Applying for the Google Ad Grant can be an exciting opportunity for your charity to boost its online visibility, attract volunteers, and encourage donations—all with free advertising. But what happens if your application is rejected? Don’t worry—rejections happen, and most issues can be fixed. This guide will walk you through common reasons for rejection and the steps you can take to get your application approved.
Why Was Your Google Ad Grant Application Rejected?
Google has strict eligibility and application requirements to ensure the grant goes to charities that can use it effectively. If your application was rejected, it’s usually due to one of these common reasons:
- Your Charity is Not Eligible
- You must be a registered charity in your country. In the UK, this means being registered with the Charity Commission.
- Certain types of organisations, such as government entities or hospitals, are not eligible for the grant.
- Website Issues
Google requires your charity’s website to be:- Functional and User-Friendly: Your website must be live, free of errors, and easy to navigate.
- Clear About Your Mission: Your website must include clear information about your charity’s purpose and activities.
- Compliant: The site should not include broken links, commercial ads, or inappropriate content.
- Missing Documentation or Incorrect Information
If you provided incomplete information—like incorrect charity registration details—your application may have been rejected. - Not Enrolled in Google for Nonprofits
To access the Google Ad Grant, you must first sign up for Google for Nonprofits. If you skipped this step, it could result in an automatic rejection.
What to Do Next: Steps to Fix Your Application
Here’s a step-by-step approach to resolve the rejection and get your application approved:
Step 1: Identify the Reason for Rejection
Google will usually provide a brief explanation for why your application was rejected. Review this carefully. If the reason is unclear, reach out to Google for clarification.
Step 2: Fix Website Issues
Your website is the backbone of your Google Ad Grant application, so make sure it meets all of Google’s requirements:
- Improve Navigation: Ensure your site is easy to use, with clear menus and links to essential pages (e.g., About Us, Contact, Donate).
- Add Your Charity’s Mission: Clearly explain who you are, what you do, and who you serve. A mission statement on the homepage works well.
- Check for Errors: Fix any broken links, missing images, or outdated content. Use tools like Google Search Console to identify technical issues.
- Optimise for Mobile: Your website should look and work well on smartphones and tablets.
Step 3: Verify Your Eligibility
Double-check your eligibility requirements for the Google Ad Grant:
- Are you registered with the Charity Commission or relevant authority in your country?
- Do you have the correct legal status as a non-profit?
- Are you enrolled in Google for Nonprofits? If not, complete this step before reapplying.
Step 4: Update Your Documentation
Ensure all information in your application matches your official charity records, including:
- Charity registration number
- Organisation name
- Contact details
- A verified website URL
If something doesn’t match, update it and resubmit your application.
Step 5: Reapply for the Google Ad Grant
Once you’ve addressed the issues, you’re ready to reapply. Here’s how:
- Log in to your Google for Nonprofits account.
- Navigate to the Google Ad Grant section.
- Submit your updated application with all required details.
Take your time to ensure everything is accurate before resubmitting—small mistakes can lead to another rejection.
Common Tips for Success
To avoid future rejections, keep these tips in mind:
- Follow Google’s Guidelines: Google provides clear rules for eligibility and website quality. Review these carefully before applying.
- Test Your Website: Ask someone outside your organisation to test your website. Is it easy to use? Does it clearly explain your mission?
- Focus on Your Mission: Make sure your website highlights your charity’s work, impact, and how people can get involved.
Need Help? You’re Not Alone!
If you’re struggling to fix the issues or understand why your application was rejected, consider reaching out to experts who specialise in Google Ad Grants. Digital marketing agencies experienced with non-profits can help you:
- Optimise your website
- Complete your application correctly
- Ensure compliance with Google’s rules
Conclusion
A rejected Google Ad Grant application can feel disappointing, but it’s rarely the end of the road. By identifying the problem, fixing any website or eligibility issues, and resubmitting your application, you can turn things around. With up to £8,000 per month in free advertising on the line, it’s well worth the effort.
Ready to make it happen? Take the next steps today, and your charity could soon be reaching thousands of new supporters through Google Search.
Need a helping hand? Our team specialises in getting charities approved for the Google Ad Grant. Reach out to learn how we can help your organisation succeed.
