When Funders Say “We Want Innovation,” What Do They Actually Mean?

Every grant guidelines document loves to throw around the word “innovation.” But here’s the thing: they don’t usually mean you need to invent something new.

Apr 06, 2025

∙ Paid

I was drafting an application the other week for Seniors Month activities when I hit a question asking how the project would be innovative.

Which threw me—because Seniors Month activities are usually events, workshops, or something similar that benefit older people. And the grant amount? $2,000.

It’s not the first time I’ve seen “innovation” pop up in grants where it doesn’t seem to fit. But that’s exactly why I thought this was a great opportunity to explain what funders really mean when they ask for it.

When Funders Say “We Want Innovation,” What Do They Actually Mean?

Every grant guidelines document loves to throw around the word “innovation.” But here’s the thing: they don’t usually mean you need to invent something new.

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