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| Photo by Flickr user sizima |
I recently interviewed some MCF grantmakers for our soon-to-be-published Summer issue of Giving Forum. I asked them — among other things — to offer some communication tips to nonprofits seeking grants. They suggested:
- Ask questions. Before you write a proposal, contact the foundation to determine the fit and gather information.
- Keep it simple. Said one grantmaker, “There’s nothing worse than a 3-inch grant proposal; get your message across . . . in the cover letter.”
- Get the numbers right. Are your budget figures correct, complete and consistent?
- Demonstrate the need. What will you really accomplish with the grant?
- Follow the guidelines!
It’s straightforward, right? Well, maybe not. Communicating well is a challenge we all face every day — whether we’re spewing out emails, drafting business letters or reports, or penning a thank you note to a friend (does anyone do this anymore?).
One of my favorite sources to brush up on business-writing basics is local writing consultant Stephen Wilbers. You can catch his column in the business section of the Strib on alternating Mondays. Or check out his website for free writing tips and other materials for purchase.
If you’re a grantseeker, you might also want to review MCF’s materials on “Writing a Successful Grant Proposal.”
Join the conversation: Do you have any tips for writing better grant proposals? What are your favorite resources to help hone writing and communication skills?
- Wendy Wehr, MCF’s V.P. of Communications and Information Services
July 8, 2008 at 7:25 am |
I recently came across “26 phrases you should never use in writing” at http://pbp.typepad.com/nobull/2008/06/26-phrases-you-should-never-use-in-writing.html . It was a great reminder about those wordy, pompous phrases that creep into business writing.