Q: What happens if 2 or more grant applications come through for the same program?

A: That is an enviable situation to be in! Assuming that the total amount awarded is more than the program’s total budget, you should re-assess your situation. Can you do more of the same program with a larger budget? Save the funds for the next fiscal year? Or would you prefer to use the extra funds for another program or for general operating support? Once you know your ideal plan, explain your situation to the funder(s) and try to negotiate a good alternate use of the grant. The main thing is to always maintain transparency by letting your funders know if you have any plans to use their funds in ways other than described in your proposal. Chances are, the funders will be pleased to hear of your so-called predicament.

Q: Would you recommend including a picture or two in a grant proposal”? Our organization works on adaptation to environmental concerns. We could send photos of wildfires burning homes and forests. What do you think?

A- Generally speaking, pictures are not welcome by funders in proposals because of the bulk. I also think funders have seen enough pictures of wildfires in the news. Overall, keep your communications concise and don’t repeat information that is already well-known (e.g., “climate change impacts all.”)

*** A reader of mine, Kathy Hogan from Make-A-Wish Alaska and Washington, had a different perspective. She regularly uses photos in her grant proposals. She says, “I’ve asked funders and they have been receptive to this. I think it’s akin to the culture the Internet has produced – lots of pictures and few words.”

Kathy may be on to something! I think it’s going to depend on specific funders and their processes (e.g., online proposal capacity to attach photos, strict page count policies, etc.). It sounds like it may be worth asking your potential funders whenever you have the opportunity.

PS: You can find more “”Ask Dalya” questions and answers HERE.