Every grant proposal we receive represents an opportunity to improve the health and well-being of our community members. Whether you’re applying for the first time or returning with a new project, our goal is to make the grant process collaborative, transparent, and approachable. While every proposal is unique, there are several common elements we consistently look for in strong applications.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare your proposal.
What We’re Looking for: The Basics
Before diving into your application, start with these foundational questions. If you can confidently answer “yes” to all of these, you’re headed in the right direction.
- Are you a nonprofit organization?
- Does your project or program specifically impact residents of Kosciusko County?
- Does your project or program align with at least one of our four Health Pillars?
- Community Culture & Wellbeing
- Direct Services & Prevention
- Health Access & Opportunity
- Youth Development & Activity
- Does your project or program support K21’s mission?
- Have you connected with a member of our team about your project or program?
What We’re Looking for: Best Practices
A strong grant proposal demonstrates thoughtful planning, community understanding and long-term impact. Here are several tips that can help strengthen your application:
Be Clear and Concise
One of the most important things you can do is clearly explain the need or opportunity your project or program addresses and exactly what you are requesting funding for. Avoid overly broad language; instead, focus on clear, direct communication. The clearer your proposal is, the easier it is for our team to understand your vision, goals and community impact.
Be Specific About “Who” and “How”
Help us clearly understand who in the community will receive your services and how they will benefit from your program or project. Are you serving youth, families, older adults, underserved populations or another group within the community? How will their wellbeing improve because of this project?
While organizations do not need to be physically headquartered in Kosciusko County, projects or programs must directly benefit Kosciusko County residents.
Diversify Your Funding Sources
You do not need to have every dollar secured before applying, but we appreciate seeing organizations pursue multiple funding opportunities. Demonstrating additional financial support shows investment and shared commitment to the project’s success.
Demonstrate Organizational Capacity and Readiness
Great ideas are important, but successful implementation also requires organizational readiness and stability. As part of our review process, we evaluate an organization’s overall capacity, including leadership and board governance, financial management, organizational structure, strategic planning, and more.
Strong applications demonstrate the foundation necessary to responsibly manage professional grant funding and carry out the proposed work.
Numbers Help Tell Your Story
Don’t overlook the data! Data and financial details are essential components of a strong proposal. Thoughtful financial planning helps build confidence in both the project or program and the organization behind it. A clear breakdown of how the grant dollars will be used and how costs were determined contributes to a more compelling and credible application.
What We’re Looking for: Relationships
Relationships are central to how we work with our grantee partners. We’re a grantmaker, but our impact goes beyond grantmaking. We draw upon our relationships and share our expertise to help find the right solution for each opportunity and challenge, creating value by connecting individuals with the resources they need for their next best step.
That’s why we strongly encourage organizations to connect with our team before starting the grant application process. Early conversations can help:
- Clarify project or program alignment with K21’s mission and Health Pillars
- Answer questions about the application process
- Explore how your project or program fits within broader community needs
Learn more about the grant process and how to apply.
Our team would love to meet with you before you apply for a grant. Please contact us to schedule a call or a meeting. We’re excited to learn more about the work you’re doing!
