Top Mistakes Grant Seekers Make—and How to Avoid Them

Let’s be honest—applying for grants can feel like a marathon. There’s a lot at stake, and with so many steps involved, it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. But here’s the good news: those mistakes can be avoided. And by learning from the common pitfalls other grant seekers fall into, you can give your application a much better chance of success.

In this article, we’re going to walk through the top mistakes grant seekers make (and how to avoid them like a pro!). From the wrong timing to overlooking key details, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to get your application noticed for all the right reasons.

1. Mistake #1: Not Reading the Guidelines (Yes, We Know It’s Boring)

We get it—no one likes reading long, detailed documents, especially when you’re excited about the opportunity. But not reading the guidelines thoroughly is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Funders provide these guidelines for a reason: they outline exactly what they’re looking for, including eligibility criteria, required documents, and deadlines. Skipping over this info could mean missing out on the chance to apply altogether.

How to Avoid It:
Take the time to sit down and read the guidelines carefully. Highlight key points, make notes, and double-check eligibility requirements before you start drafting your application. Trust us, this extra time spent will save you a ton of headaches later!

2. Mistake #2: Applying for the Wrong Grant (Square Peg, Round Hole)

Just because a grant exists doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you. Applying for a grant that doesn’t align with your project or mission is a recipe for frustration. Many grant seekers make the mistake of applying for any grant they come across, without considering whether it truly meets their needs.

How to Avoid It:
Instead of applying for every grant under the sun, be selective. Use tools like Grant’d to find grants that match your organisation’s goals, values, and capacity. The more aligned the grant is with your mission, the higher your chances of success. Make sure the funding criteria fit your project’s scope and impact.

3. Mistake #3: Rushing the Application Process (This Isn’t a Race)

Rushing through the application process is one of the most common (and avoidable!) mistakes grant seekers make. Whether it’s submitting a proposal minutes before the deadline or overlooking key questions, rushing can lead to errors, missed details, and ultimately, a rejected application.

How to Avoid It:
Give yourself plenty of time to work on your grant application. Start early, so you have room to polish your answers, collect the necessary documents, and get feedback from colleagues. Using a platform like Grant’d can help you track deadlines and organize all your submissions, making sure nothing slips through the cracks.

4. Mistake #4: Focusing Too Much on the Money (It’s About the Mission, Too)

We get it—securing funding is the end goal. But focusing solely on the money in your application can be a big turn-off for funders. They want to see how the grant will be used to drive real impact, not just fill your organisation’s coffers.

How to Avoid It:
Instead of fixating on the dollar amount, focus on your mission. Tell a compelling story about how the grant will help your organisation achieve its goals and create meaningful change. Funders want to invest in projects that will make a difference, so show them how your project will do just that.

5. Mistake #5: Overcomplicating the Budget (Keep It Simple, Smarty)

Creating a budget for a grant application can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Many applicants make the mistake of overcomplicating their budget, adding unnecessary details or unclear cost breakdowns. Funders appreciate transparency and simplicity, so keep it clear and to the point.

How to Avoid It:
When it comes to your budget, keep things simple. Use clear headings and break down your costs logically. If you’re unsure of how to format your budget, check if the funder provides a template or specific guidelines. A clean, straightforward budget makes it easier for funders to understand how their money will be used.

6. Mistake #6: Underestimating the Importance of Budget Accuracy (The Devil’s in the Details)

Many applicants overlook the finer details when it comes to preparing a budget for their grant application. While creating a budget may seem straightforward, funders expect accuracy and clarity in how the grant funds will be allocated. Failing to include eligible expenses or not aligning the budget with the grant’s scope can raise red flags.

How to Avoid It:
Make sure you include all eligible expense items in the budget for the grant amount as well as the full project costs. Get help from your accountant if you’re unsure. And here’s a pro tip: make sure that whatever is in your budget is also reflected in the grant application. For example, if you’re planning to recruit a workshop facilitator using the grant, their costs need to be in the budget.

7. Mistake #7: Failing to Measure Impact (Data = Power)

A common mistake grant seekers make is failing to explain how they’ll measure the impact of their project. Funders want to see the results of their investment, so including measurable outcomes in your application is critical.

How to Avoid It:
In your application, clearly define how you’ll measure success. Whether it’s the number of people you’ll serve, the improvement in a community issue, or another metric, funders want to see tangible results. Include a section on how you’ll track and report on your project’s impact over time.

8. Mistake #8: Sending the Same Application to Multiple Funders (One Size Does Not Fit All)

Tempted to copy and paste the same application to multiple funders? While it might save time, this approach can hurt your chances. Each funder has its own priorities and criteria, and tailoring your application to meet their specific requirements is crucial.

How to Avoid It:
Customise each grant application to fit the funder’s unique priorities. Show them that you’ve taken the time to understand their mission and how your project aligns with it. Personalising your application shows funders that you’re committed to making the partnership work.

9. Mistake #9: Ignoring the Importance of Relationships (It’s All About Connections)

Grants aren’t just about paperwork—they’re also about relationships. Many grant seekers overlook the importance of building relationships with funders, but this can be a game-changer in getting your application noticed.

How to Avoid It:
Take the time to build relationships with funders before applying. Attend their events, engage with them on social media, and stay in touch. Building a rapport can help your application stand out and show funders that you’re serious about the partnership.

Conclusion: Avoid the Pitfalls and Win the Grants You Deserve

Grant seeking is an art, and like any art, it takes time, patience, and attention to detail. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be putting yourself in a much better position to win the grants you deserve.

Remember, Grant’d is here to help you every step of the way. From finding the right opportunities to tracking your applications and staying organised, we’re your go-to partner for grant success. Let’s make your grant applications shine—and turn your vision into reality.