Winning Grants Step by Step: The Complete Workbook for Planning, Developing, and Writing Successful Proposals

by Lynn Jenkins English, Tori O'Neal-McElrath, Lynn Kanter

Overview

The gold standard “how-to” manual for writing a winning grant application or proposal, thoroughly updated and revised

In the newly revised sixth edition of Winning Grants Step by Step: The Complete Workbook for Planning, Developing and Writing Successful Proposals, a team of veteran nonprofit leaders delivers the most up-to-date and straightforward version of this book yet. This easy-to-read manual enables individuals and organizations alike to combine concepts and research into a strong, effective proposal.

The latest edition explores some of the most relevant developments that have occurred over the last five years, including:

• New information and strategies for prospect research, including state-of-the art databases and AI-enabled research and prospecting
• How to use AI for research and writing in a ways that are ethical, transparent, strategic, and efficient
• Updated resources and information for electronically submitted grants
• Updated guidelines and tips for federal, state, and local government grants in the US
• New information about the increasing popularity of Donor Advised Funds (DAFs)
• Updated discussions about mega-donors (like Mackenzie Scott and Melinda Gates) and how they give

Perfect for nonprofit executives, professionals, fundraisers, grant and proposal writers, and other stakeholders, Winning Grants Step-by-Step is the most clear-cut and simplified “how-to” guide to writing a winning proposal that incorporates the latest changes in the philanthropic sector and nonprofit community.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781394321612
Publisher:	Wiley
Publication date:	04/22/2025
Series:	The Jossey-Bass Nonprofit Guidebook Series
Edition description:	6th ed.
Pages:	176
Product dimensions:	8.40(w) x 10.70(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Tori O'Neal-McElrath is the Vice President of External Affairs at Demos, a United States based nonprofit think-and-do tank that combines research, policy development, and advocacy to influence public debate and catalyze change.

Lynn Kanter is a consultant for national nonprofits, writing and editing a broad range of fundraising, communications, and organizational outreach materials.

Lynn English is a strategy and resource development consultant in fundraising, strategic planning, and program development for community-based and national nonprofit organizations and foundations.

Table of Contents

How to Use This Workbook xi

Introduction: An Overview of the Grantseeking Process 1

Step 1 Develop a Proposal Idea That Serves Your Mission 21

Step 2 Write a Compelling Statement of Need 29

Step 3 Define Clear Goals, Objectives, and Strategies 39

Step 4 Prepare the Evaluation Component 57

Step 5 Write the Organizational Background Statement 69

Step 6 Develop a Statement of Sustainability 79

Step 7 Develop the Proposal Budget 85

Step 8 Write the Proposal Summary 101

Step 9 Submit the Application 107

Resources

A. Sample Proposal 115

B. How to Research Funders 125

C. Resources for Grantseekers 131

D. Sample Cultivation Calendar 133

List of Figures, Samples, and Worksheets 139

Acknowledgments 141

About the Authors 143

Index 145

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

"Times have changed and your writing styles and process must change with it. The authors of Winning Grants, Sixth Edition, are veterans who can get you up to speed on that winning proposal quickly."
—Ayo Atterberry, Chief of Staff, Common Cause

"This book is essential to the grantwriting process! Helping grantwriters to understand the process of winning grants while being able to remain true to their mission, goals and values is at the core of this edition, and includes invaluable information about public funding."
—Briana Barrino LCSW, PPSC, School Social Worker, Menifee Union School District

"From its earliest version to the recent one updated for the newest technology, such as AI, Winning Grants Step by Step is an indispensable resource to people who are newer to grantwriting. Both the art and science of grantwriting is addressed and helps the reader understand how to analyze grant proposal opportunities and how to put their strongest foot forward."
—Kathy Ko Chin, CEO, Jasper Inclusion Advisors LLC

"As a non-profit administrator who has worn many hats, from program manager to development director to finance controller, I have developed numerous federal and foundation grant proposals, returning again and again to this guide for inspiration and clarification. Winning Grants Step by Step is a must-have for any new or seasoned grantwriter!"
—Julie Christine Johnson, Finance Controller, Habitat for Humanity of East Jefferson County (WA), Former Director of Operations, Copper Canyon Press

"Winning Grants Step by Step is an essential guide for both new and experienced grantwriters. This book breaks down the complex process into clear, actionable steps that demystify grant proposal writing, from research to submission. Each edition of Winning Grants Step by Step improves on the last, addressing current fundraising trends and realities with practical, real-world insights."
—Patricia S. Sinay, Former Commissioner at California Citizens Redistricting Commission

"For good grantwriting as well as strategic guidance on cultivating, soliciting, stewarding institutional support, Winning Grants is a go-to tool for nonprofit organizations and advancement companies large and small. This is truly a must-have resource for any serious professional in the business of fundraising!"
—John Jackson, John R. Jackson Consulting

"The demands on nonprofit organizations continue to dynamically expand in an ever-evolving world. Winning Grants Step by Step: The Complete Workbook for Planning, Developing and Writing Successful Proposals lightens the load for sector leaders by offering up-to-date information and relevant insights, enabling them to focus on what they need to know and do today to win the grants that help them improve their communities and solve challenging problems."
—Maria Dautruche, Founder and Principal, the dowpell group LLC