Grant writing has always been challenging, but has become easier over the years thanks to modern technology. With tools at our disposal to improve our time and task management, research capabilities, and access to information at the click of a button, grant writing has become both more accessible and more competitive.

In this article, I’ll explore the tools available for making grant writing easier in the modern age, and give some tips, tricks, and cautionary advice on how to use them.

With the variety of grants available online and online portals simplifying the submission and review process, it’s easier than ever for any organization to apply for grants. However, this increased accessibility also brings heightened competition.

Grant writing remains a time-consuming process that involves telling the story of an organization in a concise and convincing way to assure grantors that their funds will be put to good use. Grant writers, often working with limited resources due to the nature of being a nonprofit, must also compete against many other nonprofits for the same funding.

Leveraging technology for effective grant writing

Part of writing effective grants is knowing how to leverage your limited resources at your disposal. Online tools and resources such as the CRA website, ChatGPT, GrantWatch, and CanadaHelps can provide invaluable information on nonprofits and grants, and can even help you with writing and basic outlines. However, relying on these tools too much can result in a choppy, obviously AI-written grant that won’t impress grantors.

Using tools wisely

There are many great resources out there that can be very effective when used properly. For example, writing AIs like ChatGPT can be used to help outline grants and determine grant timelines. When using these tools, it’s important to fact-check information to ensure accuracy. It’s important to add a touch of human connection to anything ChatGPT does, as its work can come across as robotic and impersonal.

Grant tools such as GrantWatch can be excellent resources for nonprofits to find relevant grants, allowing users to filter grants based on location, amount, and other criteria. There are also a number of grant writing software, templates, and other resources available online that can be very beneficial when utilized correctly.

Enhancing collaboration

Collaboration is a crucial piece of grant writing, especially in a smaller organization when multiple people with various skill sets need to give input on the same grant. Project management and file-sharing tools such as Microsoft Teams, Google Docs, ClickUp, and other collaboration platforms, can be effective for facilitating grant writing across teams.

Version control

Using shared platforms can quickly lead to multiple versions of the same grant. I recommend having an “archive” section on your platform to store past versions, keeping only the most recent version at the forefront for all members accessing the file.

Task timelines

In order to avoid confusion, divide and conquer by creating a timeline of tasks, and assigning specific deadlines for each team member to complete their part, including a final review a day or two before submission.

Document readiness

When writing grants, it’s important to adhere to government systems and regulations. For example, keep copies of your financial statements and charitable tax number handy, as most grant applications will ask for those two things.

In with the new

One thing is for sure: the digital age is here, and grant writers will benefit from embracing it. Although it may be challenging at first, using digital tools to enhance grants can lead to more impressive and competitive applications for your nonprofit.

It’s always essential to remember the limitations of technology and never underestimate the power of human connection and an extra pair of human eyes. By balancing technological tools with personal touches, grant writers can produce proposals that stand out in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Vivian Gietz (she/her) manages a digital marketing agency for nonprofits and small businesses in Vancouver, BC. A nonprofit thought leader and expert content strategist, she has six years of digital marketing experience and a deep understanding of how to make social media work for nonprofits. She works with a number of nonprofit clients both in Canada and the USA executing social media content, Google Ads, monthly newsletters, and more. If you’re interested in working with Vivian, visit her website or send her a message on LinkedIn.