What You’ll Learn

Before you spend a single hour writing a grant proposal, you need to know one thing: is your organization actually ready?

Funders don’t just evaluate your proposal — they evaluate your organization. They want to see structure, financial credibility, and measurable outcomes before they’ll invest a dollar.

This checklist shows you exactly where you stand — and exactly what to do next.

Inside the checklist:

• The 12 things every funder evaluates before saying yes — from 501(c)(3) status to financial controls
• An honest self-assessment for each item — score yourself as Ready, Almost, or Not Yet
• Expert tips from our CEO, Trina Nichols — drawing on 20+ years of Fortune 500 audit experience and $2M+ in grants secured
• Specific action steps for every gap you identify — so you know exactly how to fix it
• A clear scoring guide that tells you whether to start applying now, close a few gaps first, or build your foundation before pursuing grants
• Recommended next steps based on your score — matched to the right resources for where you are

It’s free because every mission deserves a fair shot at funding.

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Small Nonprofits

You’re doing great work on a tight budget and wondering if you’re ready to pursue grant funding. This checklist gives you a clear answer — and a roadmap if you’re not quite there yet.

Startup Nonprofits

You’re brand new — maybe your 501(c)(3) is still pending. This checklist shows you exactly what foundation to build so you’re grant-ready the moment that determination letter arrives.

Churches & Ministries

You’re serving your community and exploring grants for the first time. This checklist helps you understand what funders expect — and whether your church is ready to apply.

1. Take the Assessment

Go through all 12 items and score yourself honestly. It takes about 5 minutes.

2. See Your Score

Your results tell you if you’re Ready, Almost There, or Need to Build — with specific guidance for each level.

3. Take Action

Each gap you identify comes with a recommended next step — whether it’s a $27 template or a conversation with our team.