Formal Proposal

Most foundations require that the formal proposal be accompanied by a cover letter from a chief administrator--President, Vice President, or Dean--signifying the College's authorization and endorsement of the project.  This process should be coordinated through the Office of Corporate & Foundation Relations. 

Please note, as well, that the Business Office must be consulted in the development of the proposed budget.  This consultation, which will be arranged by the Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations, should occur not less than two weeks in advance of the expected date of submission of the proposal.  In addition to all direct costs of funding included in the proposal, the following items will be discussed in the Business Office review:

1. Cost-sharing requirements
2. Indirect cost rate and base
3. Fringe benefits
4. Method of funding, i.e., whether the grant funds will be sent automatically to the College, whether the College is to bill the grantor, whether a letter of credit will be issued, etc.
5. Financial aid program reporting requirements (in the case of scholarship grants)

Please allow time, in addition, for this review in the schedule for proposal development and submission.  The Business Office will not be able to accommodate a request for immediate review and signature; you must allow a minimum of two days for review and approval.

The Office of Corporate & Foundation Relations will help to write, proofread, and edit the proposal narrative; will coordinate the submission process; will put together a proposal package (cover letter, narrative, budget sheet, IRS documents, etc.); and will ensure that the funder's guidelines are met.