Why is it some nonprofit organizations have great success finding funding while other organizations struggle even writing their proposals? Proposal writing is especially difficult for new nonprofits. Here are a tips to help make the next proposal a success.
Lack of Clarity – While an organization’s goal may seem crystal clear to everyone within the organization, conveying those goals to individuals outside of the organization can be challenging. The objectives, goals and mission are like a puzzle and must all fit together to successfully obtain funding. A proposal without a clear goal will not attract funders to the project.
The funder does not match the purpose of the organization. This is pretty self-explanatory. Research the funder prior to submitting an application for funding. An organization catering to women’s needs should not submit a proposal to an organization funding, for example, animal rights.
Ratio of funding to clients served is out of proportion. Do the math. If the cost per client served is too high, perhaps the project is not feasible. Funders will see that in the budget.
Occasionally, rejection is not due to any action on the part of the organization. Keep in mind funders are also affected by the struggling economy. Funders may simply have run out of money to fund projects. There are other factors, such as timing, which come into play when a funder rejects a proposal.
Proposal writing takes extensive research and great clarity when presenting to a potential funder. If your organization is unsure of how to get started, the Washington D.C. branch of The Foundation center is an excellent resource.
Check out The Foundation Center website for free or low cost classes on grant writing.
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