• Fully understand the idea.
  
• Get to know the potential funding agency.
  
• Find copies of similar funded proposals.
  
• Understand the scope of the problem you are trying to remedy, and
  
• Begin early!

• Be sure to directly address the questions asked in the grant guidelines or request for proposal.
  
• Answer all parts of the question.
  
• Keep the language simple.
  
• Avoid using jargon and acronyms unless you have very clearly defined each.

Adhere to the guidelines given

• If the RFP says 12-point font, double spaced, 1 inch margins, and no more than 20 pages, that is what you give them.
  
• BE SURE your proposal reaches the funding agent on or before the deadline.

Ask for help

• Find a collaborator, co-writer, or sympathetic person.
  
• Have at least one person, preferably a couple of people, to read, edit, reread and re-edit – not necessarily someone who is familiar with the material or proposal.

If you are funded…

• Realize that your proposal as approved, becomes the guideline for operating your grant.
  
• Be cautious of making major changes to your plan without approval by your funding agent.
  
• Be aware of reporting requirements, both financial and programmatic, and be prompt in completing and sending those reports.