A Letter of Support for a Grant is written by donors and partners of a nonprofit organization to articulate their support for a grant application or proposal.
It acts as a testimonial from a third party that backs up the nonprofit organization’s claims of success and promises of the delivery of results.
A grant letter of support helps show that the nonprofit organization has committed third parties that believe in the proposal. For example, a business that supports the project and is willing to provide an in-kind donation, or donors willing to provide specific amounts of money for the project, or a commitment by businesses to loan volunteers for the implementation of the project.
Demonstrating such commitment and willingness to support the grant proposal of a nonprofit organization can help provide compelling and persuasive reasons for a guarantor to fund a project.
The following individuals or entities can write the letter:
- A partner organization
- Another foundation
- A congress representative
- A key stakeholder
- An outside business
- A community leader who believes in the project
- Recipients of the services proposed
Free Template
Following are some free, downloadable templates for you:
Importance of a Letter of Support for a Grant
A letter of support for a grant demonstrates that the nonprofit organization’s grant proposal is supported by other individuals or entities who believe in the project’s merit. It plays an important role in demonstrating third-party confidence in the grant proposal.
Foundations or government agencies responsible for the provision of grants receive several grant requests. A letter written by a high-ranking official in the nonprofit organization can help make the grant proposal more competitive.
It also plays an important role in demonstrating that the nonprofit organization has a good reputation and that the community supports its grant proposal. The demonstration of community support can help convince a guarantor to fund the grant proposal. It can also help show a funding body that the nonprofit organization can be trusted with the grant.
A grant letter of support can impact the guarantor by describing how third-party partners, such as donors, plan to support the nonprofit organization’s proposal. The description of additional support by committed partners shows that the nonprofit organization is not alone. The guarantor can therefore discern the enthusiasm associated with the project or proposal made by the nonprofit organization.
Grant Letter of Support Vs. Memorandum of Agreement
This letter has some similarities to a memorandum of agreement. A memorandum of agreement is a document signed by two parties to cooperate and work together on an agreed-upon project. It accompanies the grant application or proposal, as does the letter of support for a grant. The grant letter of support may or may not be a memorandum of agreement and vice versa.
However, a memorandum of agreement describes the roles, responsibilities, terms, and conditions among the parties involved in the agreement. The authorized members of the involved parties sign the agreement. It is intended for the grantor and the partnering organizations. The memorandum of agreement contains details summarizing the material support expected from the guarantor.
The structure and contents of the MOA ensure that the parties involved are well-known to each other. It also ensures in writing that the use and implementation of the grant are acceptable to all parties. The MOA helps mitigate conflict surrounding the grant and the roles of the parties involved. On the other hand, a letter of support is intended for the guarantor, and statements backing the ideology of the grant proposal are provided.
What to Request in a Grant Letter
A nonprofit organization should ensure that the information contained in the letter of support is adequate. An effective grant letter of support can help compel the guarantor to award the grant to the nonprofit organization.
The following should be considered by a nonprofit organization when requesting such a letter:
The nonprofit organization should start by identifying and forming a list of the beneficiaries of the proposed project. The beneficiaries may be individuals or organizations. Next, a meeting with the identified and listed beneficiaries should be set. The nonprofit organization should use the meeting with the beneficiaries to explain what the project entails.
The beneficiaries should be well-informed of the advantages of the project for them and their community. The nonprofit should then ask if the beneficiaries are willing to write a grant letter of support to back up the grant request.
Suppose the beneficiaries are willing to write a letter of support for a grant. The nonprofit organization should provide them with a usable draft of the letter. The draft ensures that the letter contains the correct proposal details. The nonprofit organization should request that a beneficiary send the grant letter of support by a specific date. It ensures that the nonprofit includes the beneficiary in the grant application.
If a beneficiary opts to compose the letter of support, the nonprofit organization should outline the proposal’s various aspects. The information can be in the form of bullet points or short paragraphs.
Components of a Letter of Support for Grant
The nonprofit should ensure that the letter of support contains the key components. The components ensure that the grant letter of support appropriately conveys the donor’s support for the grant proposal. It also helps to show that the support is genuine through the details provided in the letter.
