What Really Makes a Nonprofit Stand Out to Funders

Every grant writer has heard it before: “Make sure your application is strong.” But what does that actually mean?

At Scribe, we’ve spent years writing, reviewing, and submitting nonprofit grant proposals at every level — from small family foundations to competitive federal grant programs. We’ve seen firsthand what makes reviewers pause and actually choose to fund a nonprofit.

Here are the real, behind-the-scenes factors that make nonprofits stand out, even amongst crowded grant cycles.

1. Funders Google You — And They Notice Everything

You could write the most compelling application in the world, but if a reviewer searches your nonprofit’s name and finds an outdated website, no recent updates, or reviews from clients that aren’t great, it plants doubt.

Funders want to support organizations they can trust. The trust starts with your digital footprint.

Ask yourself:

• Does your website clearly state your mission and impact?

• Do your social media channels reflect current activity?

• Are we being responsive to comments, reviews, and other communications?

Even a simple update, like showcasing a recent success story or publishing a board list, can reinforce your legitimacy in the eyes of a reviewer.

2. Show Financial Growth

Saying “We served 1,000 people last year” is great, but what really stands out to funders is growth and sustainability.

What gets noticed:

• Multi-year data that shows consistent demand

• An upward trend in community need

• Evidence that your services are gaining traction

If you can show, for example, that your food distribution program doubled in reach over two years while local food insecurity increased, you’re proving your nonprofit’s relevance.

3. Letters of Support Should Say More 

Most letters of support sound like copy-paste compliments. Funders can spot them a mile away. The best letters come from people who rely on your organization: program participants, community leaders, and partner agencies.

These groups not only support your nonprofit’s mission, but also provide an insider perspective on what would happen without your work. 

Here is an example of what funders want to read:“Our organization depends on [Your Nonprofit] to [Insert Community Impact]. Without their help, [What Would Happen Without Your Nonprofit’s Help].”

This kind of detail adds real weight, and it shows your work in action.

4. Funders want to fill the gap — not fund the whole thing

If your application requests 100% of a program’s funding with no other support or commitments, it signals risk. Funders prefer to see how their contribution fits into a larger plan.

Even small matching funds, in-kind contributions, or pending grant applications can demonstrate:

• Financial help

• Strategic planning

• Sustainability beyond the grant term

Framing the funder as a key piece of the puzzle — not the entire solution — can make your proposal feel more collaborative and realistic.

5. The best proposals read like you’ve already done the work

Reviewers are most impressed when applications feel like a post-grant report — clear goals, defined outcomes, and accountability baked in.

What that looks like::

• Specific milestones and timelines

• Measurable outcomes (not just “we hope to…”

• A plan for sustaining or scaling the work after funding ends

This communicates detailed planning and readiness. You’re demonstrating how the funder’s money will make a difference.

6. And finally… funders talk to each other

This one’s not often said out loud, but it matters.

In regional circles or specific issue areas, funders and reviewers are constantly networking and collaborating. If your organization has been late on reports, hard to contact, or disorganized post-award, that reputation follows you.

On the other hand, being responsive, communicative, and transparent builds a great reputation, which can open doors to future opportunities.

Let’s make your next application a standout

There is no magic formula for winning grants, but there is a pattern, and it starts with building trust, telling a clear story, and understanding what reviewers are looking for. 

At Scribe, we are experts in the entire grant cycle, not just grant applications. We help nonprofits position themselves for long-term success.

Want to stand out in your next grant cycle? Book a free consultation, and let’s build something funders can’t ignore.

Book a free consultation: https://www.scribellcnc.com/free-consultation