Clarke University

Writing the Proposal

• The Project Director is primarily responsible for writing the proposal and planning the budget in consultation with the grant writer. The first rule is to read the instructions in the request for proposals (RFP). Exactly what is required? How many pages are allowed? Many granting agencies using online submission specify word counts or character counts for each section!! Know the details before your start. The second rule is read the instructions again!
  
• The Grant Writer will assist with proposal development by providing a prologue (history/philosophy of the university, student demographics data, budget information, etc.), advising on evaluation activities, editing and, providing attachments and appendices. 
  
• Formatting a grant application in accordance with required sections of the RFP is important. So is proof reading! Most federal agencies require specific font type and font size. Others require specific margins.   
  
• All grants obligate the university to the grant provisions and therefore require the signature of the President or, in their absence, one of the Vice Presidents. Some require the signature of the Board Chair. The Grant Writer will assist in obtaining the required signatures.
  
• A copy of the proposal will be filed in the Institutional Advancement Office and attached to the donor’s name in the Raiser’s Edge Database. (Electronic copy is preferred.)
  
• Links for proposal writing
   
  General:
   
  • Kellogg Logic Model Development Guide, W. K. Kellogg Foundation. This guide is referred to by many foundations and federal agencies.
  • W.K. Kellogg Foundation Evaluation Toolkit
  • Foundation Center Proposal Writing Short Course  
  • Non-profit Guides

Discipline specific – but contain many good tips!