Welcome to Day 21 of the 30-Day Grant Readiness Challenge!
Does a blank document fill you with dread? When faced with a major application, the temptation is often to copy and paste from your last submission. But the secret to winning more funding is customization.
Today, we are sharing a three-stage workflow to help you overcome grant writer’s block and pivot that blank page into a narrative that catches a funder’s interest.
The Three-Stage “Blank Page” Workflow
Stage 1: The Deep Dive
Before you type a single word, read the funder’s eligibility guidelines and application criteria twice. Highlight keywords and specific phrases the funder uses. Open the online portal and look at every question. Review several pages of their website. The more familiar you are with their usage and style, the easier the writing will be. (Also, keep a record of their particular word choices or language characteristics, for future use.)
Stage 2: Build Your Custom Template
Open a new document—yes, a blank one. Copy the application questions and headers into this document. Add the character or word limits at the end of every prompt. You now have a custom roadmap that ensures that you won’t miss a single requirement.
Stage 3: Weave Your Story
Bring in your organization’s “ingredients”: your mission, history, strategic plan, and project metrics. Using a second computer monitor can be a game-changer here. Don’t just paste these materials; weave them into a fresh story that answers the funder’s specific questions. When appropriate, use the language preferences you researched in Stage 1.
Why Start from Scratch?
No two funders are exactly alike. By starting with a blank page, you force yourself to write a free-standing story that aligns perfectly with this funder’s priorities. It prevents your narrative from feeling stale or recycled.
Tips for Crafting a Page-Turner
Use these resources to help fill your page with compelling content:
- Read: 4 Tips for Getting Past the Blank Page – Find further insights in our blog guide to breaking through initial writing anxiety.
- Read: “Not Just by the Numbers—Successful Grant Writing Through Authentic Storytelling” – Learn how to move beyond data and tell a story that resonates.
- Assess: Are your background materials ready for Stage 3? Check your organizational readiness with the GRASP Tool.
Join the Discussion
We want to hear from you! What is your ritual for starting a new proposal? Do you have a favorite playlist, a specific workspace, or a go-to template?
Leave a note in the comments below and share your tips for conquering the blank page!