Grant Writing Tips: How to Strengthen Your Sport Grant Application

Writing a grant application can be a time-consuming process, but the rewards are well worth the effort — especially when it comes to programs like the NSW Local Sport Grant Program, which offers up to $20,000 per project and $50,000 per electorate.

To help your club make the most of this opportunity, we’ve put together some simple, effective grant writing tips to improve your chances of success.

1. Know what you’re applying for

Before you begin, thoroughly read the grant guidelines to:

• Confirm your club’s eligibility
• Understand the submission requirements
• Identify any funding sub-themes (e.g. gender equity, inclusion, accessibility, support for lower socio-economic communities)

If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to contact the grant provider directly — they can often clarify key points or highlight focus areas they’re prioritising.

2. Be strategic with your application

Grant writing can be resource-intensive, so focus on submissions that align closely with your club’s capabilities and existing plans.

• Stick to your core business — avoid stretching into areas you’re not equipped to deliver just to chase funding
• Don’t include proposals that would face significant barriers, such as projects unlikely to gain council approval

3. Target the assessment criteria

Every application is assessed against specific criteria, so tailor your submission accordingly.

• Address each criterion directly
• Use the same language from the guidelines where appropriate
• Stick to word limits and formatting instructions
• Provide clear, outcome-focused answers — assessors are looking for what, why, who, and how

Think of it like writing a newspaper article: clearly identify the need (the pain point), explain your solution, and show how it will be delivered.

4. Keep it clear, simple and engaging

• Use short sentences and dot points where possible
• Avoid jargon, acronyms or overly technical terms
• Tell your story in a way that feels authentic and specific to your club
• Support claims with data or references (e.g. participation figures, local demand, Surfing Australia reports)

Set your application apart with a clear narrative, backed by logic and evidence.

5. Get your supporting documents ready early

You may need to upload documents such as:

• Strategic plans
• Club constitution
• Financial statements
• Quotes for equipment or services

Make sure all attachments meet file size and format requirements.

6. Use a separate platform to draft your application

Before submitting, write your responses in Word, Google Docs or another editable format so you can:

• Review and proofread thoroughly
• Run spellcheck
• Save a backup copy
• Easily cut and paste into the submission form
• Keep a record of your responses for future applications

Also remember to save your lodgement receipt once submitted.

7. Use digital tools to help — with care

AI tools like ChatGPT can help you:

• Review your draft
• Tighten your language
• Identify gaps or inconsistencies

Just make sure the content remains accurate, reflects your own material, and is written in your club’s tone of voice. Always fact-check any claims or data suggestions.

Final tip: Start early and aim to submit well before the deadline.

The NSW Local Sport Grant Program closes 1pm, Monday 18 August 2025. Don’t leave it until the final hours — early submissions give you time to respond if anything goes wrong.

For more information or to apply, visit: sport.nsw.gov.au/local-sport-grant-program

Have questions or want help tailoring your application to sport participation? Our team is here to help — get in touch with integrity@surfingaustralia.com