Readiness
Funders decide on your foundation before they read your writing.
A readiness review examines the items reviewers verify first. Each is recorded as ready, partially in place, missing or not applicable — with the gaps stated plainly.
Legal & Registration Standing
- Employer Identification Number and entity formation
- Tax-exempt determination status, where applicable
- State charitable registration and good standing
- UEI / SAM.gov registration status for federal funding
Governance
- Board composition and meeting cadence
- Bylaws and conflict-of-interest policy
- Board approval pathway for grant commitments
- Executive and program leadership continuity
Financial Readiness
- Accounting system and fund-tracking capability
- Most recent audit, review or compilation
- Form 990 or equivalent filings
- Cash-flow capacity for reimbursement-based awards
- Indirect-cost approach and, where relevant, negotiated rate
Project Definition
- Clear statement of need with supporting evidence
- Defined population served and service geography
- Measurable outcomes and a data-collection method
- Realistic implementation timeline
Budget Quality
- Line-item budget aligned to the project narrative
- Match or cost-share identification, where required
- Other committed and pending funding sources
- Partner cash and in-kind contributions
Documentation
- Organizational and financial documents assembled
- Letters of support and partner agreements
- Board roster and key personnel resumes
- Prior award and reporting history
A gap is information, not a verdict
Most organizations have gaps. Many are resolvable in weeks. Some mean a later funding cycle is the stronger decision. We will tell you either way, including when the honest answer is to wait.
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