The Twelve Principles of Successful Grant Proposals

Rule 1: match your idea to the right funding source and thoroughly understand what the program wants.

Rule 2: Use the program office for technical assistance and advice throughout the entire grant process.

Rule 3: Begin the necessary ground work before the notice of availablity is published.

Rule 4: Establish a timetable and organize the necessary personnel as soon as funding availability is first announced.

Rule 5: Follow the instructions and format

Rule 6: Lay out a master plan

Rule 7: Match the proposed use of funds with the problem described in the needs assessment in your application.

Rule 8: Be reasonable and realistic

Rule 9: Provide information on al the evaluation criteria

Rule 10: Explain any omissions, rather than hope no one will notice.

Rule 11: Make a reasonable funding request and match the budget to the scope of work.

Rule 12: Keep the proposal simple, reasonable, business-like, and totally professional.