Simple Steps For Compelling Proposal Writing

By Kenneth Fox


Merit is the basis upon which all grants are approved. Mastery of proposal writing ensures that you produce a compelling application. The competitive environment means that only the most captivating will be funded. Proposals are used as advocates for your case in front of a vetting panel that has no idea who you are. Only the most memorable presentation will qualify for a positive funding decision.

Proposals are first judged on the basis of introduction. The introduction should contain an executive summary of what to expect. Make the summary precise and to the point. The language used is first person and should provide names and positions of persons directly responsible for implementation. State the objectives of undertaking the envisaged project and the significance it has on target population. This brief introduces the idea to panelists instead of having to peruse through the entire document. Lack of a summary compromises your chances of being 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 want to ensure that their monies are spent properly and on intended items. They will only fund your project if your application provides this guarantee. For an organization, they are looking for structures and personnel that provide certainty that intended goals will be achieved. It helps if you have implemented a similar project in the past. The evidence should show the milestones achieved and lessons learnt so that the current project can be implemented better.

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.

Every project or funding has a timing factor. Successful applications provide a schedule indicating what will happen at a particular time and the persons who will be involved. Indicate the milestones and the persons responsible for particular milestones. The events should be logical including room for emergency. Midterm goals should build-up towards the ultimate one.

There is a specific figure quoted in every application. Your budget should break down this figure with particulars on how the money will be spent. The funds should be spent in a logical manner and guided by the schedule on implementation. Indicate the systems and persons who will be responsible for spending. Make provisions for emergency or miscellaneous expenses.

Monitoring projects during implementation and evaluating it upon completion indicate openness. It shows that you are ready to account for your activities and time. Your application should capture the steps taken towards monitoring and evaluation. A good proposal is one that shows all intentions of implanting a project with incredible social impact.




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