How to Write a Grant Proposal to Buy a Home

Writing a grant to buy a home starts with research.

Grants are used to fund projects for individuals and organizations. Thousands of grants are in place to help defray the costs of buying homes, school projects and small business needs. Learning how to write a grant proposal will provide you with the tools you need to be successful in securing a grant. According to U.S. Congressman Pete Visclosky, D-Indiana, "An effective grant proposal has to make a compelling case." Key elements of a grant proposal are research and persuasive writing.

Things You'll Need

• Word processing software
• Spreadsheet software

Instructions

1. Research all the information you can find about grants and home ownership. Narrow your search to include local resources. This includes funding sources at the city and county level. Create a list that includes everything that the funding source requires.

2. Write a cover letter. Using convincing language, explain why your proposal should be read and the contents of your proposal. Provide an insight into your history. In doing so, you increase the chances that your entire proposal will be considered. Mention your goals.

3. Develop a mission statement. Be clear about your goals and objectives for the grant. Mission statements are used to communicate your beliefs, strengths and purpose. For example, a sentence could state, "Home ownership is important to me, as is maintaining a balanced family life."

4. Write the executive summary. The executive summary must include your intent. Carefully craft this piece of your proposal because it is considered the most important part. Include your mission statement, and include all relevant information in narrative form. Communicate your goals, and develop strong statements to support your needs.

5. Write and include a list of objectives. Prepare to provide solutions to your problem. For example, including a statement such as "...the house will be used for a family of four" is relevant information to include.

6. Create a budget. Your budget needs to communicate how each grant dollar will be spent. Include a summary with your budget. Craft a paragraph or two detailing your out-of-pocket expenses as well, and list all monetary items, including any other funding sources.

Tips & Warnings

• Include a table of contents so funders can easily navigate the grant proposal.

• Use the software's spell check and grammar check tools.

• Make the proposal an easy read.

References

• Writing a Grant Proposal; U.S. Congressman Pete Visclosky
• Center for Business Planning: Mission Statement

Resources

• Grants.gov: Federal Grants