Securing grants is not just about finding funding—it’s about finding the right funding that aligns with your mission and resources. Many non-profits waste time chasing grants that are either too competitive, misaligned with their work, or come with overwhelming reporting requirements. The key to successful grant funding is being strategic, not reactive—which means knowing when to apply and when to walk away.

Determine Alignment with Your Mission & Programs

Mission Fit – Does This Grant Fund the Work You Do?

• Review the grant’s stated purpose and funding priorities.
• Check past grantees to see if their work aligns with yours.
• Assess if the grantor has funded similar projects in the past.

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Pro Tip

If a funder has never supported organizations like yours, the chances of success are lower—move on.

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Eligibility Screening – Do You Meet All the Requirements?

• Organization type (501(c)(3), grassroots, international NGO, etc.)
• Budget size restrictions (some funders only support small or large organizations)
• Geographic limitations (some grants are city/state/country-specific)
• Program focus areas (health, education, climate, etc.)

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Pro Tip: Even if your project aligns, missing just one eligibility requirement means disqualification—don’t waste your time.

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