Order Code RL32159
CRS Report for Congress
Received through the CRS Web
How to Develop and Write a Grant Proposal
November 26, 2003
Merete F. Gerli
Information Management Specialist
Information Research Division
Congressional Research Service { The Library of Congress

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How to Develop and Write a Grant Proposal
Summary
This report is intended for grant seekers in districts and states. It is based in part
on “Developing and Writing Grant Proposals” from the Catalog of Federal Domestic
Assistance (CFDA) [http://www.cfda.gov/public/cat-writing.htm] and draws on
archived CRS Report 90-430, Grant Proposal Development, by Rhoda Newman.
The CFDA focuses on federal grant proposals; this report has been expanded to
include writing proposals for both government and private foundations grants. In
preparation for writing a proposal, the report first discusses preliminary information
gathering and preparation, developing ideas for the proposal, gathering community
support, identifying funding resources, and seeking preliminary review of the
proposal and support of relevant administrative officials.
The second section of the report covers the actual writing of the proposal, from
outlining of project goals, stating the purpose and objectives of the proposal,
explaining the program methods to solve the stated problem, and how the results of
the project will be evaluated, to long-term project planning, and, finally, developing
the proposal budget.
The last section of the report includes a listing of free grants writing Web sites,
some in Spanish as well as English, including the Foundation Center’s “Proposal
Writing Short Course.”
Related CRS materials include two Web pages for Members of Congress only,
[http://www.crs.gov/reference/general/grants.shtml], the CRS Grants Information
Web site, and [http://www.crs.gov/reference/general/memger_grant.html], the CRS
Member’s Grants and Federal Domestic Assistance Web page. Related CRS Reports
are CRS Report 97-220, Grants Work in a Congressional Office; CRS Report
RE20514, Grants Information for Constituents; and CRS Report 21117, Ethical
Considerations in Assisting Constituents With Grant Requests Before Federal
Agencies. This report will be updated as warranted.

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Contents
Developing a Grant Proposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Developing Ideas for the Proposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Community Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Identifying Funding Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Getting Organized to Write the Proposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Writing an Effective Grant Proposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Overall Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Basic Components of a Proposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Cover Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Proposal Summary: Outline of Project Goals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Introduction: Presenting a Credible Applicant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Problem Statement or Needs Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Project Objectives: Goals and Desired Outcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Program Methods and Program Design: A Plan of Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Evaluation: Product and Process Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Future Funding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Budget Development and Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Proposal Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Additional Proposal Writing Web Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Federal Guidelines and Literature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

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How to Develop and Write a Grant Proposal
Developing a Grant Proposal
Preparation
A successful grant proposal is one that is well-prepared, thoughtfully planned,
and concisely packaged. The potential applicant must first become familiar with all
of the pertinent program criteria of the funding institution. Before developing a
proposal, refer to the information contact listed in the agency or foundation program
description to learn whether funding is available, when applicable deadlines occur,
and the process used by the grantor agency or private foundation for accepting
applications.
Grant seekers should know that the basic requirements, application forms,
information, and procedures vary among grant-making agencies and foundations.
Federal agencies and large foundations may have formal application packets, strict
guidelines, and fixed deadlines with which applicants must comply, while smaller
foundations may operate more informally and even provide assistance to
inexperienced grantseekers. However, the steps outlined in this report generally
apply to any grant-seeking effort.
Individuals without prior grant proposal writing experience may find it useful
to attend a grantsmanship class or workshop. Applicants interested in locating
workshops or consulting more resources on grantsmanship and proposal development
should consult the Internet sites listed at the end of this report and explore other
resources in their local libraries.
Developing Ideas for the Proposal
The first step in proposal planning is the development of a clear, concise
description of the proposed project. To develop a convincing proposal for project
funding, the project must fit into the philosophy and mission of the grant-seeking
organization or agency; and the need that the proposal is addressing must be well
documented and well-articulated. Typically, funding agencies or foundations will
want to know that a proposed activity or project reinforces the overall mission of an
organization or grant seeker, and that the project is necessary. To make a compelling
case, the following should be included in the proposal:
! Nature of the project, its goals, needs, and anticipated outcomes
! How the project will be conducted
! Timetable for completion
! How best to evaluate the results (performance measures)

