This may be our most popular question. Please visit our Proposal Writing page for introductory or full-day classes, online training, and books that we’ve produced in response to this question.
Start learning now with our free class, Proposal Writing Basics, available in these formats:
Finally, keep in mind that proposal writing is just one step in the grantseeking process, according to Jane Geever, author of The Foundation Center's Guide to Proposal Writing: "The proposal does not stand alone. It must be part of a process of planning and of research on, outreach to, and cultivation of potential foundation and corporate donors."
Far more time should be spent on developing the program or project and researching and cultivating donors than on preparing the actual proposal.
Sample Proposals
Samples of actual proposals are usually hard to find because the donor and applicant may be very protective of these documents. Also, they usually are very specific to the project, organization, and funder.
However, our Document Finder is a searchable collection of proposals, cover letters, letters of inquiry, and proposal budgets that were actually funded. Each proposal includes a critique by the decision-maker who awarded the grant.
These sample documents come from our book, Grantseeker's Guide to Winning Proposals, which you can buy at our Marketplace or use at our libraries and Cooperating Collections.
You also might check if anyone in your professional networks would be willing to share sample proposals.
To learn more about this topic, selected resources below may also be helpful.
Web Sites
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Books & Articles
Check title availability at our libraries and Cooperating Collections or your local libraries.
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