Leveling the Federal Grant Playing Field
Why this blog now?
I love rooting for a perceived underdog. In my professional life, this means working with organizations making an exciting impact in my community. For many years, Jezreel Consulting was just a container for the work I did locally in St. Louis. Since 2016, that work has primarily focused on federal grant writing in my local community. Instead of niching into a single topic area (e.g., mental health, housing, education), I focused on helping nonprofits that were disadvantaged in some way. This has meant that most of my clients have been startup nonprofits with less than 10 years of history, nonprofits with budgets under $1M, and organizations led by and serving Black communities in St. Louis.
And just as any sports fan knows, the underdog can almost always win. My clients have been awarded more than $130 million dollars across eight federal agencies. Underdogs? Maybe. But we figure out how to win together.
I want writers, nonprofits, and communities that feel like underdogs (because they often are!) to know that they can compete when it comes to federal funding.
Busting the Federal Grant Myth
Many nonprofits believe federal grants are unattainable. They assume they need:
Myth 1: Large previous grant awards: A track record of large grants is not necessarily a prerequisite for federal success.
Myth 2: Enormous budgets: Smaller organizations can effectively compete for and manage federal funding.
Myth 3: Past grant management experience: While helpful, it's not always necessary.
These misconceptions often prevent deserving organizations from accessing critical resources.
The Truth: Federal Grants ARE Accessible
Strong programs, demonstrable impact, and a commitment to learning are the true cornerstones of successful federal grant applications.
This blog aims to:
Demystify the federal grant application process: Providing clear, actionable guidance and debunking common myths.
Empower underrepresented organizations: Equip grassroots and minority-led organizations with the tools and knowledge to compete for federal funding.
Level the playing field: Create a more equitable landscape where all deserving organizations have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Who is this blog for?
Nonprofit leaders: Gain valuable insights and strategies to secure critical funding.
Grant writers: Enhance your skills and expand your knowledge of federal funding opportunities.
Community leaders: Understand how federal grants can support local initiatives and improve community well-being.
Anyone curious about federal funding: Explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of the process.
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Let's work together to unlock the power of federal funding and create a brighter future for our communities.