How to Write a Grant Inquiry Letter
A grant inquiry letter is a letter that most funders require to be submitted before making a determination as to whether or not a project is feasible or within their guidelines for funding. It is synonymous with a proposal letter and is a one- to three-page letter briefly summarizing a project or program in which funds are being requested. It is very important that the letter is written properly so that funders will feel compelled to invite you to submit a full proposal.
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Instructions
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1
Research the agency or organization guidelines on projects and programs they will and will not fund. Find out the eligibility requirements to determine if your organization meets the qualifications and your project fits the criteria. If possible, look at the type of previously funded projects by the organization and the average amount of funds provided and allotted to a project or program.
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2
Contact the organization that is funding the grant. Introduce yourself and find out as much as you can about what the organization requirements and preferences are. Based on your research and conversation with the funder, make a determination as to whether or not your organization meets the requirements and your project fits the criteria. If you determine that your organization meet the requirements, draft an inquiry letter and make sure that it is addressed to the appropriate person.
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The introduction of the letter is no longer than four to five sentences. Briefly describe your organization's mission, goals and objectives, how long the organization has been in existence and some of its most recent accomplishments.
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The second paragraph starts the body of the letter and should discuss the project in which you are seeking to obtain funds and how much you are requesting.
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The third paragraph elaborates on how the funds will be used for the project, why the project is needed, who it will benefit, and what supporters and resources you have enlisted to help you with the project.
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The fourth paragraph describes specifically how your project relates to the funder's goals, objectives and mission and why your organization is qualified and capable of ensuring that the project is successful. Bullet point specific goals and objectives of the project.
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In paragraph five, explain how your organization plans to measure the effectiveness or assess the success of the project. Also describe how your organization plans to notify or advertise the achievements of the project. Include information about how you plan to sustain your project for the upcoming years.
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The conclusion is the last paragraph. List out attachments that may be required to submit along with the inquiry letter. Make a statement that you look forward to hearing from the funder. Thank the funder in advance for considering your requests and provide your contact information.
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Tips & Warnings
Attachments may consist of your organization's annual report, tax exemption status letter from the IRS, support letters, organizational budget or program budget and a listing of current contributors. Be sure to proofread your letter and have someone else proofread it for you.
Do not include attachments if the funder's guidelines request that you do not send anything along with the inquiry letter until invited to do so. Do not ask for large sums of money expecting the funder to cover the whole cost of the project unless the funder has a history of doing so. This may be acceptable if the project or program is no more than $5,000.
