A Possible Structure for Grant Responses There are many ways to organise proposals and complete applications, so always read the program guidelines, read the guidelines and read the guidelines carefully for details about required information and how it should be arranged/formatted. There are many ways to organize proposals and complete applications, so always read the program guidelines, read the guidelines and read the guidelines carefully for details about required information and how it should be arranged/formatted. Although formats and requirements differ between organizations and funding programs, a standard proposal or application usually contains the following elements, which are usually found in your project plan: • • • •
A Narrative Section An Appendix of Support Material A Budget Authorised Signatures
Structure, attention to the funding specifications, concise persuasive writing, and a reasonable budget are the critical elements of the writing stage. 1. Narrative section Incorporate an Executive Summary into your proposal to summarise the information detailed in the following sections. Brief description of the organization: • • • • • •
Introduce and describe your organisation, its purpose and goals Establish the organisations credibility and qualification for funding Describe how existing programs were developed to meet identified community needs Include short relevant descriptions of organisation or key staff qualifications and experience in the target area if necessary Include relevant examples of previously successful projects and activities if possible. Align your organisation with the interests of the funding body wherever possible.
Establish the case for support: • • • • • •
Define the specific problem or issue, within a geographically identifiable area if possible Describe how the problem may realistically be addressed by your organisation Include up-to-date evidence (research) to support the need for action in the area Demonstrate how local action on the issue might contribute on a broader scale. Demonstrate community support for action that is specific to the issue or problem Include a 'hook' - align your organisation and project with the purpose, goals, interests and priorities of the funding body.
Describe the proposed project: • •
Clearly define the goals, objectives and outcomes. Clearly describe the methodology:
The strategies to achieve the objectives or outcomes Who is responsible for each strategy/action/performance indicator The timeframe that strategies will be completed in. Outline the evaluation strategy - how the success of the program will be measured? o The key performance indicators for each objective/outcome and how they will be measured o The overall indicators of success and how they will be measured. Detail any partners of the project and their contribution Give a detailed timeline for the overall project, and any significant ‘milestones’ during the project. o o o
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Write persuasively - 'sell' your project or concept with enthusiasm and creativity. Use language that is specific, accurate, concise, clear and passionate. At Red Tape Busters we are also highly regarded in job application writing, tender writing, government lobbying and in assisting small businesses in developing policies and procedure, business plans and facilitating access to new markets or in developing new products and services. Our Director Shane Bowering is also a highly regarded Lobbyist representing our clients vigorously to Councils and Government agencies.