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! Staffing needs, including use of existing staff and new hires or
volunteers
! Preliminary budget, covering expenses and financial requirements,
to determine what funding levels to seek
When developing an idea for a proposal, it is also important to determine if the
idea has already been considered in the applicant’s locality or state. A thorough check
should be made with state legislators, local government, and related public and
private agencies which may currently have grant awards or contracts to do similar
work. If a similar program already exists, the applicant may need to reconsider
submitting the proposed project, particularly if duplication of effort is perceived.
However, if significant differences or improvements in the proposed project’s goals
can be clearly established, it may be worthwhile to pursue federal or private
foundation assistance.
Community Support
Community support for many proposals is essential. Once a proposal summary
is developed, look for individuals or groups representing academic, political,
professional, and lay organizations which may be willing to support the proposal in
writing. The type and caliber of community support is critical in the initial and
subsequent review phases.
Numerous letters of support can influence the
administering agency or foundation. Elicit support from local government agencies
and public officials. Letters of endorsement detailing exact areas of project sanction
and financial or in-kind commitment are often requested as part of a proposal to a
federal agency. Several months may be required to develop letters of endorsement
since something of value (e.g., buildings, staff, services) is sometimes negotiated
between the parties involved.
While money is the primary concern of most grantseekers, thought should be
given to the kinds of nonmonetary contributions that may be available. In many
instances, academic institutions, corporations, and other nonprofit groups in the
community may be willing to contribute technical and professional assistance,
equipment, or space to a worthy project. Not only will such contributions reduce the
amount of money being sought, but evidence of such local support will be viewed
favorably by most grant-making agencies or foundations.
Many agencies require, in writing, affiliation agreements (a mutual agreement
to share services between agencies) and building space commitments prior to either
grant approval or award. Two useful methods of generating community support may
be to form a citizen advisory committee or to hold meetings with community leaders
who would be concerned with the subject matter of the proposal. The forum may
include:
! Discussion of the merits of the proposal
! Development of a strategy to create proposal support from a large
number of community groups, institutions, and organizations
! Generation of data in support of the proposal

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Identifying Funding Resources
Once the project has been specifically defined, the grant seeker needs to research
appropriate funding sources. Both the applicant and the grantor agency or foundation
should have the same interests, intentions, and needs if a proposal is to be considered
an acceptable candidate for funding. It is not productive to send out proposals
indiscriminately in the hope of attracting funding. Grant-making agencies and
foundations whose interest and intentions are consistent with those of the applicant
are the most likely to provide support. Cast a wide, but targeted, net. Many projects,
in fact, may only be accomplished with funds coming from a combination of sources,
among them federal, state, or local programs and grants from private or corporate
foundations.
The best funding resources are now on the Internet. Key sources for funding
information include the federal government’s Catalog of
Federal Domestic
Assistance
(CFDA)
[http://www.cfda.gov],
and
the
Foundation
Center
[http://www.foundationcenter.org], the clearinghouse of private and corporate
foundation funding. For a summary of federal programs and sources, CRS Report
RS20514, Grants Information for Constitutents, and other reports on topics such as
block grants to states, federal assistance for homeland security, and other funding
areas, may be requested from your Senator or Representative.
A review of the government or private foundation’s program descriptions’
objectives and uses, as well as any use restrictions, can clarify which programs might
provide funding for an idea.
When reviewing individual CFDA program
descriptions, do not overlook the related programs as potential resources. Also, the
kinds of projects the agency or foundation funded in the past may be helpful in
fashioning your grant proposal. Who have been past grant recipients? Program
listings in the CFDA or foundation information will often include examples of past
funded projects.
It should be pointed out that many federal grants do not go directly to the final
beneficiary, but are awarded through “block” or “formula” grants to state or local
agencies which, in turn, distribute the funds. For more information, CRS Report
RL30818, Block Grants: An Overview, and CRS Report 30778, Federal Grants to
State and Local Governments: Concepts for Legislative Design and Oversight, may
be requested from your Representative or Senator.
There are many types of foundations: national, family, community, corporate,
etc. For district or community projects, as a general rule, it is a good idea not to start
searching with large national foundations but to look for funding sources close to
home, which are frequently most concerned with solving local problems.
Corporations, for example, tend to support projects in areas where they have offices
or plants. Most foundations only provide grants to nonprofit organizations (those
registered by the Internal Revenue Service as having 501(c) tax-exempt status),
though the Foundation Center publishes information about foundation grants to
individuals.
Once a potential grantor agency or foundation is identified, contact it and ask
for a grant application kit or information. Later, ask some of the grantor agency or

