Please Attach the Attachments

Do you breathe a sigh of relief after you’ve written and reviewed every word of your narrative for a grant proposal? That’s okay but don’t stop working yet. Most funders request attachments and some foundations even review the attachments before reading your proposal. I have known some who refuse to read a proposal if the attachments are incomplete. So, take a break, then sit down and carefully review the Request for Proposal to see what attachments the funder is requesting.

What are the basic attachments most funders request?

1. Your organization’s IRS Determination Letter

2. A list of your board members with affiliations

3. Your board-approved organizational budget for the current year

4. Your most recent financial audit or account review (depending on the amount of money your organization reports annually)

5. A program or project budget if applicable.

Many funders have an additional requirement such as your current balance sheet, an annual report, or your most recent Form 990.Is it ever appropriate to send attachments in addition to the ones requested? Yes, if they are well written and you have a specific reason for including them.

Finally, make sure that you submit clear, clean copies of all your attachments, even if it means taking the time to update that board list or reformat your budgets. Your proposal package may be the only contact the foundation has with your nonprofit; make sure it reflects your organization in the best light possible.

Want to learn more about Grant Writing? Join us at our next non-profit mini-conference.