Doula Programs: Free Grant Writing Resource Guide

When it comes to grant writing, a little planning goes a long way. Funding cycles through most foundations are annual or bi-annual. For those, such as March of Dimes, grant seekers have one chance to make a favorable impression or risk waiting another full year.

Actually, it is likely to be more than a year. For example, March of Dimes will put out a Request for Proposals (known as a “RFP”) in February 2011. The first step of their process is to submit a Letter of Intent (according to instructions laid out in the RFP), typically due early May. By June, organizations submitting the most promising initiatives will be invited to submit a full proposal, due in early September. By the following January, funded proposals will receive a check for the 2012 grant cycle. If you are looking for major funding in 2011, you are already too late (though some foundations may have small or emergency grants available).

Start your Grants Calendar today by investigating the most promising funding sources for your initiative. Note their funding cycles, RFP release dates, and so on. Inquire whether or not they have a notification list so that reminders will arrive in your email. Grant planning is a fair amount of work. The quick turn-around is possible (maybe), but very stressful, and not the way to go for those of you who are new to the process. Competitive proposals are ones that are well thought out, with demonstrated support (via “Letters of Support”) in the community.

Center for the Childbearing Year offers a free Grant Writing Resource Guide to help with your search. Just click on our “Free Get-Acquainted Sample Pack” on the homepage and opt-in.

The Doula Programs blog provides a forum for doula program visionaries and implementers to consider common challenges, ask questions, and learn from each other.

Posted by Patty Brennan on November 4, 2010 • Filed under Doula Programs
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