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foundation personnel for suggestions, criticisms, and advice about the proposed
project. In many cases, the more agency or foundation personnel know about the
proposal, the better the chance of support and of an eventual favorable decision.
Sometimes it is useful to send the proposal summary to a specific agency or
foundation official in a separate cover letter, and ask for preliminary review and
comment.
Always check with the government agency or foundation first to
determine its preference if this approach is under consideration. If the review is
unfavorable and differences cannot be resolved, ask the examining agency or
foundation official to suggest another department, agency, or foundation which may
be interested in the proposal. A personal visit to the agency’s or foundation’s state
or regional office or headquarters (if available) may also be beneficial. A visit not
only establishes face-to-face contact but also may bring out some essential details
about the proposal or help secure additional advice or information.
Federal agencies are required to report funding information as funds are
approved, increased, or decreased among projects within a given state depending on
the type of required reporting. Also, consider reviewing the federal budget for the
current and future fiscal years to determine proposed dollar amounts for particular
budget functions.
The applicant should carefully study the eligibility requirements for each
government or foundation program under consideration (see for example the
Applicant Eligibility and Rules and Regulations sections of the CFDA program
description).
The Rules section provides a citation to the Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) covering the program. In a careful reading of the applicable CFR,
the grant seeker may determine that it needs to modify its original concept in order
to meet funding requirements for the federal grant. The applicant may learn that he
or she is required to provide services otherwise unintended such as a service to
particular client groups, or involvement of specific institutions. It may necessitate
the modification of the original concept in order for the project to be eligible for
funding.
Questions about eligibility should be discussed with the appropriate
program officer.
Deadlines for submitting applications are often not negotiable, though some
federal programs do have open application dates (refer to the program description).
Specified deadlines are usually associated with strict timetables for agency or
foundation review. Some programs have more than one application deadline during
the fiscal or calendar year. Applicants should plan proposal development around the
established deadlines.
Getting Organized to Write the Proposal
The grant seeker, having narrowed down the field of potential funders, will want
to approach the most likely prospects to confirm that they might indeed be interested
in the project. Many federal agencies and foundations are willing to provide an
assessment of a preliminary one- or two-page concept paper before a formal proposal
is prepared. The concept paper should give a brief description of the needs to be
addressed, who is to carry out the project, what is to be accomplished, by what
means, how long it will take, how the accomplishments will be measured, plans for

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the future, how much it will cost, and the ways this proposal relates to the mission
of the funding source.
Developing a concept paper is excellent preparation for writing the final
proposal.
The grant seeker should try to see the project or activity from the
viewpoint of the grant-making agency or foundation. Like the proposal, the concept
paper should be brief, clear, and informative. It is important to understand that from
the funder’s vantage point, the grant is not seen as the end of the process, but only as
the midpoint. The funder will want to know what will happen to the project once the
grant ends.
For example, will it be self-supporting or will it be used as a
demonstration to apply for further funding? Will it need ongoing support, for how
long, and what are the anticipated outcomes?
If the funding sources expresses interest in the concept paper, the grant seeker
can ask for suggestions, criticism, and guidance, before writing the final proposal.
Feedback and dialog are essential elements to a successful funding proposal.
Throughout the proposal writing stage, keep a notebook or a file handy to write
down or gather ideas and related materials and review them. The gathering of
documents such as articles of incorporation, tax exemption certificates, and bylaws
should be completed, if possible, before the writing begins.
At the end of this report, useful Web sites review cover proposal writing, give
sample grant proposals (including a template for writing a proposal), and link to
federal program information and grants management circulars.
Writing an Effective Grant Proposal
Overall Considerations
An effective grant proposal has to make a compelling case. Not only must the
idea be a good one, but so must the presentation. Thing to be considered include:
! All of the requirements of the funding source must be met:
prescribed format, necessary inclusions, deadlines, etc.
! The proposal should have a clear, descriptive title.
! The proposal should be a cohesive whole, building logically, with
one section leading to another; this is an especially important
consideration when several people have been involved in its
preparation.
! Language should be clear and concise, devoid of jargon;
explanations should be offered for acronyms and terms which may
be unfamiliar to someone outside the field.
! Each of the parts of the proposal should provide as brief but
informative a narrative as possible, with supporting data relegated
to an appendix.
At various stages in the proposal writing process, the proposal should be
reviewed by a number of interested and disinterested parties. Each time it has been

