Anyone can write a grant! Most grants have the same format, give very explicit directions, and have the potential to earn you lots of $$$. Here are three key steps when starting a grant proposal for a playground project. First, research grants early in your planning process. Find out exactly when the deadlines are and when they’re being awarded. A great website is www.foundationcenter.org. It gives you a listing of thousands of funding opportunities across the U.S. Second, gather your key materials – budget, timeline, fundraising strategy, and a description of your project. Third, sit down and start writing! Learn more about writing your grant proposal here.
The first section of a grant proposal is usually the “Executive Summary.”
Writing an Executive Summary
Unquestionably, this is the most important page of your proposal. The executive summary is where you lay out the framework of your proposal and give a rough sketch of the project. The summary is a “sales” document, and must convince a potential funder to consider your project for support. Funders, like everyone else, are very busy people and may not read past the first page.
Here’s an outline KaBOOM! recommends:
· Problem: In one paragraph, summarize the need for a playspace in your community.
· Solution: In one paragraph, introduce your community-built playspace plan. Include when, how, and where it will take place. Who will benefit, and how long will it operate? Who will be responsible for maintenance?
· Funding requirements: Explain what you would use the funds for, and briefly state how the playspace will be maintained in the future. This is important, because no one likes to give money to a project that is not sustainable over time.
· Organization/people: Who will organize and carry out this project? If a nonprofit partner is involved, what is their purpose and mission? How does this fit in with the playspace? What role will volunteers have, and where will they come from?
Check back soon for more grantwriting tips!