You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are just a few:

Q: If you’re applying to a foundation that supports operating costs as well as programs, should you build a relationship first by going for a program-related grant, and then follow up the next year with an operating cost grant, or can you go right for the operating costs? Which is more likely to get funded, in your opinion?

A: Most funders will want to start out with a program grant to test you out. But I would recommend contacting them, explaining that you are interested in both, and getting their suggestion. Each funder is very different, as I am sure you know.

Q: If a foundation has a grant range of $5K-$25K and an average grant size of $15K, what’s the best number to pick for your first grant request to them?

A: This is another great question to ask when you speak with the funder. Generally, a first grant is going to be on the lower end. With no other info, I would probably ask for $15K. A first grant will probably be less than the funder’s average grant size, but it is always good to ask for a bit more than you expect. Just make sure you ask for only a fraction of the total project budget.

Q: If you are pursuing other funding for a project but have not been approved for it yet, do you include that in a new proposal?

A: In the Request for Proposal or Grant Guidelines, you will often be asked about other pending funding and/or your financial sustainability strategy. These are great opportunities to talk about other grants you are pursuing.

Good news! These questions are exactly the kind we answer in the Grantwriter’s FastTrack Coaching Program. You will also get to practice a grantmaker-grantseeker conversation where you can ask these questions (and many more I suggest) during a role play, in preparation for the real thing.