How do I report on a grant after receiving it?
What to Include
Most funders ask for a narrative report describing what you did, how many people you served, and what outcomes you achieved. They also want a financial report showing how you spent the money compared to the approved budget. Some require photos, testimonials, or evaluation data.
Check your grant agreement for specific formats and deadlines. If you don't have the agreement, ask the program officer. Reports are often due quarterly, semi-annually, or at the end of the grant.
- Narrative summary of activities and accomplishments
- Progress toward goals and objectives
- Financial statement or budget-to-actual comparison
- Any required evaluation or data
- Stories or quotes that illustrate impact
Tips for Good Reporting
Start collecting data and stories from day one. Don't wait until the report is due. Keep receipts and track expenses in a way that matches the grant budget categories. If you had to change your budget, explain why in the report.
Be honest about challenges. Funders appreciate transparency and may offer support. If you can't meet a deadline, contact them early to ask for an extension. Good reporting builds trust for future grants.
Common mistakes
- Missing the reporting deadline, which can jeopardize future funding.
- Submitting a vague narrative without specific numbers or outcomes.
- Not tracking expenses according to the grant budget, leading to financial discrepancies.
