Writing A Funding Proposal - continued...

• Evaluation - Describes a plan for determining how well the objectives are met.
  Evaluation is helpful because it:
  • It lets you think about what you are doing and why
  • It lets you know if you're doing what you said you would
  • It tells you what's working well
  • It lets you know what you need to change and how you can improve your project
  • It shows other communities what has worked for you
  • It gives you ideas for future projects
  An evaluation plan is linked to your project objectives and activities. A plan should include:
  • how you will measure success (indicators) e.g. # of families participating in family reading activities;
  • what results you hope to achieve e.g. more families using the library; more awareness of the importance of reading for both parents and their children.
  • how you will gather information e.g. survey, feedback session with parents.
• Budget - Outlines the total costs of the project, including in-kind support
  The budget is a very important part of the proposal. It should very clearly show how much money you require in order to carry out the project as described in the action plan. It should include:
  • all salary costs listed by position;
  • benefits (Employer's share of EI & CPP; Vacation Pay);
  • any other costs related to staff;
  • rent;
  • materials and supplies;
  • telephone and fax;
  • equipment rental;
  • other costs (provide clear details).
  Some funders may have limits on how much you can request for each item. It is important to stay within that limit.
• Other Funding - Describes other sources of funding or support that you have received or are applying for in order to deliver the project.
  You should also list any donations, in-kind support or other sources of funding. Examples of in-kind support may be free space for your program or the donation of a computer.

Example Budget

• Letters of Support - Shows that other groups, organizations and individuals in your community are aware of your project and support it.
  Most funders will ask for at least two letters of support. They let the funders know that you have discussed your project with others in the community and that there is support for the activities you are proposing to carry out.
• Appendices - Any supporting documents like a needs assessment, community profile or information about your organization.
  Appendices are attachments to the proposal that provide useful additional information for the funders. It is helpful to use appendices rather than overcrowding the proposal itself. Any supporting documents that demonstrate the need for your project or the structure of your organization can be attached to your proposal as appendices.

Top Ten Ways to Get Your Proposal Read!

1. Make sure you know something about the company or agency before you submit your request. Call and ask them for their guidelines
2. Individualize the proposal. "To Whom it May Concern" indicates you haven't done your homework.
3. Be sure to include all the information they request.
4. Don't overwhelm them with support materials such as videos. The ideal length of a proposal should be 4 - 6 pages.
5. Be sure to call and follow up on your request 3-4 weeks after submitting it.
6. If an organization supported you in the past make sure to say thank you. Keep in touch with them and let them know how the funds were spent.
7. If this is your first time requesting funds from this organization don't ask for too much.
8. If you are turned down - call the organization to find out why.
9. Illustrate the benefits of supporting your cause to the organization.
10. Be passionate about your goals and objectives and make your enthusiasm clear in the proposal.

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