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How to Write a Cover Letter for Your Grant Proposal

Customer Success Manager at Instrumentl

Reviewed by:

October 27, 2021

Last Updated:

November 20, 2023

If you’re applying for a grant, the funder will often ask you to submit a cover letter with your grant proposal.

I know, this can be frustrating. You’re already dedicating time to writing a successful grant proposal . Why do you also have to write a cover letter?

Although it may seem like extra work, it’s actually a critical step to get right. If you don’t nail it, the funder may pass over your application entirely.

To avoid this, we’re going deep into how to write effective cover letters for grants. In this article, we’ll unpack:

What cover letters for grant proposals are
Why it is an important piece of your grant application
And the six parts of a successful cover letter
Templates to get you started
Pitfalls to avoid

Let’s dive in!

Grant Proposal Template for Nonprofits (+5 Tips Included)

What are Cover Letters for Grant Proposals?

A cover letter for a grant proposal is a document that goes along with your completed proposal. It is your opportunity to demonstrate that you understand the priorities and interests of the funder and how your work aligns with their goals.

An effective cover letter will communicate why your organization and your program deserve to be funded . It should pique the funder’s interest, getting them to read your full proposal.

Pro Tip : Cover letters are typically only requested by foundations and corporations . In the case of government grants , they don’t ask for cover letters because they have very specific proposal layouts and requirements.

Only submit a cover letter if the funder requests one. Many funders now utilize online application systems which do not require a cover letter, so make sure you understand the requirements of the specific funder.

Overall, the cover letter provides a taste of your organization and request. It should entice the funder and demonstrate why you are a good fit.

Why Are Cover Letters Important for Nonprofits?

If you see the cover letter as just a nother checkbox you need to complete before submittign your application, think again. Here are 4 reasons why you need to think hard about writing a grant proposal cover letter that captures the attention of funders.

First Impressions Matter: Setting the Tone for Your Proposal

The cover letter is the first point of contact that your nonprofit has with a potential funder, and you want to make a good impression !

A professional, concise, well-written cover letter sets the tone with the funder for the rest of your proposal. It’s also a chance for you to capture the reader’s attention and get them excited about your proposal.

Building a Connection With Potential Funders

Your cover letter is your opportunity to get the funder engaged .

The cover letter gives you a chance to share your “elevator pitch” with the funder. If a funder walks away from your cover letter feeling excited about your project, you’re leagues ahead of the competition taht submitted a dry, cookie cutter cover letter.

Highlighting Key Points From Your Grant Proposal

A grant proposal’s cover letter isn’t all that different from a potential job’s cover letter.

Highlight the key points that will help you stand out above other applicants . Don’t be afraid to brag a little bit! Tell the funder why your proposal or project is unique and impactful.

But remember—a cover letter is not an executive summary .

Demonstrating Organizational Maturity and Professionalism

Your cover letter is an opportunity to demonstrate your organization’s maturity and professionalism . Make it known that you receive and manage a large grant portfolio of grants every year, and that you have experience in maintaining grant compliance .

In doing so, you are showing the funder that they can trust you with their award.

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6 Parts of a Successful Grant Proposal Cover Letter

Below are general formatting tips for your grant’s cover letter:

Your cover letter should be written on company letterhead.
The date on the cover letter should match the date of your proposal or application.
The letter should be contained to one page, consisting of 3-4 paragraphs.
Find the appropriate contact person at the funding organization so you can address your letter to a specific person.
The address of the funder should be placed at the top of the letter. Format the address as: contact name, title, funder name, address.
Use a formal introduction in the salutation, such as “Dear Mr/Mrs.”
The letter should be signed by an appropriate official from your organization, such as the Executive Director.
Include the word “ENCLOSURE” or “ATTACHMENT” at the bottom to indicate that the letter is part of a larger packet.

In addition to these basic formatting tips, there are 6 basic parts that you should be sure to include in your grant proposal cover letters.

Introduction: Who You Are

Be sure to introduce your organization at the beginning of your cover letter.

This provides readers with a background understanding of your nonprofit and its purpose. You want to include things such as the name of your organization, your mission and values , and how long you have been in existence.

About Your Organization: What You Do

In this section, you want to concisely explain what your organization does—include relevant programs and projects.

This will show that your organization’s work aligns with their mission and giving priorities.

Need Statement: The Problem You're Addressing

Clearly state the problem that your program or project intends to address.

This demonstrates to the reader that you are filling a gap that exists in your community. You should include data to support your statements when possible so that the funder knows the need is real.

Project Overview: Your Plan

While space is limited in a cover letter, it is important to share outline a well-thought-out project plan. Showing funders how you plan to utilize their funds will help your proposal stand out.

Funding Request: What You Need

The whole purpose of submitting a grant proposal is to secure funds for a program or project.

Don’t dance around it. Call out exactly how much money you need for your initiative so that the funder knows up front whether or not your request is in alignment with their giving priorities.

Pro tip: Often, nonprofits don’t ask for enough funding. To not leave anything on the table, Instrumentl users can quickly uncover how much to ask for in a grant by using our insights on funders.

Closing: Why They Should Support You

You want to end your cover letter by telling the funder why they should support you. Whether it is because your missions are aligned, your project is super unique (ideally, both!), you want to clearly state these reasons in your cover letter.

Consider closing the letter with an invitation for a site visit or program observation, if appropriate. Be sure to include the contact information for whoever can answer application questions. And end with a confident statement such as “I look forward to speaking with you more about this program.”

3 Sample Cover Letters for Grant Proposals

In this section, we have written original sample grant proposal cover letters. Following each example, we break down the good and bad parts of each letter.

1. Following Up After Meeting With The Funder

Grant proposal cover letter example one breakdown.

Here’s why we like this cover letter:

Referencing those prior conversations will remind the funder that you’ve already done some leg work in terms of outreach and research into the foundation.
This letter includes erveral of the key parts of a successful cover letter, such as the introduction, information about the organization, funding request, project information, and a confident closing.

The letter is also signed by the executive director and provides her contact information. However, there could be a bit more emotion incorporated into this letter to help the funder form a connection with the organization and the project .

2. Breaking The Ice With A New Funder

Grant proposal cover letter example two breakdown.

Our second grant proposal cover letter example also covers many of the key components: organizational info, funding request, project information, and a closing.

We really like how the closing in this letter includes an invitation for the funder to tour the facility and see the work in action—this is such a good idea!

This letter is lacking a statement of need , however. Although it clearly shows alignment between the nonprofit’s work and the funder’s mission, there’s no information about why there is a need in this community for support for people suffering from PTSD . Again, some data points would go a long way here in making this a more compelling case for support.

Also note that this letter does not reference any prior conversations with the funder. This is a good template to use if you are applying to a funder for the first time.

3. Renewing Funding From A Previous Funder

Grant proposal cover letter example three breakdown.

Our final example demonstrates how you would write to a funder that has previously funded your organization.

The nonprofit explains how a prior grant from this foundation helped their program; we LOVE that they included data about how many youth were served from the prior grant. This helps the funder really understand the impact of their donation, which will give them confidence in choosing to fund this organization again.

This letter also does a great job of showing the nonprofit’s alignment with the funder’s mission and work . Again, this instills confidence in the funder that they’re making a good investment with their money.

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Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Grant Proposal Cover Letter

So, we’ve reviewed what a grant proposal cover letter is, why it is important, and what the key parts are that should be included in the letter.

You’re probably feeling like you’re almost ready to start writing your own cover letters—but hold on. Before you dive in, let’s review some common pitfalls in cover letter writing and how you can avoid making these mistakes.

Overloading the Cover Letter with Jargon

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when you’re writing a grant proposal cover letter is filling it with industry-specific jargon .

Don’t try to impress the funder with all the fancy terminology of your industry. Not all funders will understand this lingo, and it could end up confusing them instead of helping to make the case for your project.

Ignoring Specific Funder Guidelines and Requests

This is a critical mistake that many grant applicants make. Don’t ignore the funder’s guidelines !

Every funder will have different requests—whether they want you to hand-deliver 10 copies of your single-sided application or request a signature from your Board Chair, it’s imperative that you follow these guidelines.

This relates to the cover letter as well! If a funder specifically says to not include a cover letter, listen to them!

Being Vague or Generic in Your Statements

Another common pitfall that nonprofits fall into is being overly generic and vague in their cover letters .

To demonstrate why your nonprofit is a good fit for the funding opportunity, share specifics about your organization, background, mission, and goals.

Another piece of advice—don’t use the generic “To whom it may concern” or “Dear Human Resources” salutation. Find a specific contact to direct your proposal to so that you can personalize the letter.

Instrumentl is a great resource for finding funder details, providing clear insights into who some of the key people within a foundation are.

Overlooking the Importance of Follow-Up Information

All of the examples that we showed you included details on who the funder should contact if they have any questions . This is so important!

You don’t want a potential funder to be stuck Google-searching information on your nonprofit if they need to contact you. That’s a sure fire way to get your application declined.

Wrapping Things Up: Cover Letters for Grant Proposals

To conclude, make sure you understand funder requirements, obtain information for a direct contact at the funder, and write the cover letter after you complete the grant proposal application.

If you follow these steps, you will be well on your way to writing a good grant application letter.

For more tips on enhancing your grant proposals, check out these 21 grant writing examples for nonprofits !

Amelie Heurteux

Amelie Heurteux, a Customer Success Manager at Instrumentl, works day in and day out training nonprofits and grant writers how to efficiently prospect new funders and streamline their grant tracking and management processes.

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How to Write a Great Grant Proposal Cover Letter

Become a Certified Grant Writer

Although your grant proposal cover letter isn’t the most exciting part of the grant proposal, it’s still vital to get funding. T he cover letter is the first contact point a potential organization or funder will have with your nonprofit project.

It’s like going out on a date. Sure, looks aren’t everything. Nevertheless, if you utterly don’t care about how you dress, you’re making it harder for yourself.

And just like your looks, you want to make your grant application cover letter simple and focused on impressing a particular person. It’s the first contact with the executive or organization you wish to request funding. If you want them to read your grant proposal request, they’ll have to like the cover letter first.

More crucial steps will come later, presuming the funder reads your cover letter. Although you can search for sample cover letters, they are usually hard to find.

Research shows that about 35% of grant funders funded 50% or more of the received grant requests. So, your grant proposal cover letter needs to be a complete home run. Here’s how.

How to Write a Grant Proposal Cover Letter

How to writer a grant proposal cover letter

First of all, an average grant proposal letter shouldn’t be more than one page long. Cover letters are the pitch of your detailed grant proposal. Think of it as a summary of your book.

Before writing the first paragraph, you should open the letter with the contact’s name, title, address, and other related information. Although this might sound obvious, double-check that the contact information is correct. There are countless examples of rushed letters. You don’t want your project to crumble due to a misspelled executive director name.

Do your research before starting the cover letter. You can quickly find the correct information via a single call, email, or simply by doing some Internet scavenging.

Similarly, address the person with “Dear” and add a personal title such as Mr. or Mrs. Again, it’s cover letter 101, so it will feel even worse if you misspell the first step.

