Resource · grant readiness
Before the deadline, build the foundation.
Gather common materials, identify who can provide them, and check every item against the actual application instructions.
A reusable foundation
What do you have—and who can provide the rest?
Use this as an organizing guide. Keep current records together, make reporting periods clear, and give other contributors enough lead time.
When the right records are current and easy to find, development staff can connect the proposal narrative to the program design, outcome evidence, program budget, and submission requirements without recreating the organization’s history at every deadline.
You will not need every item for every grant. A checked box means you reviewed the item; it does not mean the item meets a funder’s requirement.
Checks are saved in this browser on this device when browser storage is available. The checklist does not send documents or answers.
Printed from June Eastham’s Grant Readiness Checklist. A check records review only; confirm every requirement against the current opportunity.
Organization & governance
Financial information
Program & outcomes
The specific opportunity
File discipline
The dates matter.
Last year’s audit and last month’s statements describe different moments. Make the reporting period clear and distinguish drafts from approved versions.
People & permissions
The owners matter.
Identify who provides financials, confirms program details, obtains signatures, approves the narrative, and has authority to submit.
Planning beyond one application? The Fundraising Compass extends this organizing work into funding dependencies, institutional knowledge, networks of support, scenario planning, and contingency roles.