grant proposal

WORKSHEET 11.1: Final Proposal Checklist

Determine which program or project ideas have the best chance of being funded.

Form a planning team that includes clients affected by the project, community leaders, key staff and volunteers, and other organizations with similar or complementary projects.

Design a program or project plan.

Conduct thorough research to determine funding sources most likely to be interested in the project. Note funder deadlines.

Visit the websites of each prospective funder to review grant guidelines, annual report, grantee list, etc. If a funder has no website, email or call to request information helpful in preparing the proposal (annual report, grant guidelines, and so on).

Read all other funding source materials (Form 990, media coverage, etc.) to ensure the proposal falls within the funder’s interst area as demonstrated from previous grants made.

Prepare the proposal core components by stating the need or problem to be addressed, the objectives and methods for meeting the need, the ways the project will be evaluated and funded in the future, and the budget.

Determine the features in the project that may set it apart from other projects and will appeal to the funder.

Make sure those features are highlighted for the grantmaker.

Prepare the final proposal components: the introduction, summary, and cover letter.

Ensure the proposal is clear and well written by having at least one person review it and provide feedback.

Include the appendixes requested by the funder.

Review grant guidelines and confirm the number of proposal copies to be submitted, and any specific formatting requests, in order to meet the requirements.

Give copies of the proposal to the planning team and other individuals or groups who should be aware of the project.

E-mail or call the funder within two weeks after mailing the proposal.