How to get grants for equine assisted therapy

Equine assisted therapy has become beneficial in providing therapy for all ages. Equine assisted therapy can help improve a person's sense of coordination because of the rhythmic action of the horse. Therapeutic riding can stimulate nerves that have not been used and helps ligaments relax. Equine assisted therapy can include several types of therapy, such as sport riding and vaulting among others. Therapeutic riding facilities often apply for grants to develop or expand upon programs, purchase equipment and cover other costs.

Search for grants from private foundations and government agencies. Finding the right funding source is essential to getting grants for equine assisted therapy. It is important to evaluate if the funder has similar areas of interest, will provide the type of funding you need and provides funding in your state. Applying for grants is a competitive process, so it is important to make sure that you are eligible for grants for which you apply.

Develop a funding calendar of equine assisted therapy grants. This will help you keep your organisation on track and improve the possibility of receiving funding. Many funders will ask what other grants you plan to apply to, so having a funding calendar will show that your organisation is serious.

Before the grant deadline, be sure to ask any questions that you have if the funder allows contact by phone or e-mail so you can address all areas required for the grant proposal.

Write your grant proposal according to the funder's specifications. Some funders do not have requirements about what should be covered. Most grant proposals should include a cover page, an executive summary, organizational history, needs statement, project description and plan for activities, objective and timeline, collaborations, organizational charts and biographies, as well as a budget and justification with funding sources. When writing an equine assisted therapy grant proposal, try to differentiate your organisation from others and focus on what makes your programs special.

Submit the equine assisted therapy proposal in an appropriately sized envelope with the cover sheet, proposal, budget and any supplementary material. Do not staple the grant proposal together or put it in a binder unless requested. Submit the grant in a paper clip. If the funder requests multiple copies, be sure that they are put together appropriately.

Follow up with a funder by sending a thank you letter or card even if you did not receive a grant from the funder. Show that you appreciate their time. Some funders will send a denial letter with the grant, which may be able to helpful to apply for grants again in the future. If a proposal is funded, it is important to prepare a report to send to a funder, even if they do not ask for one. Show that you are spending the grant money responsibility.