The grant proposal is a very large part of the grant application. In fact, with most grants, it can be the deciding factor between getting and not getting the grant. Similar to an essay, the grant proposal explains why an individual should receive a grant. The goal of this article is to explore the best tips for writing a grant proposal so that individuals can have a better chance of being approved for the grant.
Research Grant Proposal Outlines
Grant proposals are all different depending upon the type of grant one is applying for, however, most grants will follow a standard type of outline. This outline typically includes the proposal summary, the introduction of the business, the problem or reason the money is needed, how the grant will solve the problem and the budget. It’s important for individuals to get a good understanding of grant proposal outlines and what each section is for. As each section becomes more familiar, it will be easier to create each section within the actual outline.
Use Statistics and Real Numbers
While a lot of the numbers that exist within a grant proposal are estimated, it’s important to use statistics and real numbers. For anything that is estimated, estimate it down to the dollar and cents rather than giving rounded, general amounts. This will show that the applicant has fully researched and budgeted down to the dollar. Most grant review panels allow for change within the budget, or small differences one way or the other, so one shouldn’t be afraid of giving an actual dollar amount. Statistics help prove points, so using statistics within the grant proposal is a great idea.
Include Potential Benefits
Grant review panels like to see the benefits that will arise because the individual has received the grant. Depending upon the reason for finding a grant, there are likely to be some positive things that happen. For instance, an individual asking for a grant for their business may create several new jobs within the community. An individual asking for a grant to start an after school program may help teach art to under-privileged children. These are benefits and it’s important that individuals consider all the benefits of receiving the grant and places those within the proposal.
Use Clear, Concise Writing
The writing within a grant proposal should be clear and concise. If a sentence can be clearly stated using ten words, don’t use twenty to do it. Keep the writing as simplified as possible so that it’s easily understandable. While it’s tempting for some individuals to use large words and make the document seem more professional, it’s important to go for the simplest. Write the grant proposal so that it can be understood on the smallest level, and rely on the idea and benefits to dazzle the grant review panel rather than the large words.
Proofread Your Grant Proposal
It’s quite important that there are no errors within the grant proposal. For this reason, individuals should consider hiring a professional proofreader to go over the grant proposal or having a close family and friend read over the proposal. By having a few different individuals read it, the applicant can be certain that there are no typographical or grammatical errors within the proposal, keeping it professional and simple to read.
By using the information above and visiting EPA for more information, individuals can do their best when writing a grant proposal.
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