Simple Steps For Compelling Proposal Writing

By Kenneth Fox


The applications that win grants are those that show merit. This means that your proposal writing skills will make the difference between being success and failure. The application serves as your attorney before a panel that knows nothing about you. The best way to qualify therefore is to draft a winning funding application. It helps you beat a field of equally qualified applicants by presenting the most compelling case.

The introduction of any application should contain a summary of what to expect. These are few paragraphs without going beyond a page. Use first person to describe the significance of your undertaking to the people affected and the objectives you hope to achieve at the end. It is a preview that gives the panelists an idea of what to expect. They do not have to read through the entire document to know what your project is all about. Failure to provide the summary reduces your chances of even getting shortlisted.

A project description follows detailing the background of your program. It forms the justification or drive behind undertaking the project. Indicate the goals that will be achieved and the methodology to be used in achieving these goals. You may also consider including the persons who will be involved directly or indirectly.

Donors are keen to ensure that their money is put into good and intended use. Applicants must provide a hint that this is possible. This is done by indicating your technical ability to complete envisaged project. Show the competencies of people who will be involved. Provide evidence that you have successfully completed such a project in the past. This is your best reference during application. Include similar projects or those funded by the same organization.

Projects are meant to help communities or a particular course. Your proposal must provide clear evidence of the impact your activities will have. A case study showing the situation on the ground would plead the case better. You may also use a story to exemplify the situation before your intervention and after completion.

There is an aspect of time that defines the boundaries of every project. For your application to be successful, it must indicate the order of activities. This means what happens, when, how and by who. Include the milestones, timing and people taking responsibility for their attainment. The schedule should show a logical flow and buildup to the ultimate goal.

Grants target release of a particular amount for a project. Prepare a detailed budget capturing every expense that will go into successful completion of the project. Be specific about the expenses to be incurred. Include authorization signatories and schedule for expenditure. A provision for miscellaneous expenditure should also be made during budgeting.

Monitoring and evaluation is a crucial part of any project. Your application should provide clear guidelines on steps to be taken to ensure successful implementation of envisaged project. These are checks and balances that define your operations. In general, your proposal should give an image of a person or organization that is ready, capable and willing to complete a project that has an impact.




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