In order to get funding for your nonprofit corporation, you may find yourself writing a grant proposal to secure nonprofit grants. A great proposal can make all the difference in whether or not your nonprofit receives the money it needs. In this article, we’ll outline what should be included in your grant proposal and we’ll give you a sample template with an example of how to be successful in your proposal.
What Is a Grant Proposal?
A grant proposal is a document that requests funding from a government agency or private foundation. The proposal outlines the nonprofit’s mission and goals, as well as how the funding will be used. A grant is similar to a business plan; the key difference is that a business plan is typically presented to a private party who will fund your organization in return for debt or equity. If creating a business plan, we suggest using an AI business plan generator. If creating a grant, use the nonprofit grant proposal template below.
What Should Be Included In Your Grant Proposal?
There are several key elements that should be included in your grant proposal:
-Cover Letter/Letter Of Intent: This is a letter that introduces your nonprofit and outlines its mission. It should also explain why you are requesting funding and how the money will be used.
-Executive Summary: This is a brief overview of your nonprofit and what it does. It should include information on your target population, as well as the goals of your nonprofit and how the funding will be used.
-Needs Statement: This is a statement that outlines the problems your nonprofit is trying to solve. It should include data and statistics to back up your claims.
-Program Description: This is a description of the programs and services your nonprofit offers. It should include information on who the programs serve, as well as how they are operated.
-Budget: This is a detailed budget of how the funding will be used. It should include information on salaries, overhead costs, and any other expenses.
-Evaluation Plan: This is a plan for the evaluation process that determines the success of your nonprofit programs. It should include information regarding who will be responsible for conducting the evaluation, as well as how often it will be conducted.
-References: This is a list of references that can attest to the successful work or services offered by the nonprofit organization. References can be provided by individuals, businesses, or other organizations.
-Proof Of 501(c)3 Status: Some organizations may require proof that your nonprofit is a 501(c)3 organization. The designation as a “501(c)3” nonprofit organization certifies the exemption of federal taxes for your nonprofit.
Step By Step Process of Writing a Grant Proposal
Now that you know what should be included in your proposal, it’s time to start writing. Follow these steps to ensure that your proposal is well-written and accurate:
Identify The Problem/Program That Needs Funding
The first step in writing your proposal is to identify the problem or program that needs funding. What are you trying to solve with this grant money? Be specific and use data and statistics to back up your claims.
Research Grant Options
Before you start writing your proposal, it’s important to do your research. You should have a good understanding of the organization you are applying to and what their requirements are. Additionally, you should be familiar with the grant process and what is required of you.
Gather the Required Documents
Once you have a good understanding of the grant process, it’s time to start gathering the required documents. This will vary depending on the organization you are applying to, but may include things like your nonprofit’s 501(c)3 status, financial statements, and program evaluations.
Write a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent
The cover letter or letter of intent is your nonprofit’s introduction. In this letter, you will want to explain the mission and goals of your nonprofit organization. You should also explain why you are requesting funding and how the money will be used.
Write the Rest of the Grant Proposal
Now it’s time to start writing the rest of your proposal. Begin with an executive summary that outlines your nonprofit and what it does. Then, include a needs statement that outlines the problems you are trying to solve, followed by a program description that outlines the programs and services you offer. Next, include a detailed budget of how the funding will be used. Finally, include an evaluation plan of how you will evaluate the success of your nonprofit’s programs.
Proofread and Edit Your Proposal
Once you have finished writing your proposal, it’s time to proofread and edit it. Make sure that there are no errors and that all of the required information is included. Additionally, you may want to have someone else read it over to make sure that it is clear and concise.
Finalize and Submit
After you have proofread and edited your proposal, it’s time to submit it. Follow the instructions of the organization you are applying to and submit your proposal by the deadline.
Follow Up
After you have submitted your proposal, it’s important to follow up. This shows that you are interested in the grant and that you are committed to the process. Additionally, it gives you an opportunity to clarify any questions or concerns that the organization may have.
Grant Proposal Template & Example
If you need some help getting started, you can use the following template as a guide. Keep in mind that this is just a general outline and you will need to tailor it to the specific organization you are applying to.
Name of Organization:
Address:
Phone Number:
Website:
Date:
Contact Name:
Position:
Dear ,
We are pleased to submit our grant proposal for your consideration. Our organization, (name of organization), is a non-profit (or for-profit) corporation that is dedicated to (mission statement). We are requesting funding in the amount of $ (requested amount) for our programs and services.
The money we receive from this grant will be used to fund our (program name) program. This program provides (services offered). Last year, we served a total of (number of clients served). We are expecting to serve an increased number of (clients/patients/students, etc.) this year.
Our program is unique because (explain what makes your program special or different from others). We have been in operation for (length of time) and our track record shows that we are successful at (outcomes achieved).
Our organization is run by a board of directors who are committed to our mission. We have a staff of qualified professionals who are experienced in working with (population served). Our programs are accredited by (name of accrediting body, if applicable).
Attached to this proposal, you will find our non-profit exemption status, financial statements, program evaluations, and other supporting materials. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
(Your name)
(Your title)