If this doesn’t seem like a big deal, look at it like this. Executives have a keen eye for sloppiness. Since they will skim any cover letter first rather than reading it to the last paragraph, you don’t want mistakes popping out.

The initial information tells the funder you didn’t go in headfirst, and proper addressing tells them you’re a potential candidate. If the letter lacks, you’ll be mistaken for a novice instead of a candidate worthy of doing business.

If you’re interested in learning more about the grant writing process, then take a look at our grant writing certification course.

Get Straight to the Point in Your Grant Proposal Cover Letter

Everybody knows why you’re writing a grant proposal cover letter; it’s in the name. Meaning, there’s no reason to sugarcoat it.

After you nail the introduction, it’s time to introduce yourself and your organization. In the first paragraph, format the content into two sentences maximum. Here, you’ll write who you are and your job title. That’s it.

Next, get right to the point. Describe why your organization or foundation needs the grant, what’s your mission, and most importantly, the budget you’re requesting. Maybe you’re working on a community project, or it’s a charity. Either way, make it brief.

While on the topic, you should create a proposal for grants of all sizes. Even if a smaller grant doesn’t suffice, having it can attract larger grants. There are about 900 federal grant programs . Don’t limit yourself.

Another great touch is to validate your project via research. If you have cold data that justifies your organization’s existence, rarely will anyone find a way to object.

If you’re not 100% sure how to format the paragraph, create a sample cover and share it with friends or co-workers. Write the section, read the grant request introduction, then ask two questions .

Can you tell me what the project is about? – Although the mission is clear to you as a writer, it might read astrophysical development documents to a fresh pair of eyes.
How did you feel when you read the requested funding? – This is to see how another person will react. Keep in mind that how your friend and the funder reacts can differ.

Methods, Strategies & Solutions

In the next paragraph, you should explain how you plan to use the grant to the grantor. By doing this, you’re effectively telling the funder that you have a plan in motion. You can also include a graphical modal for visual representation, depending on the format.

Some writers like to use a numbered sample. The format can work both when you’re explaining your goals and strategies:

The organization’s four main goals
The project’s five phases

Usually, you want to back up each number with further details. Although an excellent overview, simply including a couple of numbers in your letter won’t suffice. Find the balance between simplicity and complexity. Numbering provides a clear summary, while further details should give the letter a more professional tone.

An additional touch is to offer a timeline where you explain significant milestone and their due dates. You can also do that by using a brief bullet-point format. The timestamps can be months or quarters, depending on the project’s length.

Again, remember you’ll go into full detail in the grant proposal. Although defining strategies and methods isn’t crucial for the cover letter, add it if you can fit it on that one page.

Cover Letters & Necessary Data

After the mission details and budget proposals, it’s time to quickly cover organization info and structure. It can be tedious, but every grant proposal needs it, especially if you grab their attention.

Again, keep it short. Explain your corporate structure and related information in just a couple of sentences, including the founding date. Grant proposals require the data, and although you’re not writing a contract but a cover letter, you still need to present the essential information.

You should also explain how your project matches the funder’s and why the funder should give you the support and funding priority.

As always, double-check the information in your proposal letter, especially if you’re running a nonprofit organization. It’s somewhat easier to get grants for a nonprofit project, but funders are more likely to check the details. Although many think that foundation funding is the primary source for nonprofits, about 80% of income comes from other sources.

If the grant funder likes your cover letter, you want to make it easy for them to contact you about the grant proposal.

Always end all your cover letters with a positive closing line such as “Looking forward to your response.” The goal is for the letter to sound optimistic, grateful, but not needy.

Sign the letter and if your organization has an executive director, have them sign as well.

Common grant proposal cover letter elements

Cover Letter Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

For the final polish of your proposal, you can do things to give the letter a more personal and professional touch.

Ask for Feedback

Before pressing “send,” have co-workers read the sample of the proposal one more time. Good feedback is hard to find, and once you make contact, the fabled typos become irreversible. Don’t be gun shy to even reach out to your wider community for support.

Send the proposal sample page to anyone you can and collect their feedback. Naturally, you don’t want to spend half of your waking life collecting feedback. Still, a cover letter is just words on a paper without the reader understanding what you want, especially when they’re giving you money.

If still not convinced, it takes between 80 to 200 hours to write a grant proposal, and it can cost several thousand dollars if you’re hiring a grant writer . You don’t want a single page to ruin all the hard work.

Use Plain English

We all want to impress others. But using complex words can easily backfire and ruin your chance.

The point of a proposal letter isn’t to show your vocabulary but to state your case as straightforward as possible. If you’re unsure if you’re overdoing it, some helpful apps and websites will tell you if a sentence is too long or too complex.

Final Formatting

Ensure the dates match since you’ll have a date both in the cover letter and the main grant proposal. You don’t want to send a proposal where the grant proposal has April 5th while the cover letter has November 27th. This goes for other files you’ll send as well.

The cover letter should use single-space and leave space between addresses in the heading. Double-space means less room to write the limited information you need. This doesn’t mean you should delete the area between paragraphs. Give the letter room to breathe.

Although unnecessary, it can be a nice touch if you place your signature in live ink. Leave about three empty spaces the complimentary close and your name for the signature.

Send the Cover Letter in PDF

If you’re emailing the grant proposal letter, email the document in PDF. There’s a chance the foundation will offer to sign documents digitally. Additionally, unlike other text files, PDF is safe from malware. Meaning, a PDF will not only look competent but will also leave a good impression in the eyes of the more “tech-savvy” grant funders.

If you are new to grant writing and are looking to break-in, we recommend taking our Grant Writing Certification Course , where you will learn the fundamentals of being a grant writer, how to write proposals that win grants, and how to stand out as a grant writing candidate.

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How to Write an Effective Grant Proposal Cover Letter

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When Do You Include a Cover Letter?

Attributes of a good cover letter, formatting your cover letter, how long should the cover letter be, sample cover letter, mistakes to avoid in your cover letter, make your cover letter stand out.

Joanne Fritz is an expert on nonprofit organizations and philanthropy. She has over 30 years of experience in nonprofits.

Although the main parts of your grant proposal will take up most of your time and energy, don't shortchange your cover letter. Attention to the subtler points of putting the proposal package together can make or break a funding request. Don't turn off your funder with a sloppy cover letter.

Mim Carlson and Tori O'Neal-McElrath, authors of Winning Grants, Step by Step , point out that the cover letter should:

Introduce your organization to the correct person.
Assure the funder that this project has the support of your board of directors .
State what you are asking for - how much and for what.

Use a cover letter for proposals to corporations and foundations, but not for federal or state grant applications. Those funders only want what they ask for, and they rarely ask for a cover letter.

Your cover letter should:

Get to the point quickly
Does not repeat the information that is in the proposal
Tell the reader how well you understand the funder and how your grant fulfills the funder's requirements

Beverly A. Browning, the author of Grant Writing for Dummies , suggests that you write the cover letter after you've completed the entire proposal, and when you are in a reflective mood. Browning says:

"As you consider your great achievement (the finished funding request), let the creative, right side of your brain kick in and connect your feelings of accomplishment to the person who will help make your plans come true."

Use your organization's letterhead. Put the same date on the cover letter that is on the completed grant application. That is the date you will send the grant proposal to the grantor. Using the same date makes all the documents in your proposal package consistent.
For the inside address (goes at the top of the letter) use the foundation or corporate contact person's name and title, followed by the funding source's name, address, city, state, and zip code. Double-check this information with a telephone call or an email. Such information changes frequently, so make sure you have the current name and address.
In your salutation, use "Dear" plus the personal title (Mr., Ms., Mrs., Dr., Messrs., etc.), followed by the last name. It is critical that you address the letter to a particular person. Call the foundation or corporate office to make sure you have the right person and the correct personal title. These details may seem unimportant, but they do matter.
Your first paragraph should be short and focused. Introduce your organization (its legal name, which will be your corporate name ) and tell the funder how much money you are requesting and why. Include a sentence or two about what your organization does, and then include one research-based point that shows there is a need for what your organization does.
Write one or two more brief paragraphs. State your project's purpose and how it fits with the funder's mission or funding priorities. Include the fact that your board of directors fully supports the project.
End your letter with a summarizing paragraph. Add what this funding partnership can mean for your project's target audience. You might want to include an invitation for a site visit as well.
Use a closing such as "Sincerely."
The letter should be signed by the executive director or the board president, or both. Below the signature, type the signer's first name, middle initial, last name, and job title. Although the ED or board president should sign the letter, do include the contact information for the best person to answer questions at the end of the last paragraph.
At the bottom of the letter, include the word, "ENCLOSURE" (in all caps).

Limit your cover letter to one page with three or four paragraphs. It should be a quick read.

The tone and specifics of your cover letter may vary depending on whether you've been invited to submit a full proposal after sending a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) , or if this project is your organization's first approach to this particular foundation.

Mary Smith, PhD

Program Officer

Community Foundation

4321 Common Lane

Some City, YZ 55555

Dear Dr. Smith:

The Some City Senior Center respectfully requests a grant of $50,000 for our Senior Latino Community Outreach Pilot Project.

As the largest senior center in Any County, serving over 450 seniors every day, we are aware of the changing demographics in our service area. And we are committed to growing and adapting our center to meet emerging needs. The Senior Latino Community Outreach Pilot Project will allow us to pilot a one-year effort to determine if our center can effectively:

Provide comprehensive access to health and social services to seniors in the Latino communities served by our center, and

Raise and fully integrate the cultural competency of the board, staff, and volunteers of the Some City Senior Center.

Our board of directors is enthusiastic about this program and eager to launch it so we can become the most inclusive and culturally competent center for seniors in all of our communities that need these services. Should we find at the end of our pilot year that this program is, in fact, successful, our board has committed to including a portion of the project's yearly expenses into our annual operating budget so that the program becomes an integral part of our core services.

Through this project, the Center will become the primary referral given by Health Access Latinos, Families of Any County, and three community clinics within a fifteen-mile radius of our center. We will also accept referrals of Spanish-speaking seniors from any other community agency in our immediate service area.

Thank you for your consideration of our request. I will follow up with you in the next week to answer any questions you might have, as well as to learn whether we might meet with you to discuss the merits of our proposal. Meanwhile, should you have any questions, please feel free to contact Connie Jones, our Director of Development, at (555) 555-5555, x555, or cjones@scsc.org.

Jane Lovely

Executive Director

*Letter reprinted (with modifications) with permission from Winning Grants, Step by Step, Second Edition, Tori O'Neal-McElrath, Jossey-Bass, 2008.

Writing too much. A cover letter is not a dissertation, nor is it a full proposal. Keep it short and to the point Tip: Have someone else read it. Do they understand it?
Using big words . If you've been to graduate school, you learned to write in a complicated way. Don't do that here. You're not trying to impress someone with your erudition. You only want to state your case as naturally as possible. If you don't know when you're overcomplicating your writing, use an app such as Hemingway . It will tell you when your sentences are hard to read and when you are too wordy.
Making Grammatical Mistakes . If you're not sure of your grammar, don't take chances. Use the grammar check in WORD, and, also run your draft through an app such as Grammarly . There is a free version, but the paid version goes well beyond the necessary grammar check.

