Preparing your LOI and Proposal

• As a first step, it is important to have a general understanding of the meaning of the term "capacity building."



• It is also helpful to review the projects that have received capacity building funding in the past.



• The most successful LOIs and Pew Fund capacity building proposals:



• Have a project that is an integral part of the overall mission and strategic plan of the organization.



• Address one of the Pew Fund Capacity Building Program’s five stated objectives: 1) management information systems design and development; 2) financial management and planning; 3) eveluation and outcomes system development; 4) leadership development for succession planning; and 5) new program planning and development.



• Make a clear case for how the capacity building project will significantly improve the organization’s ability to serve its clients.



• Clearly define achievable tasks and identify staff responsible for ensuring the successful implementation and completion of the project.



• Provide an assessment plan with clearly defined short and long term outcomes.



• Have an appropriate budget relative to the scope of the proposed activities that clearly identifies any additional sources of funding (whether committed, conditional, or pending) as well as the organization’s in-kind contribution in staff time.



• Provide a clear explanation for why the selected consultant is the best fit for the project.