Checklist of 14 Characteristics of a Strong Proposal

o Clear, concise, and compelling writing. The narrative is written so that

proposal Readers can quickly identify the problem and the proposed solution.

o The most important ideas are highlighted and repeated in several different
places throughout the proposal.

o All topics outlined in the RFP guidelines are clearly addressed in the proposal.

o The need for the proposed project is clearly established and is supported
with appropriate data.

o Project objectives are measurable. Remember, funders want to be sure

they’re funding effective projects. Your proposal should include project objectives
and activities that can be easily measured using quantitative (numeric) data,
if possible. If collecting quantitative data isn’t feasible, rely on qualitative
(interviews, focus groups) means to measure the outcomes.

o The proposal includes a Plan of Operation that details how project goals,
objectives, and activities work together to produce the expected results.

o The budget and proposal narrative are tied directly to the goals, objectives,
and activities outlined in the Plan of Operation.

o The Budget Narrative addresses each budget line item.

o The proposal includes a detailed timeline for project activities.

o The proposal provides an Evaluation Plan for project activities. As appropriate,

this plan includes both formative and summative evaluation activities, and relies
on quantitative and qualitative data collection.

o When interagency collaboration is mandated by the funder, be sure all

involved agencies have signed letters of commitment or cooperative agreements.

o A clear statement is included that addresses the sustainability of project

activities beyond the funding cycle.

o The appendices include materials that are requested by the funder or important
to support the proposal. Each appendix is referenced by an assigned letter or
number (Appendix A, etc.) in the proposal narrative. The number of appendices
does not exceed the rules of the RFP.

o The qualifications of project staff are included in the proposal, and résumés
or bios are provided when requested.