Model Proposal

Now, more than ever, nonprofit organizations need to invest in their missions by generating funding that will equip them with the resources they need to thrive in a transforming world.  The Model Proposal provides already-done documents which are traditionally used by nonprofit leaders when seeking funding to further the charitable mission.

The Model Grant Proposal is a very clear, direct document written with the specific purpose of persuading a funder to provide you with support because: (1) you have a meaningful cause; (2) the need for your cause can be backed up with research; (3) you have a fully mapped-out plan to advance your cause; and (4) you are responsible and capable of implementing or furthering the planned program. 

Each Model Proposal incorporates a thoroughly researched cause, why the program supporting this cause is needed, followed by specific, meaningful, actionable plan of action (e.g., methodology). Model Proposal narratives contain (1) an Organizational background; (2) Governance; (3) Statement of Need; (4), Program Description; (5) Target Population; (6) SMART Goals; (7) Measurement and Evaluation; (8) Marketing Strategy; and (8) Sustainability Strategy. 

In addition to the Model Proposal narrative, you will receive the following “done-for-you” documents that are ready to use once you fill-in your organization’s basic information:

• Letter of Inquiry: You will receive a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) that has already been researched and drafted based on your selected cause area.  A LOI is a 2-page mini-proposal document that is used to seek funding. It includes an opening paragraph, about us, what we do, why we do this, who we help, our goals, funding request, and concluding paragraph. Some funders require the LOI as the sole funding application from which they will make their funding decisions. Other funders use the LOI as a first step to quickly determine if there is mission alignment. If the funder is interested in learning more about your organization, they may invite you to complete a full application or submit a full proposal; after which, the potential funder will decide whether to award the requested funds or not. 
• Common Grant Application: You will receive a Common Grant Application that has already been filled-out based on your selected cause area.  Many funding requests are made using an online application similar to an online employment application. However, these grant applications can be a bit tricky for those who are not accustomed to applying for grants every day. Your Common Grant Application includes responses to commonly asked grant-application questions that you can use when applying for grants online.  Each response is based on your selected cause area.  And to ensure consistency, responses will be in harmony with your accompanying LOI.  
• Budget: You will receive an organizational and program budget for your selected cause area. Budgets are an important part of every funding request. This document shows potential funders that you have given serious consideration to the projected cost associated with delivering your program services, and what expenses are necessary to implement or continue your program services.
• Board List: You will receive this a standard document with an opening statement, followed by a sample list of board members and affiliations. This document is already properly formatted for you. 
• Non-Discrimination Policy: You will receive a non-discrimination policy which provides clarity to employees and volunteers on acceptable behavior and ensures compliance with (local) laws and regulation to helps to reduce bias.
• Grant List: Reaching annual funding goals happen sooner for organizations that have a plan.  For this reason, you will receive a list of 15 foundations that nonprofits within your selected cause area. Your list will contain opportunities to apply for funding using a LOI and opportunities where you will apply using the funders online grant application process. These funding opportunities were selected based on the funder’s priorities listed on their website, IRS 990PF, or funding history. Be sure to apply for all of them, as funders may change this criterion at any time!