The 3 Keys to Exceptional Grant Applications
Successful engineering grant applications focus on clarity, credibility, and alignment
In the world of competitive funding, an exceptional grant application for an engineering project is more than just a well-written document; it is a strategic tool that reflects a deep understanding, thoughtful planning, and organizational readiness. Whether you’re applying for engineering technical assistance, planning, project development, or construction funding, the foundation of a successful grant application remains the same. Exceptional grant applications consistently demonstrate clarity, credibility, and alignment with the funder’s goals. Here are proven strategies to help our clients excel in each area of their grant-writing efforts.
Clarity
What goes into a successful grant application? While you likely have a list of requirements, it is often challenging to understand them and effectively build your case. Our approach to grant writing begins with ensuring clarity, as this is one of the most critical aspects of your application. If the funding agency finds your request unclear, your application is more likely to receive a low score—significantly reducing your chances of securing funding. Here are some aspects we assist our clients with during any grant application pursuit:
- Project Narrative: Craft a clear and compelling story. A well-structured project summary, including background information, current issues, and proposed solutions, helps reviewers grasp your situation and guides them through your application.
- Transparent Financial Planning: Grant applications must include a detailed financial summary, a comprehensive budget, funding sources, and identification of sources for matching contributions. Based on our successful grant applications, we understand that demonstrating financial commitment to the project is crucial for establishing credibility and viability.
Whether you're applying for engineering technical assistance, planning, project development, or construction funding, the foundation of a successful grant application remains the same. Exceptional grant applications consistently demonstrate clarity, credibility, and alignment with the funder's goals.
Credibility
Credibility in a grant application involves building a compelling case that the project is worth investing in. Applicants must demonstrate both the capacity to deliver and the significance of the project to the community. That’s why our grant writers use data, research, and proven results to support your claims and outline effective solutions. Here are key areas where credibility comes into play in your grant application:
- System Data and Engineering Reports: You may be required to provide several reports and data to support your application. Our team can assist in gathering these pieces of information to strengthen your case. Depending on the grant’s requirements, we’ve seen applications warrant current system details, sustainability assessments, and submission of a Preliminary Engineering Report prepared by a licensed engineer. Be prepared to provide ample data to support your claims, as these elements will bolster your credibility.
- Environmental Assessments and Compliance: Some projects might require Environmental Assessments (EAs) to comply with the Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). These assessments evaluate and mitigate environmental impacts and are often integrated into the engineering report, revisiting them as necessary if the project scope changes.
Alignment
Every application must align with the grant program’s expectations and deliverables. Failing to meet a funding agency’s guidelines can lead to additional engineering and environmental reviews, delays, and increased costs as your application is brought into compliance. We encourage building strong relationships with potential funding agencies—especially by connecting early with grant administrators. Ask questions often and proactively. Our approach emphasizes the value of planning early and often to ensure smoother, more successful grant submissions.
Your Next Steps
Creating a successful grant application involves many variables, from funding agencies to program-specific requirements. Keeping key factors—clarity, credibility, and alignment—in mind as we collaborate on your application helps maintain focus for a successful outcome.
At Morrison-Maierle, we understand that crafting a well-written grant application and all its components requires a detailed and thoughtful process. Our extensive experience in developing these applications, coupled with a team dedicated solely to grant writing and administration, positions us well to support you. Many of our most successful projects started as ideas, followed closely by securing funding to realize them.
Our engineers and grant specialists are eager to learn more about your project and assist you in identifying opportunities while submitting competitive applications and meeting ongoing grant requirements confidently.
About The Author
As our Grant Manager, Julie Hofbauer takes pride in helping her clients find funding assistance to turn their project ideas into a reality.
Learn more about Julie
