1. Writing a Winning Proposal Cheryl Killam CAKillam Consultants Let Us Help You Grant it Your Way

2. Read the grant application. Read the application more than once Be sure your type of organization is allowed to apply for this grant. Every grant application has specific Qualification Criteria and Exemptions. Brownfields criteria: No responsible party, may pose a threat to public health or the environment and the results will benefit the public.

3. Call the Grant Funder. Different types of projects are sponsored by the government agencies, private corporations and charitable foundations. Talk to them about your project and ask if it is something they will fund. You may learn about another funding source

4. Research all the information required by the grant application. Excellent data collection and data analysis helps provide accurate statistics. Research the Funding source thoroughly Know the Organization applying inside-out Research supporting information: demographics of community, needs of the community, benefits to the community, partnerships, future plans and goals Research websites, newspapers and meeting minutes for articles of support

5. You must really know your subject matter thoroughly To write a winning proposal you must be passionate about your project. Be the subject matter expert on the project Build credibility Show sustainability Write a compelling story of necessity

6. Build strong working relationships. Get to know the organization applying Get to know the providers of the funds Get to know all of the Local & Regional, Non-Profit & Professional organizations Get to know All of the supporters of your project A Strong Relationship is a powerful tool

7. Establish an Accurate Budget Create a first draft identifying all of the known and unknown expenses. Work with the municipality or organization applying for the grant Must be able to justify the financial need. Budget should be able to complete the project. Be accurate because follow up reports will be required.

8. Follow the Instructions! Make the proposal as balanced and informative as possible. Answer every question directly and clearly. Make the proposal easy to read and easy to find the answers. Put the information in the correct sections even it if means repeating information

9. Points Scoring System 5 W’s: Who, What, Why, When and Where Pre-determined rating systems Do your own realistic evaluation Know where to put the most powerful information in your proposal Pull at their Heart Strings Make them want to fund your project

10. Let’s Review: Read the Grant Application multiple times Speak to the Grant Funder Research the Data thoroughly Write a Compelling story of necessity Build strong working relationships Establish an accurate Budget Follow the instructions Score High Let’s go Write a Winning Proposal