When it comes to grants, many nonprofits secretly wish for a fairy godmother — someone who can wave a wand, whisper a few magic words, and deliver the perfect funding award.
But here’s the truth: being selected for a grant doesn’t require magic — it requires preparation. Funders don’t want spells or fairy dust. They want proof that your organization has the foundation, systems, and strategy to deliver on your promises.
The Myth of Magic
Nonprofits often ask me to help them find grants. Yet too often, the essentials are missing — program information, budgets, or organizational documents. Without these, even the most polished application is like a pumpkin carriage: impressive for a moment, but unlikely to make it to midnight.
And the competition? It’s fierce. Thousands of organizations apply for the same opportunities, and only about 1 in 10 proposals is funded nationally. For every award, nine others disappear like glass slippers at the stroke of twelve.
The Reality of Readiness
Readiness isn’t about waving a wand. It’s about trust and credibility. Funders want to see that your house is in order:
- Governance: Articles, bylaws, board rosters, and registrations current with the IRS and Secretary of State.
- Financials: Budgets, tax filings, and when required, audited statements — not fairy dust.
- Program Infrastructure: A program that’s real, not a wish list. Clear descriptions, SMART outcomes, timelines, signed contracts, and logic models.
- Registrations: SAM.gov with a UEI for federal grants, and State Supplier IDs for state-level funding.
- Outcome Tracking: Systems to measure impact, not just hopes.
- Sustainability: A plan for stability after the grant ends — no magic glass shoes required.
Working Backwards (No Wand Required)
When I prepare an application, I often start at the reporting stage and work backwards. Why? Because everything a funder expects at the end — data, photos, impact stories, media releases, compliance documents — must be in place at the beginning.
I also study each grant’s published guidelines and requirements before drafting, ensuring the proposal doesn’t just sound good but aligns directly with what the funder has asked for.
And here’s a pro tip: most program managers prefer to receive applications at least 30 days before the deadline. Submitting early gives time to refine the ask, adjust budgets, and polish the proposal — turning preparation into confidence.
Why It Matters
Grants are not magic wishes. They’re investments funders make in organizations that demonstrate credibility, accountability, and measurable outcomes. If your infrastructure isn’t solid, no fairy godmother — or grant writer — can save the proposal.
Next Steps: From Fairy Tales to Foundations
If you want to move from grant-curious to grant-confident, here’s where to begin:
- Gather governance and finance documents.
- Strengthen your programs with SMART outcomes and logic models.
- Get compliant with SAM.gov and state supplier systems.
- Build data and reporting systems.
- Submit early — aim for 30 days before the deadline.
- Plan for sustainability beyond the grant.
You don’t need a fairy godmother to secure grants. What you need is a solid foundation, strong systems, and the courage to prepare.
Download the Program Gathering Toolkit (includes the checklist, logic model template, and starter grant calendar) — and start gathering program details funders look for.
Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, or tax advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney, CPA, or tax professional for guidance specific to your organization.
About Angie Thompson
I’m Angie Thompson — a fundraising strategist, brand storyteller, and published writer who helps nonprofits move from grant-curious to grant-confident. With more than two decades in nonprofit development and 40+ years in messaging and storytelling, I guide organizations to build the systems, strategies, and stories that inspire funders to say yes.
You don’t need magic — you need preparation. And I’d love to help you get there. Contact me.