Post-Grant Engagement: What to Do After You Hear Back from a Funder

Securing a grant is only one step in building strong, long-lasting relationships with funders. Whether your proposal was funded or declined, how you respond can make a significant difference for future opportunities. Many nonprofits overlook this crucial stage, but post-grant engagement is where trust and credibility are built.

Why Post-Grant Engagement Matters

Funders want to partner with organizations that demonstrate accountability, gratitude, and resilience. By handling both “yes” and “no” outcomes with professionalism, your nonprofit positions itself for future opportunities and strengthens its reputation in the philanthropic community.

If Your Grant Is Funded: Celebrate, Steward, and Deliver

Getting the award is exciting, but your job doesn’t stop at the award letter. Funders expect thoughtful stewardship and accountability.

Key Steps for Funded Grants

1. Send a Thank-You Letter Immediately – Express genuine gratitude and outline how the funds will make an impact.

2. Review Reporting Requirements – Note deadlines and expectations in your grants calendar right away.

3. Acknowledge the Funder Publicly (if permitted) – Include recognition in newsletters, social media, and annual reports.

4. Engage Your Board & Team – Celebrate the win and communicate how the grant supports strategic priorities.

5. Track Outcomes Consistently – Collect data and stories throughout the grant period, not just at reporting time.

6. Provide Mid-Year Updates (even if not required) – Show initiative and transparency.
   

👉 Downloadable Resource: Post-Grant Checklist for Funded Applications

If Your Grant Is Not Funded: Respond with Professionalism and Persistence

Rejection is common—even for strong proposals. How you handle a decline can leave a lasting impression and open doors later.

Key Steps for Declined Grants

1. Acknowledge the Decision Graciously – Thank the funder for reviewing your proposal.

2. Request Feedback (if available) – Ask if they can share what influenced the decision.

3. Evaluate Alignment – Reassess whether this funder’s priorities match your mission.

4. Keep the Relationship Warm – Share occasional updates on your organization’s progress.

5. Refine Your Proposal – Use feedback to strengthen your case for other funders.

6. Reapply When Ready – Many funders encourage reapplications after one or two years.

   
   

👉 Downloadable Resource: Post-Grant Checklist for Declined Applications

The Bottom Line

Post-grant engagement is about relationships, not just transactions. By treating funders as long-term partners—whether or not your proposal is funded—you show professionalism, gratitude, and commitment to impact. This mindset will set your nonprofit apart and help sustain funding success over time.

At Just Write Grants, we believe grant writing doesn’t end when you hit “submit.” True success comes from building strong funder relationships—before, during, and after the grant decision. Our team helps nonprofits craft proposals that inspire confidence, reflect funder priorities, and support long-term sustainability.

If you’re ready to strengthen your post-grant engagement and overall funding strategy, we’d love to connect. Schedule a free introductory call today at www.justwritegrants.com/virtualmeeting