Why do applicants need to relate budget requests to project objectives?
Charlotte Dion: It is important that the budget makes sense. The actual budget document must correspond to the explanation of the project in the proposal. It’s always advisable to include a budget narrative, even if it is a brief footnote that explains, for example, that you have $500 for food in the school program because you have to feed the kids. GC: Why is it so crucial to follow the funding agency’s instructions to the letter? Charlotte Dion: Fundraising is an extremely competitive process. If a funder has taken the time to develop guidelines, it is because those reviewing grants consider certain information critical in their decision-making. You don’t want anything to eliminate you from consideration. One way to keep yourself in the running is to make sure that you carefully follow the instructions, so the funder does not have to come back to you for additional information or clarification. You want your proposal to keep moving forward. GC: How long does it usually take to put to
