Guide · Grant writing
How to Write a Grant Cover Letter (With Example)
A grant cover letter introduces your organization, the request and the fit with the funder in one page. Here is what to include and an example.
A grant cover letter is a one-page introduction that accompanies your proposal. State who you are, the amount requested and for what, how the project fits the funder's priorities, a headline result you expect, and who to contact. Have it signed by your executive director or board chair. Only include one if the funder requests it or the submission method calls for it.
What to include
- The request: amount and project.
- Fit: how it matches the funder's priorities.
- The headline: need and expected result in two sentences.
- Credibility: one line on your track record.
- Contact details and thanks.
Example
Example
Dear Mr. Owusu,
On behalf of Riverside Youth Trust, I am pleased to submit our proposal requesting $35,000 for the Eastgate Reading Program, which aligns with the Foundation's focus on early literacy in underserved neighbourhoods.
Fewer than half of Eastgate pupils reach the expected reading level by age 11. Our program will provide one-to-one tutoring for 80 children over a school year, with the goal of moving at least 70% up one reading level.
Riverside Youth Trust has delivered literacy programs in partnership with local schools since 2018.
Thank you for your consideration. Please contact me at [email] or [phone] with any questions.
Sincerely,
[Name], Executive Director
Tips
- Keep it to one page.
- Do not repeat the whole summary.
- Use the funder contact's name and correct title.
- Match the amount exactly to the proposal and budget.
For the proposal itself, see how to write a grant proposal.
Frequently asked questions
Is a grant cover letter required?
Only if the funder asks for one or if you are submitting by mail or email. Many online portals do not use cover letters.
How long should a grant cover letter be?
One page.
Who should sign the grant cover letter?
Usually the executive director or board chair.
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)
- 10 Grant Writing Mistakes That Get Applications Rejected
- 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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