Long Beach City College

Office of Grants and Resource Development

Typical Proposal Outline

All grant proposals are unique, but there are general common elements basic to most proposals. The outline below identifies these basic components.

1. Abstract

Summarizes the proposal and the request in clear, concise language. Usually written last. Include any specific requests by the funding agency.

2. Introduction

Describes the college and delineates its qualifications.

3. Problem Statement and/or Needs Statement

Provides documentation of the need to be met or problems to be solved from the point of view of those served by the project.

4. Goals/Objectives

Establishes the goals and objectives of the project in quantifiable, measurable terms. Process objectives describe how you will do something. Outcome objectives describe the anticipated change or outcome.

5. Methodology

Describes sequence of activities to be implemented to achieve the objectives and/or desired outcomes.

6. Evaluation

Clearly describes a detailed, sound evaluation/assessment plan. Includes how data will be collected and analyzed to determine the project’s success and improvements that will be made based on evaluation results. This is the “accountability” section of the proposal.

7. Other Support and Future Plans (Sustainability)

Presents plans for the continuation of the project beyond the funding period; cites other available funding and/or resources which can be used to implement and/or continue the project

8. Budget

Spells out all costs and revenues, and provides rationale for expenses. Also identifies costs to be met through the funding source and those to be contributed by the college or by other organizations/agencies. When appropriate, indirect costs are included.

9. Appendices

Provides supportive information.