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Writing Tips
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Tips
for Preparing a Winning Proposal
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Read
the Request for Proposals (RFP) carefully and follow directions exactly,
down to the number of copies you submit and the color of ink required for
signatures. Not following directions exactly is a good way to have your
proposal disqualified before it ever gets read!
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Pay
attention to deadlines. Some funders require proposals to be postmarked
by a certain date. Others require proposals to be delivered by a certain
date and time. Allow plenty of time to get required signatures. Build in
ample time to collect supporting documents. I try to give people at least
a week to put together resumes or letters of support.
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Choose
a concise, meaningful title.
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Use
simple, direct language. Your goal is to communicate your ideas clearly.
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Make
effective use of formatting techniques like headings, tables, and bulleted
lists. Use the funder's own words and phrases in your headings so information
will be easy for reviewers to find.
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Use
a legible font, like Times New Roman 12 point. Avoid being too trendy
or flashy. Think "ease of reading."
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Be
sure to explain all abbreviations and terms. Assume the reader will
not recognize them.
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Plan
on proofing your completed proposal several times. Get a colleague
to proof your proposal, too. The Grant Writer has experience in this area
and is glad to help!
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Do
not tolerate mistakes or sloppiness in the narrative or budget. Your
proposal is all the reviewers have to determine how you'll implement a
project. No funding source wants to invest in sloppy work.
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