Optimus Template

I’ve run into a few clients lately who want to apply for a grant for, say, $300,000 when the funding agency is giving up to $500,000. The client’s program could definitely make use of the extra $200,000, so I had to convince them that there is little, if any, benefit to asking for less money than the total potential funded amount.

I would always suggest asking for the full amount if the size and scope of your proposed project can justify it. Some grant applications have guidelines pertaining to the percentage of the full amount you are eligible to ask for based on the number of people your project will serve. But always ask for the full amount that you are eligible for within the guidelines.

The very worst thing that can happen is that your proposal will be funded at a reduced amount. Funders are not "offended" or "put off" if you ask for an amount of money that you make a good case for.

What are your thoughts? Do you always ask for the full amount? Has a funder awarded you with less than what you asked for? Please share them in the comments.