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critiqued, it may be necessary to rethink the project and its presentation. While such
revision is necessary to clarify the proposal, one of the dangers is that the original
excitement of those making the proposal sometimes gets written out. Somehow, this
must be conveyed in the final proposal. Make it interesting!
Basic Components of a Proposal
The basic sections of a standard grant proposal include:
1.
Cover letter
2.
Proposal summary or abstract
3.
Introduction describing the grant seeker or organization
4.
Problem statement (or needs assessment)
5.
Project objectives
6.
Project methods or design
7.
Project evaluation
8.
Future funding
9.
Project budget
Cover Letter
The one-page cover letter should be written on the applicant’s letterhead and
should be signed by the organization’s highest official. It should be addressed to the
individual at the funding source with whom the organization has dealt, and should
refer to earlier discussions. While giving a brief outline of the needs addressed in the
proposal, the cover letter should demonstrate a familiarity with the mission of the
grantmaking agency or foundation and emphasize the ways in which this project
contributes to these goals.
Proposal Summary: Outline of Project Goals
The proposal summary outlines the proposed project and should appear at the
beginning of the proposal. It could be in the form of a cover letter or a separate page,
but should definitely be brief — no longer than two or three paragraphs.
The summary should be prepared after the proposal has been developed in order
to encompass all the key points necessary to communicate the objectives of the
project. It is this document that becomes the cornerstone of your proposal, and the
initial impression it gives will be critical to the success of your venture. In many
cases, the summary will be the first part of the proposal package seen by agency or
foundation officials and very possibly could be the only part of the package that is
carefully reviewed before the decision is made to consider the project any further.
The summary should include a description of the applicant, a definition of the
problem to be solved, a statement of the objectives to be achieved, an outline of the
activities and procedures to be used to accomplish those objectives, a description of
the evaluation design, plans for the project at the end of the grants, and a statement
of what it will cost the funding agency. It may also identify other funding sources or
entities participating in the project.

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CRS-7
For federal funding, the applicant should develop a project which can be
supported in view of the local need. Alternatives, in the absence of federal support,
should be pointed out. The influence of the project both during and after the project
period should be explained. The consequences of the project as a result of funding
should be highlighted.
Introduction: Presenting a Credible Applicant
In the introduction, applicants describe their organization and demonstrate that
they are qualified to carry out the proposed project — they establish their credibility
and make the point that they are a good investment, in no more than a page.
Statements made here should be carefully tailored, pointing out that the overall goals
and purposes of the applicant are consistent with those of the funding source. This
section should give:
! A brief history of the organization, its past and present operations,
its goals and mission, its significant accomplishments, any success
stories.
! Reference should be made to grants, endorsements, and press
coverage the organization has already received (with supporting
documentation included in the Appendix).
! Qualifications of its professional staff, and a list of its board of
directors.
! Indicate whether funds for other parts of the project are being sought
elsewhere; such evidence will, in fact, strengthen the proposal,
demonstrating to the reviewing officer that all avenues of support
have been throughly explored.
! An individual applicant should include a succinct resume relating to
the objectives of the proposal (what makes the applicant eligible to
undertake the work or project?).
Problem Statement or Needs Assessment
This section lays out the reason for the proposal. It should make a clear,
concise, and well-supported statement of the problem to be addressed, from the
beneficiaries’ viewpoint, in no more than two pages.
The best way to collect information about the problem is to conduct and
document both a formal and informal needs assessment for a program in the target
or service area. The information provided should be both factual and directly related
to the problem addressed by the proposal. Areas to document are:
! Purpose for developing the proposal.
! Beneficiaries — who are they and how will they benefit.
! Social and economic costs to be affected.
! Nature of the problem (provide as much hard evidence as possible).
! How the applicant or organization came to realize the problem
exists, and what is currently being done about the problem.
! Stress what gaps exist in addressing the problem that will be
addressed by the proposal.

