8.3 Ethics and Integrity in Grant Writing

Ethics in stewardship is about managing grant funds and programs with fairness, accountability, and transparency. It can also look like respecting the community and beneficiaries. The Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO) believes that ethics are about being community-centered, not just funder-facing. Prior to writing the proposal it helps to design the project with, not just for, the people served^[1]. Accurately describing needs or outcomes while seeking funding will demonstrate truthful representation. It is also ethical and responsible to avoid misleading statistics or inflating success rates when writing a grant. Further, ethical grant writers correctly cite information borrowed from outside sources as well as any models or tools developed in collaboration with others. They acknowledge partnerships and give credit where credit is due.

Integrity in grant writing includes being honest about your intentions. Outcomes or project goals should be achievable and supported by a sound plan. Integrity also includes doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Reflect on mistakes and be accountable. Share what was learned and how the data will improve outcomes.

In stewardship and reporting, ethics and integrity are of the utmost importance in maintaining positive relationships with funders. Below are a few examples of what ethics and integrity can look like in the grant-writing process.

Using Accurate Financial and Impact Reporting

• Do not falsify data, inflate numbers, or overlook budget discrepancies
• Submit truthful and timely reports even when outcomes fall short
• Ensure all required quantitative and qualitative data are collected and delivered to the funders on time

Spending Funds and Resources as Agreed

• Never reallocate funds without prior approval from the funding agency
• Only spend money on what is included in the approved budget

Maintaining Strict Confidentiality and Privacy

• Protect all personal information by handling participant data ethically
• Obtain consent for all stories and photos

Giving Gratitude and Acknowledgment

• Recognize the funder’s role in publications, media, and all communications during the grant period and after
• Thank any and all partners who contributed to the success of the grant