
Peer Reviews
Prepared by: Cybill Bridges, CEO, Bridges Grant Solutions, LLC
The Power of Peer Reviews in Grant
Writing
Welcome back! You are now in your final stages of submitting your competitive proposal for approval. There is one more tool that could help your organization secure a win. One of the few invaluable things that I have learned in my career as a grant writing consultant is that peer reviews are an invaluable tool that can elevate your proposal to its most completive position. Let’s explore why they matter and how to make the most of them.
What are Peer Reviews?
Peer reviews involve having colleagues within your office or outside hired experts review your grant proposals before final submission. They verify all points are thoroughly covered based on the funders requirements, thus making sure you are submitting your most competitive proposal possible. It's like having a friend proofread your work—a fresh set of eyes to catch things you may have missed!

Why Are Peer Reviews Important?
1. Catch Mistakes: Typos, unclear sections, or missing info can be easily spotted by an outside reader.
2. Improve Clarity: Sometimes what makes sense to you might not be clear to others. Peer reviews ensure your message is explained clearly.
3. Enhance Persuasiveness: Peers can suggest ways to strengthen your arguments or highlight additional impacts of your work.
Note: At this point you have been reading your proposal for days and everything looks perfect. A fresh set of eyes will see what you are overlooking.
Steps to an Effective Peer Review
1. Choose the Right Reviewers: Pick people who understand both your mission and goals. Make sure they are comfortable to offer both honest, constructive feedback. Diversity in reviewers is key. Remember this is for funding your future.
2. Provide Context: Give your reviewers the funding guidelines and any specific areas where you want feedback. If hiring an outside reviewer allow them access to the funding portal if provided or provide them with a copy of the application questions, this will give them a clear picture of what is required and if the requirements have been fulfilled.
3. Be Open to Criticism: Remember, constructive criticism is meant to help. Don’t take it personally—use it to improve. AGAIN, DON'T TAKE IT PERSONAL
4. Iterate and Revise: Incorporate the feedback into your proposal and be ready to revise as needed. Make sure you are comfortable with the changes you approve. Remember it is ok to not agree with every suggestion.
Tips for Beginners and Established Nonprofits
For Beginners: Start with close colleagues or mentors for feedback. As your confidence grows, reach out to other nonprofits for a broader perspective.
For Established Nonprofits: Engage cross-departmental teams for diverse insights. Consider external experts for a fresh viewpoint.
Note: No matter what stage you find yourself in your nonprofit journey make sure to give the individual you have chosen enough time to review the proposal requirements to get a full understanding of what is required. Allowing them to thoroughly review your work without feeling rushed.

Final Thought
Peer reviews are all about improving and refining your proposals, helping you put your best foot forward. They’re a straightforward way to enhance the quality and impact of your submissions, making your proposal the most competitive proposal that you can submit. Making you stand out from the rest. So don’t skip this step!
Here’s to crafting winning proposals together. Good luck!
Reach Out
At BGS, we pride ourselves in providing expert feedback that brings your proposal to its most competitive level. Contact us today to take advantage of our expert peer review skills at [email protected]