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CRS-8
! Remaining alternatives available when funding has been exhausted.
Explain what will happen to the project and the impending
implications.
! Most important, the specific manner through which problems might
be solved. Review the resources needed, considering how they will
be used and to what end.
One of the pitfalls to be avoided is defining the problem as a lack of program
or facility, i.e., giving one of the possible solutions to a problem as the problem itself.
For example, the lack of a medical center in an economically depressed area is not
the problem — the problem is that poor people in the area have health needs that are
not currently being addressed. The problem described should be of reasonable
dimensions, with the targeted population and geographic area clearly defined. It
should include a retrospective view of the situation, describing past efforts to
ameliorate it, and making projections for the future.
The problem statement,
developed with input from the beneficiaries, must be supported by statistics and
statements from authorities in the fields. The case must be made that the applicant,
because of its history, demonstrable skills, and past accomplishments, is the right
organization to solve the problem.
There is a considerable body of literature on the exact assessment techniques to
be used. Any local, regional, or state government planning office, or local university
offering course work in planning and evaluation techniques should be able to provide
excellent background references. Types of data that may be collected include:
historical, geographic, quantitative, factual, statistical, and philosophical information,
as well as studies completed by colleges, and literature searches from public or
university libraries. Local colleges or universities which have a department or
section related to the proposal topic may help determine if there is interest in
developing a student or faculty project to conduct a needs assessment. It may be
helpful to include examples of the findings for highlighting in the proposal.
Project Objectives: Goals and Desired Outcome
Once the needs have been described, proposed solutions have to be outlined,
wherever possible in quantitative terms. The population to be served, time frame of
the project, and specific anticipated outcomes must be defined. The figures used
should be verifiable. Remember, if the proposal is funded, the stated objectives will
probably be used to evaluate program progress, so be realistic. There is literature
available to help identify and write program objectives.
It is important not to confuse objectives with methods or strategies toward those
ends. For example, the objective should not be stated as “building a prenatal clinic
in Adams County,” but as “reducing the infant mortality rate in Adams County to X
percent by a specific date.” The concurrent strategy or method of accomplishing the
stated objective may include the establishment of mobile clinics that bring services
to the community.

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Program Methods and Program Design: A Plan of Action
The program design refers to how the project is expected to work and solve the
stated problem. Just as the statement of objectives builds upon the problem
statement, the description of methods or strategies builds upon the statement of
objectives. For each objective, a specific plan of action should be laid out. It should
delineate a sequence of justifiable activities, indicating the proposed staffing and
timetable for each task. This section should be carefully reviewed to make sure that
what is being proposed is realistic in terms of the applicant’s resources and time
frame. Outline the following:
1.
The activities to occur along with the related resources and staff needed to
operate the project (“inputs”).
2.
A flow chart of the organizational features of the project: describe how the parts
interrelate, where personnel will be needed, and what they are expected to do.
Identify the kinds of facilities, transportation, and support services required
(“throughputs”).
3.
Explain what will be achieved through 1 and 2 above (“outputs”), i.e., plan for
measurable results. Project staff may be required to produce evidence of
program performance through an examination of stated objectives during either
a site visit by the grantor agency or foundation, and/or grant reviews which may
involve peer review committees.
4.
It may be useful to devise a diagram of the program design. Such a procedure
will help to conceptualize both the scope and detail of the project.
Example:
Draw a three-column block. Each column is headed by one of the parts (inputs,
throughputs, and outputs), and on the left (next to the first column) specific program
features should be identified (i.e., implementation, staffing, procurement, and systems
development). In the grid, specify something about the program design, for example,
assume the first column is labeled inputs and the first row is labeled staff. On the grid
one might specify under inputs five nurses to operate a child care unit. The throughput
might be to maintain charts, counsel the children, and set up a daily routine; outputs
might be to discharge 25 healthy children per week.
5.
Carefully consider the pressures of the proposed implementation, that is, the
time and money needed to undertake each part of the plan. Wherever possible,
justify in the narrative the course of action taken. The most economical method
should be used that does not compromise or sacrifice project quality. The
financial expenses associated with performance of the project will later become
points of negotiation with the government or foundation program staff. If
everything is not carefully justified in writing in the proposal, after negotiation
with the grantor agencies or foundations, the approved project may resemble
less of the original concept.

