Grants and Contracts

Grant Writing Tips

Identify a need or gap in services. Conduct a needs assessment if necessary.
Assemble a project design team of people who are committed to the project.
Create a timeline that will allow a couple of days at the end for emergencies.
Develop a problem statement.
Ask for letters of support from project partners early.
Develop one or two goals for the project.
Develop both process and outcome objectives that are measurable for each goal.
Design activities to carry out each objective.
Design an evaluation plan that includes both qualitative and quantitative information.
Write the narrative using short sentences that are to the point. Provide necessary information without trying to impress the reviewer.
Use charts and graphs for impact as appropriate. They also help to break up the reading for the reviewer.
Develop the budget carefully. Make sure the budgeted items correlate to the goals, objectives, and activities.
Read through the Request for Proposal/Application (RFP or RFA) carefully. Check to be certain all the points are addressed in the proposal.
Have a couple of people outside the team read through the proposal. Then ask them to describe the intent of the project.
Contact the program officer and ask questions for clarification.
Always use either certified mail or private courier and document when the proposal was sent. Be sure to allow enough time to arrive by the deadline.