Checklist for Successful Engagement:
❏ Make sure your organization has the capacity and the will to do the proposed project.
❏ Beware of “mission drift.”
❏ Have you thoroughly reviewed the application guidelines?
❏ Single spaced or double spaced? 12 point type or 10? What font must you use?
❏ Is your writing clear, concise, and readable?
- Use the active voice rather than the passive. Keep sentences short.
- Use bullet points when possible. If guidelines permit, use white space.
❏ You should proofread your proposal three times.
- After three times, most people are unable to catch typos, missing words, etc.
- Ask your colleagues to bring fresh eyes to the project.
❏ Are the correct attachments attached?
- Typically, funders require copies of your IRS letter of determination, 990s, audits,
lists of board directors, etc.
❏ Have you made the right number of copies?
- Don’t make a potential funder hunt you down for copies!
- Did you make a copy for the files? Seems obvious, doesn’t it? You’d be surprised….
❏ Submit your grant package on time.
- Late = not considered. Period.
❏ Inform the appropriate program staff and board members that this grant is pending.
- They might just be able to put in a good word for the project!