Writing Strong Grant Applications: Tips and tricks
Grant writing can be challenging, as every grant program has unique requirements. A strong application should
be clear, persuasive, and tailored to convince
the funding body that your project is the best fit for their program - think of it as a sales pitch!
To support you, Scouts Victoria has compiled some top tips and tricks for crafting convincing grant applications.
Tip 1: Read the program guidelines
Tip 1: Read the program guidelines
Program guidelines are more than just terms and
conditions - they provide everything you need to
understand the grant program.
As Scouts, we follow the Plan > Do > Review
approach, and reading the guidelines is an essential
part of your planning. Without proper preparation,
writing a strong application becomes much harder.
Read the guidelines thoroughly, along with any
other available information.
Tip 2: Plan and brainstorm
Prepare yourself for the application process by
reviewing the questions and required evidence
in advance.
Reflect on your Group, your project, and its role
within the broader community. Consider the
‘story’ you want to convey in your application, and
brainstorm discussion points for each question.
You want your answers to be clear, concise, and
free from repetition. Planning your responses from
the outset will help you achieve this. If you have
multiple points for a single question, lead with
your strongest argument or idea.
Tip 3: Understand the funding body
In grant writing, understanding the funding body
is crucial. They determine which projects receive
funding, so your application must align with
their goals.
Research the funding body to learn about their
organisation. Are they part of federal, state, or
local government, or are they a not-for-profit or
business? Consider the reputation they aim to
build in your community and review their mission statements or values for guidance.
Clearly demonstrate how your project supports
their mission.
If the grant has been offered in previous years,
check for a list of past recipients. Consider the
types of organisations and projects funded to gain
insight into what the funding body values.
Tip 4: Align your project to the program objectives and priorities
To receive funding, your project must align with
the program’s objectives and ideally its priorities.
These are outlined in the program guidelines or on
the funding body’s website, often in the ‘about the
program’ section.
Your project doesn’t need to meet every criterion
but must satisfy the minimum requirements. The
better it aligns with the objectives and priorities,
the stronger your application.
Demonstrate how your project benefits the
community and achieves the program’s goals.
Tip 5: Actively address the assessment criteria
Funding bodies review many applications, so
yours must stand out. Write clearly, concisely,
and effectively.
Carefully read each question and its assessment
criteria before answering. Ensure your application
confidently meets every criterion.
Make it easy for assessors to see why your
application deserves approval. They should be able
to skim your responses and immediately recognise
that all criteria have been addressed.
Tip 6: Write with passion
Passion is contagious - let it shine in your
application. Showcase your Group as a vibrant,
inclusive, and valuable community asset. Reflect
on why you volunteer and channel that
enthusiasm into your writing.
Focus on the positive. Instead of saying,
“without this funding our youth members will
struggle,” say, “this funding will help our youth
members thrive.” Acknowledge challenges, but
frame them as opportunities for growth,
restoration, or new beginnings.
As a youth organisation, emphasise how your
project will impact young people. Highlight Scouts’
commitment to youth development and adventure
and ensure that passion comes through loud
and clear.
Tip 7: Reach out for support
Letters of support can strengthen your application
by showcasing community endorsement. Identify
key stakeholders beyond your membership who
will benefit from your project.
Reach out to your network with project details and
the grant information. Request letters well before
the submission deadline to give supporters time to
respond. Potential supporters could include your
federal or state MP, local councillors, businesses,
and others in your community.
Tip 8: Use strong evidence
Your application should be supported by clear
evidence demonstrating your Group’s value and
the community need for your project.
Make sure you have all required materials, such
as eligibility evidence, budgets, and project plans.
Show that your project is achievable by including
quotes and research.
Look beyond your Group for data, like in council
strategic plans or the Australian Bureau of
Statistics. Use current, relevant, and properly
cited evidence. Focus on quality over quantity -
every piece should directly support your project.
Tip 9: Always proofread
Mistakes can weaken your application, so thorough
proofreading is essential. Check for spelling,
grammar, and formatting errors. Ensure your
application meets all program requirements, clearly
aligns with priorities and objectives, and addresses
every assessment criterion.
Proofread with fresh eyes. Finish your application
early, take a break, and review it later. Better yet,
ask others in your Group to review it - they may
catch errors or suggest improvements
you’ve missed.
Ensure your Scouting terms are correct. Capitalise
Scouting nouns like Scout, Group, Unit, and Leader,
while common nouns like youth member or hall
follow standard grammar rules.
Check out the Scouts Victoria writing guide for
more information.
Tip 10: Don't leave your application till the last minute
A strong grant application needs time, not lastminute stress. Rushing will compromise quality,
so plan to make the most of your volunteer hours.
Give yourself enough time to source evidence,
review guidelines, write, and proofread thoroughly.
Be prepared for delays like waiting on quotes,
technical issues, or personal circumstances.
Starting early gives you room to address any
challenges.
Finally, avoid submitting at the last minute -
Murphy’s Law says your computer will crash!
Bonus tip: First impressions count
Your project title is the very first thing an assessor
will see, and first impressions count. Your title
should be clear but enticing. For example, look at
the difference between; “Scout Hall upgrade” and
“Revitalising our adventure hub: Empowering youth
and community through Scouting.”
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