The Art Of Successful Grant Writing

By Michael Barnes


When looking for funding for a corporation, non-profit, government, university or other entity, a written proposal can often be a good choice. Grant writing, also known as a proposal refers to completing an application for funding. This funding is generally provided by an institution such as a foundation, corporation or government or university. While this is the case, content, formatting and style can vary across different organizational types.

The most successful writers have an in-depth understanding of grantsmanship. While the fundamentals of this writing style are often universal in nature, it is important to know the audience, subject and amount requested. In addition, the process will require information related to all paid and non-paid staff related to an event or organization requesting funds.

When seeking to obtain funds, it is important to know the process from creation to completion. The best structure for creating a proposal includes observing the audience, purpose analysis, information gathering and constructing content. After which, it is essential to read, review and revise details as necessary.

Information required in most proposals include information on non-paid and paid staff hours and salaries. Cost analysis is one of the most important factors when requesting funds. Depending on organizational type, this information can range from operating expenses and proposed salaries to profit margins. Other information often includes project start and completion dates, equipment which must be purchased and other pertinent information as requested by the funding organization.

Most writers will have revisions regardless of how long one has been writing professionally. As such, individuals working in this area need to have a strong sense of self-esteem, patience and be willing to make multiple revisions to applications or proposals. Some of these revisions can relate to structural issues while others may relate to changes in content. Whatever the case, it is important to complete all editing in an efficient and timely manner.

When it comes to structure, proposals can vary according to the subject matter, type of project and organization. Writers need also ask if there are specific guidelines related to style and formatting. Each proposal needs to include an introduction, middle and end. Otherwise, a proposal can go through several rounds of editing which can often take more time than necessary.

Writers need use short succinct sentences, proper grammar and accurate spelling. Each proposal or request need include an introduction, middle and end. Cost analysis is also required, and is often one of the most important factors to include in a request. It is essential that proposals be spell-checked and proofed before submission. As with deadlines, these are items which can result an an immediate refusal of funds, often to entities in dire need of financial assistance.

Depending on the sponsoring organization, it can often take several weeks or months to receive a response. When seeking out a grant or scholarship, it is essential to submit the information on or before a posted deadline. Otherwise, it is most likely the request will be refused upon receipt. Proposals which are accepted and approved can often be finalized within a few weeks to a month as long as all parties agree on terms and conditions.




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