7.2 The Purpose of the Cover Letter

The cover letter is an excellent addition to a grant application. Not all organizations submit a cover letter, so including one offers an extra opportunity to connect with the reviewer and build rapport. A cookie-cutter letter is a mistake. The cover letter is often the first thing that the reviewers read. Following a “thank you” template will not help the application stand out. Take advantage of this opportunity to introduce your organization, idea, or goal with a hook that will speak to the mission of the funding company.

Some grant applications require a cover letter, while others do not. Even if a cover letter is not required, they may still be submitted and can strengthen your chances of being funded. When a cover letter is required, ensure you fulfill all requirements. Common required sections include the following:

• Introduction
• Statement of Need
• Methodology
• Other Funding Sources
• Summary Statement

If you have already written the grant narrative, it will be easier to write the cover letter. As previously mentioned, the cover letter is a shortened version of the grant narrative and should include the most important pieces of your project. It should be a professional, formal letter that is easy to read and clean yet utilizes emotion (or pathos) to emphasize your need. (Tip: Be sure to stay within required page limits. A common requirement is one page in length, single-spaced.)

The purpose of the cover letter is to give the reviewers a snapshot of why your project stands out from the rest. If written well and with intention, the cover letter will grab the attention and the favor of the scorers. Intentional writing includes details about the applying organization that will highlight the project and goals. According to the Indeed Career Guide, “Introducing your organization at the beginning of your grant proposal cover letter can be beneficial, as it can provide reviewers with a background understanding of your organization and its purpose.”^[1] Finally, be authentic and passionate but grounded.