Say More with Less: The Power of Concise Grant Writing

In the world of grant writing, clarity beats complexity. Funders often sift through dozens, if not hundreds, of proposals, meaning your ability to communicate your message clearly and efficiently can make or break your application. Concise writing isn't about cutting corners…it's about making every word count.

Why Concise Writing Matters in Grant Proposals

Grant reviewers are typically under tight deadlines, with limited time to evaluate each submission. Long-winded proposals can cause fatigue and confusion, increasing the likelihood that your core message will be overlooked. A concise proposal, on the other hand, quickly communicates your organization’s value, needs, and impact.

What Concise Grant Writing Looks Like:

1. Get to the Point Early

Start strong. Your executive summary and needs statement should clearly outline who you are, what you need, and why it matters. Avoid burying key information under background details or vague language.

2. Avoid Jargon

Skip industry buzzwords and overly technical language. Grant reviewers come from varied backgrounds—clear, simple language ensures your message is universally understood.

3. Use Active Voice

Passive constructions add unnecessary words and reduce clarity. Say “We launched a food distribution program” instead of “A food distribution program was launched by our organization.”

4. Be Specific and Quantify

Concrete data speaks louder than generalizations. Instead of “We serve many people in need,” write “We served 1,200 households facing food insecurity in 2024.”

5. Trim Redundant Phrases

Phrases like “due to the fact that” can be shortened to “because.” Edit ruthlessly to eliminate fluff.

Tools to Help You Stay Concise

• Use word or character limits as a guide, even if they’re generous. Your grant is not a book report, and you are not striving to reach the limit. 

• Read your draft out loud to catch unnecessary repetition.

• Use editing tools like Hemingway Editor or Grammarly to tighten language.

• Ask someone unfamiliar with your program to read it. If they grasp the message quickly, you're on the right track.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Concise grant writing isn’t about limiting your story; it’s about refining it. When you write with clarity and purpose, you show funders that your organization values their time, understands its mission, and can communicate impact with precision. In a sea of lengthy proposals, brevity stands out.