5 Insider Tips for Applying for Grants

1. Start with a plan. Work with your colleagues or volunteers to develop a project outline before you even begin drafting the application. Rough out the who, what, when, where, why, and how first. Developing a logic model is a great way to work through this process—and can take time, so don’t delay!
2. Carefully review grant opportunity guidelines and deadlines. Make sure you spend time thinking critically about how your proposed program may or may not align to those guidelines so that you can highlight the strongest aspects or consider a better fit.
3. Talk with a program officer about the plan you have developed for your project. Program officers can provide invaluable guidance and insights about alignment, timing, and potential collaborators.
4. If you’re ready to apply for a Hampton Roads Community Foundation grant, visit our online application portal here.
   1. Contact Gina Kelly if you’re not sure whether your organization already has an account. She can also help you if you’ve forgotten your password. If you’re uncertain, please do not create a new account. Simply use the “Forgot Password” link or reach out to Gina via grants@hamptonroadscf.org. We are here to help!
5. Feel free to preview grant applications before you commit to starting one. Just be sure that once you’re ready to start drafting, you exit “preview mode” and choose “apply” to enter into a live application. Remember, your application cannot be saved or submitted in preview mode!

April 1 is the next Hampton Roads Community Foundation grant deadline. We will award competitive community grants to nonprofits working in the Cultural Vitality and Educational Success program areas. Learn more about the application process and find other helpful tips here.