Yes, I will be a little slower than a seasoned grant writer. And I'll probably make a few beginner mistakes that are easy to correct. But you will get a FREE grant proposal that will be remembered by the grant reader for its emotional connection.
Every grant proposal competes against a dozen, or hundreds of other grant proposals for limited funds. Each one written by intelligent and passionate people.
So how would I make your grant proposal stand out? By making an emotional connection with the grant reader. I would dramatize your cause with a real, simple, powerful story about one person or family. Sometimes facts and numbers are all the drama you need. The cover letter, or even a LOI, is usually the best for this very real drama. Sprinkling some human drama where possible throughout the grant proposal would help, too.
After all, a grant reader is human. And a human connection will help separate your grant proposal from dry, lifeless grant proposals.
Of course following the instructions, meeting the deadline and having financials that make sense for the proposed project are essential.
I spent over 20 years in advertising and marketing. Being a writer, designer and creative director for TV ads, print ads, brochures and websites. Creating work for clients like AT&T, Citibank, Colgate, Kraft, Nabisco Brands, American Express, Merck Drugs, Schiff Vitamins, Avon, Burlington Coat Factory, Coalition for the Homeless, Gay Men’s Health Crisis, and many, many others.
In advertising we had to make an emotional connection with very few words in a very short time. Click here are some print examples of mine. Click here for my TV ads on youtube.
Here are some thinking and actions that my For-Profit experience and Non-Profits have in common:
I hope to talk to you soon, Bruce.
