At Skip, we're dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs through our grant programs. To date, we've given our nearly $500,000 to small businesses across the country. Among these, our $10k grants are the most impactful, allowing us to really get to know the heart and soul of the small businesses in our community. The selection process is rigorous and we take the responsibility very seriously. Here’s a deeper look at how we select our winners and tips on enhancing your application.

📌 Ready to apply to Skip grants? See the latest grant opportunities.

Understanding the Skip Grant Application Process

The foundation of our selection process is the application itself. Our grants are open to all stages and types of businesses. We pose a series of questions designed not just to learn what your business does or will do, but to uncover the passion and story behind it. These responses are your opportunity to stand out and show us the essence of your business.

Importance of Well-Formatted Grant Responses

Responses to Skip's grant questions are pivotal. Here's what we look for in your answers:

1. Comprehensive Answers: Make sure you fully address each question. It's crucial to explain not only what your business does but why you do it. For instance, if we ask why you started your business, we're looking for more than just your activities—we want to know what motivates you daily.
2. Using the Right Format: While creativity in responses is encouraged, maintaining clear and easy-to-understand answers is crucial. Pay attention to formatting, use clear paragraphs, ensure your responses are logically organized and adhere to the specified word or character limits. Some applicants submit responses that are too brief to convey depth, while others exceed the limit, which can introduce unnecessary details.
3. Engaging Storytelling: The ability to create a compelling narrative is key. We seek stories that not only explain the functional aspects of your business but also inspire and resonate on a personal level. The way you weave your story can significantly impact how we view your application.

The Power of Storytelling for Skip Grants

Storytelling is perhaps the most critical element of your application. We look for compelling narratives that draw us into your world. Consider the difference between these two statements:

• "I started my business because I like to work with hair."
• "I started my business because hair was the main thing that created a bond between me and my late grandmother, inspiring me to help others feel beautiful and confident."

The second response doesn't just tell us what you do; it shares why you do it, adding a personal touch that makes all the difference.

Tips for a Winning Application

• Be Authentic: Authenticity resonates. Share real stories and genuine reasons behind your business and practices.
• Focus on Impact: How does your business help your customers? What unique impact does it have? The more specific you are, the better we understand your value.
• Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm and commitment to your business shine through. Passion is contagious and can significantly influence our decision-making.
• Proofread: Simple errors can distract from your message. A well-proofed submission shows professionalism and attention to detail.

The Importance of Having a Website

No matter the type of business—be it service, manufacturing, retail, or something entirely unique—having a well-maintained website is crucial. Once we narrow down to a shortlist of potential grant winners, we dive deeper into understanding each business. A website allows us to see your business in action, understand its impact, and gauge the potential influence of our grant. It’s a window into your operations, showcasing your products, services, and the community you serve. While this isn't a requirement for our grant winners, it is highly encouraged!

📌 Want to talk through your grant application with us? Book a 1-1 call with our team of funding and business experts

Using AI to Write and Improve Your Applications

At Skip, we've built AI tools to enhance the grant application process and absolutely encourage you to use them when applying! Our AI tools are designed to assist you in drafting your responses, proofreading, and improving the structure of your answers. We encourage you to use these tools to refine your answers—taking advantage of the feedback provided can be incredibly beneficial, as it highlights exactly what we're looking for in a standout application. However, while these AI tools are valuable, it's important that your unique voice and personal story are the star. The technology is here to support you, but we want your voice to shine through. The authentic experiences and passion that drive you should always be at the forefront of your application.

Why Your Grant Application Matters

Our $10k grants are more than just financial support; they are investments in the potential of small businesses to grow and positively impact their communities. Each application offers us insights into the incredible diversity and drive of entrepreneurs across the country.

We're eager to read your stories and learn about your businesses. Remember, every word you write helps us understand why your business deserves this boost. Good luck, and we look forward to your application!

📌 Ready to apply to Skip grants? See the latest grant opportunities.