At the Athens County Foundation, we’re here to support strong, thoughtful applications, but every now and then, we come across proposals that raise concerns. These “red flags” don’t automatically disqualify an application, but they can make it harder for reviewers to understand or trust your project. The good news?
Most of these are easy to fix with a little awareness and planning.

Here are five red flags we encourage all applicants to look out for, and some tips to help you avoid them:

1. Vague Goals or Unclear Plans

Red Flag: The application doesn’t clearly explain what the project is trying to do, how it will be done, or who it will serve.

Why it matters: Reviewers need to understand your vision and the steps you’ll take to bring it to life. Without that clarity, it’s hard to see how the grant funds will be used or what impact they’ll have.

How to avoid it:
Break your project down into clear objectives, activities, and outcomes. Think about what success looks like and how you’ll measure it. Specifics are your friend.

2. Budgets That Don’t Match the Story

Red Flag: The proposed budget is unrealistic, incomplete, or doesn’t align with the goals described in the application.

Why it matters: A budget tells the story of how your project will actually happen. If the numbers don’t line up with the plan—or leave out key details—it can raise questions about feasibility.

How to avoid it: Make sure your budget reflects the work you’re proposing. Be transparent about costs, and if anything is estimated, say so. Don’t forget to include in-kind support, matching funds, or other sources of revenue if they apply.

3. Overuse of AI or Generic Language

Red Flag:  The proposal feels overly polished but impersonal, with language that could apply to almost any project.

Why it matters:  We want to hear your voice and understand the unique context of your work. When a proposal reads like it was entirely generated by AI or pulled from a generic template, it can feel disconnected or insincere. Some stories are best told in your own words, even if they’re raw, informal, or a little unpolished. And just to be transparent, we use AI detection tools when we notice signs that raise concerns.

How to avoid it:  AI tools can be incredibly helpful (yes, we love our ACFbot, and no, she did not force us to say this). Use them to support your process, but let your voice lead the way. Let the tool refine your ideas, not replace them. The goal is to help your purpose come through clearly and genuinely. We're not grading your grammar, we just want to understand your vision and the real people behind it.

4. Lack of Community Connection

Red Flag:  The proposal doesn’t clearly show how the project connects with or responds to the Athens County community (or for RCIF, Rocky Brands’ priority communities).

Why it matters:  Our funding is grounded in supporting local solutions. If a project feels disconnected from community needs or lacks local input, it’s harder for us to understand its relevance or impact.

How to avoid it:  Describe how you’ve engaged with the community, who you’re partnering with, and how your work responds to real needs or opportunities in Athens County. Including letters of support can help tell that story. If your organization is based outside the county you serve and you’re looking to build stronger connections, reach out—we’ll be happy to help you get plugged in.

5. No Plan for Sustainability

Red Flag:  The project sounds promising—but there’s no clear plan for what happens after the grant ends.

Why it matters:  We want to support projects that can grow, evolve, or continue to benefit the community beyond the initial funding. If there’s no path forward, it can raise concerns about lasting impact.

How to avoid it: Think about what comes next. Will this grant help you build something that continues through partnerships, future funding, or community ownership? Even if it’s a one-time project, share how the results will live on or inform future work.

Final Thought: We’re Here to Support You

Mistakes happen, and not every red flag is a dealbreaker. If you’re unsure about your application, don’t hesitate to connect with our team. We want you to succeed, and we’re happy to offer guidance along the way. Your work matters—and we’re excited to help you bring it to life in the most impactful way possible.

Connect

Shayne Lopez
Program Director,
Grantmaking and Community Impact