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CRS-10
Projects can easily be laid out using commercial off-the-shelf project management
software that will run on any personal computer. A Program Evaluation and Review
Technique (PERT) chart* could be useful and supportive in justifying some proposals.
The software allows the project manager to construct a PERT chart that provides a
graphical representation of all tasks in the project and the way tasks are related to each
other. Such project manager software provides a variety of report formats that can be
used to track project progress. The PERT chart and other related reports can be
maintained on a network of computers so that all project participants can access the latest
project information.
*The PERT chart concept was developed by the Navy during World War II to facilitate
submarine construction [http://www.defenselink.mil/nii/bpr/bprcd/3003s9.htm].
6.
Highlight the innovative features of the proposal which could be considered
distinct from other proposals under consideration.
7.
Whenever possible, use appendixes to provide details, supplementary data,
references, and information requiring in-depth analysis. These types of data,
although supportive of the proposal, if included in the body of the proposal,
could detract from its readability. Appendixes provide the proposal reader with
immediate access to details if and when clarification of an idea, sequence or
conclusion is required.
Time tables, work plans, schedules, activities,
methodologies, legal papers, personal vitae, letters of support, and endorsements
are examples of appendixes.
Evaluation: Product and Process Analysis
An evaluation plan should be a consideration at every stage of the proposal’s
development. Data collected for the problem statement form a comparative basis for
determining whether measurable objectives are indeed being met, and whether
proposed methods are accomplishing these ends; or whether different parts of the
plan need to be fine-tuned to be made more effective and efficient.
Among the considerations will be whether evaluation will be done by the
organization itself or by outside experts. The organizations will have to decide
whether outside experts have the standing in the field and the degree of objectivity
that would justify the added expense, or whether the job could be done with
sufficient expertise by its own staff, without taking too much time away from the
project itself.
Methods
of
measurement,
whether
standardized
tests,
interviews,
questionnaires, observation, etc., will depend upon the nature and scope of the
project. Procedures and schedules for gathering, analyzing, and reporting data will
need to be spelled out.
The evaluation component is two-fold: (1) product evaluation; and (2) process
evaluation. “Product evaluation” addresses results that can be attributed to the
project, as well as the extent to which the project has satisfied its stated objectives.
“Process evaluation” addresses how the project was conducted, in terms of

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consistency with the stated plan of action and the effectiveness of the various
activities within the plan.
Most federal agencies now require some form of program evaluation among
grantees. The requirements of the proposed project should be explored carefully.
Evaluations may be conducted by an internal staff member, an evaluation firm or
both. Many federal grants include a specific time frame for performance review and
evaluation. For instance, several economic development programs require grant
recipients to report on a quarterly and annual basis. In instances where there are no
specified evaluation periods, the applicant should state the amount of time needed to
evaluate, how the feedback will be disseminated among the proposed staff, and a
schedule for review and comment. Evaluation designs may start at the beginning,
middle, or end of a project, but the applicant should specify a start-up time. It is
desirable and advisable to submit an evaluation design at the start of a project for two
reasons:
! Convincing evaluations require the collection of appropriate baseline
data before and during program operations; and
! If the evaluation design cannot be prepared at the outset then a
critical review of the program design may be advisable.
Even if the evaluation design has to be revised as the project progresses, it is
much easier and cheaper to modify a good design. If the problem is not well defined
and carefully analyzed for cause and effect relationships, then a good evaluation
design may be difficult to achieve. Sometimes a pilot study is needed to begin the
identification of facts and relationships. Often a thorough literature search may be
sufficient.
Evaluation requires both coordination and agreement among program decision
makers. Above all, the federal grantor agency’s or foundation’s requirements should
be highlighted in the evaluation design. Also, grantor agencies may require specific
evaluation techniques such as designated data formats (an existing information
collection system) or they may offer financial inducements for voluntary participation
in a national evaluation study. The applicant should ask specifically about these
points. Also, for federal programs, consult the “Criteria For Selecting Proposals”
section of the CFDA program description to determine the exact evaluation methods
to be required for a specific program if funded.
Future Funding
The last narrative part of the proposal explains what will happen to the program
once the grant ends. It should describe a plan for continuation beyond the grant
period, and outline all other contemplated fund-raising efforts and future plans for
applying for additional grants. Projections for operating and maintaining facilities
and equipment should also be given. Discuss maintenance and future program
funding if program funds are for construction activity. Account for other needed
expenditures if program includes purchase of equipment.

