Secure More Funding for Rescues
Everything You Need to Apply Successfully
Applying for grants can feel overwhelming, but having a clear checklist makes the process easier, faster, and more effective. Use this list to ensure your rescue is grant-ready and that your application stands out to funders.
✅ Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Before you apply, make sure your rescue meets the grant requirements. Most funders require:
✔️ 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Status (or fiscal sponsorship)
✔️ Mission Alignment – Your work must match the funder’s focus (e.g., animal welfare, spay/neuter, adoption, transport)
✔️ Geographic Restrictions – Some grants are state-specific or national
✔️ Financial Records – Proof of responsible money management (tax returns, budget, income statements)
💡 PRO TIP: If you’re not sure if you qualify, email the funder and ask before applying. This saves time and improves your chances.
✅ Step 2: Gather Key Documents
Most grant applications require the following:
📌 Organizational Information
🔲 Official name, EIN (Tax ID), and contact details
🔲 501(c)(3) determination letter (from the IRS)
🔲 Mission statement
📌 Financial Documents
🔲 Recent income & expense statement (or full-year budget)
🔲 IRS Form 990 (nonprofit tax return) – If applicable
🔲 List of major donors/grants previously received
📌 Impact Data & Supporting Materials
🔲 Number of animals rescued/adopted in the past year
🔲 Veterinary care statistics (e.g., spay/neuter numbers)
🔲 Community engagement metrics (volunteers, events, partnerships)
🔲 Success stories + photos (funders love visuals!)
📌 Grant-Specific Requirements
🔲 Specific proposal (requested amount + how funds will be used)
🔲 Letters of support from partners, vets, or past funders
🔲 Matching funds (if required—some grants require you to have other funding sources)
✅ Step 3: Write a Strong Grant Proposal
Most grant applications require the following:
📌 Organizational Information
🔲 Official name, EIN (Tax ID), and contact details
🔲 501(c)(3) determination letter (from the IRS)
🔲 Mission statement
📌 Financial Documents
🔲 Recent income & expense statement (or full-year budget)
🔲 IRS Form 990 (nonprofit tax return) – If applicable
🔲 List of major donors/grants previously received
📌 Impact Data & Supporting Materials
🔲 Number of animals rescued/adopted in the past year
🔲 Veterinary care statistics (e.g., spay/neuter numbers)
🔲 Community engagement metrics (volunteers, events, partnerships)
🔲 Success stories + photos (funders love visuals!)
📌 Grant-Specific Requirements
🔲 Specific proposal (requested amount + how funds will be used)
🔲 Letters of support from partners, vets, or past funders
🔲 Matching funds (if required—some grants require you to have other funding sources)
✅ Step 4: Review & Submit the Application
Before submitting, double-check for these common mistakes:
🚫 Missing attachments (funders will reject incomplete applications)
🚫 Typos or unclear writing (have someone proofread)
🚫 Failing to follow instructions (word limits, document formats, deadlines)
🚫 Generic applications (always tailor your application to each funder)
💡 PRO TIP: Keep a simple tracking spreadsheet with deadlines, grant amounts, and status updates. This helps you stay organized and reapply next year if needed.
✅ Step 5: Follow Up After Submission
🔲 Send a quick follow-up email (if allowed) to confirm receipt
🔲 If approved, send a thank-you letter and impact report
🔲 If denied, ask for feedback (many funders will tell you how to improve!)
🔲 Reapply in the future – Many rescues get grants on the 2nd or 3rd try!
🎯 Final Thoughts: Stay Consistent & Don’t Give Up!
Winning grants takes persistence—even experienced rescues get rejected sometimes. The key is to keep applying, refining your approach, and building funder relationships.
✅ Start small & win early grants
✅ Track what works & improve each time
✅ Celebrate every win—each dollar helps save lives!
NEXT STEPS:
📢 Use this checklist + apply for the 20 grants listed earlier!
📢 Need help with storytelling? See our sample powerful story in Part 1.
📢 Bookmark & revisit this checklist for every grant application.