Question

What are the key persuasive elements that all proposals contain

Answer 1

Proposals for private foundations vary greatly from most federal proposals. While foundations often outline the general format they prefer, the structure of the narrative is more latitude. Always frame your proposal to align as closely as possible with the stated mission of the funders programs without going so far that your research interests are compromised.

Abstract / Summary The abstract is the proposal's most significant component. Spend time making the best title possible. If the length is not required, it should not be more than half to a limit of one line.
Use subheadings that are bold. Include highlights in each segment of the proposal in the topic sentence.
What is going to be done, by whom, when, during what time? What's the need / problem? Who is going to benefit from the results?

What is the issue you are dealing with and why is it important?
Why is it necessary what you are proposing? What is the knowledge vacuum?
Who benefits from this? Indicate the public good, not just the campus impact.
Why has this question not been adequately addressed in the past? Who else works in this area, what did they do, and why is that not enough? Show off your field expertise.
Provide convincing evidence that no other research is duplicated by what you suggest. It can be fundable to replicate someone else's work in a new environment or on a larger scale.

Dissemination Dissemination should be linked to the goals and objectives of your project. Your dissemination plan should target policymakers, media, and affected populations if you are trying to affect policy.
Describe your strategy for communication.
Make yourself creative. It is just one of many ways to submit an article to a professional journal. Consider sending op-ed pieces to newspapers and reports in more prominent publications; partnering with University Relations to gain coverage in newspapers and interviews on local radio stations; participating in conference presentations, community outreach programs, presentations to policy makers and community groups such as the Chamber of Commerce