Tips for Writing Successful Proposals Audrey Taylor, PhD Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies

1. Develop YOUR project idea first. What do you really want to accomplish? 2. Find a funding source that supports similar ideas and objectives 3. Align your project goals with the funding source goals 4. Sell yourself! (And follow the directions.)

 Be creative yet realistic  Think of the details: $$  Don’t write “for” a particular grant opportunity  Do use your resources to research similar projects that have already been done  How have they been funded?

 Cast a wide net  Carefully read grant “RFPs” (requests for proposals)  Think outside the box but not TOO much  Be sure to check eligibility requirements  Don’t hesitate to contact funding source

 READ the instructions very carefully  THINK about how the goals the funder has match the goals you have  Highlight the similarities  Identify major discrepancies  CRITICALLY EVALUATE how well your project can accomplish the funding agency goals

 READ the instructions again!  Write like you have already been funded and you are implementing your plan  Use strong language that is similar to that used in the RFP, and that is appropriate to the project  Be positive and interesting  Use visuals if you can  Address all parts of the proposal guidelines in order  Proofread and get a peer review!

Audrey Taylor Geography & Environmental Studies, UAA 106e Professional Studies Building