing your vision without ramblings or not giving enough details.
Be Specific and Strategic: Explain exactly how you’ll use the funds. Instead of saying “I’ll use the money for marketing,” say “I’ll invest $5,000 in a targeted digital ad campaign to reach 10,000 new customers in Q3”. Show them you have a plan and know how to execute it.
Back-Up Your Claims: Use real numbers, customer testimonials, and market research to prove your potential. The more evidence you provide, the more credible your application will be.
Follow Directions to the Letter: Every grant has its own rules counts, formats, and attachments. Missing a requirement can get you disqualified, so double-check everything before you hit submit.
Edit and Review: Take time to revise your application for clarity and impact. If possible, have someone else read it for feedback before you submit it.
3. Pro Tips for Grant Success
Start Early: Grant applications take time. Give yourself at least a few weeks to gather documents, write, and review.
Network and Ask for Help: Connect with local Small Business Development Centers, attend grant workshops, or reach out to your network for tips and referrals. Sometimes, just knowing the right person can open doors!
Stay Organized: Keep a calendar of deadlines and a folder with all your application materials. Save copies of everything you submit-you might need them again.
Don’t Get Discouraged: You might not win the first (or fifth) grant you apply for. Keep refining your approach and applying. Persistence pays off.
Current Grants Available
Amazon $15-25K: Amazon Business customer with under $1 million in annual revenue. Deadline: May 23
Galaxy x Skip $5K Grant: Supports entrepreneurs, especially minority- and women-owned businesses. Deadline: May 22, 2025.
Awesome Foundation Grants: Monthly $1,000 grants awarded on a rolling basis for creative projects and small businesses.
The Freed Fellowship Grant: $500 monthly microgrants plus expert business feedback and a chance at a $2,500 year-end grant.
Honeycomb x Sengo Spark Grant: $3,000 grant for Sengo subscribers and $1,000 grants for all applicants. Deadline: July 8, 2025.
Final Word
Grants are a powerful way to fund your business dreams without debt. Preparation is everything get your documents in order, tell your story with heart and strategy, and go after those opportunities with confidence. Need help? Go to my booking site and let's work!
Keep grinding, keep growing.
Ready to apply for your next grant? Hit reply or DM me for support, tips, or a second set of eyes on your application!
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