A letter of intent for a grant, also known as a letter of inquiry, is a brief outline of an organization’s request for funding. Many foundations require a letter of intent before asking for a complete fundraising proposal. Although the letter should be brief, it may be as long as three pages. The letter should also be written on the organization’s letterhead. The document’s main body should include an introduction, a description of the organization applying for the grant, a statement of need, an achievable solution to the need, a very brief discussion of other funding resources, and a final conclusion. The letter of intent should also include information on when the organization plans to apply for the grant.
Sample Letter of Intent for a Grant
(XYZ Letterhead)
Jane Doe, Director
ABC Foundation
123 Number Lane
Newport, Virginia 00000
November 20, 2010
Dear Ms. Doe:
The XYZ Foundation seeks support of $20,000 from the ABC Foundation for general support of our Helping Hands project. This project epitomizes ABC Foundation’s values of helping lower-income children to succeed.
Our organization, established in 1980 in Newport, Virginia, serves the lower-income community by furnishing books and literature, tutors, and an after-school club.
The Helping Hands project for which we are requesting funds will make a difference in the lives of these children by providing computers for them to complete their homework and to refurbish the playground area. We plan for the expansion of the playground to be completed within one year and for the computers to be accessible within three months of receiving funds.
We have received volunteer support from the community as well as fundraising support from the city of Newport, Virginia.
We invite you to come to visit our foundation, and we will call within two weeks to arrange the visit. We will be more than happy to submit a full proposal for your review.
Sincerely,
Susan Smith
Best Resources for Letters of Intent for Grant Proposals
University of Massachusetts Amherst – Guidelines for a Letter of Intent
The UMass Amherst website has a comprehensive step-by-step guide for completing a well-constructed letter of intent. This page shares important points to consider, technique, and each point that should be made in a successful letter of intent for a grant, including:
- Summary Statement
- Statement of Need
- Project Activity
- Outcomes
- Credentials
- Budget
- Closing
The University of Wisconsin-Madison – Planning and Writing a Grant Proposal: The Basics
The Writing Center at the University of Wisonsin-Madison’s website is a wealth of information when it comes to planning your grant proposal. The page also offers several links to full sample grant proposals that have been successful. This page offers advice that includes:
- Considering the Audience, Purpose, and Expectations of a Grant Proposal
- Common Elements of Grant Proposals
- General Tips
- Successful Sample Grant Proposals
