Writing Hints:

 

Be careful in listing the equipment that will be needed for your project. Funding sources are usually much more willing to provide funds for the support of personnel than they are to support the purchase of equipment (that may or may not directly benefit the funded project).

The following are the types of equipment that may be needed for a funded project:

 

• tape recorder (for recording interviews, dictating reports, etc.)
• video cassette recorder and television monitor (for recording project activities, documenting change, etc.)
• computer/monitor/printer (for general project support)
• desks/chairs/tables
• lamps
• intercom/office telephone system
• telephone conferencing equipment
• photocopy machine
• specialized equipment for fulfilling project objectives
  
   

It will help if you've really done some research on the actual cost of the equipment you specify. This is much better than "guessing" at the cost and then to be challenged on your estimates by the potential funding agency.

It is easy to overlook many of the office supplies that will be needed for your project. Will you be needing printed letterhead stationery? And, if you will be mailing many letters, have you considered the current cost of postage (and possible increases in cost)? Do you have a good idea how much paper is needed to support the use of a computer word processor? Have you recently checked the price on such things as sticky notes, paper clips, or pencils/pens? A trip to a local office supply store could be most appropriate.

Coffee, cups, donuts or other "supplies" for morning and afternoon breaks are usually not included in the proposal. These are personal (not project) expenses.

How will you be sharing information about your project with others? Will your project include a Newsletter? How about a website? The more open you are and willing to help others learn from your experiences the more likely a funding agency will be interested in assisting.

Consider including in your proposal additional funds for hosting some form of workshop or institute where you can bring together other professionals who are interested in conducting a similar type of project in their area. This would be a good way to publicly recognize your funding organization. Invite someone from the funding organization to attend the workshop so they can hear what others think about the investment they have made.

 

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