The art of researching, writing and being awarded grants has evolved into a competitive sport in recent years. There is one area, though, that gets very little attention.
These are the corporate grants that are offered by thousands of large and mid-sized companies around the United States and the world.
Did you know that Wal-Mart, Coca-Cola, and Allstate Insurance all offer grants? It's the same with Microsoft, Sears and Sprint.
The list is ridiculous, and many completely overlook the immense opportunities in grants from private companies.
How to Find Them
The website http://www.OnlineGrants.us features twenty of the largest companies offering corporate grants. The site also includes links to the pages of the company websites which explain the details and requirements for procuring one of these grants.
Even more can be found using clever search engine tactics.
How to Write Them
Applying for corporate grants is a little different than applying for government grants. With corporate grants you may want to make your case on a more personal level.
Most of these companies spell out exactly what they hope to accomplish by offering corporate grants. This is where the strategy for preparing applications for these grants should begin.
Use their words, quote their goals, and clearly explain that both you and the company have the same goals in mind.
Before developing any grant proposal, it is essential to understand the goals of the entity offering the grant. In their offering, these goals are clearly explained. From these goals, the grant writer should note certain buzzwords and phrases which should be incorporated into the grant proposal. Simply, give them what they want.
Also, be neat.
Neatness and organization do count.
Demonstrate a Need
Companies offering grants don't want to allocate funds to entities with means.
Clearly demonstrate in your proposal why you need their grant money.
Keep records of everything, don't be afraid to re-apply if you are turned down, and always say thank you.
Finally, don't let rejections discourage you as they will be your best learning experiences.
