Generic letters of support are worthless. Strong letters demonstrate genuine partnerships and community investment.
What Makes a Strong Letter
Specific to Your Project The letter should reference your specific project, not just praise your organization.
Demonstrates Real Commitment Vague support is meaningless. What will the partner actually do?
From Credible Sources Letters from recognized community leaders, partner organizations, and beneficiaries carry weight.
Well-Written Poor grammar and generic language reflect badly on your application.
Who Should Write Letters
- Partner organizations
- Community leaders
- Elected officials
- Subject matter experts
- Beneficiary representatives
- Previous funders
What to Include
- Relationship to your organization
- Understanding of the problem
- Specific support being offered
- Why this project matters
- Contact information
How to Request Letters
- Give partners plenty of time (2-3 weeks minimum)
- Provide a draft or talking points
- Explain what the funder wants to see
- Include deadline and submission instructions
- Follow up politely
Red Flags to Avoid
- Form letters with just the name changed
- Letters from people with no connection to the project
- Promises that can't be kept
- Letters dated before the grant was announced
Quality over quantity. Three strong letters beat ten generic ones.