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CRS-12
Budget Development and Requirements
While the degree of specificity of any budget will vary depending upon the
nature of the project and the requirements of the funding source, a complete, well
thought out budget serves to reinforce the applicant’s credibility, and to increase the
likelihood of the proposal being funded. The estimated expenses in the budget
should build upon the justifications given in the narrative section of the proposal. A
well-prepared budget should be reasonable and demonstrate that the funds being
asked for will be used wisely. The budget should be as concrete and specific as
possible in its estimates. Every effort should be made to be realistic, to estimate
costs accurately, and not to underestimate staff time.
The budget format should be as clear as possible. It should begin with a Budget
Summary, which, like the Proposal Summary, is written after the entire budget has
been prepared. Each section of the budget should be in outline form, listing line
items under major headings and subdivisions. Each of the major components should
be subtotaled with a grand total placed at the end. If the funding source provides
forms, most of these elements can simply be filled into the appropriate spaces.
Generally, budgets are divided into two categories, personnel costs and non-
personnel costs. In preparing the budget, first review the proposal and make lists of
items needed for the project. The personnel section usually includes a breakdown of:
! Salaries (including increases in multiyear projects)
! Fringe benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans
! Consultant and contract services
The items in the non-personnel section will vary widely, but may include:
! Space/office rental or leasing costs
! Utilities
! Purchase or rental of equipment
! Training to use new equipment
! Photocopying, office supplies, and so on
Some hard to pin down budget areas are: utilities, rental of buildings and
equipment, salary increases, food, telephones, insurance, and transportation. Budget
adjustments are sometimes made after the grant award, but this can be a lengthy
process. Be certain that implementation, continuation, and phase-down costs can be
met. Consider costs associated with leases, evaluation systems, hard/soft match
requirements, audits, development, implementation and maintenance of information
and accounting systems, and other long-term financial commitments.
A well-prepared budget justifies all expenses and is consistent with the proposal
narrative. Some areas in need of an evaluation for consistency are:
! Salaries in the proposal in relation to those of the applicant
organization should be similar.
! If new staff persons are being hired, additional space and equipment
should be considered, as necessary.

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CRS-13
! If the budget calls for an equipment purchase, it should be the type
allowed by the grantor agency.
! If additional space is rented, the increase in insurance should be
supported.
! In the case of federal grants, if an indirect cost rate applies to the
proposal (such as outlined for by U.S. Office of Management and
Budget
Circulars
A-122
[http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb
/circulars/a122/a122.html], A-21, and A-87), the division between
direct and indirect costs should not be in conflict, and the aggregate
budget totals should refer directly to the approved formula.
! If matching funds are required, the contributions to the matching
fund should be taken out of the budget unless otherwise specified in
the application instructions.
In learning to develop a convincing budget, and determining appropriate format,
reviewing other grant proposals is often helpful. Ask government agencies and
foundations for copies of winning grants proposals. Also search the Internet under
keywords such as “sample grants budget” for examples like these:
Common Grant Budget
[http://www.schoolfundingcenter.com/fnd_cgbdgt.asp]
Community-Developed Initiatives (small grants)
[http://www.prop10.org/docs/Funding/FundOvr_CDI_SmallGrantBudgSamp.pdf]
Community Policing Grant Budget Detail Worksheet
[http://www.state.ma.us/ccj/download/cp_worksheet2003.pdf]
Grant Budget Format
[http://www.sacf.net/sacf_sample_budget.htm]
Sample Research Grant Budget
[http://www.washington.edu/research/gcs/gim/gim1a6.html]
In preparing budgets for government grants, keep in mind that funding levels of
federal assistance programs change yearly. It is useful to review the appropriations
over the past several years to try to project future funding levels (see “Financial
Information” section of the CFDA program description). However, it is safer never
to anticipate that the income from the grant will be the sole support for larger
projects. This consideration should be given to the overall budget requirements, and
in particular, to budget line items most subject to inflationary pressures. Restraint
is important in determining inflationary cost projections (avoid padding budget line
items), but attempt to anticipate possible future increases.
For federal grants, it is also important to become familiar with grants
management requirements. The CFDA identifies in the program description the
Office of Management and Budget circulars applicable to each federal program.
Applicants should review appropriate documents while developing a proposal budget
since they are essential in determining items such as cost principles, administrative
and audit requirements and compliance, and conforming with government guidelines

