How to Prepare to Write a Winning Grant Proposal

Having a difficult time getting started on finding funding for your new program or service? Don't begin the grant writing process until you have read this article! A successful grant proposal begins with a clear vision for your program or service as well as confidence in your ability to make it happen. Take the time on the front end to organize and refine your concept so that you may target the right funders efficiently and confidently. Grant writing is only tough when you write to conform to the funders priorities. Set your priorities first and weed out the incompatible candidates from the very start!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Quiet work space
• No interruptions
• Pencil and paper

1. Clarify the vision and mission of the project that you are seeking funding for. What problem are you looking to solve? (Short term mission statement) What situation are you looking to improve? (Long term vision statement)
   Try to state these clearly in positive terms. Keep your sentences short and concise. Write or type these in bold print at the top of the page.

2. Close your eyes and "ENVISION" the project as you see it in your minds eye. Who are the beneficiaries or clients of the program? How old are they? What is their socio-economic status? Where will the program be held? How often? Who is coordinating it? How many staff will you need to run this program successfully? Will you need volunteers? What other organizations can you partner with to strengthen the program and proposal? Close your eyes and see this exemplary program "happening".

3. Write or type the following underneath the mission and vision statments and answer the questions in parentheses:
   Who- (Who are your clients and how many will you serve?)
   What- (what type of program will you offer?)
   Why- (Why is this program necessary? What reputable statistics do you have to back this up?)
   When- (How often will you offer services?)
   Where- (What location or locations?)
   How- (How will you implement the project? Will you seek collaborating partners or recruit volunteers?
   Cost- (How much will the entire program cost? Include salaries, benefits, space rental, major equipment, specialized training, travel, program supplies, administration expenses, etc.)
   Intended outcomes- (What are your short term and long term goals for the program participants?
   Measures for Success- (How will you evaluate the impact of the program? How will you determine if your clients have made progress?How will you determine that your program is improving the lives of the people you serve?

4. Now that you have the critical information and framework for the program, you must now decide if it is a good fit for your organization. Does this new program or activity fit into your agency's primary mission and vision? Is there another agency who currently offers this type of program in your community? Rather than re-create the wheel or duplicate services, is there a way to partner and combine resources?

5. Based on your vision and mission, you can now research funding opportunities based on interest areas. For example, if you are looking for funding to start an art program for youth you would research "youth art program grant" on google.

6. A subscription based online grant catalogue (foundationcenter.org or grantstation.com) is well worth the monthly fee if you are on a time crunch. I have used both of these services but prefer the Foundation Center because they also have a Corporate Guide that is worth it's weight in gold. If you have the time and patience try google or your favorite search engine. You'll be amazed at what you can find when you are specific in your search!

7. Found a good match? Slow down partner! Be sure to read all the information that you can get about this funding source! Read their webpage from front to back and look at programs that they have funded in the past. Be sure to answer the following before you consider asking for money:
   Does my program fit with their funding priorities for this year?
   Does my agency qualify for funding?
   Do they currently fund programs in my community or state?
   What funding restrictions do they have? What can and can't I use the money for?
   Do they accept unsolicited applications?
   When do they accept applications?
   What is the size of their average grant?
   What documentation do they require? Do you have it available?

8. After reading through all of the funders information and you have decided that they are a great prospect, print out as much information as you can from the website. Most foundations include samples or downloadable templates that you are expected to use. Print them out for reference and place them in a unique manila or pocket file folder.

9. Write the funders name, priority area (as it fits to your grant) and application deadlines on the tab or front cover of the file folder.

10. Repeat step 8 for at least five more potential funders. How many inquiries or proposals you write will depend upon the total cost of your program. You may consider breaking your proposal into chunks that meet the priorities of different funders. For example, if you are going to use computers in the art program for youth, you may seek a funder who funds the purchasing of technology to cover those specific costs.

11. After you are done filling your folders you can then organize them by deadline, rather than alphabetically. This will give you a good idea who to approach first.

12. You are now ready to write your grant! As you complete each proposal, place at least two copies of the completed grant application in it's assigned folder and write the date that you mailed it out somewhere on the front of the folder. See tips below before you take them to the post office!
    Good luck and keep up the great work!
    
    www.theGiftTherapist.com

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to follow the instructions of each individual funder. Only give them what they want, when they want it!
• Have someone proofread your proposal before you submit! Make sure it is absolutely flawless.
• Keep at least two copies of your proposal for your records. One for the agency and one for your personal portfolio.
• Double check your proposal package to ensure all items and necessary attachments are included.
• Take proposals to the post office and have them weighed to ensure proper postage.
• Do not call to follow-up on your proposal unless they state that calls are welcome. Most funders will acknowledge receipt of your grant via email or snail mail. Avoid any uncertainty by sending your proposal via priority mail with delivery confirmation.
• Pray...it works!