So, you’ve poured your heart and soul into crafting the perfect grant application. You’ve meticulously checked every detail, and with a deep breath, you clicked “Submit.” Congratulations! But, as any seasoned grant writer knows, the journey doesn’t end there. In fact, in many ways, it’s just beginning.
What happens after you’ve sent off that crucial document? How do you ensure you’re prepared for the next steps? Let’s break down the essential post-submission strategies.
1. Secure Your Digital Footprint: Cloud Storage is Your Friend
In today’s digital age, keeping accessible copies of your electronic files is paramount. Forget dusty filing cabinets; embrace the cloud! Services like Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and Onehub offer secure, 24/7 access to your documents from any device.
- Why it matters:
- Quickly access your application for clarifications or to provide missing information.
- Ensure data security through encryption.
- Facilitate easy sharing with stakeholders.
2. Cultivate Connections: Staying in Touch with Your Team
Your grant application is a collaborative effort. Don’t let those connections fade after submission.
- Debrief and Share:
- Convene your team to review the application and answer questions.
- Provide copies of the final document, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
- Discuss “what-if” scenarios to prepare for various outcomes.
- Keep Partners in the Loop:
- Share funding timelines, contact information, and other relevant updates.
- Explore opportunities for continued collaboration and support.
3. The Waiting Game: Tracking Your Application’s Status
Patience is a virtue, especially in the world of grant writing. Understanding the typical wait times for different funding sources is crucial:
- Federal: Expect 3-8 months.
- State: Prepare for up to 9 months.
- Foundation/Corporate: Allow 3-18 months.
- Proactive Tracking:
- For government grants, engage your elected officials to track progress.
- For foundations and corporations, follow up respectfully after a reasonable period.
- Remember to be very polite when following up.
- Handling the Outcome:
- Be prepared to adjust your project plans if awarded less funding.
- If rejected, request feedback to improve future applications.
4. Dealing with Rejection, and Acceptance.
Rejection is a part of grant writing. Learn from it. Request the review comments, and ask to speak with program officers when available. On the other hand, learn the correct procedures for accepting grant money, and always have legal council look over contracts.
Key Takeaway:
Post-submission is a critical phase. By staying organized, maintaining communication, and proactively tracking your application, you’ll significantly increase your chances of success.
Grant writing is a process, and every application, whether successful or not, provides valuable learning experiences.