"Ever wondered why written documents still exist during these modern times?"
"What is in writing that is lacking in verbal communication?"
These are some of the questions often thought by people who seek assistance from an agency or any organization, especially from federal government.
Anyone got an idea?
Here's the answer
Let's go straight to the point. The very reason why written communication is required by various agencies and institutions is that this serves as a proof of transaction. With it, a deal becomes formal. The files or documents submitted by someone will then be filed for records purposes, so that by the next time someone goes to an agency, his files would be accessed easily. Additionally, it is not just a symbolism but a proof of transparency in both private sector and the government.
In today's wireless, paperless, and digital age, writing still plays a significant purpose. As a basic foundation of education, it should always be present and everyone should learn its specifics. There are still exciting reasons why we all need to document or put something in paper. The saying "If it's not written down, it doesn't exist" holds true in almost all situations despite the existence of high-end recording equipment and other valuable products of technology.
Grant writingis not something that everyone learns to do. As expected, since this is another type, it also has different sets of rules and it applies a varied, unusual approach.
Even without looking for its specific definition, anyone can have a better grasp of what this grant writing is all about-by knowing that this is the key to win the "prize" from foundations and other funding institutions.
There are more reasons why a person or an organization writes a proposal. These can be because someone is seeking financial assistance for a scholarship, for hospitalization or medical expenses, or for home renovation or improvement. Also, an organization, usually a nonprofit group, sends a proposal to a funding agency because it intends to launch or continue the programs and services it provides to targeted participants or beneficiaries. In the US, the most common beneficiaries of charitable institutions are those belonging to "most vulnerable" members of the community, including the elderly, youth, children, women, and people with disabilities.
Its importance
The decisions of a funding source whether to award the money or not depend on how the proposal is drafted. For sure, the funders' board members consider a lot of things before they come up with the results. A significant factor being considered is the content written on the document.
Is it really convincing? Does it contain factual information? Does it present the problems clearly and the proposed solutions?
Well, these are just few of the important questions to think about when you are going to write a request. There are still more to ponder.
Some pieces of advice...
When preparing a proposal, please remember these tips:
- Always take note of and follow/submit the requirements and specifications set by the funding agency.
- Know the particulars of grant writing -the rules, the grammar, sections to include-and apply them all.
- State the purpose clearly. Cite the goals and objectives. Support the narration of problems by including most recent related research and studies.
- Make the document customized.
- Write a cover letter and a letter of intent.
- Do not forget to attach all relevant documents and proofs.
Communicate with the funding agency.