The grant letter of support should contain the following components:
Salutation
The nonprofit organization should discourage the grant letter of support writer from using generic and vague salutations such as “To Whom It May Concern.” The letter of support for a grant should use an appropriate salutation that addresses the recipient directly. The nonprofit organization should provide the writer with the funder’s name.
Grant application number
The nonprofit organization should ensure that the writer indicates the grant application number in the letter of support. The grant application number helps the recipient identify which grant request the letter is backing. However, the nonprofit organization must verify if the grant number is required in the letter.
Project summary
The letter of support for a grant should contain a summary of the project. The summary proves that the writer is well-informed about what the project entails. The nonprofit organization is responsible for ensuring that the writer is well-informed of the proposal’s details before writing the letter. A comprehensive summary ensures that the writer can compose a strong and compelling grant letter of support.
Project’s relevance to the funder’s interests
The letter of support should link the project to the interests of the funder/guarantor. The nonprofit organization should identify the funder’s interests by reviewing previously supported projects. The clear demonstration of a connection helps compel the funder to award the grant to the nonprofit organization.
Examples
The nonprofit organization should provide the writer of the grant letter of support with examples of how the grant enables the realization of the project. The examples should be detailed and demonstrate the benefits to the targeted individuals, entities, and community. The examples must also be able to demonstrate tangible or visible results.
Excerpts from a previous letter of support
The nonprofit organization should provide the writer with a grant letter of support with excerpts from previous effective letters. The excerpts can assist the writer of the grant letter of support in the composition and structuring of the information contained in the letter. It can also provide the writer with a demonstration of how to compose an effective letter of support.
The person or organization receiving the letter
The recipient’s name and address should also be provided to the writer. The recipient’s name and address enable the writer to become familiar with the guarantor. It can also ensure that a letter of support is delivered to the right organization or person.
Template
[Your Name]
[Your Position/Title]
[Your Organization/Institution]
[Your Organization’s Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name or Grant Committee’s Name]
[Funding Organization’s Name]
[Funding Organization’s Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Recipient’s Name or “Members of the Grant Committee”],
I am writing to express my strong support for the grant application titled “[Grant Project Title],” submitted by [Applicant’s Name/Project Leader’s Name] of [Applicant’s Organization/Institution]. As [Your Position/Title] at [Your Organization/Institution], I have had the opportunity to closely observe and sometimes collaborate with [Applicant’s Name or Applicant’s Team] on various projects. Based on this experience, I am confident in their capability, dedication, and the significance of the project they are proposing.
[Project Title] is a [brief description of the project, highlighting its objectives, potential impact, and why it is necessary]. This project aligns with our shared goals of [mention how the project aligns with broader goals or initiatives, such as improving community health, advancing scientific research, enhancing educational opportunities, etc.].
[Optional: Mention any specific contributions, collaborations, or engagements you or your organization have had with the applicant or the project, emphasizing the project’s feasibility, relevance, and potential for success.]
I believe that the successful execution of this project will lead to [mention the expected outcomes, benefits, or impact of the project]. [Applicant’s Organization/Institution] has a proven track record of [mention any relevant achievements, expertise, or previous successful projects], which further assures me of their capacity to manage the grant effectively and achieve the proposed objectives.
Furthermore, [mention any commitments your organization might be making to support the project, such as in-kind contributions, additional funding, resources, or expertise, if applicable]. This underscores our belief in the project’s value and our commitment to its success.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly support [Applicant’s Name/Project Leader’s Name] and their application for [Name of the Grant] for the project “[Project Title].” I am confident that with the support of [Funding Organization’s Name], this project will achieve its full potential and make a significant contribution to [mention the broader field, community, or area of impact].
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information or clarification regarding our support for this project.
