There are some obvious things to avoid when creating a proposal. For example, the organization asking for the grant should not make assumptions about the grant-making organization. A videotape enclosed with the proposal will not be useful if the office of the grant maker has not asked for it and does not have the appropriate equipment to play it.

There are many organizations that provide funds for non-profits. Each has its own rules and serves certain specific needs. The grant writer needs to be sure the grant is aimed to the proper potential grant maker. Input and advice from the writer's colleagues and organization staff members is necessary before the proposal is sent. Many eyes should see the document to make sure there are no mistakes. Additionally, members of the community that will be served by the grant should be consulted as well to make sure it meets their needs.

Sometimes, one has several possible grant-making organizations to choose from. If the first organization rejects the proposal, it may be sent to another, but it should not go without undergoing careful scrutiny and changes as necessary. While there are many reasons for rejection, it is quite possible the rejection came as the result of flaws in the proposal itself.

Although one may apply successfully to the same organization year after year, one should not assume that the grant-making organization has not changed its requirements. Work from the most recent grant guidelines, and make changes to the proposal as necessary.

Equipment Can Malfunction

Although a grant proposal may look fine on the computer screen, there are sometimes problems with computer printers and copy machines. Several people should look at each sheet of paper that goes into the envelope intended for the grant maker to ensure that all page numbers are in their proper places, all the charts are clean, and every piece is where it should be.

Rejections May Come

Although a grant may be rejected, this rejection should not be taken personally. Some organizations use up their available funds early in their fiscal year. Others may reject the proposal for their own reasons not related to the merits of the proposal. Most permit grant seekers to resubmit after a specified time. The grant seeker should not take the rejection as a personal affront; instead, it should revise and resubmit at the proper time.