Writing Competitive Grant Proposals
July 25, 2002 | Read Time: 1 minute
Winning Grants Step by Step
by Mim Carlson
Winning grants isn’t easy, but the process of proposal writing doesn’t have to be an arduous task, says Ms. Carlson, a nonprofit consultant. It is, however, imperative to meet three important criteria to craft a competitive proposal, she says: Provide a clearly stated description of what the organization hopes to achieve with the grant money it is requesting; summon compelling evidence that supports this goal; and offer a well-thought-out plan outlining how the organization will meet that goal in a cost-effective manner.
This workbook, designed for those with limited experience in preparing proposals, uses a step-by-step format supported by examples and worksheets. Steps described include developing a proposal idea, defining clear goals and objectives, and preparing a program budget. Each chapter also gives tips for writing proposals, such as how to avoid jargon, how to make a compelling argument for a project, and how to make the proposal visually attractive.
This edition also includes more sample budgets and information on using the Internet to conduct research on grant makers, and advice on building relationships with prospective donors. An accompanying CD-ROM contains sample proposals.
Publisher: Jossey-Bass, 989 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. 94103-1741; (415) 433-1740 or (800) 956-7739; fax (415) 433-0499 or (800) 605-2665; http://www.josseybass.com; 110 pages; $29; I.S.B.N. 0-7879-5876-X.