Sad to say, but your grant proposal may be among hundreds or thousands that a typical foundation will see during an average year. Your cover letter can make the difference in getting to the next step towards funding. But how can you make it stand out?

Don't try anything "cute," as foundation officials will not be impressed.

The cover letter would not be appropriate for a story about a client , although you should have a story for other parts of your proposal, such as the description of the problem. Include a paragraph about why your organization is the one that can best accomplish this mission. Survey your competitive organizations and assess just how and where you excel. That may be in the strength of your staff and volunteers, your experience with this particular problem, or the community support you enjoy.

You don't need to mention the names of competitors or criticize them. Just highlight your strengths. This would be a good time to consult with others around the office. Pull a few people together and brainstorm how your nonprofit excels.

Fundamentally, the cover letter should be forward moving, easy-to-read and compel the reader into the larger proposal. Don't put any obstacles in the way of the reader that might deter them from reading further.

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Start » strategy, how to write a grant application for your organization.

Writing a strong grant application can help your organization receive the funding it needs to fulfill its mission. These tips will help you get started.

A close-up of two hands reaching across a desk, with one hand giving a check to the other.

For many organizations, grant writing is the most important component of their entire fundraising strategy. In fact, a single grant application can make or break your organization, so if you’re trying to secure funding for your nonprofit, community organization or research group, it’s important to learn how to write a strong, successful proposal. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

[ Read more: 22 Grants, Loans and Programs to Benefit Your Small Business ]

What to consider before writing a grant application

The best grant proposals are clear, organized documents that illustrate why your organization should receive funds from the grantor. That’s why it’s a good idea to plan in advance and get some things in order. Here are three things to know or accomplish before you start writing your proposal:

Your audience. First and foremost, get to know the institution that is offering the grant. Consider its goals, values and objectives. Understanding these elements will later help you demonstrate how and why your organization is a good fit.
The minimum requirements. Research the eligibility expectations for each specific grantor and make sure you meet the minimum requirements. If you find that your organization does not meet these requirements, contact the grantor directly to discuss your options.
Your organization’s credibility. Compile a list of testimonials, recommendations, data sets and success stories to include with your application. Every grantor is different, but they all want to know their money is being used wisely.

Elements of a grant proposal

Grant applications are organized in specific sections that help the reviewer parse through information quickly and find potential grantees. Here are the main elements to include in a grant proposal:

Cover letter. Some, but not all, granting organizations ask that you include a cover letter to introduce yourself. This section should establish why you are seeking the available grant, describe your organization or project and illustrate your professionalism.
Executive summary. Also known as an abstract or overview, the executive summary should state the most important information from the entire proposal. This section should be concise, yet fully describe your goals, what steps you will take, why you need funding and how you will measure progress. It is often best practice to write this section last.
Needs assessment. The needs assessment, also known as the statement of need, problem statement or literature overview, defines the lack in resources, information or opportunities that you are trying to solve. Include as much data and research as possible and show how your organization is the key link between the problem and the solution.
Project description. Also known as the project narrative, this section states how you will address the problems described in the needs assessment. The description should include your goals , your projected timeline, how you will measure progress and how you will recognize success. Focus on the impact your work will have on the given issue.
Budget. This section should clarify why you are asking for funding. State how each dollar will be spent, and illustrate how the cost of labor, materials or equipment is required to fulfill your mission.
Supplemental documentation. Finally, you may need to provide an appendix with all the supporting materials you’ve included in your application. This may include additional data, business records, employment information, letters of reference, organizational qualifications and so on.

[ Read more: How to Get a Grant to Start a Business ]

It’s important to remember that there are so many factors beyond a nonprofit’s control that influence decision-making...

Arianna Maysonave, Director of Development at Herbicide-Free Campus

4 tips for writing a grant application

Stick to your mission. It’s not uncommon for inexperienced grant writers to stretch their application too far and create a weak proposal. “Write grants based on your mission,” said Lauren Balkan, Deputy Director of Wellspring Center for Prevention . “Stay true to your mission and then be creative with how to meet that mission within the scope of the grant funding.”
Build your network. Even if you’re not actively writing a grant application, start meeting with grantors to build a professional relationship. Networking will help you better understand the mission, values and objectives of specific granting organizations, which will give you a head start when you are ready to prepare a proposal. “Relationship building is the number one key to success in securing a grant,” said Arianna Maysonave, Director of Development at Herbicide-Free Campus . “Identify the interest of the grantor long before their grant deadline, and begin connecting with relevant partners months or even years before you expect to receive a grant.”
Expect to receive rejection letters. Learning how to craft solid grant applications takes time and experience. If your organization doesn’t earn a grant, use it as a learning opportunity. “It’s important to remember that there are so many factors beyond a nonprofit’s control that influence decision-making,” said Maysonave. “Do your best and don’t be afraid to follow up and ask why you weren’t chosen.”
Learn from your community. Finally, learn from other organizations within your community or industry to better understand what funders are looking for. “Connect to many community groups where organizations come together,” Balkan said. “Workgroups or committees usually provide information about possible funding opportunities, [so] pay attention when similar organizations are talking about their funding and where they get it.”

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How to write a Winning Grant Proposal Cover Letter

April 1, 2022

Grant Proposal Cover letter is an introductory letter used to persuade grant making agency about your organization and proposed project. You use cover letter to introduce your organization and proposed project. It helps to create first impression about your organization before funding agency. It is very paramount that you use this moment of crafting your cover letter to input key points that help to establish how your proposed project aligns with the donors’ priority area. You can handle this by showing that your organization and that your mission aligns with the funders area of focus and also you understand what the funder is looking for. Mastering how to craft a winning cover letter is an art because you have just one page to express your intent. Note that grant proposal cover letter is different from grant proposal cover page .

When do you include a Cover Letter?

Cover letter should be included when funding agency demands for it. Corporations and foundations are most likely to request that you submit a cover letter or include it in your proposal. For State and Federal government grants, a cover letter is not included.

Characteristics of a Winning Cover Letter

A winning cover letter should be;

Brief as possible.
Straight to the point, positive and confident.
Concise and inviting to the funder.
Aligns with the funder agenda and address issues that are at the heart of the funder.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Grant Proposal?

To write a cover letter that will arouse the interest of the funder, the below steps will guide you;

Use formal letterhead. Your organization letterhead that contains your contact information should be used. Then add date that you will send the letter and the recipient’s contact information.
The next step is to introduce your organization. Here you provide an overview or background of what your organization does and its purpose. When introducing your organization, specifically mention the name of your organization, your mission and the community and target populations you serve.
Then you should state the title of your proposed project, its purpose and how you intend to implement it.
Now that you have given a comprehensive overview of your organization and the proposed project. The next thing is to explain the reasons why you are seeking their funding, the proposed project budget, how you plan to use the fund.
Then go ahead and emphasize the impact of the potential funding and how their contribution will impact your cause or project. Ensure that you include the project outcome and the beneficiaries of the project. Stating these 2 factors will go a long way to persuading funders to fund their project if they see how their contributions will enable your organization address the identified problem and target populations that will benefit from the project.
Close your letter with a note of appreciation. The ‘thank you’ for the opportunity to submit the project and the contact person information. Then include the executive director personalized signature at the bottom of the letter
Note: Your cover letter should be one page and probably consists of four paragraphs.

How to Format your cover letter?

Follow the steps below to format your cover letter. The steps include;

Use your nonprofit organization letterhead.
Use a current date for submission.
Make your cover letter one page consisting of about 4 paragraphs.
Express your letter in a clear and concise manner for easy comprehension.
Ensure you research your donor very well and get the appropriate contact person to address the letter to.
Place the details of the donor contact person (including name, title, name of donor agency and address) on the top left of your cover letter as the addressee.
Use formal salutation e.g. Dear Mr./Mrs./Miss.
The first paragraph of your title should introduce your organization, mission, purpose, community and target population you serve.
Use the second paragraph to discuss about your proposed project, budget and everything you need to tell the donor. Indicate how your work aligns with the funder’s priorities.
Don’t forget to mention the purpose of the proposed project, its impact and beneficiaries. Make sure to mention your accomplishment if the donor has previously contributed towards your project.
Thank the donor for the opportunity to submit the proposal and include your organization contact person information.
Use statement such as; I look forward to discussing more about this project with you.
Ensure that the letter is duly endorsed by the Executive Director.

Rules guiding writing grant proposal cover letter:

Rule 1: Write your cover letter in a manner that is professional, clear, and concise.

You have to sound professional, clear and concise when writing your cover letter. Remove anything that will make it sound casual and not serious. Avoid jargons and ensure that your information flows succinctly and easy to comprehend.

Rule 2: Ensure that your cover letter stand out from the pack.

Funders receive over a hundred cover letters each year and so it is very important you distinguish yourself from the rest of the letters they receive. Focus more on your organizational strength and demonstrate your capacity to implement the proposed project and discuss about your past accomplishments.

Rule 3: Research about the donor organization properly to get to know the appropriate contact person before crafting your cover letter.

Ensure you have the appropriate contact person to address the letter to before you commence writing your cover letter. This helps to boost your chances of success and donors would believe you did your research properly. ‍

Rule 4 : Write your cover letter after writing your grant proposal.

Having a completed grant proposal before you start writing your cover letter will help you include the essential points in the cover letter and help you positively communicate your proposed project in a persuasive manner and confidently

Rule 5: Your cover letter should summarize your proposal.

Your cover letter should be brief and concise and should not copy your proposal word to word. Simply summarize your proposal consisting of about 4 paragraphs. The cover letter should contain introduction of your organization and proposed project. What you are trying to achieve is to establish that first impression and arouse the interest of your funder to go ahead with your full proposal.

Rule 6: Submit a cover letter when requested by funding agency.

Cover letter is meant to be submitted whenever funding agency or donor request for it. Most times foundations and corporations request that nonprofits first submit cover letter before the full grant proposal unlike for government grants.

Rule 7: Proofread your grant proposal cover letter before submission

Don’t be in a haste to email or mail your cover page without checking out if there are grammatical errors. Have another person or persons in the organization go through the cover letter before submission. The key factor is to ensure your cover letter stands out from the pack.

