Lesson 2.3: Proposal Writing

Templates & Tools

Transform your systematic foundation work from Lessons 1.1-2.2 into compelling funding proposals with these comprehensive templates and tools designed for evidence-based proposal excellence.

Essential Proposal Development Resources

These templates guide you through integrating all your foundation work into proposals that demonstrate competitive advantage through depth, credibility, and implementation readiness.

Evidence-Based Proposal Template

Word
420 KB Communication

Complete proposal framework with sections for integrating Problem Tree evidence, stakeholder validation, Theory of Change logic, implementation detail, partnership documentation, and budget justification.

Advanced
Download

Community Partnership Documentation Guide

PDF
320 KB Communication

System for documenting authentic collaboration beyond generic letters of support, including partnership profiles, stakeholder consultation summaries, and decision-making structures with specific commitment examples.

Intermediate
Download

Funder Communication Framework

PDF
250 KB Communication

Adaptation strategies for different funder types (foundations, government, corporate) showing what to emphasize while maintaining community voice and systematic foundation across all proposal versions.

Intermediate
Download

Budget Justification Preparation Worksheet

Excel
680 KB Planning

Prepare budget justification elements showing cost-effectiveness through community asset leverage, partnership contributions, and implementation readiness. Sets foundation for detailed budget development in Lesson 2.4.

Intermediate
Download

Proposal Quality Assessment Checklist

PDF
190 KB Evaluation

Comprehensive 24-point checklist covering foundation integration, community voice, professional standards, and competitive differentiation. Use for systematic quality assurance before submission.

Intermediate
Download

📚 Usage Guides

How to Use These Templates Effectively

  1. 1

    Organize Your Foundation Work (45-60 min)

    Compile all outputs from Lessons 1.1-2.2 into your Proposal Evidence Bank.

  2. 2

    Start with Evidence-Based Proposal Template (60-90 min)

    Use the main template to draft core narrative sections following the 5-step sequence.

  3. 3

    Create Partnership Documentation (30-45 min)

    Use the Partnership Documentation Guide to create profiles for 3-4 key partners.

  4. 4

    Adapt for Your Target Funder (30-45 min)

    Apply the Funder Communication Framework to adjust emphasis and language.

  5. 5

    Quality Assure with Checklist (45-60 min)

    Systematically review your proposal against the 24-point Quality Assessment Checklist.

Pro Tips

  • Create Proposal Evidence Bank before opening any template
  • Templates include guidance text showing what to include
  • Maintain community voice throughout all funder adaptations

Your Complete Proposal Toolkit

With these 5 comprehensive templates and your systematic foundation work from Lessons 1.1-2.2, you have everything needed to create funding proposals that demonstrate exceptional depth, authentic community partnership, and implementation readiness. Funders will recognize the competitive advantage your systematic methodology creates.

View Quality Checklist → See Examples →