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CRS-14
for federal domestic assistance. OMB circulars are available fulltext on the Web at
[http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/grants_circulars.html].
To
coordinate
federal
grants
to
states,
Executive
Order
12372,
“Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,” was issued to foster
intergovernmental partnership and strengthen federalism by relying on state and local
processes for the coordination and review of proposed Federal financial assistance
and direct federal development. The executive order allows each state to designate
an office to perform this function, addresses of which may be found at the OMB Web
site [http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html]. States that are not listed on
this Web page have chosen not to participate in the intergovernmental review
process. If you are located within one of these states, you may still send application
materials directly to a federal awarding agency. State and regional offices of federal
agencies that award grants and other domestic assistance can be found in CFDA
Appendix IV at [http://www.cfda.gov/public/cat-app4-index.htm].
Proposal Appendix
Lengthy documents which are referred to in the narrative are best added to the
proposal in an Appendix. Examples include letters of endorsement, partial list of
previous funders, key staff resumes, annual reports, statistical data, maps, pictorial
material, and newspaper and magazine articles about the organizations. Nonprofit
organizations should include an IRS 501(c)(3) Letter of Tax Exempt Status.
Additional Proposal Writing Web Sites
All About Grants Tutorials (National Institutes of Health; English and Spanish)
[http://www.niaid.nih.gov/ncn/grants/default.htm]
Grant Writing Tips Sheet [http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/grant_tips.htm]
Basic Elements of Grant Writing (Corporation for Public Broadcasting)
[http://www.cpb.org/grants/grantwriting.html]
EPA Grant-Writing Tutorial (Environmental Protection Agency)
[http://www.epa.gov/seahome/grants/src/grant.htm]
Funding: Templates (SERA Learning)
[http://www.sera.com/index.php?section=funding&option=funding&page=fu
nding_templates]
General Proposal Guidelines (University of Southern California)
[http://www.usc.edu/dept/contracts/gg.html]
Grant-writing Tools for Non-Profit Organizations (Non-Profit Guides)
[http://www.npguides.org/]
Sample proposals: [http://www.npguides.org/guide/sample_proposals.htm]
Grants and Grant Proposal Writing (St. Louis University)
[http://eweb.slu.edu/papers2/grant01v32e.pdf]

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CRS-15
Grants and Nonprofit Information Center (Tuscon-Pima Public Library)
[http://www.lib.ci.tucson.az.us/grants/grants36.htm]
How to Enhance a Grant Proposal (Environmental Protection Agency)
[http://www.epa.gov/seahome/grants/src/writting/write.htm]
Proposal Writing Short Course (Foundation Center; English and Spanish)
[http://fdncenter.org/learn/shortcourse/prop1.html]
Where can I find examples of grant proposals?
[http://fdncenter.org/learn/faqs/html/propsample.html]
Quick Guide for Grant Applications (National Cancer Institute)
[http://deainfo.nci.nih.gov/EXTRA/EXTDOCS/gntapp.htm]
Useful Links: Grant-Writing Instructions (Los Angeles City College)
[http://www.laccd.org/index.php?option=weblinks&Itemid=4&topid=3]
What Reviewers Look For (College of William and Mary)
[http://www.wm.edu/grants/PROP/reviewers.htm]
Federal Guidelines and Literature
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (General Services Administration)
[http://www.cfda.gov]
Federal Register (National Archives)
[http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/index.html]
Office of Management and Budget Circulars (OMB)
[http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/grants_circulars.html]

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