Sample Cover Letter

NEXT YOUTH FOUNDATION No. 122 David Street, Spartanburg, South Carolina 222222 (date) Mrs. Florence Michael, ABC Foundation, No. 12 Douglas Road, Spartanburg, SC 22222 Dear Mrs. Florence, Next Youth Foundation is a youth based nonprofit organization in Spartanburg, South Carolina requests to submit the enclosed proposal for the Youth Empowerment Outreach for your consideration. With a current youth membership base of 5,000, Next Youth Foundation has been serving Spartanburg most vulnerable youth between the ages of 15 to 35 years for 10 years with the mission of helping young people harness their potentials and succeed in life by providing programs in five basic areas: 1) Entrepreneurship 2) leadership 3) career readiness 40 sexual and reproductive health 5) education. We share the ABC Foundation’s concern about youth empowerment and capacity development in South Carolina. The proposed Youth Empowerment Outreach is a localized, collaborative effort to address issues of unemployment and lack of access to opportunities facing young people in Spartanburg. It is our hope that the proposed pilot project will provide new models for effective youth empowerment interventions. We are requesting $50,000 to help seed the twelve-month intervention. Next Youth Foundation developed the Youth Empowerment Outreach in response to high rate of youth employment and social vices witnessed in Spartanburg. About 75% of these young people are without any means of livelihood and this has resulted increased in crime rate in this community. Our proposed project adopts an innovative approach in addressing this problem and 100 of vulnerable, economically disadvantaged youth between 18 -25 years will be enrolled into the program. Following recruitment, the enrolled youth will be trained on different employability skills for six months after that they will be linked to job recruitment agencies where they will be placed on paid internship. Next Youth Foundation thanks ABC Foundation for its interest in our proposed project and looks forward to talking with you further about this project. For more information, contact Michelle David at (111) 111-1111 or [email protected] Sincerely, Sandra Smith Executive Director Next Youth Foundation

Grants for Land Conservation

Grants for land conservation are a vital lifeline for preserving natural landscapes, ecosystems, and biodiversity. These financial resources support a wide range of activities, from purchasing land to protect it

Grants for Journalism

Grants for journalism are financial awards or funds provided to individuals, groups, or organizations to support the production of high-quality, public-interest journalism. These grants are essential for sustaining investigative reporting,

Grant Writing Academy is offering you full resources you need to win free money and boost your nonprofit impact.

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Grant Writer Cover Letter Example

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Start your Grant Writer cover letter by addressing the specific person or committee who will be reviewing your application, if possible. Then, introduce yourself and briefly mention your current role or professional status. Immediately follow this with a concise statement of your interest in the grant opportunity and how your experience aligns with the grant's objectives. For instance, you could say, "As a professional grant writer with a proven track record in securing funding for non-profit organizations, I am excited about the opportunity to apply for [specific grant] which aligns perfectly with my expertise in [specific area]." This approach immediately establishes your credentials and shows your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

The best way for Grant Writers to end a cover letter is by expressing gratitude and eagerness for the opportunity. This can be done by thanking the reader for considering their proposal and expressing hope for further discussion. For instance, "Thank you for considering our proposal. We look forward to the possibility of further discussing how we can contribute to your mission." It's also important to include contact information for easy follow-up. Lastly, a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards" followed by the writer's name and title should be used. This ending leaves a positive impression, shows respect for the reader's time, and demonstrates the writer's enthusiasm about the potential partnership.

In a cover letter, Grant Writers should include the following: 1. Introduction: This should include a brief introduction of the organization, its mission, and the purpose of the grant request. It's important to make a strong first impression that engages the reader. 2. Summary of the Proposal: This should be a concise summary of the project or program for which funding is being sought. It should include the total cost of the project, the amount being requested from the grantor, and a brief explanation of how the funds will be used. 3. Relevance to the Grantor: Explain why your project or program aligns with the grantor's mission or funding priorities. This shows that you've done your research and understand the grantor's goals. 4. Impact: Highlight the potential impact of the project or program. This could include the number of people served, the benefits to the community, or other measurable outcomes. 5. Closing: In the closing, express gratitude for the grantor's consideration and provide contact information for follow-up questions or discussions. 6. Attachments: Mention any attachments that accompany the cover letter, such as the full grant proposal, a budget, or letters of support. Remember, the cover letter is your chance to make a compelling case for your grant proposal. It should be professional, concise, and persuasive, demonstrating your organization's credibility and the value of your proposed project or program.

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How to Start Grant Writing (+ Templates)

As a nonprofit, it’s a good idea to have a variety of revenue sources to fund your missions. One source can be grants. And if you’re looking for support for a specific project or position within your organization, you may have grant writing on the brain.

If you’re new to this process, you could have a lot of questions: How do I start grant writing? Is grant writing difficult? What does grant writing consist of?

Well, you’ve come to the right place! Below, we’ll cover everything you need to know about grant writing:

Key essentials about grant writing
Tips, tricks, and strategies
A grant application template to get you started

In no time, you’ll be well on your way to writing your first grant!

Looking for templates you can use for your grant application? Download our FREE Grant Application Template bundle, which includes:

A cover letter template
A grant proposal template

Fill in the form below to get your copy!

grant writing grant application template

Download Your FREE Grant Application Template

What is grant writing.

Grant writing is the process of writing a grant. But, you might wonder, what is a grant? A grant is a funding opportunity that foundations, businesses, and individuals make available to nonprofits to support their missions. It’s like a cash award for a great idea!

Grant writing is about building the case for a potential funder to support your work. Writing a grant involves putting together a proposal that tells the grantmaker the details of your project idea, how much money you need to fund it, and the impact it will make in the community.

You might also need to write a cover letter, but not all grant applications require one. We’ll dive into that more later in this article, so stay tuned!

Different Types of Nonprofit Grant Writing

You may find yourself writing for different types of grants. Some support specific project types, causes, or neighborhoods. Others may take a broader funding focus and accept proposals for any activity supporting the “public good.”

As you’re researching grants to apply for, you’ll want to be familiar with the three main types of nonprofit grants:

Operating support or unrestricted funding : This kind of grant supports the day-to-day operations of your work. Unrestricted funding is the bread and butter of any nonprofit! If you snag this type of grant, it means the grantmaker trusts you to use the funding for whatever best supports your nonprofit rather than for specific line items or projects. These grant funds can be hard to find, since funders tend to like measuring impact through specific projects. But if you stumble across one, receiving it can make a huge difference to your nonprofit’s work!
Capital support : Think of capital support as brick and mortar funding! These grants help your nonprofit purchase, renovate, or build needed facilities. They’re often for larger amounts. Because of that, they can require some extra details. Mainly, you’ll need to show the grantmaker that they can trust you to use it well!
Program development grants or restricted funding : Have a specific project or staffing position to fund ? These grants are restricted to specific purposes, so are a great option for those needs. For example, you might write a grant to fund a new after-school art program. Based on the grantmaker’s restrictions, the grant might cover the costs of purchasing paint, paper, and other art supplies to use in the program, but not the rent for the space where you’re hosting it.

Why Is Applying for Grants Important? Is it Right for Me?

There are several reasons why grant writing is important. Grant writing can:

Diversify your sources of revenue : Having a variety of revenue sources helps prevent financial emergencies . If one stream dries up, other sources are there to support you. Grants can give your nonprofit something to fall back on should, say, your individual donor contributions decrease during an economic downturn.
Serve as a source of non-dues revenue : If you’re a membership organization, grant writing lets you secure funding outside of dues . You can use this funding to create better programming to recruit more members to your organization. Win, win!
Help carry out what may seem like big dreams, programs, or initiatives : Sometimes a sizable grant set aside for a specific purpose is the resource you need to finally see a big project through. This is especially true if you’re already running a tight ship with your day-to-day expenses and don’t have the wiggle room to expand. Continuing with the art program example, a grant could help you buy a new kiln to start a ceramics program or fund an artist-in-residence program.
Offer funding without a required payback period : Particularly for capital projects, grants can provide a solution to what you might otherwise have to finance through a loan. It definitely takes strain off your budget to avoid monthly loan payments!
Increase the visibility of your organization : A lot of times, grantmakers will share press releases on which nonprofits they fund. They may also share your work on their social media and other marketing channels. This added bonus to the funding helps you reach a wider audience.
Increase the credibility of your organization : Have you ever trusted a business or organization more because a peer recommended it? So many of us do—including grantmakers!. As you find success with your grant writing, you build your nonprofit’s credibility and it may become easier to secure additional funding in the future.

How do I know if applying for a grant is right for me?

While any nonprofit, big or small, can apply for a grant, it’s important to keep in mind that grants are best for long-term projects and goals. If you’re looking for immediate financial aid, a grant won’t be able to support you the way you need. This is because the application cycle can be long, and you don’t want to be waiting if you’re in a pinch!

Where can I look for nonprofit grants?

There are many places you can look for nonprofit grant writing opportunities. Here are a few to get you started:

Google Alerts : Set up a Google Alert to receive a notification whenever new opportunities come up for your selected keywords. For example, if you’re funding an after school art program, you might set up alerts for “art program funding opportunity,” “after school art grants,” or “art grants for children.”
Government-Based Grant Foundations : Your state, province, or country will usually have a database for grant writing opportunities. If you’re based in the United States, Grants.gov is a great place to start.
Search Engines : You can find a lot of opportunities with some simple search engine research. Use keywords like the same ones you’ve used to set up Google Alerts.
Your Existing Network : You may have current donors or members who serve on foundation boards or run their own philanthropic opportunities. Reach out to your supporters and ask them about grants they know of that could fit your nonprofit.
Board Members : Board members are another great resource. See if the companies they work for offer grant writing opportunities. They may also have connections at other foundations or to friends in their network who offer grants to nonprofits like yours!
Other Nonprofits : Need some ideas on who might fund you? Take a look at nonprofits similar to yours to see where they’re getting their funding.
GrantWatch : GrantWatch is an online database that keeps current information on available grant writing opportunities within 60 different categories. It makes it easy to search for grants that could be good for your nonprofit.
GuideStar : This online database provides information on nonprofits everywhere. It’s a great way to identify similar nonprofits to yours and see where they’re receiving their grants. You can also use it to identify foundations that provide grants and learn more about them and who they have funded in the past.
Philanthropy News Digest : This free online service posts requests for proposals and grant notices for US-based nonprofit and grantmaking organizations. You can sign up for its newsletter and alerts and easily view the most recent opportunities by category and application deadline.
Candid’s Regional Giving Dashboards : This online service offers overviews of regional funding opportunities across the United States. Not based in the US? Keep an eye on it, as it may expand to include global opportunities in the future as well.

Essential Elements of a Grant

Usually, the two core elements of a grant are the grant proposal and the grant cover letter . Below, we’ve covered the essential parts of each of these components.

Nonprofit Grant Writing Cover Letter

Depending on your grant application, the cover letter may not be necessary. However, if your grant writing involves a cover letter, it should typically be one page in length and written on your nonprofit’s official letterhead.

Your cover letter is an overview of your funding ask. It grabs your potential funder’s attention and makes them want to look into your project. Think of it like a friendly elevator pitch that lands you an interview to learn more!

Here’s what you’ll typically want to include in your cover letter:

Brief project description
Expected impact of the grant
Requested grant support amount
Outline of what is included in your attached proposal
Mention of past grants you’ve received
Your contact information
Signature of your Executive Director or Development Director

Nonprofit Grant Writing Proposal

If your cover letter is what gets your foot in the door for an interview, we can think of the grant proposal as what gets you the job!

