The most important thing for grant-writers to remember is that they might submit a perfect application and still receive a rejection. Most grantors have limited resources with which to fund projects, and receive hundreds of applications. Do not get discouraged if you get a rejection from a possible funding source; my philosophy is to only mail the application if I know I have done my absolute best. Then, whatever happens, I couldn't have done any better.
READ the grantor's guidelines and instructions carefully. Do not try to make the grantor's program fit what you want to do - your program must be in line with the funding agency's priorities. I can't stress how important it is to follow directions exactly!
Ideas should be innovative, creative and educational, but not risky. Grantors don't like to risk their money on projects the perceive as "on the bleeding edge." Try proposing a project that puts a fresh spin on an existing idea.
Keep your goals realistic! It is important to have an evaluation plan. Assessment is normally a very important element of the grant proposal. Make sure that assessment is measurable.
Is your project replicable? Replication is typically a key element in the grant. Be sure to detail how you will share your project with other schools.
Have a reasonable, detailed budget. Do your homework on costs prior to submitting your application and be sure to explain your budget even if there are no requirements to do so. It is a good idea to get cost estimates and keep them on file.
Cite research that supports the program or the need for such a program before requesting funding.
Clarity of communicating your ideas is very important. Have someone who is not involved in the project in any way read and critique your draft application. Grant readers are often faced with many, many grants to read and will not take the time to struggle through an unclear proposal.
Proofread! Proofread! Proofread! Spelling and grammar errors make a negative statement. Your attention to detail will pay off.
Follow the grantor's instructions to the letter. Many wonderful applications are turned away because they do not exactly meet the funding agency's requirements or specifications.
If your project is rejected, ask the grantor for reviewer comments. No grant is ever a waste of time, even if it is not funded. The research and documentation you have gathered will make subsequent grants easier.
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