Many of us find projects that we are passionate about, however, we don’t have the financies. So a majority apply for grants to help fund thier projects. Projects that usually help other indviduals in a specific area. In additon, because so many indviduals are applying for these grants it makes it a compatitive field. Here are simple ways that you can perfect your proposal for a grant to help make it succeed.
- Your Audience
Make sure you know who you are writing to. This is important because many others are trying to get the same grant you are. You need to make it clear and straightforward what you are asking for. Many board member looking over you grants are very intelligent and will want all the infromation on your proposal. So no procrasting, , make your proposal bulletproof.
- Organization
This is a proposal asking for money. You need to make sure you know what you’re asking for. If you have more insight on your proposal while writing, make sure you do not randomly stick in a paragraph that has a different topic.
- Guidelines
Know what the guidelines are for the grant. Many get rejected because they did not comply with the guidelines. Know what they are asking for and format your proposal around that. This also shows that you can follow directions, which has always been a big key.
- Not With A Fizzle, But A Bang
Take some risks and be unique while writing your proposal. This isn’t the first proposal that comes across so like an application for a job, it needs to be interesting enough to grab attention. Don’t be afraid to use Ethos, Pathos, and Logos.
- Think over Proposal
Make sure you are telling them how you’re going to use the money they are giving you. Give specific examples and make sure you back it up with data. Think over what you can add or take away to make your proposal a better one. It is better to go back a day after and re-read.
- Presentation
It is all about how you present yourself in writing and in person. If you have to give an interview or a presentation to board members make sure you are dressed for the part. Though we want individuals to judge us on what is on the inside, statistically they judge us on how we look and dress. Know your valuable and dress with confidence.
Lastly, if you don’t get the grant don’t get discouraged apply again or to a different one. Just because you didn’t get it doesn’t mean you failed, it just means you need try again.