Post on 24-Apr-2015
description
WRITE A GOOD PROJECT PROPOS AL?
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO…
EVALUATE THE OPPORTUNITY
• Two categories of consideration:
I. Organizational & programmatic evaluation
II. Practical considerations and RFP components
Before you even begin to prepare a proposal:“You’re starting with No…”
KNOW YOUR ORGANIZATION…
• Beware of mission creep!• Does this proposal fit w/in our mission?• Do the goals of the proposal fit w/in our projects?• Be careful not to create a project/program just to try and
compete for a grant…
• IF it fits with our mission…• Is the project ready to go? • Designs, permits, environment clearance.
• Can the organization handle the new project? • Staff capacity?
KNOW THE FUNDER…
• Research the Foundation• What have they funded in the past?• What size have most of their grants been?• What are their priorities?
• Remember - Foundations are non-profits too!
• Build a relationship with the funder• Call with good questions• OK to ask for feedback, not opinions
KNOW THE RFP
• Read the entire RFP before starting the application!• Follow all instructions (not just those that are
easy).• Understand exactly what is being asked and what
the program requirements are. • If unclear call for clarification.
• Know what type of funding requests are allowed• Program/project• Admin costs?
• Clearly explain your project – don’t assume reviewers know details you haven’t told them…
WRITING THE PROPOSAL
• It’s an art, not a science…• Have a compelling story to tell.• Why would the foundation want to fund your
organization?• How does it meet their mission, not yours…
• ALWAYS have a second person review the proposal (more if possible/needed)• Spell check; fact check; does story make sense?
• Letters of recommendation – • ONLY if asked for OR there is a compelling need.• Plan time to obtain• Offer to draft
MAINTAIN RELATIONSHIPS
• The relationship doesn’t end with the ask
• An honest relationship is the best
• Ask for feedback if proposal isn’t funded
• “No” isn’t the end of the relationship – it’s just the
beginning!
QUESTIONS?