Your grant proposal builds the case for why the grantmaker should fund your project. It provides essential, persuasive details that give heft to anything already mentioned in your cover letter. Some grant funders will provide you with their own template for your application. Others may simply ask for a proposal. Be ready for both!

What is included may vary slightly by funder, but typically a proposal involves:

Overview/Abstract
Statement of Need/Need Assessment
Project Description
Budget & Budget Allocation
Organizational Background
Supporting Documents

Don’t forget to grab your FREE copy of The Nonprofit Grant Writing Cover Letter and Proposal Templates here.

Tips and Strategies for Grant Writing

Whether you decide to use a template or decide to free-style it, there are some key tips and strategies you want to keep in mind. Grant writing can feel intimidating, so it’s important you go in with the right information. This way, you’ll have the confidence that you’ll be writing a strong application.

In this section, we’ll cover key pointers for each stage of grant writing, including:

How to prepare for grant writing
Grant writing strategy and planning
Writing your grant

How to Prepare for Grant Writing

Before you even start mapping out your grant application, there are a few steps to take to prepare. You’ll want to:

Understand the audience, purpose, and expectations of your grant proposal : Read as much as you can to learn who will be reading your grant application and what they’re looking for. Know the purpose of the grant funding and the expectations the grantmaker will have if you receive the award. This can even help you find the right person to address your cover letter to, making it a lot more personal than using “Dear Foundation” as your salutation!
Tailor your proposal for a specific objective : Even if you’re applying for unrestricted funds, aim to be detailed in your funding ask. Framing your grant writing around a specific objective builds the case for why you should get the funding and the type of impact it’ll have for your nonprofit.
Understand the application’s guidelines and rules and follow them to a tee : Grantmakers typically have many high-quality applications to review. It can be hard for them to narrow it down to a winner! Avoid simple mistakes that could move you from the “yes” pile to the “no” pile, like getting the time zone wrong for the deadline or forgetting to include supplemental materials. You want your hard work to have the best chance possible! Have questions about the grant application’s rules? Reach out to the grant officer for clarification. Asking questions isn’t a weakness! It shows the grantmaker you pay attention and care enough to submit the best application possible.
Be realistic : As you review a grant’s guidelines, rules, and purpose, ask yourself whether your project is truly the right fit for that grant. There’s no need to waste your time writing the grant or the grantmaker’s time reviewing the application if your project doesn’t align with the grant’s goals.

Grant Writing Strategy and Planning

Before writing your grant, know what you need to cover within it. Having these answers before you start writing will make sure you cover the core ideas needed in your grant application. And ultimately, this makes sure you give the funder all the information they need to be convinced to award you the funding!

As well, during this stage, you’ll want to strategize and plan accordingly to make sure you’ve given yourself enough time. Set out time to draft and refine your grant application before your submission is due.

As you get started, make sure you know your answers to the following:

What is YOUR grant application timeline? This is one of the first and most important questions to ask yourself. Know when grant application periods open and close. Consider whether you have one or multiple grants to write during that period. Then, create a timeline for yourself so you have ample time to prepare your application with minimal stress and to not miss a deadline!
Why are you asking for the grant? From the beginning to the end of your grant writing process, focus on this question and build it into your entire narrative. Basically, you want to clearly know your need and how to convey it.
What will the impact and benefits be? On top of communicating what your needs are, you should be able to clearly state how this grant will address them. Help your funder envision the future they will help you create!
What will be your plan of action once you get the grant? Be prepared to start your project as soon as you receive the grant. Having a timeline for when different events and activities will occur demonstrates that you have an actionable plan to use the grant in a timely and effective manner.
What is your financial budget and plan for the funding received? You should be prepared with a detailed budget for your project. Rather than asking for a lump sum of money, be able to explain the different pieces that go into creating that total. Using the after-school art program example, you’ll want to share how much funding will go toward paint, brushes, paper, staff time, marketing , and rent.

Writing Your Grant

As you actually start writing your grant, there are some tips that can help strengthen your application. To write a successful grant application:

Be specific : Show that you’ve put thought and care into your funding proposal by being specific. For example, rather than saying you want to fund art opportunities for children, share how you will create those opportunities. You will begin an after school art program for children ages 5 to 10 in New York City that will employ three local artists who specialize in painting, collaging, and ceramics.
Be concise : While you want to be specific, you also want to be concise. Don’t make the funder search for the most relevant information in your grant application. Make every sentence count.
Avoid redundancy and repetition : One way to tighten up your application is to review it for repetition. Have you already explained something clearly in an earlier part of your application? No need to say the same thing again! If you’re building on it in a way that’s crucial to your application, keep it short and simple by adding a phrase like “as stated earlier”.
Make a clear ask : Don’t be shy about making your ask! Clearly state your need. For example: We are asking for a $5,000 donation to support an after-school art program. You can also use bullet points to draw attention to your ask and make it easy to understand.
Lead with your core idea : Start with your clear objective for the grant proposal and then make sure everything else you write links back to that core idea. Think of it as you would the thesis for an essay.
Demonstrate your past successes : When relevant, feel free to brag on your organization’s past successes with grants a bit! Mention others you’ve received and how you’ve put them to use. This shows the grantmaker that in the past, others have seen promise in your projects or mission. It also shows you’ve been able to use that money to make a positive difference. Funders may be more likely to give to an organization that already has experience managing grant funds.

Start Grant Writing With Smart Preparation and Strategy

We hope you found this guide to grant writing helpful! Yes, getting started with grant writing can feel like a lot, but with some simple preparation and strategy, you can take the process step by step for a successful submission and award!

Want to keep up to date with other nonprofit tips? Make sure to check out other articles on our blog !

And if you’re looking for additional ways to diversify your nonprofit funding and sources of income, check out our resource How to Write the Perfect Donation Letter (+ Examples & Template) .

Grants Manager Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Grants Manager cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Grants Manager Example 1
Grants Manager Example 2
Grants Manager Example 3
Cover Letter Writing Tips

Grants managers are responsible for all aspects of the grant-making process, from identifying potential grantees to monitoring the progress of funded projects. They also work with government agencies and private foundations to secure funding for their organization.

In order to be successful in this role, you need to be able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and have excellent writing and communication skills.

Use these examples and tips to write a cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition and land your dream job.

Grants Manager Cover Letter Example 1

I am excited to be applying for the Grants Manager position at the Foundation for Sustainable Communities. I have more than 10 years of experience managing grants and developing partnerships with government and nonprofit organizations. I am confident that I have the skills and experience to successfully manage the Foundation’s grant program and help the organization achieve its goals.

Most recently, I was the Grants Manager at the United Way of Greater Los Angeles. There, I was responsible for developing and managing a portfolio of grants totaling more than $10 million annually. I also managed a team of five staff members who were responsible for conducting due diligence on grant applications, monitoring grantee performance, and preparing reports for the Foundation’s Board of Directors.

I have a proven track record of success in developing and managing grants. I am a strategic thinker who can see the big picture and develop creative solutions that achieve the Foundation’s goals. I am also a detail-oriented problem solver who can manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience to be a successful Grants Manager at the Foundation for Sustainable Communities. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss this opportunity further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Grants Manager Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing in regards to the Grants Manager opening that I saw on your website. I am confident that I have the skills and experience that would make me the perfect candidate for the job.

I have been working in the grants management industry for the past three years and have a wealth of experience and knowledge in the field. I have a deep understanding of the grant-making process and am well-versed in all federal and state regulations governing the process. I am also an expert in grant writing and have successfully written and secured grants totaling millions of dollars.

I am a highly organized and efficient individual who is able to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines. I have a proven track record of success in the grants management industry and am confident that I can deliver the results that you are looking for.

I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you in further detail. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Grants Manager Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express my interest in the Grants Manager position that you have posted. I believe that my experience and education make me a strong candidate for this position.

I have been working as a grants manager for the past five years, and I have gained extensive experience in grant writing, proposal development, budgeting, and reporting. My most recent position was with the New York City Department of Education, where I managed all aspects of the department’s federal grant programs. I oversaw the preparation of all grant applications, including budgets and narrative sections. I also worked closely with the department’s senior staff to develop strategies for securing funding from various government agencies.

My previous experience has taught me how to work effectively with a wide range of people, including government officials, school administrators, and teachers. I am confident that I can use these skills to help your organization secure funding for its projects. I am also skilled at managing large teams of employees, which will allow me to coordinate the efforts of your existing staff members.

I would like to thank you for considering me for this position. I am confident that my experience and enthusiasm will allow me to contribute significantly to your organization’s success. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Grants Manager Cover Letter Writing Tips

1. show your experience.

Grants managers are responsible for all aspects of the grant-making process, from developing proposals to awarding funds to the right recipients. When applying for this position, it’s important to highlight your experience in the grants management field. Some great ways to do this include:

Describing the types of grants you’ve managed in the past and how you helped recipients achieve their goals.
Mentioning any awards or recognition you’ve received for your work in the grants management field.
Outlining the steps you took to develop a successful proposal.

2. Customize your cover letter

Just as you would for any other job, customize your cover letter by highlighting how your past experiences make you a strong candidate for the position. For example, if you have experience working with a certain type of grant, be sure to mention that in your cover letter.

3. Highlight your skills

In addition to experience, grants managers need to have a variety of skills in order to be successful in the role. Some key skills to highlight in your cover letter include:

Strong writing and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
Familiarity with government regulations

4. Proofread your cover letter

As with any other position, proofreading your cover letter is crucial. Make sure to spell-check and double-check that there are no errors in your resume or cover letter. Otherwise, you risk being disqualified before the employer even sees your qualifications.

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About Grants
How to Apply - Application Guide
Format and Write

Write Your Application

The following guidance may assist you in developing a strong application that allows reviewers to better evaluate the science and merit of your proposal. This page provides tips for demonstrating to reviewers and NIH staff the high quality of the personnel involved in your project and documenting resources and institutional support of the project. We provide information for new investigators and foreign applicants, as well.

Though the advice provided is relevant for all research grants, it is general in nature and geared toward the NIH Research Project (R01) . The tips should not replace your organization's internal guidance, specific advice provided by NIH program or grants management staff, or instructions found in the funding opportunity or application guide .

Where to Find Instructions for Writing Your Application

What Peer Reviewers Look For

Research Resources, Institutional Support and Available Expertise
Cover Letter & Assignment Request Form
Are You a New or Early Stage Investigator

Foreign Involvement: Institution and/or Investigator

Develop your budget, your research plan, additional elements required in a grant application, important writing tips, what to know before you start writing, where to find application instructions.

In addition to form-by-form, field-by-field instructions you'll find guidance on formatting attachments (fonts, margins, etc., developing a budget, and more.
Section IV. Application and Submission Information of each funding opportunity includes opportunity-specific instructions.
Notices posted in the NIH Guide for Grants & Contracts may contain corrections, clarifications, or announcement of new policies.

If instructions in the application guide and funding opportunity conflict, the opportunity wins. If instructions in either the application guide or funding opportunity conflict with an NIH Guide notice (including a Notice of Special Interest), the notice wins.

