• When one is writing a grant proposal, there are many things to consider and understand about the process. One must first ensure that they read and adhere strictly to the grant makers guidelines. Then one must include several key elements as discussed in other sections for grant writing. It is also extremely beneficial to review other sample proposals to give one a visual and guideline to work from.

• Each Grantor will have strict instructions and guidelines for grant writers to follow. It is imperative that the grant writer trim their program to meet the Grantor's program instead of the other way around. While following the Grantor’s instructions out to the very last detail, also ensure that you check and proofread for any grammatical and spelling errors. Your proposal should be free of errors and be a polished piece of professionalism.

• The grant writer's goals should be realistic and should include a detailed budget. Research costs involved with your proposal before applying for money. Your proposal should also contain a creative and fresh approach. However, the idea should not be risky. It should contain sound research why this proposal deserves to be financed. It is also a good idea to make the proposal flexible enough to be transferred into other grade levels and schools upon success.

• Finally, clarity is key. Research your idea until you know every detail. This will ensure you can communicate your proposal with clear and concise lingo, making for a better chance at being funded. To ensure that your proposal is clear, have someone outside of your field read the proposal. Items should be spelled out in such a way that anyone could understand the purpose, need, and goal of the proposal.

• No matter what happens with the proposal, remember that the least that will happen as a result of creating your proposal is you gain experience from it. Sometimes, people write a perfect grant proposal and are turned down. Often it is simply the timing of the project. Do not give up,and simply try again. If you are turned down, ask the grantor for their reviewer comments. These comments can offer priceless tips for improving the next round of proposals. Also, thank you letters are a nice touch whether you receive the funding or not. You never know when more money might suddenly be found.

• Parts of RFP:
  
  The RFP: Request Fund Proposal, is an example of an organizational suggestion for how a potential grant writer would request funds for their grant.
  
  It starts with a Statement of Need. Remember first and foremost that you are requesting money for a plan, that someone is doubtful of it's possibility. Your convincing argument in favor of your grants needs to be one that you are proud of and one that you yourself can believe in.
  
  Next highlight your project goals and how the funds you are requesting can help you reach these goals to their max. Convince your audience that to meet your goals, you are willing to do anything and everything.
  
  The third step is the Action Plan, which further involves your goals with the plan to implement them successfully.
  
  Then look at your budget and monetary obligations and limitations, and evaluate all your goals through these budgetary measures. Remember a lot of grant committees are "Numbers" people, who are focused on "Bang for your Buck"!
  
  Finally, summarize. Touch on each topic briefly enough to remind the audience the importance of your grant as a whole.
  

These are some things to remember when writing and submitting grant applications.

1. Remember you might submit a perfect application and still be rejected.
2. Read the grantors' guidelines and instructions closely.  Make sure your program is in line with the funding agencies priorities.
3. Make sure your ideas are innovative, creative, and educational.  Put a new spin on an existing idea.  If a project seems too risky, they may be hesitant to fund it.
4. Have realistic goals and ways to evaluate your project.  Fundors want to see success.
5. Have a reasonable budget and do your homework ahead of time.
6. Be clear when you are explaining your ideas.
7. Follow the grantors instructions and if you are rejected, review the comments for next time.
8. Take time to review successful proposals.