WHAT TO DO, AND NOT TO DO, WHEN
SUBMITTING A PROPOSAL
Document Author: National CASA Association Date Posted: 4/99
Here are some do's and don'ts on submitting proposals after
you've thoroughly reviewed them:
Don't bind proposals because most funders have to separate the pages
during the review process.
Mail the proposal. A funder may not be impressed if you spend extra
money to send it overnight.
Include a cover letter, typically one page, officially transmitting
the proposal to the funder. It should explain why you're approaching the
foundation so that you know it is supporting projects such as yours. This
shows you've done your homework. Also, the letter should note if you've
talked to anyone on the funder's staff.
Offer to meet with the funder's staff to discuss your proposal. These
meetings rarely happen, but say you're willing to meet anyway.
If a foundation takes you up on having a meeting, remember that
funders are put off by lack of preparation.