Careful preparation and an understanding of how your application will be reviewed can help you build a solid application. During NIH’s peer review process , we convene a panel of non-Federal scientists to review your application. Although a number of factors contribute to whether your application will be funded, we place great emphasis on the review of scientific merit. The following sections describe the criteria reviewers employ to evaluate applications. Read them carefully for helpful hints on the information and content you should include in the application to garner a favorable evaluation.

Overall Impact

Reviewers will provide an overall impact score to reflect their assessment of the likelihood for the project to exert a sustained, powerful influence on the research field(s) involved, in consideration of the following review criteria, and additional review criteria (as applicable for the project proposed).

Scored Review Criteria

Reviewers will consider each of the review criteria below in the determination of scientific and technical merit, and give a separate score for each. An application does not need to be strong in all categories to be judged likely to have major scientific impact. For example, a project that by its nature is not innovative may be essential to advance a field.

Significance. Does the project address an important problem or a critical barrier to progress in the field? Is there a strong scientific premise for the project? If the aims of the project are achieved, how will scientific knowledge, technical capability, and/or clinical practice be improved? How will successful completion of the aims change the concepts, methods, technologies, treatments, services, or preventative interventions that drive this field?

Investigator(s). Are the PD/PIs, collaborators, and other researchers well suited to the project? If Early Stage Investigators or New Investigators, or in the early stages of independent careers, do they have appropriate experience and training? If established, have they demonstrated an ongoing record of accomplishments that have advanced their field(s)? If the project is collaborative or multi-PD/PI, do the investigators have complementary and integrated expertise; are their leadership approach, governance and organizational structure appropriate for the project?

Innovation. Does the application challenge and seek to shift current research or clinical practice paradigms by utilizing novel theoretical concepts, approaches or methodologies, instrumentation, or interventions? Are the concepts, approaches or methodologies, instrumentation, or interventions novel to one field of research or novel in a broad sense? Is a refinement, improvement, or new application of theoretical concepts, approaches or methodologies, instrumentation, or interventions proposed?

Approach. Are the overall strategy, methodology, and analyses well-reasoned and appropriate to accomplish the specific aims of the project? Have the investigators presented strategies to ensure a robust and unbiased approach, as appropriate for the work proposed? Are potential problems, alternative strategies, and benchmarks for success presented? If the project is in the early stages of development, will the strategy establish feasibility and will particularly risky aspects be managed? Have the investigators presented adequate plans to address relevant biological variables, such as sex, for studies in vertebrate animals or human subjects? If the project involves clinical research, are the plans for 1) protection of human subjects from research risks, and 2) inclusion of minorities and members of both sexes/genders, as well as the inclusion of children, justified in terms of the scientific goals and research strategy proposed? Environment. Will the scientific environment in which the work will be done contribute to the probability of success? Are the institutional support, equipment and other physical resources available to the investigators adequate for the project proposed? Will the project benefit from unique features of the scientific environment, subject populations, or collaborative arrangements?

Note that an application does not need to be strong in all categories to be judged likely to have major scientific impact. For example, a project that by its nature is not innovative may be essential to advance a field.

Learn more about how applications are scored.

Additional Review Criteria

As applicable for the project proposed, reviewers will evaluate the following additional items while determining scientific and technical merit and in providing an overall impact score, but will not give separate scores for these items.

Protections for Human Subjects
Inclusion of Women, Minorities, and Children
Vertebrate Animals
Resubmission

Be sure to address any of these additional review criteria that apply to your application, as reviewers will consider them when assigning overall impact/priority scores.

Additional Review Considerations

As applicable for the project proposed, reviewers will consider each of the following items, but will not give scores for these items and should not consider them in providing an overall impact score.

Applications from Foreign Organizations
Select Agent
Resource Sharing Plans
Authentication of Key Biological and/or Chemical Resources
Budget and Period Support

Learn more about how applications are reviewed and scored on our peer review process page.

Research Resources, Institutional Support and Available Expertise

Sufficient information must be included to demonstrate to reviewers and NIH staff the high quality of the PD/PI, the co-investigators, available research resources, and the applicant institution and its support of the project.

Applicants should clearly state that they have the appropriate resources to conduct the research, such as adequate equipment and laboratory space. When possible, include letters of commitment for these resources.

Understand the level of resources needed to compete.
Conduct an organizational assessment.
Determine what resources and support your organization has and what additional support you'll need.
Consider whether the available equipment and facilities are adequate and whether the environment is conducive to the research.

Independence and Institutional Support

This is important for all investigators, but particularly for new and early stage investigators or those who are early in their independent careers:

Provide reviewers evidence that you have the appropriate experience and training to lead and manage the research project.
Letters of reference and institutional commitment are important.
Mention any start-up funds, support for a technician, etc. This is a positive indicator of institutional commitment to the peer reviewers.

Collaborators and Consultants

Determine the expertise needed for your research study team (individuals, collaborating organizations, resources, etc.). Most scientific work requires collaboration among researchers, and NIH is dedicated to fostering such relationships.

Include letters of commitment in your application that clearly spell out the roles of the collaborators. The grant application should contain a signed letter from each collaborator to the applicant that lists the contribution he or she intends to make and his or her commitment to the work. These letters are often the primary assurance the reviewers have that this work will in fact be done.
For consultants, letters should include rate/charge for consulting services.
The format, peer review and administration of applications submitted with multiple PIs do have some significant differences from the traditional single-PI application. Therefore, it is essential to consider all aspects of the funding mechanism before applying, regardless of the type of research proposal to be submitted.
All applicants proposing team science efforts are strongly encouraged to contact their NIH program officials at the earliest possible date to discuss the appropriateness submitting with multiple-PIs for the support of their research.

Cover Letter & PHS Assignment Request Form

Although optional in most cases, the Cover Letter attachment on the SF424 (R&R) form and the PHS Assignment Request Form can be used to convey information to the Division of Receipt and Referral (DRR) in the Center for Scientific Review.

Late applications
Required agency approvals, if needed (e.g., approval to submit application with budget period(s) of $500k or more)
Explanation of subaward budgets not active in all budget periods
Intent to submit a video
Anticipation of large-scale genomic data
Proposed use of human fetal tissue from elective abortions
A potentially appropriate institute or center assignment
NIH Scientific Review Group (SRG) Roster Index
Take advantage of the Assisted Referral Tool (ART)
Reviewers that may have a conflict of interest and why they should not be considered to review your application
Only NIH staff with a need to know are provided access to your assignment request and cover letter. Reviewers to not access to them.

Are You a New or Early Stage Investigator?

Determine whether you qualify as a new investigator based on the NIH definition of new investigator . NIH offers funding opportunities tailored to new investigators, such as the NIH Director's New Innovator Award . More information on NIH programs designed for new investigators can be found on the New Investigators Program Web page.
It is to your advantage to identify yourself as a new investigator because reviewers are instructed to give special consideration to new investigators. Reviewers will give greater consideration to the proposed approach, rather than the track record.
First-time applicants may have less preliminary data and fewer publications than more seasoned investigators, and NIH reviewers understand this. Reviewers instead place more emphasis on how the investigator has demonstrated that he or she is truly independent of any former mentors, whether he or she has some of his or her own resources and institutional support, and whether he or she is able to independently lead the research.
Foreign PD/PIs and those from foreign institutions should ensure their eligibility by checking the eligibility guidelines provided in every funding opportunity.
Foreign PD/PI's and those from foreign institutions are highly encouraged to contact a NIH program officer as soon as possible in the planning and writing stages.
Foreign applicants can learn more at our Information for Foreign Applicants and Grantees page.

This step will be one of your most time-consuming in the writing process.

Know what type of budget will be required to submit with your application (found in your funding opportunity).
Understand the various components of the budget, working with your institution’s central grants office and department administrator.
Contact NIH program officials regarding allowability and other budgetary questions.
For more information, see Develop Your Budget .

The research plan describes the proposed research, stating its significance and how it will be conducted. Remember, your application has two audiences: the majority of reviewers who will probably not be familiar with your techniques or field and a smaller number who will be familiar.

To succeed in peer review, you must win over the assigned reviewers . They act as your advocates in guiding the review panel's discussion of your application.
Write and organize your application so the primary reviewer can readily grasp and explain what you are proposing and advocate for your application.
Appeal to the reviewers and the funding ICs by using language that stresses the significance of your proposed work.

The following elements need to be included in the grant application as appropriate. Unless stated, these elements do not influence the rating (priority score) of the application. However, the reviewers are asked to comment on the adequacy of the information provided for each element. Any concerns the reviewers identify may negatively affect and postpone the granting of an award.

Bibliography & References Cited Provide a bibliography of any references cited in the Research Plan. Each reference must include the names of all authors (in the same sequence in which they appear in the publication; you can use “et al.” convention in place of listing all authors in a citation), the article and journal title, book title, volume number, page numbers, and year of publication. Make sure that only bibliographic citations are included. Be especially careful to follow scholarly practices in providing citations for source materials relied upon when preparing any section of the application.
Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare
PHS Policy Tutorial
What Investigators Need to Know About the Use of Animals (PDF)
Interactive training module: Vertebrate Animals Section (VAS) in Grant Applications
NIAID's tutorial: Requirement for Grantees Using Research Animals
Consortium/Contractual Arrangements Explain the programmatic, fiscal, and administrative arrangements to be made between the applicant organization and the consortium organization(s).
Consultants and Collaborators Attach appropriate letters from all consultants and collaborators confirming their roles in the project. For consultants, letters should include rate/charge for consulting services.
Facilities & Other Resources This information is used to assess the capability of the organizational resources available to perform the effort proposed. Identify the facilities to be used (Laboratory, Animal, Computer, Office, Clinical and Other). If appropriate, indicate their capacities, pertinent capabilities, relative proximity and extent of availability to the project. Describe only those resources that are directly applicable to the proposed work.
Inclusion of Women, Minorities and Children in Research Peer reviewers will also assess the adequacy of plans to include subjects from both genders, all racial and ethnic groups (and subgroups), and children, as appropriate, for the scientific goals of the research will be assessed. Plans for the recruitment and retention of subjects will also be evaluated. Check out the NIH inclusion of women and minorities policy website which has resources such as a decision tree to help you determine which of your studies are subject to NIH’s inclusion policy.
Multiple PD/PI For applications designating multiple PDs/PIs , you must include a leadership plan.
Other Plans(s) Applicants proposing to conduct research that will generate scientific data are subject to the NIH Data Management and Sharing (DMS) Policy and must attach a DMS Plan in this section. Note that applicants whose project also falls under NIH’s Genomic Data Sharing (GDS) Policy are expected to provide a single plan that covers the sharing of both scientific data and genomic data. See NIH’s DMS and GDS policies on the NIH Sharing website .
Page Limits Follow the page limits specified for the attachments in your grant application, unless otherwise specified in the funding opportunity.
Protection of Human Subjects from Research Risk Applicants must assure NIH that all human subjects are protected. Reviewers will assess the potential risk to human subjects in proposed research and evaluate what protections are in place to guard against any research-related risk. Awards cannot be made until assurances are on file with the Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP). Decision charts are presented that are helpful in thinking through relevant human subject protections issues (see http://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/policy/checklists/decisioncharts.html ).
Resource Sharing Plan(s) This section includes the Model Organisms Sharing plan when applicable. See NIH’s Model Organisms Sharing Policy .
Select Agents Identify any select agents to be used in the proposed research. Select agents are hazardous biological agents and toxins that HHS or USDA have identified as having the potential to pose a severe threat to public health and safety, to animal and plant health, or to animal and plant products. CDC maintains a list of HHS and USDA Select Agents and Toxins.
Use of Internet Sites NIH instituted a policy that prohibits the use of World Wide Web addresses (URLs) in grant applications in the place of text describing the same material. This is because of the potential for providing a large amount of extra material from a Web site beyond what would fit in the page limit, and thereby giving an unfair advantage to some applicants and a large additional burden for reviewers.

