The first step of creating a grant application plan is to go through the grant guidelines and make a list of every single component that is required for submission.

Budget – The budget is the most important aspect of the application. Most funders have a specific format that they would like applicants to use when presenting budget information. An application may have multiple required budget-related forms. Make sure to list each one separately in your application plan so that nothing gets missed.

Application Narrative – The application narrative consists of several sections, each with its own required information. Take the time to read the narrative instructions carefully, listing every question so that you are better prepared to provide the requested information.

Attachments – Depending on the stage of your project, the required attachments will range from simple contact information forms to time-consuming technical documents. Make sure you understand the nature of each required attachment as you add it to the list of required components.

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Letters of support are typically very brief, with most being a single page. Make the most of the opportunity by drafting a letter for your supporter to edit and sign. Make sure to provide the following information in the most clear and concise manner possible:

• Personalization – A personalized letter is more effective than a generic one. Take the time to figure out who to address the letter to, usually the program officer, rather than submitting one, “To Whom It May Concern.”
• Introduction – Introduce the letter writer and their specific connection to the project.
• Brief project summary – Provide a brief description of the characteristics of the project that are of interest to the supporter. Why is this project important to them? Try to keep it to a sentence or two.
• Project benefits – Emphasize the benefits of your project
• Funding priority alignment – Make an explicit connection between your project’s goals and how they align with the funder’s priorities as outlined in the funding guidelines.
• State of commitment (letters of commitment only) – Letters of commitment have an additional component. Letter of commitment must detail exactly what the supporting entity plans to provide the project. This could be a contribution of cash, in-kind project support, or outline a partnership to complete the proposed scope of work.

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