Top
Tricks of the Trade
Kelly
Simpson, KSPowerGroup Consulting
Proposal
writing can be tough. It requires an enormous amount of time to
develop a persuasive and concise proposal that reflects the objectives
of the prospected funders. Proposal writing requires exceptional
research, writing, and analytical skills. As an experienced proposal
writer and grant reviewer, I have devised a list of tips to help
you develop winning proposals that will separate you from the
rest of the pile.
1.
Do your homework - make sure that the concept of your program/event
advances the mission, vision, and values of the company or charitable
foundation. It is important to obtain a copy of the funding/grant
giving criteria before you apply. In your proposal tell the funders
how you fit within their funding strategy, this will impress them
and give your organization credibility.
2.
Follow directions - read directions carefully to make sure
that you answer the question that is being asked. Keep your answers
brief and to the point. Read the guidelines, for example, if they
ask for a copy of the annual report make sure you include it.
Do not send in additional information that is not requested, it
is important to keep you proposal simple so that it will standout
from the others in the enormous grantseeking pile.
3.
Be Concise - more is definitely not better - keep the summary
of the program/event to no more than 250 words (1 page). Funders
will take the time to read it if it is clear and concise. If questions
arise, funders will take the time to call you to clarify.
4.
Proofread it - have at least three other people read the
proposal. Editors should read the draft for content and then again
for form. Spelling mistakes and grammatical errors are not acceptable
and could jeopardize your chance of being funded.
5.
Demonstrate partnerships and collaborations - seek out
other stakeholders in the community to partner with; funders do
not like it when organizations work in silos. When stakeholders
collaborate, foundations anticipate a greater return on their
investment; a more meaningful distribution of their funds; a chance
for their dollars to reach more people and have a greater impact.
6.
Demonstrate commitment to project - request cash and in-kind
donations from each partnering agency to the project to show commitment
and sustainability of the project. Funders are always impressed
when stakeholders commit their own funds into projects.
7.
Sustainability - always portray the foundation/funder as
a catalyst rather than as a perpetual benefactor. Always list
the names of other funding agencies that committed cash and in-kind
donations to the project. If possible, include the ways that the
program/event will generate revenue to help sustainability.
8.
Program Evaluation - make sure that you have an evaluation
plan to measure project outcomes. Funders want to make sure that
they are committing their funds to projects that are making a
difference and can be measured.
9.
Be honest - especially when it comes to the budget. The
financials must always make sense, and a detailed budget shows
that the grantee is communicating honestly about financial matters.
If your organization has a deficit you must show it. If possible
include an explanation (e.g., Executive Director quit, had to
focus energy on recruitment)
10.
Don't forget your manners - if you get the grant make sure
that you say thank-you. If the money if for a new project consider
hosting a public launch with a cheque ceremony.
11.
Don't send the proposal overnight - if you miss the deadline
the funder will not accept it. Deadlines are strictly enforced
and followed.
Further
Readings:
Van
Rotterdam, Ingrid. Building Foundation Partnerships: The Basics
of Foundation Fundraising and Proposal Writing. Canadian Centre
for Philanthropy, Toronto,1999.
Canadian
Centre for Philanthropy. Creating Effective Partnerships with
Business: A guide for Charities and Non-profits in Canada.
Toronto, 2000.
Wyman,
Ken. Face to Face: How to Get Bigger Donations from Very Generous
People. Canadian Heritage. Ottawa, 1993
