Before you start chasing funding, make sure you’ve built the foundation to step up to the plate and start hitting.
Grant writing isn’t just about putting together a compelling proposal. It’s about proving — on paper and in practice — that your organization is ready to handle funding responsibly and effectively.
And the truth?
Even the best grant writers “strike out” multiple times.
In Major League Baseball, star hitters like Corey Seager get hits less than 30% of the time — and they’re still elite. Grant success works the same way: the key is consistency, strategy, and readiness.
Corey Seager, one of MLB’s best hitters (my family are Texas Rangers people), had a .271 batting average this season and a career average of .289. That means he fails to get a hit more than 70% of the time—and he’s still headed for the Hall of Fame.
And even the 10 greatest hit leaders of all time in baseball had batting averages ranging from .285 to .367—we’re talking names like Pete Rose, Ty Cobb, Hank Aaron, Derek Jeter, and Albert Pujols. They all didn’t get a hit two-thirds of the time.
Just like in baseball, rookies don’t make the Hall of Fame overnight. New organizations without grants are still getting their reps in. It takes time, persistence, and strategy to build a winning track record with funders. Every at bat—win or lose—builds experience that gets you closer to becoming a Hall of Fame hitter in the grant world.
Real baseball nerds would say I should be talking about OBP and liken it to Moneyball. But that never worked out for Billy Beane. 😀
Grants work the same way: Even the best nonprofits “strike out” more often than they win. What matters is that they keep swinging with a smart strategy.
If you’ve ever submitted a grant proposal that got ghosted, or received vague feedback like “We went with a more prepared applicant,” this post is for you.
Tips for Improving Your “Grant Batting Average” This Month
- Keep applying—volume matters.
Maintain regular contact with foundations.
Have your influencers reach out to foundations they know. - Build strong internal systems. Track outcomes, improve narratives, and maintain clean financial documentation.
- Seek coaching. Partnering with experienced grant consultants accelerates your learning curve.
Success Story Snapshot
Client: Streams & Valleys
About: Trinity Park and Trail Enhancement Project is a comprehensive series of improvements and innovations that will fundamentally transform Fort Worth’s grandest public space and ensure that Trinity River remains fun, accessible, sustainable, and economically vibrant.
Result: Secured more than $260,000 in foundation funding toward its capital campaign goal. Ensure the Trinity River remains a seminal landmark and safe green space in Fort Worth.
Stop Guessing, Start Preparing
If you want to talk more about grant funding for your organization, schedule your no-obligation consultation call with us today. We are ready to partner with you to help you win big.
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