Grant writing is both an art and a science, but even the most innovative projects can fail if the application contains critical mistakes. Here are seven common errors that consistently lead to rejections, and how to avoid them.

1. Failing to Follow Guidelines Exactly

The fastest way to get your application rejected is to ignore the funder's guidelines. This includes:

Exceeding page limits

Using the wrong font or formatting

Missing required sections

Submitting past the deadline

**Solution:** Create a checklist from the guidelines and review it multiple times before submission.

2. Weak Problem Statement

Many applications fail to clearly articulate the problem they're solving. Your problem statement should be:

Specific and measurable

Supported by credible data

Relevant to the funder's priorities

Compelling enough to demand action

**Solution:** Start with statistics, use local data when possible, and connect the problem to broader societal issues.

3. Unrealistic Budget

Budget errors fall into two categories: overestimating and underestimating costs. Both are problematic:

Overestimating makes you look wasteful

Underestimating suggests poor planning

**Solution:** Research actual costs thoroughly, get quotes for major items, and include a contingency of 5-10%.

4. Vague Impact Measurement

Funders want to know their investment will make a difference. Avoid vague statements like "help people" or "make a positive impact."

**Solution:** Define specific, measurable outcomes with clear metrics and timelines.

5. Poor Project Timeline

Unrealistic timelines signal poor project management skills. Common mistakes include:

Not allowing enough time for key activities

Ignoring seasonal factors

Failing to account for procurement delays

**Solution:** Work backwards from your end date and add buffer time for critical path activities.

6. Ignoring Organizational Capacity

Don't assume funders will take your word that you can deliver. You need to demonstrate:

Relevant experience

Qualified staff

Appropriate infrastructure

Strong partnerships

**Solution:** Include brief bios of key staff and highlight relevant past successes.

7. Generic, Template-Based Writing

Form letters are obvious and ineffective. Each application should be tailored to:

The specific funder's priorities

Their preferred language and terminology

Their funding history and values

**Solution:** Research the funder thoroughly and customize your approach for each application.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common mistakes won't guarantee funding, but it will ensure your application gets serious consideration. Remember, grant reviewers are looking for reasons to fund projects, not reject them. Give them what they need to say yes.

The key is preparation, attention to detail, and genuine alignment between your project and the funder's mission. Take the time to get these fundamentals right, and your success rate will improve dramatically.

7 Common Grant Writing Mistakes That Kill Applications