You’ve planned, you’ve researched, you understand the application…now it’s time to write. A well-written, well formatted application is an important key to success. Remember the details when formatting attachments !

Before you start writing the application, think about the budget and how it is related to your research plan. Remember that everything in the budget must be justified by the work you've proposed to do.
Be realistic. Don't propose more work than can be reasonably done during the proposed project period. Make sure that the personnel have appropriate scientific expertise and training. Make sure that the budget is reasonable and well-justified.

Start with an outline, following the suggested organization of the application. The thought process of the application should be easy to follow.

Note: Upon submission, NIH Systems will automatically add: headers, footers (time stamping, tracking number, funding opportunity number, and page numbers). Therefore, do not include headers or footers.

Write clear headings.
Use sub-headings, short paragraphs, and other techniques to make the application as easy to navigate as possible. Be specific and informative, and avoid redundancies.
Bookmark major sections.
Use diagrams, figures and tables, and include appropriate legends, to assist the reviewers to understand complex information. These should complement the text and be appropriately inserted. Make sure the figures and labels are readable in the size they will appear in the application.
Use bullets and numbered lists for effective organization. Indents and bold print add readability. Bolding highlights key concepts and allows reviewers to scan the pages and retrieve information quickly.
Utilize white space effectively.
Write a clear topic sentence for each paragraph with one main point or idea. This is key for readability.
Make your points as direct as possible. Avoid jargon or excessive language.
Write simple and clear sentences, keeping to about 20 words or less in each.
Be consistent with terms, references and writing style.
Use the active, rather than passive, voice. For example, write "We will develop an experiment, "not "An experiment will be developed."
Spell out all acronyms on first reference.
If writing is not your forte, seek help!
Include enough background information to enable an intelligent reader to understand your proposed work.
Support your idea with collaborators who have expertise that benefits the project.
Have zero tolerance for typographical errors, misspellings, grammatical mistakes or sloppy formatting. A sloppy or disorganized application may lead the reviewers to conclude that your research may be conducted in the same manner.
Remember the Details! There are format requirements , such as font size, margins, and spacing. Make sure you are familiar with them before submitting your application and label sections as directed. You don’t want your application delayed because any of these details are not incorporated.
If more than one investigator is contributing to the writing, it would be helpful to have one editor not only review for punctuation errors, but ensure that the application has a consistent writing style.
Request your colleagues or mentors review a first draft of your specific aims early in the process. This step can save lots of valuable time.
Allow time for an internal review by collaborators, colleagues, mentors and make revisions/edits from that review. If possible, have both experts in your field and those who are less familiar with your science provide feedback.
Ask those who are providing a review to use a critical eye and evaluate the application using the peer review criteria
Allow sufficient time to put the completed application aside, and then read it from a fresh vantage point yourself. Also, try proofreading by reading the application aloud.
Conduct your own review based on the NIH's five peer review criteria. How would you rate your own application?
Prior to submission, look over the entire grant application one final time. Remember, you want a convincing proposal that is also formatted according to the application guidelines, punctuation error-free, clear to read, and is to the point!

This page last updated on: April 10, 2023

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Grant Writer Cover Letter Examples

A great grant writer cover letter can help you stand out from the competition when applying for a job. Be sure to tailor your letter to the specific requirements listed in the job description, and highlight your most relevant or exceptional qualifications. The following grant writer cover letter example can give you some ideas on how to write your own letter.

Cover Letter Example (Text)

Sharonica Dono

(565) 649-1968

[email protected]

Dear Ms. Quillin,

I am writing to express my interest in the Grant Writer position at Palmetto Grant Consulting, as advertised. With a comprehensive background in grant writing and a proven track record of success at Resource Associates, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team. Over the past five years, I have honed my skills in researching grant opportunities, developing proposals, and managing grant processes, which I believe align perfectly with the mission and vision of your esteemed company.

During my tenure at Resource Associates, I was instrumental in securing funding for a diverse portfolio of clients, ranging from non-profit organizations to educational institutions. I have a keen eye for detail and a commitment to crafting compelling narratives that resonate with grant-makers. My efforts have directly led to the acquisition of significant funding, which has enabled these entities to further their valuable work in the community.

I am particularly drawn to the dynamic and collaborative environment at Palmetto Grant Consulting. Your dedication to helping organizations navigate the complexities of grant acquisition is inspiring, and I am eager to bring my own expertise to the table. I am confident that my strategic approach to grant writing, combined with my ability to work effectively under pressure, will make a significant contribution to your team's continued success.

Furthermore, I am well-versed in the latest trends and developments in the field of grant writing, and I am committed to ongoing professional development to ensure that my skills remain at the cutting edge. My goal is to not only meet but exceed your expectations by delivering high-quality work that translates into tangible results for your clients.

I am excited about the prospect of joining Palmetto Grant Consulting and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills will be beneficial to your organization. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and the success of your clients.

Warm regards,

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How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

I ’ve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If you’re thinking that sounds like really boring reading, you’re right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible — and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.

So let’s talk about how to do cover letters right.

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your résumé. Managers generally aren’t hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but they’re also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. It’s tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and that’s where your cover letter comes in.

Because of that …

Whatever you do, don’t just summarize your résumé.

The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their résumé. This makes no sense — hiring managers don’t need a summary of your résumé! It’s on the very next page! They’re about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page résumé and a one-page cover letter) — why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see don’t add anything new beyond the résumé itself (and that’s a conservative estimate).

Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if you’re applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail you’d bring to the job. That’s not something you could put on your résumé, but it can go in your cover letter.

Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor she’d ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you “the client whisperer” because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe you’re regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your résumé does, and they belong in your cover letter.

If you’re still stumped, pretend you’re writing an email to a friend about why you’d be great at the job. You probably wouldn’t do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? You’d talk about what you’re good at and how you’d approach the work. That’s what you want here.

You don’t need a creative opening line.

If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don’t. Just be simple and straightforward:

• “I’m writing to apply for your X position.”

• “I’d love to be considered for your X position.”

• “I’m interested in your X position because …”

• “I’m excited to apply for your X position.”

That’s it! Straightforward is fine — better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.

Show, don’t tell.

A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. That’s wasted space — the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that you’re great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.

Here’s a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, “I offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.” That’s pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most people’s cover letters read.)

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

“In addition to being flexible and responsive, I’m also a fanatic for details — particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.”

That second version is so much more compelling and interesting — and makes me believe that she really is great with details.

If there’s anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if you’re overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if you’re a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but you’re actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if you’re applying for a job across the country from where you live because you’re hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.

If you don’t provide that kind of context, it’s too easy for a hiring manager to decide you’re the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or don’t understand the job description and put you in the “no” pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, “No, wait — here’s why this could be a good match.”

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters — like law — in most fields, yours will stand out if it’s warm and conversational. Aim for the tone you’d use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didn’t know especially well. It’s okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you don’t go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.

Don’t use a form letter.

You don’t need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if you’re not customizing it to each job, you’re doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.

If you’re applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course you’ll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldn’t have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.

A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, that’s a sign that you haven’t made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.

No, you don’t need to hunt down the hiring manager’s name.

If you read much job-search advice, at some point you’ll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernstein–level research to hunt down the hiring manager’s name in order to open your letter with “Dear Matilda Jones.” You don’t need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.

Keep it under one page.

If your cover letters are longer than a page, you’re writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and don’t have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, it’s unlikely that you’re making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate — not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.

Don’t agonize over the small details.

What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that it’s well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really don’t matter. I get tons of questions from job seekers about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as it’s reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named “resume,” it’s courteous to name it with your full name).

Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the “maybe” pile (or even the “no” pile) to the “yes” pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your résumé — but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more interview invitations than 50 generic ones will.

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Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay

How to Write an Effective Essay

Writing an essay for college admission gives you a chance to use your authentic voice and show your personality. It's an excellent opportunity to personalize your application beyond your academic credentials, and a well-written essay can have a positive influence come decision time.

Want to know how to draft an essay for your college application ? Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing.

Tips for Essay Writing

A typical college application essay, also known as a personal statement, is 400-600 words. Although that may seem short, writing about yourself can be challenging. It's not something you want to rush or put off at the last moment. Think of it as a critical piece of the application process. Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor.

1. Start Early.

Few people write well under pressure. Try to complete your first draft a few weeks before you have to turn it in. Many advisers recommend starting as early as the summer before your senior year in high school. That way, you have ample time to think about the prompt and craft the best personal statement possible.

You don't have to work on your essay every day, but you'll want to give yourself time to revise and edit. You may discover that you want to change your topic or think of a better way to frame it. Either way, the sooner you start, the better.

2. Understand the Prompt and Instructions.

Before you begin the writing process, take time to understand what the college wants from you. The worst thing you can do is skim through the instructions and submit a piece that doesn't even fit the bare minimum requirements or address the essay topic. Look at the prompt, consider the required word count, and note any unique details each school wants.

3. Create a Strong Opener.

Students seeking help for their application essays often have trouble getting things started. It's a challenging writing process. Finding the right words to start can be the hardest part.

Spending more time working on your opener is always a good idea. The opening sentence sets the stage for the rest of your piece. The introductory paragraph is what piques the interest of the reader, and it can immediately set your essay apart from the others.

4. Stay on Topic.

One of the most important things to remember is to keep to the essay topic. If you're applying to 10 or more colleges, it's easy to veer off course with so many application essays.

A common mistake many students make is trying to fit previously written essays into the mold of another college's requirements. This seems like a time-saving way to avoid writing new pieces entirely, but it often backfires. The result is usually a final piece that's generic, unfocused, or confusing. Always write a new essay for every application, no matter how long it takes.

5. Think About Your Response.

Don't try to guess what the admissions officials want to read. Your essay will be easier to write─and more exciting to read─if you’re genuinely enthusiastic about your subject. Here’s an example: If all your friends are writing application essays about covid-19, it may be a good idea to avoid that topic, unless during the pandemic you had a vivid, life-changing experience you're burning to share. Whatever topic you choose, avoid canned responses. Be creative.

6. Focus on You.

Essay prompts typically give you plenty of latitude, but panel members expect you to focus on a subject that is personal (although not overly intimate) and particular to you. Admissions counselors say the best essays help them learn something about the candidate that they would never know from reading the rest of the application.

