More On Following Those Rules

One of the more important yet simple procedures to follow when writing a grant proposal is to follow the funders guidelines explicitly. The majority of grant making organizations have set guidelines that they publish regarding the required contents for each proposal. Find out what those requirements are, get a copy and comb through line by line to make sure you understand what is expected. Many proposals are prematurely tossed out because the author used a 10 point instead of 12 point font.

The instructions for Federal and State proposals can sometimes be almost as long as the proposal itself. Before starting on a complicated proposal- read through the instructions first, then go back and begin to pick each section apart. At this point you will want to determine who on your grant team will be responsible for each required element. You can utilize a software program such as Microsoft Project, keep a running written document with each person’s assignments and deadlines or use a simpler method such as marking up with color coded highlighters.

Many times even small family foundations will have written instructions such as, “As a first step, please submit a two page letter of inquiry explaining the projects goals, objectives and attach a program budget.” You want to follow those instructions to the “T” as well. Do not send a three page summary with your full organizational budget, and your latest glossy annual report. If they need more information they will ask for it.

If the guidelines are non-existent, not clear about what to send and you are unable to contact a person directly at the foundation, then it is best to send less. If you can’t contact someone chances are the organization does not have the resources to read a lengthy proposal. You can send a short letter asking for their written guidelines, or submit a brief one to two page letter outlining your project, making the ask for a certain dollar amount and politely let the organization know you can provide further information should it be required.