Wingspan Labs

Decision guide

Is this grant a good fit right now?

A grant can match the mission and still be the wrong opportunity today. Check eligibility, program fit, evidence, budget, partnerships, reporting, timing, and the commitments the award would create.

Work through the questionsLearn about grantwriting support

Four questions

Pause here before choosing.

You do not need perfect answers. The point is to make the uncertainty visible.

  1. Are we clearly eligible?

    Confirm entity type, geography, population, program, registration, and any partnership requirements.

  2. Does the funded work match what we truly plan to do?

    Do not reshape the mission or promise a program the organization cannot responsibly sustain.

  3. Can we support the claims?

    Identify the source for each important statement about need, reach, activities, outcomes, and organizational experience.

  4. Can we carry the award?

    Consider cash flow, matching funds, hiring, data collection, reporting, evaluation, and work after the grant ends.

Reasons to move forward

Continue when these are mostly true.

  • Eligibility and mission fit are clear.
  • The program and budget are sufficiently defined.
  • Required evidence and approvals can be gathered on time.
  • The organization understands the award’s ongoing obligations.

Reasons to pause

Wait when these remain unresolved.

  • Key eligibility questions remain unanswered.
  • The proposal depends on unapproved partners or commitments.
  • The deadline leaves no time for honest review.
  • The award would create obligations the organization cannot sustain.

A simple starting point

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