Q:
I've been asked to write a
proposal to get some funding for my small business. But I don't know what one should look
like or where to start. Can you help?
A: Proposal formats
vary, depending on the purpose. Sometimes a formal Request for
Proposal has been issued, which will specify everything from the
content to what font to use in the proposal. Government programs are
often this detailed. So find out if there's a template or specific
format you should be using.
If you're writing a proposal
as a marketing document (as opposed to a grant proposal), you will
have more leeway in terms of both form and content. But as a rule,
you should keep things simple and direct.
Begin with a description of
the project you're proposing or the service/product you are
offering to sell. (If the proposal is longer than a few pages, you
might want to precede the description with a two-paragraph executive
summary.)
Then write a statement about
how your company is the best one to provide for the other
company's needs or to fulfill the requirements of the program. Be
specific about your competitive advantage.
This section will include a
brief summary of your company's background and qualifications.
Include your mission statement, years of experience, skills of
staff, awards won, etc. Let the reader know that you have a good
sense of how the proposed project fits with the philosophy of your
company.
Propose a delivery timetable
and detail expected outcomes so both parties have a way to measure
success.
Assuming the purpose of the
proposal is to ask for money (either by applying for a grant or
soliciting business), you will need include a financial section.
In a marketing proposal,
detail the products or services your company will provide for the
amount of money you're quoting. Keeping in mind that this is a
marketing document, you might want to provide a cost comparison
between your business and an alternative.
If you're writing a proposal
for funds from a government program, you'll need to write a
detailed budget.
Be sure your proposal carries
ample contact information, perhaps on a cover sheet. In a more
formal proposal, create a series of appendices, where you include
letters of recommendation and any other back-up documentation that
reinforces your abilities, professionalism, and cost-effectiveness.
There are many resources on the Internet,
especially to help with grant proposal writing. Just plug
proposal writing into a search engine and you'll find lots
of help.
