How to secure a grant

A parking lot with multiple potted plants and bushes lined up along the edge. Several shovels and other gardening tools are laid on the ground next to the plants. In the background, a black pickup truck with its door open is parked, and there is a wooded area.
Grants are one of the most common ways that Friends Groups fund their projects. Grants can also take many forms, so here are a few general tips for finding the right funding fit for your group.

Grant funding can significantly boost a Friends Group’s income. Ideally, seek grants that support your general fund instead of a specific project (refer to our post on Restricted Funds). Grants may be provided upfront or as reimbursements, and some funders might require a financial match from your group.

Given the diversity in grants and their purposes, a universal approach to securing them is impractical. Nevertheless, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind when pursuing grant funding for your group.

General Tips:

  • Do your research! There are a lot of funding opportunities out there, so figuring out which one is the best fit for your organization is your first step. Remember: the funder is just as invested in finding a project that fits their needs as you are in finding a funder that fits your project.
  • Read the grant materials carefully. Most funders will provide a set of requirements, and it is important to read these from beginning to end – many funding decisions come down to how well the applicant’s proposal matches the guidelines laid out in this document.
  • Keep it short and sweet. Funders have to read a lot of applications! Making your pitch as concise as possible will help reviewers overwhelmed by proposals to understand your request.
  • Have a theory of change. How will this funding make achieving your group’s goals possible? Being clear, specific, and persuasive here will boost your case with the reviewer.
  • Be detailed. Whatever you’re seeking funding for, reviewers like to see proof that you’ve really thought it through. A convincing theory of change, realistic budget, and achievable workplan will boost your standing in the eyes of most reviewers.

Funder Examples:

Nonprofits
  • Freshwater Future
  • Laura Jane Musser Fund
  • Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota
Government Entities
  • Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
  • Greater Minnesota Regional Parks & Trails Commission
  • Minnesota Department of Transportation
BUsinesses:
  • Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s
  • Clif Bar Family Foundation
  • Energy Cooperatives

To learn more about these and other funders, you can investigate the links below!

Getting started:

  • Our grants directory
  • Friends Group grants
  • What are Restricted Funds?
  • Applying for grants as a fiscal client

More Resources: