The Grant Review Process
An Overview...
Understanding the grant review process is the first step toward crafting a proposal that resonates with reviewers. Although each funding organization might have its own specific procedures, most follow a similar multi-step process.
Below is an in-depth look at each stage.
1. Initial Screening
Once you hit “submit” on your grant proposal, it enters an initial screening phase.
This is where a program officer or grant administrator reviews your submission to ensure it meets the basic eligibility criteria set forth in the Request for Proposals (RFP) or grant guidelines.
What Reviewers Look For:
Compliance: Did you follow the submission guidelines to the letter?
Completeness: Have you included all required documents (e.g., budget, organizational information, supporting materials)?
Basic Eligibility: Does your project align with the funder’s mission and focus areas?
Tip:
Double-check the funder’s guidelines before submitting. Missing a single piece of required information ca…