Pathways to Business Success Through Grant Writing

by Lillian Sherrod, NCBW National Economic Empowerment Committee Member (Greater Cleveland Chapter)

If you’re a small business owner, there’s a good chance you are constantly researching ways to grow your business, and that takes capital.  You may have considered writing a grant to fund a specific project, but have just not gotten around to writing one due to time constraints, lack of knowledge of grant writing, etc. If you are contemplating writing a grant, here is some good news: 1) You don’t have to be a skilled grant writer in order to write a grant. There are many resources available to assist you with the process. If you perform searches on Google and YouTube, you will find a wealth of information on the grant writing process. 2) There are a myriad of funding sources available; choosing the correct ones is the key to success in the grant writing process. It is crucial to identify grantors whose goals align with those of your small business. Additionally, it is important to recognize that certain grants may only apply to specific demographics or industries.

Let’s take a look at some of the funding sources. Funding sources usually fall into the following categories, each offering unique opportunities for small businesses:

Federal Grants – Funded by the US government, these grants often have stringent requirements but can provide substantial funding.

State Grants – Many states have their own grant programs designed to support small businesses within their jurisdiction.

Private Grants – Many foundations and corporations offer grants to small businesses, often with specific focuses or criteria.

Specific Industry Grants – Some grants target specific industries, providing funding tailored to the unique needs and challenges of those sectors.

 

Grant Funders

The following is a list of a few grant funders. Some of these funders are especially friendly towards Black-owned female businesses:

• Comcast Rise: https://www.comcastrise.com
• FedEx Small Business Grant: https://www.fedex.com/en-us/small-business.html
• Freed Fellowship: https://freedfellowship.com
• HerRise Microgrant: https://hersuitespot.com
• IFW: https://www.ifundwomen.com
• Minority Business Development Agency: https://www.mbda.gov
• NAACP Powershift Entrepreneur Grant: https://naacp.org
• National Association of the Self-Employed: https://www.nase.org
• The Amplifier Grant: https://www.the-outrage.com
• US Government: https://www.grants.gov
• WomensNet Amber Grant: https://ambergrantsforwomen.com

 

What to Include in a Grant Proposal

A well-crafted grant proposal typically includes the following components:

Cover Letter: This letter introduces the grantor to your business and extols the virtues of your small business.

 Table of Contents: Useful if the grant proposal has many pages, helping the reader navigate the document.

 Executive Summary: Provides a brief overview of the entire proposal, summarizing its key points.

 Problem Statement: Identifies the specific issue or need that your project addresses.

 Project Description: This is the main section of the proposal and provides detailed information on how the project will function. This is where the grant writer tells their compelling story.

Budget: Clearly mention all costs associated with the project, providing a detailed budget.

Detailed Organization Information: Highlight who the organization is, providing background and key details about your business. Demonstrate support that your organization is currently receiving.

Conclusion: Summarize and restate reasons for grant submittal.

Appendix & Supporting Materials: List all attachments and supporting documents.

 

Important Steps for Submitting a Grant to a Funder

Follow these essential steps to ensure your grant proposal is successfully submitted:

• Register and Create an Account: If required, register on the funder’s portal.
• Understand the Grant’s Requirements: Thoroughly review the guidelines, including eligibility criteria.
• Goals & Objectives: Make sure goals stated in proposal are specific, measurable, achievable, related and time-bound (S.M.A.R.T.)
• Proofread Carefully: Correct any spelling and grammatical errors to ensure your proposal is polished.
• Provide on Proper Form: Ensure all forms and documents are completed correctly and provided as required.
• Submit the Application: Follow the specific instructions for submitting your application.
• Adhere to Deadlines: Proposal must be submitted on or before the stated deadline.

By carefully following these guidelines and submitting a thorough, well-prepared grant proposal, your small business can increase its chances of securing the funding needed for growth and enjoy pathways to business success!

 

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Sources:

MrGrantMoney, How To Write A Grant Proposal Step-by-Step https://tinyurl.com/2nmx44cz

OpenGrants, How to Write Grants: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners https://tinyurl.com/mu55bf86

AWIS, Tips for Writing a Successful Grant Proposal https://tinyurl.com/26nafasd

NerdWallet, 41 Small-Business Grants for Women: Free Funding in 2025 https://tinyurl.com/es9warfr