Components of a Mini Proposal
Any proposal, whether two pages or two hundred, must demonstrate two things to the prospective donor:
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that a significant, solveable problem or need exists; and
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that your organization can solve the problem and/or meet the need.
Because donor organizations receive so many requests for funding (literally thousands in some cases), the mini proposal serves important functions for both the donor and your organization.
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Provides an initial screening device for the donor to determine if the project is consistent with their goals and interests
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Provides your organization a way to determine if the donor is interested in your project before you go through the work required to submit a full proposal
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Provides a means of communication through which the donor can suggest ways you can tailor the project to more closely match their interests when you do submit a full proposal
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Allows your organization to contact several different funders about possible interest without a significant amount of paperwork and preparation
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Allows your organization to make a good impression on prospective donors, regardless of whether the project is funded.
Note: The next proposal you submit may be accepted because of the good impression you made with the first one.
A mini proposal should have a professional cover letter attached and should include the following basic elements along with a one-page, line item budget request.
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A brief statement of introduction about your organization
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A paragraph stating the problem with key supporting facts and data to stress the extent of the problem, the importance of the problem and why the problem needs to be addressed now.
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A brief discussion of why the project should be of interest to the donor (how the project responds to a stated interest of the donor organization)
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A description of the overall purpose of the project including the major objectives and the specific benefits to those being served (not how your organization will benefit).
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A description of the major activities that will take place, where they will take place, and for how long.
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A paragraph that establishes credibility and capability of your organization, i.e., your ability to solve this problem and any unique abilities your organization brings to the project.
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A paragraph that describes the staff or personnel that would be involved with the project
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A brief explanation of how much money is being requested and for how long the support will be needed.
