Generic Content:
- Avoid using a generic cover letter.
- Tailor each letter to the grant opportunity.
Lack of Personalization:
- Failing to address the cover letter to a specific individual or using the wrong title or name.
Lengthy Letters:
- Writing excessively long cover letters that are more like mini-proposals.
- Keep your cover letter concise and to the point.
Repetition:
- Repeating information from your grant proposal.
- The cover letter should complement, not duplicate, the proposal.
Inadequate Introduction:
- Failing to start with a compelling and engaging introduction.
- Your opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention.
Ignoring Mission Alignment:
Not clearly demonstrating how your project aligns with the grant provider’s mission, goals, and priorities.
Lack of Clarity:
- Writing unclear or overly technical sentences.
- Use simple, clear language.
Neglecting Proofreading:
- Sending a cover letter with grammatical or typographical errors.
- Proofread and edit your letter carefully.
Omitting Contact Information:
- Failing to provide contact information for follow-up questions or clarifications.
Exaggeration:
- Making unsupported or exaggerated claims about your organization or project.
- Stick to facts and evidence.
Unprofessional Tone:
- Using overly emotional language or an unprofessional tone.
- Maintain a respectful and business-like tone throughout.
No Mention of Board Support:
- Neglecting to mention that your board of directors supports the project.
- Show unity and commitment from your organization.
Failure to Follow Guidelines:
- Not following the grant provider’s specific formatting, submission guidelines, or requirements.
Ambiguity:
- Being vague about the funding request, the project’s objectives, or expected outcomes.
Overloading with Details:
- Including too many details, such as an exhaustive project description, in the cover letter.
- Keep it high-level.
Disregarding Deadline:
- Sending the cover letter after the grant application deadline.
Overly Focused on the Organization:
- Focusing too much on your organization and not enough on the needs and impact of the project.
Absence of Invitations:
- Neglecting to invite the grant provider to learn more or visit your project.
By avoiding these mistakes and following best practices, you can create a well-crafted, professional cover letter that enhances your grant proposal’s chances of success.
