What characterizes a good proposal?

Summary:

A close connection with the purposes of the funding is critical. Other factors matter too.

Absolute adherence to guidelines. Clarity, simplicity, brevity.

For state and federal programs, you'll probably have to use the jargon they used in the RFP, for foundations and corporation grant programs, use plain language and define any specialized terminology you can't avoid using. Include all documents requested in the guidelines. Make sure your budget makes sense. Explain any apparent peculiarities in it.

A classic source of practical advice for grantwriters is Getting Funded : A Complete Guide to Proposal Writing by Mary S. Hall, formerly of Seattle University's Not-for-Profit Leadership program (http://www.seattleu.edu/artsci/departments/ips/ipsnfpl.html).

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