Friday, June 17, 2016

Simple Steps For Successful Proposal Writing

By Kenneth Fox


Grants are awarded based on the merit of application. Proposal writing therefore takes center stage in helping you secure funding. The application pleads your case in front of a panel that does not know you. It helps to understand how to craft a winning application for sponsorship. The level of competition is usually very high. This means that only the most outstanding application will go through.

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 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.

Since proposals are about money, you should provide a budget for the entire project. The budget should capture all expenses for the phase or activities relating to the application. A proper budget contains the specifics on which the money will be spent. All expenses must be in line with implementation goals. Indicate the authorized signatories. Make a provision for miscellaneous expenditure that is likely to arise in the process of execution.

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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