- Do your research to determine whether the foundations' and corporations' goals and objectives for grantmaking are consistent with your type of grant request.
- One of the most important components of your grantseeking process is establishing a relationship with each funder and potential funder. Getting to know each other as people is critical. Keeping an open communication and building trust between your organization and Grantmakers will insure the success of your grantseeking efforts and will help you build a sustainable program.
- After you do the research, find out the preferred method of contact for the grantmaker, and contact the grantmaker to secure specific grantmaking guidelines. Many grantmakers generally like to have an initial contact with you before receiving a written proposal.
- Include a cover letter with each proposal that introduces your organization and your proposal, and makes a strategic link between your proposal and the funder's mission and grantmaking interests.
- Type and single-space all proposals.
- Answer all the questions.
- Submit the number of copies each grantmaker requests according to their guidelines.
- Do not include any materials other than those specifically requested.
