How to Write a Proposal That Funders Like

Asking people to give money for an organization or project can be a daunting task for most people. If you put together a strong proposal that funders like, one that includes all the answers that funders seek, then getting money can be as easy as taking candy from babies.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Start your proposal with the history and major accomplishments of organization. Think of this as the “W” section--the who, what, why, when and how.

2. Continue the proposal with a couple of paragraphs about the current programs and activities that your organization has going. Be sure to include specific numbers of who you serve and how often.

3. Include information about the target population that you intend to serve with the new funding. Break down the numbers to show ethnic, age, economic status, education or any other relevant statistics to your project.

4. Make your next few paragraphs about any partners you have had in past activities or that will participate in this proposed project. Include letters of the partners’ commitment as attachments to your proposal.

5. State the problems and issues that your program is trying to address in the next paragraphs. Be sure to include information as to how and why this program will help answer the situation.

6. Break down a description of the program to show the purpose, goals and objectives. Be sure that your goals are in alignment with the goals of the funder (there are several online sites that offer this information or you can request a resource from your library about grant funders).

7. Explain how the program will be run and who will be running it. Give resumes as attachments to the proposal to show the qualifications of the program personnel.

8. Lay out the plan for program evaluation, preferably by an outside source. Be sure to include the funding for an outside evaluator in your budget.

9. Total up the costs of the project and break them down into a budget that can be easily understood and that is specific. Be sure that you include any bids or estimates as attachments to the proposal.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep it short and concise.
• Tie your process and programs to the outcomes you expect to see.
• Tell a compelling story but keep it real.
• Check your figures twice and then let another party check them as well.
• Be sure your budget needs, your program goals and your mission statement all align with those of the funder who will be getting the proposal.