Getting from Concept Paper to Proposal

So, you have written a successful one to two page concept paper (please see tip sheet How to Write a Great One Page Concept Paper ), sent it to the funder, and now have the opportunity to write a longer proposal in order to secure funding. How do you turn your well-crafted concept paper into a full proposal? The process is at times tedious and difficult. Here are some helpful hints that can lead to successful and fundable proposal writing.

Your concept paper hopefully identified goals and why the program or project is worthwhile, as well as other key points. Now you want to expand these beginning ideas. Carefully read the funder's guidelines (Please refer to the tip sheet How to read a Request for Proposal). Write rough drafts using the funders guidelines. Drafts will alleviate last minute cramming as well as stress caused in trying to create the "perfect proposal" the first time you write.

You will probably be working with others to write this proposal. Use memos, e-mail to communicate and establish a set time to meet each week to maximize efficiency. These help key people with different ideas come together. Individuals can better identify the skills and area to which they can contribute. This context serves all participants as a foundation from which to attack the proposal process. Establishing these activities and habits form the process in which new ideas and problems can be discussed and resolved.

Please see tip sheets Networking with People to Write a Stronger Proposal and From Idea to Program: Strategic Planning for other ideas on working together.

Outline each proposal section. Identify how much each section is worth (check the funder's guidelines), what is the maximum length allowed by the funder, and other specifics. Use highlighters, colored stick-um's and other note making devices to draw attention to important sections or simply as a reminder.

If you have questions, do not hesitate to contact the funder. Most funders provide a phone number or e-mail address. You may also want to ask for a list or examples of previously funded proposals and organizations.

Have letters of support or letters of agreement prepared well in advance of deadline. Send a rough draft to these individuals or organizations to help them write a more knowledgeable and positive letter. Make sure the funder accepts letters of support .

Try not to use jargon from your field of study. Evaluators may become frustrated, and are looking more at the substance of a proposal.

IMPORTANT: Have people outside the grant writers and/or proposal group read the rough drafts. Ask for specific feedback that will play to that individual's strength (e.g. ask an accountant to examine the budget but not the program evaluation).

The concept paper has organized ideas and potential projects. Now, by establishing channels for this information to be finalized, following funder guidelines (please see tip sheet How to Read a Request for Proposals), and incorporating the other tips mentioned, you are now ready to submit a well organized, fundable proposal.

by John B. Cook

top