Frequently Asked Questions
How does this process work? ND&A’s
first step is to carefully review the funder’s RFP, if there
is one, as well as any information available about the potential
funder. Our next step is to gather information about our client’s
organization and proposed project. This can range from reading annual
reports to interviewing employees and participants. The more quantifiable
data we can gather about your program, the better. Our third step
is to complete a first draft well ahead of the grant deadline. Finally,
we send it to you for your review, incorporate your feedback into
the proposal and submit a final version.
Why are graphics important to a grant proposal? Written
text is not always the best way to communicate your message to the
funder. By providing our clients with professionally designed charts,
graphics and logos, ND&A is ensuring that no method of communication
is overlooked. Sometimes, the right design elements can communicate
more to a potential funder than the most well-crafted project summary.
Will you work for a commission on the grant? No.
The Association of Fundraising Professionals has established ethical
guidelines that state this is not an acceptable practice for grant
writers. For more information, please see http://www.afpnet.org/ethics
Why doesn’t your web page include copies of your funded grants?
We do not include these samples out of respect for our clients’
privacy. Grants often contain proprietary information and we must
be careful about electronic copies. ND&A, however, will be happy
to provide you with a list of references for you to contact.
How do you charge your clients – by project or by hour?
We typically charge by the hour, although project rates and retainer
options can be discussed. To learn more about our rates, please
contact Mary at (765) 497-1912.
What constitutes a rush rate? A rush rate can
be based on two factors: The amount of advance notice for a project,
and the amount of time given to complete a project. Many of our
clients are surprised to learn that the most important of these
two is the first factor. Providing us notice that a grant will be
needed, even if we don’t get all the information at the time,
is a great help in our planning efforts. Obviously, rush rates are
only charged if the client approves the amount in advance.
I want to start my own business. Can you write a grant
for me? There is extensive misinformation on the Internet
about the availability of federal grants for new business owners.
The federal government’s Small Business Administration does
give low-interest loans to eligible business owners, but no grants.
ND&A is not aware of any such program for new business owners.
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