So ok … the title of this blog is probably not the first thing you think of when thinking about proposals within the charity sector. But if you give it some thought, a proposal for funding is in many ways similar to a marriage proposal.
- Finding the right partner/funding body
- Timing
- Seek help
Finding the right partner
This is invariably the first step in any relationship you hope to cultivate or develop. In life, finding the right partner is the foundation through which you build a life together. To do this you need to attract a partner. When it comes to funding this can be akin to building the right profile through different networks and knowing who to approach for funding.
Timing
Getting the timing right is key when asking your potential spouse to marry you. If you leave your partner hanging and waiting for that proposal, they will most likely leave you. It is similar when applying for funding. Many proposals are time limited, meaning you need to get your proposal in by a certain deadline. Make sure you meet that deadline or even better submit it in plenty of time.
Seek help
You have seen those videos on the internet where a man utilises the help of his friends to concoct the most elaborate and outlandish proposals so that his part
ner is unable to say no (see above). There is nothing wrong with asking someone who has completed a proposal before for help. They can be daunting and difficult to complete and extra pair of hands and eyes as well as another brain can be the difference between a successful or unsuccessful proposal.
I hope you have had some food for thought while reading this as well as interesting tips on how to propose to your partner, if that is what you are looking to do.
(Let us know if any of them work in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter!)
By Mohammad Shakir
Muslim Charities Forum 