I’m more of a data and information person in a grant application. Since applications restrict the number of words, I focus on only putting in the facts. I refrain from adding emotion. However, this is wrong.
There needs to be some emotion (not drama) in a grant application. Some passion to impress the foundation members that the nonprofit is seriously devoted to helping people. That there is a real belief money received will benefit the needy.
This emotion should be balanced with the facts. I have read grants containing sorrow and emotion, leaving little room for the data. It is all right to have emotion, but foundation members also want facts (or should). A well-crafted application balances the two.
There are two ways to do this. A grant writer can provide data, the impact on people’s lives, data, then impact again. Another way is to provide the information and end with a plea of emotion, such as showing the dedication of nonprofit manager and staff to the mission. I would not lead with emotion. It is more effective at the end when the facts are known and the impact understood.
Show the people involved in the nonprofit along with the importance of the project. Along with the information, show passion, energy, and motivation toward the project. Show progress and involvement, passion and motivation, and the impact on people’s lives.
Just like some grant writers avoid the facts, I avoid the emotion. I need to follow my advice and add more emotion to my grant writing.