1. Get started early.
2. Read the program guidelines.
3. Identify partnerships and ways to collaborate.
4. Use the Internet as a resource.
5. Make sure your proposal identifies your priorities and mission.
6. Have your proposal proofread for errors.
7. Work with the Grants Office.
8. Make pursuing a grant high on your priority list.

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The Proposal

The following section provides framework for grant proposals that do not have a prescribed format.

If a grant competition does not offer a prescribed format for a narrative, there are ten common steps to complete a proposal:

1. Abstract: summarize your proposal in one paragraph from beginning to end.
2. Need Statement: present the problem/issue you are trying to solve or improve.
3. Goals and Objectives: present the major goal(s) and objectives of the project. It is helpful to describe the expected outcomes of this project and how success will be measured in the project.
4. Plan of Action: describe the activities that are going to happen during the grant period. Explain exactly what you are proposing to do.
5. Time Line: list activities with starting and ending dates.
6. Evaluation: it is important to have a method of evaluation in place. The ability to achieve results from your project is the main reason you are receiving funding.
7. Roles and Responsibilities: include resume/vitae of key project staff. Explain who will provide leadership and management for the project.
8. Budget: include institutional contributions and future funding activity.
9. Letters of Support: letters of support are helpful. If the proposed project is a partnership, letters of support from the listed partners are required.
10. Attachments: include other relevant information.