Get Set...

Many funding sources have specific requirements for grant proposals. Read the requirements; then read them again. You might want to start creating a basic outline of what the proposal will look like. And it's a good idea to contact the potential funder and discuss the project idea with them. They often will give you good idea for what to include and think about as you are putting the proposal together.

Start gathering material that you will need. It's much easier to write a grant after the research has been done than to research while you write.

Be sure to keep in mind some important questions that funders ask when evaluating a proposal:

• Does the project match our interests and priorities?
• Does the project address a significant need and is that need successfully presented within the proposal?
• Will the applicant be able to implement the project successfully?
• Are the project personnel experienced and knowledgeable? What is the institution's track record with other projects?
• Has the applicant asked for adequate funding? Does it have appropriate facilities and people for the project?

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