Thank you for considering this application and for your ongoing support of [mention the field, community, or cause supported by the grant].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature] (if sending a hard copy)
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Position/Title]
[Your Organization/Institution]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letters of Support for Grant
Following are some examples:
Sample 01
Dear Grant Review Committee,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the grant application titled “Impact of Urbanization on Local Bee Populations,” submitted by Dr. Marcus Yi, a distinguished colleague at the University of Springfield. As a Professor of Environmental Science with a focus on biodiversity, I have had the pleasure of collaborating with Dr. Yi on several projects and can attest to his exceptional research skills, dedication, and innovative approach to environmental studies.
Dr. Yi’s proposed project is not only timely but also critical in understanding the intricate relationships between urban development and biodiversity conservation. His work promises to offer invaluable insights into sustainable urban planning practices that can support bee populations, which are essential pollinators in our ecosystems.
Given the urgency of addressing environmental challenges in our rapidly urbanizing world, Dr. Yi’s research could significantly contribute to global efforts in biodiversity conservation. His previous work, which includes the publication of numerous peer-reviewed articles and the successful management of several funded projects, speaks volumes about his capability to lead this ambitious project to success.
I wholeheartedly endorse Dr. Yi’s application for funding through the National Science Foundation. His project has the potential to make a profound impact on environmental science and policy, and I am confident in his ability to deliver remarkable results.
Please feel free to contact me if you require further information or a more detailed discussion of Dr. Yi’s qualifications and the significance of his research proposal.
Thank you for considering this important application.
Sincerely,
Dr. Helena Cho
Professor of Environmental Science
University of Springfield
sample 2
To Whom It May Concern,
It is with great pleasure that I extend my support for the “Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures” program, spearheaded by Sarah Jennings, in her application for the “Healthy Communities” grant offered by the Community Wellness Foundation.
Sarah’s initiative to combat childhood obesity through education, physical activity, and community engagement is exactly what our neighborhood needs. Having witnessed the increasing rates of childhood obesity in our community and its impact on children’s health, academic performance, and self-esteem, Sarah’s program offers a beacon of hope.
“Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures” is designed to be inclusive, engaging, and sustainable, with a focus on long-term impact. Sarah’s commitment to this cause, her background in public health, and her ability to mobilize community resources and volunteers are commendable. Her program not only addresses immediate health concerns but also educates families on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, thereby instilling habits that can break the cycle of obesity.
I have seen Sarah’s dedication and effectiveness firsthand through her volunteer work at Healthy Horizons Community Center. Her passion for public health and her vision for a healthier future for our children make her the ideal candidate for this grant.
I strongly endorse the “Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures” program for the “Healthy Communities” grant and am excited about the positive changes it will bring to our community.
For any further details or discussion, I am available at your convenience.
Warmest regards,
Maria Rodriguez
Executive Director
Healthy Horizons Community Center
Analysis
These sample letters effectively serve as endorsements for grant applications, highlighting the strengths of the proposed projects and the qualifications of the applicants. The first letter focuses on a scientific research project, emphasizing the applicant’s track record in environmental studies and the relevance of their work to broader environmental policy and conservation efforts. It provides a clear rationale for why the project deserves funding, backed by the writer’s professional experience with the applicant and the project’s potential impact on sustainable urban planning.
The second letter supports a community health initiative, showcasing the applicant’s commitment to addressing childhood obesity through a comprehensive program. It emphasizes the project’s alignment with community needs, the inclusiveness and sustainability of the approach, and the applicant’s capability to mobilize resources and volunteers. The endorsement is strengthened by the writer’s direct experience with the applicant’s effectiveness and dedication to public health.
Both letters are compelling because they:
- Clearly identify the grant and the project being endorsed.
- Offer specific examples of the applicants’ achievements and capabilities.
- Explain the significance of the projects and their potential impacts.
- Include offers to provide further information, facilitating the review process.
By combining detailed descriptions of the projects with personal insights into the applicants’ qualifications, these letters effectively capture the readers’ attention and provide a strong argument for funding consideration.
Final Thoughts
A letter of support for a grant enables a nonprofit organization to demonstrate that a third party backs the grant proposal by providing a testimonial. The nonprofit organization should ensure that the third-party testimonial is provided by an individual or entity that is well-informed about the proposal and its advantages. In addition, the letter of support should provide compelling and persuasive reasons for the guarantor to fund the proposal.
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