Guide · Grant writing
What Is a Letter of Support for a Grant? (With Template)
A letter of support is a short letter from a partner, community leader or beneficiary endorsing your grant application. Here is what it should say, with a template.
A letter of support is a one-page letter from a partner, community leader or beneficiary that endorses your grant application. It should explain who the supporter is, how they know your organization, why the project is needed, and what, if anything, they will contribute. Letters that mention specific commitments (space, staff time, referrals, funding) are stronger than general praise.
What a good letter includes
- Supporter's name, role and organization, on letterhead.
- How they know your organization.
- Why the project matters to their community or clients.
- Any specific commitment.
- Signature and date.
Template
Template
[Date]
Dear [Funder contact],
I am writing as [role] of [organization] to support [your organization]'s application for [project name].
We have worked with [your organization] since [year] on [shared work]. In that time, [specific result or observation].
The proposed project responds to a need we see daily: [need in their words].
[Organization] will support the project by [specific commitment: referrals, space, staff time, funding].
I recommend this application without reservation.
[Name, title, signature]
Tips
- Ask early. Partners need time.
- Provide a draft with project details, and ask them to personalize it.
- Avoid identical letters from multiple supporters; reviewers notice.
- Follow the funder's rules: some limit the number of letters or want them uploaded by partners directly.
Letters usually go with the full application: see how to write a grant proposal.
Frequently asked questions
Who should write a letter of support?
Partners delivering part of the project, community leaders, local officials, beneficiaries or organizations that will benefit or refer participants.
How long should a letter of support be?
Usually one page, on the supporter's letterhead, signed and dated.
Can I draft the letter for my partner?
Many organizations provide a draft to make it easy, but the supporter should personalize it and only sign what is true.
What is the difference between a letter of support and a letter of commitment?
A letter of support endorses the project. A letter of commitment confirms specific contributions such as funding, staff time or space.
Keep reading
- How to Write a Grant Proposal: A Step-by-Step Guide for Nonprofits
- Budget Justification for a Grant: How to Write It (With Examples)
- How to Build a Grant Budget Funders Trust (With Template)
- How to Write a Statement of Need for a Grant (With Example)
- 10 Grant Writing Mistakes That Get Applications Rejected
- How to Write a Letter of Inquiry for a Grant (With Example)
- Grant Goals and Objectives: How to Write SMART Objectives (Examples)
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