Guide · Grant writing
How to Win Your First Grant With No Track Record
Practical ways for new organizations to win a first grant: start small, use local funders, borrow credibility through partners, and show evidence from pilots.
To win your first grant without a track record, start with small local funders such as community foundations, ask for a modest amount for a clearly defined project, borrow credibility through your team's experience and established partners, show evidence from any pilot or volunteer work you have already done, and write a tight, realistic plan. A fiscal sponsor or partner can help where funders require registration or history.
Strategies that work
- Start small and local. Community foundations and small family funders are more open to new groups.
- Ask for a realistic amount. A small, achievable project is easier to fund than an ambitious one.
- Show what you have already done. Volunteer sessions, a pilot, an event: numbers and photos count.
- Highlight your people. Relevant experience of founders, staff, volunteers and board members.
- Partner with established organizations. Schools, councils, charities and businesses lend credibility.
- Gather letters of support. See letters of support.
- Have basic governance in place. Bank account, board, key policies, simple financial controls.
- Consider a fiscal sponsor if funders require registration you do not yet have.
Show capacity in the application
Example
Although Bright Paths was formally registered last year, our founders have run youth sessions as volunteers since 2021, reaching 140 young people. Our board includes a former headteacher and a qualified accountant, and Eastgate Primary has agreed to host sessions and refer pupils.
After your first grant
Deliver well, report on time and keep records. Your first successful grant becomes the track record for the next. See grant reporting.
For the full method, see how to write a grant proposal.
Frequently asked questions
Can a new nonprofit get a grant?
Yes. Many community foundations and small funders support new groups, especially for small, well-defined projects.
What can replace a track record in a grant application?
The experience of your team and board, partnerships, pilot results, community support and a realistic plan.
Should a new organization use a fiscal sponsor?
A fiscal sponsor or partner organization can help you apply to funders that require registration or a track record. Make sure roles and fees are agreed in writing.
Keep reading
- How to Write a Grant Proposal: A Step-by-Step Guide for Nonprofits
- How to Write a Letter of Inquiry for a Grant (With Example)
- Grant Goals and Objectives: How to Write SMART Objectives (Examples)
- How to Build a Grant Budget Funders Trust (With Template)
- How to Write a Grant Evaluation Plan (Simple Template)
- Nonprofit Impact Report: What to Include and How to Present Results
- How to Write a Statement of Need for a Grant (With Example)
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