Ready, Set, Interview! How to Prep for Grant Success

It pays to Prep for Grant Success! And, believe it or not, the preparation actually starts long before you sit down for the interview. While you can’t predict every question a funder might ask, solid preparation can help you feel confident, clear, and ready to shine.

GrantWatch is here to help your nonprofit succeed. What’s more, our dedicated, professional team is here to assist you in securing funding with strong interview strategies. That’s why we’re sharing six must-know tips to help you prepare for your next grant interview. In addition we have a list of six carefully curated sample grants from our Workforce, Operating Support, and Quality of Life category listings. And keep in mind that GrantWatch offers over 9,000 grants in currently available for our subscribers.

How to Prep for Grant Success

1. Know Your Audience 🎯

Do your homework. Research the funder’s mission, values, and past giving history using tools like GrantWatch’s 990 Finder and Foundation Search. Review the funder’s guidelines and your own submitted application. A well-informed applicant stands out.

2. Bring the Data 📊

Funders want impact. Be ready with accurate stats that show how your program delivers results. Show them their investment will make a measurable difference in the community.

3. Be Honest 💬

Don’t fake it. If you don’t know the answer to a question, say so, and offer to follow up. Integrity builds trust, and funders will appreciate your transparency.

4. Tell Real Stories 📖

Facts are powerful, but stories make them memorable. Share success stories or realistic plans to show how your organization is making or will make a difference.

5. Expect the Unexpected 🤔

There will be curveballs. If you get a tough question, take a breath and answer honestly—or let them know you’ll follow up with the right info later.

6. Stay Positive 🌟

Your passion is your superpower. Come to the interview with enthusiasm, confidence, and gratitude. Whether or not you receive the grant, you’re building a relationship that could benefit your nonprofit in the future.

Remember: The interview itself is already a step toward success. Show up prepared and let your mission speak for itself!

GrantWatch Sample Grants

1. Training Programs for Graduate Students

Grants to IHEs to provide training programs for graduate students who are pursuing STEM careers. Funding helps train students in high-priority interdisciplinary or convergent research areas with comprehensive, innovative, evidence-based, traineeship models.

2. Programs to Prepare Engineering Students for Professional Careers

Grants to IHEs for innovative programs that integrate professional skills, improve departmental culture, and generally strengthen the skills and knowledge of undergraduate engineering students. 

3. Marketing Support to Improve Operations

Grants and in-kind marketing support to nonprofits to improve operations. In addition to advertising funds, organizations receive professional advice on ways to publicize their work and reach a larger audience. The purpose is to help nonprofits increase their community impact.

4. Programs to Improve the Quality of Life

Grants to nonprofit youth organizations for projects and activities to improve the quality of life for urban youth. The funding helps young people who have not been able to realize their dreams and goals due to financial limitations. 

5. Human Services, Health, Education, and Children

Grants and in-kind donations to nonprofits for charitable programs to benefit local communities. Funding supports programming for human services, health, education, and children.

6. General Operating Costs and Project Support

Grants to nonprofits for general operating costs and support for projects to improve people’s quality of life. Funding assists children and low-income individuals, with a focus particularly on the arts, health, education, and welfare.

About GrantWatch

With over 9,000 grants currently available, GrantWatch.com is the leading grant listing directory. Upgrade to a MemberPlus+ subscription to view the full grant details, including eligibility criteria and application information. For more information, you can also visit the GrantWatch FAQ page. Click here to see the great value of all 20 of the top GrantWatch features. Watch the latest episode of GrantTalk, powered by GrantWatch, with host Libby Hikind. You don’t want to miss this. Visit us on YouTube weekly. Get your copy of The Queen of Grants: From Teacher to Grant Writer to CEO, by Libby Hikind.