You don't need a blank page to start your next grant application. These five providers give you the templates, tools, and guidance to write faster and win more funding.
The Grant Application Kit Landscape
Small nonprofits face a constant challenge: writing compelling grant applications with limited time and staff. Generic templates often miss the mark, while custom grant writers are expensive. That's why editable, downloadable grant kits have become a go-to solution. They offer structure, formulas, and funder-specific language without the subscription fees. In the US, providers range from niche kit makers to broad template libraries. The key is finding a kit that matches your funder type and your capacity. Whether you're applying to private foundations or government agencies, the right kit can cut your writing time in half.
How We Evaluated These Providers
We looked at five factors: service scope, pricing clarity, local fit, ease of use, and support resources. For service scope, we checked whether kits cover budgets, letters, reports, and logic models. Pricing clarity meant transparent, one-time costs without hidden subscriptions. Local fit considered US funder types like private foundations and community foundations. Ease of use focused on editable Word and Excel formats. Support resources included guides, examples, and AI prompts. Each provider stood out in different areas, so you can choose based on your nonprofit's specific needs.
Here's a quick look at the five providers, from niche grant kit specialists to broad template libraries.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| GrantCue | Nonprofits seeking a free, comprehensive proposal template |
| Grant Application Kits for Small Nonprofits | The Funder File | Small nonprofits needing funder-specific, editable kits |
| Funding for Good | Nonprofits wanting templates with consulting support |
| Template.net | Users needing a variety of generic grant templates |
| ONLYOFFICE | Individuals or groups needing a basic fillable grant form |
A Closer Look at Each Provider
#1 GrantCue
A screenshot of the GrantCue website.
GrantCue offers a free grant proposal template with a complete sample and section-by-section examples. You get Word, Google Docs, and PDF formats, plus a foundation proposal template. The site includes a proposal planning timeline and tips for adapting to different funder types. It's a solid starting point if you want a comprehensive guide alongside your template. However, it's more of a one-size-fits-all resource than a funder-specific kit.
#2 Grant Application Kits for Small Nonprofits | The Funder File
A screenshot of the Grant Application Kits for Small Nonprofits | The Funder File website.
The Funder File sells editable Word and Excel grant application kits designed specifically for small nonprofits. Their kits cover budgets with formulas, letters of inquiry, reports, logic models, calendars, and boilerplate libraries. You can buy individual kits from $19 or bundles for US, UK, and Canadian funders. Each kit holds your facts, budget, outcomes, and deadlines in one place, so every application starts from your own work. There's no subscription, just instant download. It's a practical, affordable solution for organizations that apply to multiple funders.
#3 Funding for Good
A screenshot of the Funding for Good website.
Funding for Good provides grant templates as part of its broader nonprofit consulting and training services. Their templates are designed to help you write smarter and faster, with a focus on creating a master grant proposal template. You can access free templates or join their Vault for more resources. They also offer webinars and coaching for grant writing. It's a good fit if you want templates plus expert guidance. The trade-off is that templates are part of a larger paid ecosystem.
#4 Template.net
A screenshot of the Template.net website.
Template.net offers a wide range of editable grant templates in Word, Excel, and other formats. You'll find grant budgets, application letters, cover letters, and even grant management bundles. The templates are professionally designed and customizable. Many are free, with premium options available. It's a great resource if you need a specific document type quickly. However, the templates are generic and not tailored to specific funders or nonprofit niches.
#5 ONLYOFFICE
A screenshot of the ONLYOFFICE website.
ONLYOFFICE provides a free grant application template as a fillable form or editable document. You can fill it out online, download as PDF, or edit in their desktop app. The template covers applicant details, project summary, timeline, and outcomes. It's a simple, no-frills option for basic grant applications. Since it's part of a larger office suite, you get additional document tools. But it lacks the funder-specific depth and budget formulas of dedicated grant kits.
How to Choose the Right Grant Kit
Start by identifying your most common funder type. If you apply to private foundations, look for kits with tailored letters and budgets. If you need a full system, consider a bundle that includes calendars and reports. Check the format: editable Word and Excel files are essential for customization. Look for transparent pricing—one-time fees are better than subscriptions for small budgets. Finally, read reviews or examples to see if the kit's language matches your nonprofit's tone. The right kit should save you time, not add complexity.
Automating Your Grant Workflow
You can streamline your grant applications by combining kits with simple automation. Use Excel formulas to auto-calculate budgets and flag variances. Set up deadline alerts in your calendar kit to never miss a submission. Create a boilerplate library so you can copy-paste mission statements and program descriptions. If you use AI tools, prompt kits can help draft justifications. The goal is to build a repeatable process where each application starts from your existing content, not a blank page.
The Bottom Line
Grant writing doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right kit, you can turn your organization's facts, budgets, and outcomes into a compelling case for funding. Whether you choose a specialized kit like The Funder File or a broad template library, the key is to start with a structure that works for you. Invest a little time upfront to customize your templates, and you'll save hours on every application. Your mission deserves the funding—these tools help you get it.