7. Stay True to Your Voice.

Use your usual vocabulary. Avoid fancy language you wouldn't use in real life. Imagine yourself reading this essay aloud to a classroom full of people who have never met you. Keep a confident tone. Be wary of words and phrases that undercut that tone.

8. Be Specific and Factual.

Capitalize on real-life experiences. Your essay may give you the time and space to explain why a particular achievement meant so much to you. But resist the urge to exaggerate and embellish. Admissions counselors read thousands of essays each year. They can easily spot a fake.

9. Edit and Proofread.

When you finish the final draft, run it through the spell checker on your computer. Then don’t read your essay for a few days. You'll be more apt to spot typos and awkward grammar when you reread it. After that, ask a teacher, parent, or college student (preferably an English or communications major) to give it a quick read. While you're at it, double-check your word count.

Writing essays for college admission can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. A well-crafted essay could be the deciding factor─in your favor. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll have no problem creating memorable pieces for every application.

What is the format of a college application essay?

Generally, essays for college admission follow a simple format that includes an opening paragraph, a lengthier body section, and a closing paragraph. You don't need to include a title, which will only take up extra space. Keep in mind that the exact format can vary from one college application to the next. Read the instructions and prompt for more guidance.

Most online applications will include a text box for your essay. If you're attaching it as a document, however, be sure to use a standard, 12-point font and use 1.5-spaced or double-spaced lines, unless the application specifies different font and spacing.

How do you start an essay?

The goal here is to use an attention grabber. Think of it as a way to reel the reader in and interest an admissions officer in what you have to say. There's no trick on how to start a college application essay. The best way you can approach this task is to flex your creative muscles and think outside the box.

You can start with openers such as relevant quotes, exciting anecdotes, or questions. Either way, the first sentence should be unique and intrigue the reader.

What should an essay include?

Every application essay you write should include details about yourself and past experiences. It's another opportunity to make yourself look like a fantastic applicant. Leverage your experiences. Tell a riveting story that fulfills the prompt.

What shouldn’t be included in an essay?

When writing a college application essay, it's usually best to avoid overly personal details and controversial topics. Although these topics might make for an intriguing essay, they can be tricky to express well. If you’re unsure if a topic is appropriate for your essay, check with your school counselor. An essay for college admission shouldn't include a list of achievements or academic accolades either. Your essay isn’t meant to be a rehashing of information the admissions panel can find elsewhere in your application.

How can you make your essay personal and interesting?

The best way to make your essay interesting is to write about something genuinely important to you. That could be an experience that changed your life or a valuable lesson that had an enormous impact on you. Whatever the case, speak from the heart, and be honest.

Is it OK to discuss mental health in an essay?

Mental health struggles can create challenges you must overcome during your education and could be an opportunity for you to show how you’ve handled challenges and overcome obstacles. If you’re considering writing your essay for college admission on this topic, consider talking to your school counselor or with an English teacher on how to frame the essay.

Tips for Grads: How to write a good cover letter

By Foram Gathia, PhD student

Writing a compelling cover letter is essential for making a positive impression on potential employers. Here’s a guide to crafting a strong cover letter:

Start with a Strong Introduction : Address the hiring manager by name if possible and mention the specific position you are applying for. Engage the reader with a captivating opening sentence that highlights your enthusiasm and sets the tone for the letter.
Highlight Your Relevant Skills and Experience : Tailor your cover letter to the job description by emphasizing the skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate. Provide specific examples of past achievements that demonstrate your qualifications for the role.
Showcase Your Personality and Passion : Use the cover letter as an opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the industry or company. Share insights into what motivates you and why you are excited about the opportunity.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge of the Company : Research the company and mention specific aspects that appeal to you or align with your values. This demonstrates your genuine interest and initiative.
Close with a Strong Call to Action : End the cover letter with a confident closing statement expressing your eagerness to further discuss your qualifications in an interview. Thank the employer for considering your application and include your contact information.

Remember to keep the cover letter concise, focusing on quality over quantity, and proofread carefully for grammar and spelling errors. A well-crafted cover letter can significantly enhance your job application and increase your chances of landing an interview.

These tips are based on the Beyond Graduate School cover letter webinar as well as the Harvard Business Review article “ How to Write a Cover Letter ”.

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COMMENTS

How To Write a Grant Proposal Cover Letter (With Example)
If you're planning to write a cover letter for your grant proposal, here are some helpful steps you can follow: 1. Use a formal header. At the top of a grant proposal cover letter, most professionals choose to include a formal header. In this section, you can include elements such as: Your contact information.
Writing a Grant Writer Cover Letters: Do's, Don'ts & Examples
Here are some tips on how to start a good cover letter for a grant: Use a formal header. Begin your cover letter with a professional header that includes your organization's name, address, phone number, and email. Address the funder personally. If possible, address the cover letter to a specific person by their name and title.
How to Write a Cover Letter for Your Grant Proposal
The address of the funder should be placed at the top of the letter. Format the address as: contact name, title, funder name, address. Use a formal introduction in the salutation, such as "Dear Mr/Mrs.". The letter should be signed by an appropriate official from your organization, such as the Executive Director.
Grant Proposal Cover Letter Sample: Expert Guide (Templates)
The following is a step-by-step process of how to write a grant proposal cover letter: Header. The top of the grant proposal cover letter should include a letter header. The organization's writer may opt to use a formal header to ensure the letter looks more professional. The information provided in the header will ensure that general ...
How to Write a Winning Cover Letter for Grants and Funding
2 Structure and Format. A successful cover letter should follow a clear and professional structure and format. It should be one page long, divided into three or four paragraphs, and use a standard ...
How to Compose a Professional Cover Letter for Grant Proposals
Ensure the letter's date corresponds to the date of your application proposal. 3. Constrain the letter to a single page, comprising three to four paragraphs. 4. Articulate your message with ...
How to Write a Great Grant Proposal Cover Letter
Final Formatting. Ensure the dates match since you'll have a date both in the cover letter and the main grant proposal. You don't want to send a proposal where the grant proposal has April 5th while the cover letter has November 27th. This goes for other files you'll send as well.
How to write a grant proposal: a step-by-step guide
Create your grant proposal. Create, send and eSign your grant proposals. Receive automatic follow-up reminders to keep the conversation going. Start a free trial. Step 1. Write a strong cover letter. Your cover letter is the perfect opportunity to capture the funder's attention and get your foot in the door.
Grant Writer Cover Letter Example and Template for 2024
San Jose, CA. 555-555-0188. mitchellingram.email.com May 9, 2023 Dear Hiring Manager, I'm pleased to submit my application for Grant Writer at Iron M. Circle Company. I'm a recent college graduate with two years of additional professional experience as an Assistant Grant Writer. With Iron M. Circle, I look forward to contributing to meaningful ...
How to Write a Winning Grant Cover Letter
1 Address the funder. The first element of a grant cover letter is to address the funder by name and title. This shows that you have done your research and that you are familiar with their mission ...
Grant Application Cover Letter
A Grant Application Cover Letter is a formal document that accompanies a grant application, typically addressed to a potential grantor or a funding organization. This letter serves as an introduction to the grant proposal, providing a concise overview of the project or program for which funding is sought. It plays a critical role in making a ...
How to Write an Effective Grant Proposal Cover Letter
Use your organization's letterhead. Put the same date on the cover letter that is on the completed grant application. That is the date you will send the grant proposal to the grantor. Using the same date makes all the documents in your proposal package consistent. For the inside address (goes at the top of the letter) use the foundation or ...
How To Write An Effective Grant Proposal
Include a sentence or two about what your organization does, and one research-based point that shows the need that your organization addresses. Limit your cover letter to one page with three or four paragraphs. Use the same date that you'll be sending the complete grant application to the funding source.
Cover letter for grant proposal: Sample & tips for success
Santa Fe, New Mexico 12345. [email protected]. 555-555-5555. With these tips & cover letter grant proposal sample, you should be well on your way towards writing a strong cover letter for grant proposals. For even more information on how to get a small business grant, check out our guide. If you are looking for more guidance on how ...
How To Write a Proposal Cover Letter (With an Example)
Here are some steps for how to write a proposal cover letter: 1. Include contact information. It's important that you include your contact information, your name, email, phone number, and the contact information of your organization, its name, email, phone number, website and even social media pages. This is because the reader of your proposal ...
How to Write a Grant Application for Your Organization
Elements of a grant proposal. Grant applications are organized in specific sections that help the reviewer parse through information quickly and find potential grantees. Here are the main elements to include in a grant proposal: Cover letter. Some, but not all, granting organizations ask that you include a cover letter to introduce yourself.
How to write a Winning Grant Proposal Cover Letter
Grant proposal cover letter is an introductory letter about your organization and your proposed project that you send to donors when requestin
2024 Grant Writer Cover Letter Example (+Free Tools & Guidance)
In a cover letter, Grant Writers should include the following: 1. Introduction: This should include a brief introduction of the organization, its mission, and the purpose of the grant request. It's important to make a strong first impression that engages the reader. 2.
How to Start Grant Writing (+ Templates)
Nonprofit Grant Writing Cover Letter. Depending on your grant application, the cover letter may not be necessary. However, if your grant writing involves a cover letter, it should typically be one page in length and written on your nonprofit's official letterhead. Your cover letter is an overview of your funding ask.
Grants Manager Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips
Grants Manager Cover Letter Writing Tips. 1. Show your experience. Grants managers are responsible for all aspects of the grant-making process, from developing proposals to awarding funds to the right recipients. When applying for this position, it's important to highlight your experience in the grants management field.
Write Your Application
Write Your Application. The following guidance may assist you in developing a strong application that allows reviewers to better evaluate the science and merit of your proposal. This page provides tips for demonstrating to reviewers and NIH staff the high quality of the personnel involved in your project and documenting resources and ...
Grant Writer Cover Letter Examples & Samples for 2024
Free Grant Writer cover letter example. Dear Mr. Lentz: When I learned of Clear Space's need for an experienced and productive Grant Writer, I felt compelled to submit my resume for your review. With more than 12 years of grant writing experience—coupled with an extensive network of local resources and donors—I feel confident in my ...
Grant Writer Cover Letter Examples and Templates
A great . grant writer cover letter can help you stand out from the competition when applying for a job. Be sure to tailor your letter to the specific requirements listed in the job description, and highlight your most relevant or exceptional qualifications. The following grant writer cover letter example can give you some ideas on how to write ...
How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job
When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test. ... $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying ...
Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay
Although that may seem short, writing about yourself can be challenging. It's not something you want to rush or put off at the last moment. Think of it as a critical piece of the application process. Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor. 1. Start Early. Few people write well under pressure.
Tips for Grads: How to write a good cover letter
Writing a compelling cover letter is essential for making a positive impression on potential employers. Here's a guide to crafting a strong cover letter: Start with a Strong Introduction: Address the hiring manager by name if possible and mention the specific position you are applying for. Engage the reader with a captivating opening sentence ...