Understanding The Art Of Grant Writing

By Michael Barnes


When desiring to obtain funds for an agency, corporation, government or university, raising funds is often necessary. One way to do so is through grant writing. By writing a proposal or request, individuals and organizations can often obtain money through various grant programs. When doing so, it is important to select a program affiliated with the type service or work associated with the request.

Writers who are the most successful at obtaining funds often have a strong understanding of grantsmanship. Craftsmanship is also important when creating an application for a grant. Like with scholarships, there is often specific information which must be included before a proposal or application can be approved.

When seeking to obtain funds, it is important to know the process from creation to completion. The best structure for creating a proposal includes observing the audience, purpose analysis, information gathering and constructing content. After which, it is essential to read, review and revise details as necessary.

Information required in most proposals include information on non-paid and paid staff hours and salaries. Cost analysis is one of the most important factors when requesting funds. Depending on organizational type, this information can range from operating expenses and proposed salaries to profit margins. Other information often includes project start and completion dates, equipment which must be purchased and other pertinent information as requested by the funding organization.

Most often, writers submit a first draft to the requesting entity for review. There are often changes requested or required whether due to content or structure. While it is important to pay attention to detail, it is also important to make these changes in a timely and efficient manner. Even if a writer does an outstanding job, there could still be more changes required. As such, this type writing requires individuals who are patient, understanding and willing to revise material multiple times upon request.

When it comes to proposals, different agencies can often have different guidelines. Most often, writers working for, or with these entities will receive a copy at the inception of a project. Whereas, there are some organizations which outsource this work to professional publication houses. In most cases, these establishments provide the best guidelines along with writing services for a project.

When writing a proposal or request, it is imperative to use sentences which are succinct, proper grammar and accurate spelling. These are all areas which can result in denial of a grant request. As such, organizations refused funds for these reasons can result in writers being disciplined, terminated or eliminated from use in the future. In the case of contractors, these type mistakes can often prevent positive references for other work.

Depending on several factors, it can often take several weeks or months to receive a response. Some of these factors include when a proposal is received, processing time and availability of funds. Most often, there is a deadline or closing date associated with a project. As such, those requesting funds need submit a proposal or grant application on or before this date. Most often, the earlier an application is received in the process, the better chance of obtaining funds.




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