The final proposal format will depend on the guidelines provided by the sponsor. For example, most federal agencies give very specific instructions and forms for all of the sections to be included in your proposal. A private foundation, however, may provide very little direction on the arrangement and inclusion of various components of the proposal other than a page limitation. There are some basic elements you will find in all proposals.

NARRATIVE - This is the WHAT and WHY section of your proposal. Generally, you begin with a statement of need or problem you will address. Next, state the overall goals and specific objectives of your project. Finally, describe your plan of action, providing enough detail for the reviewer to judge whether your project can be run both efficiently and effectively. The narrative should demonstrate that you have carefully thought through all aspects of the project and its results. Be specific about broad goals, measurable objectives, and quantified outcomes. You must convince the reviewer of the significance of the problem, the appropriateness of your proposed response, your/PVCC's ability to conduct the planned activities, and the college's ability to carry on project activities (and fund them) after the grant period.

EVALUATION - Evaluation is important because it demonstrates accountability and concern for program outcomes; federal grant reviewers have increasingly focused on a strong evaluation plan. You may want to consider adding an evaluation specialist to your proposal development team. The PVCC Office of Institutional Research, Planning & Institutional Effectiveness can be an enormous help with this section. Use this section to explain the methodology you will use to determine whether or not your program was a success.

TIMELINE - Include a well-developed project timeline or "implementation plan"; to help the reviewer understand what you plan to do and when. It can show that you have thought through your project's long-term needs and goals.

BUDGET - While many view the budget as a tedious technicality, it is a key element of your proposal. Grant reviewers often use the budget to get a quick sense of how well you've organized your project. Typical budget categories include personnel, travel, equipment, materials, and indirect costs.

ABSTRACT - The abstract may be the only section read in detail by some reviewers. It should be a concise, one page summary of your project that provides a good overview of the proposed activities. It should capture the reader's interest.

SUPPORTING MATERIALS - Often included in an appendix, these may include graphs, pictures, tables, letters of support, biographical sketches of the project team, and other forms or documents that support the credibility of your project.