It's not enough to know that you have a problem. You need to prove that you have a problem and that you understand it deeply.

Collect, analyze, and interpret your data. Use tools to identify trends and patterns, and visualize your data using Tableau or Zoho. You might discover aspects about the problem that you didn't know, and those findings might influence how you approach the problem.

As necessary, use local and internal data or federal and external data such as CDC data, US Census Bureau data, US Labor and Statistics, and state public data tools for health, open space, and environment.

This data feeds into your Need Statement.

A data-driven story is compelling. Your problem and solution narrative draws on your data analytics to underscore your project or program's significance and builds a case for high impact. If your organization is struggling with this narrative, identify additional data.

Programs and projects with built-in metrics enable high-quality performance evaluation, grant reporting, and organization insights for improved outcomes and results that win future grants. 

Track your organization's program and project successes and measure what matters. Use Candid's Issue Lab resources for impact measurements and case studies.

Funders with 990-PFs and areas of interest that match your programs and projects and strategy and filter out grants that aren't mission-match oriented. Understand your mission and the results your organization delivers.

Now that you know your organization's value, develop content assets, including: 

• Executive Summaries

• Need Statement

• Beneficiary Profiles

• Case Studies

Centralize and organize content for efficient SME collaboration and submission of grant proposals, Letters of Inquiry, and Corporate Giving Letters and related narratives.

A public-facing website with built-in touchpoint is an essential outreach tool that highlights your program details and successes and builds credibility with your beneficiaries and funders.

Program one-pagers and call-to-action postcards with QR codes are high return print collateral.

A winning proposal delivers a funder-focused, persuasive document that outlines a clear solution to a compelling problem for which your organization is uniquely situated to solve for a high return on investment. 

Thank You letters to your Foundation donors build ongoing funding relationships and Reviewer Thank You Letters when you don't win a grant provide opportunities for application feedback and thereby improve your prospects for future funding.

Each grant has a unique application submission process and reporting and compliance requirements. Track deliverable and deadlines using reliable tool such as Instrumentl. 

For accurate fund reporting, grant compliance, and improved insights, assign the Grantor and Class to all expenses and revenue.