Note: If you want information on writing grant proposals for an individual project, click here.

This might be our most popular question, and we have many resources to help you learn how to write a proposal for your nonprofit:

Start with our free introductory classes, Introduction to Proposal Writing, available as a live/recorded webinar, in-person class, or self-paced eLearning course. In all formats, you'll learn about a proposal's components -- executive summary, statement of need, project description, and budget -- and other things you'll need to consider when preparing and submitting proposals. Budgets are an essential part of any proposal, so we recommend you also start with Introduction to Project Budgets.

After you've taken the introductory classes, consider following up with our with our free online, self-paced course Crafting compelling grant proposals.

Watch this Candid video to learn 3 top tips for staying organized while keeping your grant proposal content fresh:

What types of documents will I need?

Check out our Document Checklist for Grant Proposals, a 3-part blog post series that covers the many types of documents often needed during this process.

What if I don't have something the funder is asking for?  

If you don’t have something that the funder asks for, don’t just leave it out! Provided that your organization and/or project otherwise match the funder’s giving criteria, use this moment as an opportunity to cultivate a relationship. Call the funder and ask, “I don’t have _______; is there something else I could substitute in its place?” Be polite and friendly, and by the end of the conversation, you’ll have an answer to your question, and you will also have had a friendly conversation with someone at the foundation, which will only help you when the time comes for your proposal to be reviewed.  

Sample Proposals

Usually donors and applicants don't share proposals. However, our Sample Documents section is a searchable collection of actual proposals, cover letters, letters of inquiry, and proposal budgets that were actually funded. Each proposal includes a critique by the decision-maker who awarded the grant.

You also might check if anyone in your professional networks would be willing to share sample proposals.

Dive in to this topic with these free self-paced Candid courses and resources:

• Crafting compelling grant proposals: Learn how to craft a complete and competitive proposal in 15 lessons.
• Creating a Sound Proposal Budget Learn key best practices in preparing a project budget for your funders.
• Check out Candid's eBook collection from anywhere in the world. It's easy to sign up, and we have a selection of books specifically on proposal writing.
• Quick Take! Hear from a funder:

More Knowledge Base articles about proposal writing.

To learn more about this topic, selected resources below may also be helpful.