THE NEXT STEP: The Full Application
Site Visits: If your LOI is acceptable to the Foundation funder, they will often schedule a site visit to get more information and verify what you plan to do. Their staff and or Board Members visit your program to assess your request and get acquainted. If this occurs, let us know before they come.
If your LOI is approved, you will be requested to submit a full proposal.
Proposal Formats: Many foundations use (1) a standardized application format, or have (2) their own written foundation application form that they will send you. Or, you may need to complete (3) an online application. Their web site will give you the information you need to prepare the full application.
Be careful to follow the guidelines they provide, answer all the questions clearly and simply, and include the information and attachments they are requesting.
Written Applications: Download the application to your computer if at all possible to enable you to prepare and submit a clean, accurate typed copy. Files are usually either in Word or PDF. If the application is a PDF file you will probably need Adobe Acrobat to open it and fill it out. Use their format and questions as the outline for describing your project. Your preliminary project outline and budget can easily be cut and pasted into the application.
On-Line Applications:
Suggestion: Draft your application in Word before you insert it into an online application format.
Many forms have word or space limits. Word allows you to check the number of words and spaces so you can provide better shorter answers. Having question responses prewritten allows you to cut and paste easily and quickly. And, if the form “times out” you have a record of the text. Also, Remember to SAVE frequently as you are completing an online application. Helpful Hints for Writing the Full Application