IFMSA Leadership Training Program

Full Proposal

Elements of a Grant Proposal Grants or proposal writing is a creative and proactive strategy that can assist IFMSA and NMO’s in attempting to fund new projects. As a general rule, a well balanced document looking neat and having a tasteful layout is a core of your appeal. The paperwork should be impressive (not necessarily detailed) in content, crisp clear in language, and aiming to the target. A proposal must convince the prospective donor of two things: that a problem need of significant magnitude exists, and that the applicant agency has the means and the imagination to solve the problem or meet the need In summary, a proposal should reflect planning, research and vision. The importance of research cannot be overemphasized, both in terms of the funders solicited and the types of funds requested. The appropriate format should be used, and the required attachments should be included. The most successful proposals are those which clearly and concisely state the community's and organization's needs and are targeted to donors which fund that field, a reflection of careful planning and research. When no specific format or guidance is given by the funding source, it is safe to generally assume that the proposal should be no more than 15 pages in length (single-spaced) and should include the following sections: Cover Letter Summary Problem Statement or Needs Assessment Program Goals and Objectives Methods Qualifications of the Organization Evaluation Budget Future Funding of the Program Appendices   Important Tips Please also have a look at the following pages which give some practical hints: Format and Appearance University of Pennsylvania study on Grant Writing