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Learn the language Browse 50+ grant terms defined in plain English
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Sharpen your writing Practical tips to make proposals more competitive
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Grant Glossary

Clear, jargon-free definitions for the terms you encounter in grant applications, funder guidelines, and 990s. From LOI to indirect cost rate to fiscal sponsor.

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50+ terms defined
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Grant Databases

A curated guide to the best places to find grant opportunities — free and paid — with honest notes on what each is best for, so you don't waste time on the wrong tool.

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40+ resources reviewed
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Writing Tips

Practical, field-tested advice for writing stronger proposals — from crafting a compelling need statement to avoiding the red flags that get applications rejected.

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Grant Glossary

The language of grants,
made simple.

Grant applications are full of terms that aren't taught anywhere. This glossary defines them all — from the basics every grant writer needs to know, to the nuanced terminology that separates a good proposal from a great one.

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Letter of Inquiry (LOI)
A brief, preliminary proposal sent to a funder before a full application. Most foundations use LOIs to screen applicants — if your LOI is accepted, you're invited to submit a full proposal. Typically 1–3 pages.
Proposal Process
Indirect Costs (Overhead)
Organizational expenses not directly tied to a specific program — rent, accounting, HR, utilities. Many funders cap indirect cost reimbursement at 10–15%, though some foundations now offer full indirect cost recovery.
Budget
Fiscal Sponsor
A 501(c)(3) organization that agrees to manage grant funds on behalf of a project or group that lacks its own tax-exempt status. The fiscal sponsor accepts legal and financial responsibility for the grant.
Legal / Structure
Logic Model
A visual framework showing how a program's inputs lead to activities, outputs, and ultimately outcomes. Many funders require a logic model as part of the application to demonstrate that your program theory is sound.
Program Design
SMART Objectives
Objectives that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Grant reviewers look for SMART objectives as proof your program has clear, trackable goals rather than vague intentions.
Writing
Unrestricted vs. Restricted Funds
Unrestricted funds can be used for any organizational purpose (operating costs, staffing, overhead). Restricted funds are designated by the donor for a specific program or purpose. General operating grants are the most flexible and most coveted.
Funding Types
Writing Tips

Write proposals that get funded.

These aren't theory — they're the patterns that separate winning proposals from rejected ones, drawn from what grant reviewers and program officers actually say.

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Tip 01
Lead with the community need, not your organization
The most common mistake: opening a proposal by describing how great your org is. Funders fund problems. Open with a clear, data-backed picture of the need. Your org's role comes second.
Tip 02
Use the funder's language verbatim
Read the RFP carefully and mirror the exact words they use to describe their priorities. If the funder says "economic mobility," don't write "financial empowerment." Grant reviewers check for alignment, and matching their language signals you've done your homework.
Tip 03
Every objective needs a number and a date
Weak: "We will improve youth outcomes." Strong: "By December 31, 80% of enrolled youth will improve their GPA by at least 0.5 points." Reviewers score proposals on specificity. Vague objectives are a red flag.
Tip 04
Your budget should tell the same story as your narrative
Reviewers read the budget separately from the narrative. If you mention a full-time program coordinator in the narrative but only budget 0.25 FTE, that's a flag. Every line item should be traceable to your program description.
Tip 05
Look up the funder's 990 before you apply
A foundation's Form 990-PF lists every grant they made last year — amounts, recipients, and purposes. This is public data. Use it to check whether your ask size and program type actually match their giving history. Free at Candid's 990 Finder.
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