Stories vs Stats: Which is more important in grant applications?

The short answer is neither. Both are critical in getting funding.

Stories

Stories ground the importance of your work in the reader’s mind. They can help establish need and give readers a means to connect emotionally with your organization and its mission.

Stats

Stats prove you are capable of fulfilling the promises that a grant entails. One feel-good story is almost meaningless if you can’t prove that you have the scope to duplicate your results.