7 Steps to Take AFTER You Complete a Grant Application
Congratulations—you just submitted your grant application! Wahoo! Submitting a grant is a big deal, and it takes time, energy, and focus to get it done. You might think your work is over now, but I’ve got some news: there’s still plenty to do.
A strong grant writer knows that the process doesn’t end at submission. Being proactive after your submission can make all the difference. Here are seven essential steps to take after submitting your grant application.
Confirm Your Application Was Received
Don’t let technical glitches ruin your hard work.
About a week after submission, email the grant agency to confirm they’ve received your application. Nothing is worse than finding out later that your application didn’t save properly or wasn’t submitted in the online portal. Taking this simple step ensures your efforts haven’t gone to waste.
Action Step: Send a polite follow-up email asking for confirmation and keep the response for your records.
Stay Alert to Your Email
Funders may reach out with questions or requests for clarification.
Your application is in, but the funder might still have questions. Check your email frequently to ensure you don’t miss an important request. Responding promptly shows your professionalism and keeps your application moving forward.
Action Step: Set email notifications and prioritize funder communications for the duration of the review period.
Host a Team Debrief
Review what worked and where you can improve.
Top-notch teams are always improving. After submitting your grant, gather your team for a debrief session. Discuss the application process: What went smoothly? What could be streamlined next time? This feedback will help you refine your workflow for future grants.
Action Step: Schedule a debrief meeting within a week of submission and document key takeaways.
Set Follow-Up Reminders
Don’t let your application fall into the void.
Grant agencies can be slow to respond, and sometimes you need to nudge them. Review the estimated timeline for decisions and set reminders to follow up if you haven’t heard back by the expected date. Staying on top of this shows you’re serious and committed.
Action Step: Add follow-up dates to your calendar and draft a polite email to check on your application status.
Celebrate Your Hard Work
You’ve earned it—take a break!
Submitting a grant application is no small feat. Give yourself a moment to relax and recharge. Whether it’s a small treat or a day off, acknowledging your hard work helps keep burnout at bay.
Action Step: Plan a reward for yourself after submission, even if it’s something small like a fancy coffee or a walk in the park.
Revisit Your Application with Fresh Eyes
See what you could improve for next time.
After two weeks, take another look at your submitted application. With fresh eyes, you may notice edits you could have made or better ways to structure your proposal. While you can’t change this submission, you can learn for the future.
Action Step: Make notes on what you would tweak and keep these insights handy for your next application.
Follow Up if Denied
Rejection is a stepping stone to improvement.
If your grant application isn’t successful, don’t be discouraged. Reach out to the funder to ask for feedback on why your application was denied. This is invaluable insight that can make your next application stronger. Funders’ comments can help you refine your approach and address any weaknesses.
Action Step: Write a professional email thanking the funder for their time and asking for specific feedback.
Conclusion: Be Proactive and Learn from the Process
The grant process doesn’t stop at submission. Taking these post-submission steps not only shows your dedication but also sets you up for success in future applications. Stay engaged, learn from feedback, and don’t forget to celebrate your wins—big or small.
Your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed, and every step brings you closer to your funding goals!
