How to Write a Case for Support That Actually Works

If you’re a nonprofit leader, grantwriter, or development staff, you’ve probably heard this advice: “You need a strong case for support.” But what does that actually mean?

Your case for support is more than a pitch. It’s your north star—a clear, compelling document that explains who you are, why your work matters, and what you’re asking funders to support. Whether you’re writing a grant, prepping for a capital campaign, or aligning your team, a solid case can save you time and sharpen your message.

Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to building a case for support that’s powerful, persuasive, and ready to use—plus how PureGrant can help you craft, store, and reuse your best language.

1. Executive Summary (Optional for internal use or high-level donors)
A 1–2 paragraph overview of the case: the problem, your solution, your ask.

Here's an example using a fictional nonprofit, BrightPath:

Every year, thousands of young people in our community struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma—with limited access to affordable, culturally competent mental health care. Left untreated, these challenges can derail their education, relationships, and future stability.

At BrightPath, we provide free, school-based counseling and peer support programs for youth ages 12–18. Our model combines licensed therapists, trained mentors, and partnerships with local schools to reach students where they are—before crisis hits. We’re seeking $150,000 to expand our services into three new schools next year, allowing us to serve an additional 300 students and reduce waitlists by 40%.

2. The Problem (Needs Statement)

• What challenge or injustice are you addressing?

• Who is affected, and how?

• Why does this matter now (urgency)?

• Use compelling data and personal stories to paint the picture.

3. Your Mission & Vision

• Your mission statement (clear and concise)

• Your vision for what’s possible if the problem is solved

• Connect your mission to the need

4. Your Approach / Programs

• What do you actually do to address the problem?

• Key programs or services—what they are, how they work

• What’s unique or effective about your model?

• Optional: logic model or theory of change

5. Your Impact

• What results have you achieved so far?

• Key stats, milestones, or outcomes

• Client stories or testimonials

• How do you measure success?

6. The Opportunity (Your Ask)

• What are you raising money for now?

• How much do you need and what will it fund?

• What happens if you don’t get it?

• Why this moment matters

7. Why You? (Credibility)

• Brief organizational history or founding story

• Key leadership or partnerships

• Track record of success

• Financial accountability and transparency

8. Call to Action

• Invite the funder/donor to be part of the solution

• Reinforce shared values

• End with a clear, hopeful ask

9. Supporting Materials / Attachments (Optional but recommended)

• Organizational budget

• Program budget

• Board list

• IRS determination letter

• Most recent 990 or audit

• Strategic plan, if available

• Logic model or evaluation plan

• Letters of support

Tip:

PureGrant can help you build your Case for Support faster by organizing your program information, generating funder-ready language, and keeping your content consistent across grant applications.

Sheena Link is a longtime grantwriter and the co-founder of PureGrant, an AI-powered platform that helps nonprofits craft compelling cases, write smarter, and win more funding—without the burnout. Reach her at sheena@puregrant.com.